cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the tuning of metalloporphyrin redox potentials

Summary Comparisons are made between Co, Cr, Fe and Zn metalloporphyrin redox potentials. For TPPCoClO 4 , TPPFeClO 4 , and TPPMnClO 4 , the redox potentials for the M(III)→M(II) reduction shift in a negative direction as the coordinating ability of the solvent increases. Comparisons are made between potentials for a series of TPPFeX and OEPFeX complexes. Changing the counter ion from ClO 4 − to Cl − , Br − , N 3 − , or F − reverses the direction of the potential shift with coordinating ability of the solvent. The half-wave potentials for each metal-centered and ring-centered metalloporphyrin reaction also shift upon axial binding of nitrogenous bases. Eleven substituted pyridines were utilized as axial ligands. For Cr, Fe and Zn, U 1/2 shifts in a negative direction as the p K a increases, while Mn shows U 1/2 which shifts positively with the p K a of an axially complexed ligand. Redox tuning of metalloporphyrin reactivity is discussed as a function of axial complexation by solvent, counter-ion and/or nitrogenous base molecules.
TMJ Arthroscopic Surgery: Rationale, Treatment, and Management

Educational objectives: To provide a differential diagnosis of internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint, as well as recognize indications for magnetic resonance imaging studies and evaluate scan results and to understand goals, indications, contraindications, complications, techniques, and results of TMJ arthroscopic surgery.
Always Protectionist? Latin American Tariffs from Independence to Great Depression

This article reports a fact that has not been well appreciated: tariffs in Latin America were the world's highest long before the Great Depression. This is a surprising fact, given that Latin America is believed to have exploited globalisation forces better than most regions before the 1920s, and given that the 1930s have always been viewed as the critical decade when Latin American policy became so anti-global. The explanation does not lie with imagined output gains from protection in these young republics, but rather with state revenue needs, strategic responses to trading partner tariffs and a need to compensate globalisation's losers.
Pressure and temperature evolution of upper mantle under the Rio Grande Rift

Spinel peridotite xenoliths associated with the Rio Grande Rift axis (Potrillo and Elephant Butte volcanic fields) and the western rift shoulder (Adam’s Diggings) have been investigated to correlate pre-eruptive pressure and temperature conditions with xenolith deformation textures and rift location. Temperatures of xenolith equilibration at the rift shoulder are 100–250°C cooler for a given pressure than the temperatures at the rift axis. Undeformed xenoliths (protogranular texture) are derived from higher temperature and higher pressure conditions than deformed xenoliths (porphyroclastic and equigranular textures) in the rift axis. Exsolution lamellae in pyroxenes, small decreases in Al contents of orthopyroxenes from core to rim, and small differences in porphyroclastic orthopyroxene compositions versus neoblastic orthopyroxene compositions indicate high temperatures followed by cooling and a larger cooling interval in deformed rocks than in undeformed rocks. These features, along with thermal histories based on calcium zoning in olivine rims, indicate that the upper mantle under Adam’s Diggings and Elephant Butte has undergone cooling from an initial high temperature state followed by a late heating event, and the upper mantle under Potrillo has undergone cooling, reheating, and late heating events.
Recent advances in mathematical methods for the analysis of biomedical image.

Image analysis, an interdisciplinary field where one witnesses the crossing contribution from engineers, scientists and mathematicians, is of paramount importance for a wide range of technologies, such as computer vision, pattern recognition, artificial intelligence, and biomedical imaging. During the last few years, there have been important advances in the development of the next generation of mathematical methods for image analysis. While progress in the fundamentals and applications has been rapid, many challenges remain. This special issue is a collection of high quality, peer-reviewed, original research papers illustrating recent progress and future directions in the area of mathematical analysis of biomedical images. The editor of this special issue expresses his sincere thanks to the contributing authors and reviewers for making this publication possible and successful.
Critical risks in outsourced IT projects: the intractable and the unforeseen

Pre-partnering lets clients and vendors develop a clear understanding of a project---including how well the other will handle its inevitable complexities.
Linkers for anchoring sensitizers to semiconductor nanoparticles

Abstract Organic and inorganic dyes anchored to semiconductor nanoparticles find important applications as photosensitizers in the preparation of solar cells and other optoelectronic systems. For many years research in this area has involved dyes that are bound to the surface of nanocrystalline semiconductors through one or more anchoring groups, forming donor–acceptor systems where the donor is usually the dye and the acceptor is the semiconductor. The design of linkers containing a bridge between the chromophore and the binding group is a more recent development in this field. Carefully designed linkers can be useful to fix the distance of the dye from the semiconductor surface, to tune the properties of the dye, to prevent aggregation of the chromophores, and to prepare models for interfacial electron transfer studies. More generally, this appears to be a promising method for understanding electron transfer processes at the molecule–nanoparticle interface and eventually controlling them in a rational and predictable manner. This review describes the synthesis and properties of sensitizers consisting of chromophore-linkers arrays where the linkers are based on alkyl chains, rigid-rods, or tripod-shaped molecules.
Scalable VLSI parallel pipelined architecture for discrete wavelet transform

The discrete wavelet transform (DWT) provides a new method for signal/image analysis where high frequency components are studied with finer time resolution and low frequency components with coarser time resolution. It decomposes a signal or an image into localized contributions for multiscale analysis. This paper presents a parallel pipelined array processor for 1-dimensional (1-D) DWT. Unlike other VLSI DWT processors which processes signal data sequentially in a pipeline, this array processor can process all data in a signal segment in parallel and successive segments in the same pipeline which computes the multiple levels (octaves) of DWT. The speedup is linearly proportional to the width of the array (or the size of a segment), and thus the architecture is scalable.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effect of surface‐charged poly(methyl methacrylate) on the adhesion of Candida albicans1

Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of a new surface-modified denture resin to reduce adhesion of Candida albicans to the denture surface. This material has a negative charge incorporated by copolymerization of methacrylic acid to methyl methacrylate. An in vitro system was designed to assess the adhesion of C. albicans to surface-charged poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) surfaces. Materials and Methods Four experimental groups consisted of a control (pure PMMA) and 3 groups of modified PMMA (mPMMA) (95:5, 90:10, and 80:20 MMA: methacrylic acid). Four resin samples (11 × 5 mm) for each experimental group were made to enable the adhesion assay. Resin samples of varying ratios of methacrylic acid were placed in C. albicans suspensions, and the adherent cells were stained with Gram’ s crystal violet. The surface area of adherent C. albicans was examined for the entire sample using the computer image at a magnification of × 25. Percentage of surface area of adherent C. albicans colonies was averaged and compared between the control and each experimental group. Analysis of variance and Bonferroni’ s multiple-comparisons test were performed on the data. Results As the ratio of incorporated methacrylic acid to PMMA increased, the surface area of adherent C. albicans decreased. Analysis of data revealed a significant decrease in C. albicans adhesion to the resin blocks (p < 0.0001) when the methacrylic acid was present at 10% of the PMMA. There also existed a correlation between the surface area of adherent C. albicans and the contact angle measurement as the ratio of methacrylic acid changed. Surface contact angle analysis of resin surfaces revealed that as the amount of methacrylic acid increased, the surface energy of the resins increased. Conclusions The present results support the role of electrostatic interaction in adhesion, and introduce an effective method of reducing adhesion of C. albicans to PMMA surfaces through modification of the surface charge of polymeric biomaterials.
Thiazolothiazepine inhibitors of HIV-1 integrase

A series of thiazolothiazepines were prepared and tested against purified human immunodeficiency virus type-1 integrase (HIV-1 IN) and viral replication. Structure−activity studies reveal that the compounds possessing the pentatomic moiety SC(O)CNC(O) with two carbonyl groups are in general more potent against purified IN than those containing only one carbonyl group. Substitution with electron-donating or -withdrawing groups did not enhance nor abolish potency against purified IN. By contrast, compounds with a naphthalene ring system showed enhanced potency, suggesting that a hydrophobic pocket in the IN active site might accommodate an aromatic system rather than a halogen. The position of sulfur in the thiazole ring appears important for potency against IN, as its replacement with an oxygen or carbon abolished activity. Further extension of the thiazole ring diminished potency. Compounds 1, 19, and 20 showed antiviral activity and inhibited IN within similar concentrations. These compounds inhibited IN...
Freeze-thawing as a preparatory technique for electron microscopy.

Small pieces of mouse kidney cortex were frozen by immersion in isopentane cooled to −160°C by liquid nitrogen. The tissue was warmed to −18°C and 10-μ sections were cut in a cryostat. Thawing was effected by immersion in buffered osmium tetroxide at +4°C. Fixation and embedding in methacrylate or Epon 812 followed. Ultrathin lead stained sections showed few vacuoles due to ice crystals. The probable sites of intra-cytoplasmic ice crystals were characterized by areas lacking fine structure and slightly denser than the surroundings. Brush border, mitochondria, cytoplasmic membranes, and ribosomes were well preserved except for mitochondrial swelling. Blebbing of the outer nuclear membrane and vacuolization of the chromatin were seen. Slow cooling at 2°C/minute to −18°C followed by section cutting and fixation as above produced ultrathin sections showing fine structure preservation nearly equivalent to that seen after fast freezing, except that intracellular ice crystal sites were not seen.
Parthenolide improves systemic hemodynamics and decreases tissue leukosequestration in rats with polymicrobial sepsis.

ObjectiveNuclear factor (NF)-κB is a transcriptional factor required for the gene expression of many inflammatory mediators. This study was designed to investigate the biological effects of parthenolide, a specific inhibitor of NF-κB activation, in experimental sepsis and multiple organ failure.Desi
Taming the Blue Beast: A Survey of Bluetooth Based Threats

As Bluetooth finds its way into millions of devices worldwide, it also becomes a prime target for hackers. The author presents a taxonomy for threats against Bluetooth-enabled devices, describes several of these threats, and identifies steps for threat mitigation.
No Shades of Gray: The Binary Discourse of George W. Bush and an Echoing Press

Binary communications represent the world as a place of polar opposites. Such conceptions of reality, although not uncommon in Western thought, take on a heightened importance when political leaders employ them in a concerted, strategic discourse in a mass media environment. With this in mind, this research offers a conception of binary discourse and uses this as a foundation to examine (a) the use of binaries by U.S. President George W. Bush in 15 national addresses, from his inauguration in January 2001 to commencement of the Iraq War in March 2003, and (b) the responses of editorials in 20 leading U.S. newspapers to the president's communications.
Laparoscopic ipsilateral ureteroureterostomy in the management of ureteral ectopia in infants and children.

Abstract Objective We report our initial experience, and describe our technique, in performing laparoscopic ipsilateral ureteroureterostomy (IUU) in the pediatric population. Materials and methods An IRB-approved, retrospective review of all patients undergoing laparoscopic IUU at our institution between 2006 and 2009 was performed. Demographic data, mode of presentation, underlying diagnosis, operative parameters, complications and follow-up data were analyzed. Cystoscopy, retrograde pyelograms and ureteral stent placement into the lower pole ureter were performed at the beginning of all cases. All were performed via a transperitoneal approach. An end-to-side ureteral anastamosis was carried out along the proximal lower pole ureter. No drains were left in place. Urethral catheters were left for 48 h. Results There were seven patients in the series. All were female with a mean age of 84 months (11舐190). Diagnosis was an ectopic ureter in six patients and a ureterocele in one patient. No patient required conversion to an open approach. Mean total operative time was 187 min (140舐252). Mean hospital stay was 2 days (1舐4) with a mean follow up of 8 months (1舐15). No complications occurred postoperatively. Follow-up studies demonstrate decreased or resolved hydronephrosis in all cases. Conclusions In our initial experience, laparoscopic IUU can be accomplished in a safe and effective manner with minimal complication.
On scheduling to minimize earliness-tardiness and batch delivery costs with a common due date

Abstract In this paper, we consider a single-machine scheduling problem where all jobs have a common due date. The problem is to minimize the sum of earliness and tardiness penalties and the delivery costs of the tardy jobs, where the tardy jobs are delivered in batches with a fixed cost per batch. Our approach is to use a pseudo-polynomial dynamic programming algorithm to solve the problem. We also discuss some special cases that are solvable in polynomial time and show that for a given schedule of tardy jobs, the problem of scheduling the batch deliveries is equivalent to the dynamic lot sizing problem. We describe how the general problem is much more difficult. Finally, we present the results of empirical testing of the dynamic program and a number of heuristics developed.
Four-channel multimode wavelength-division-demultiplexer (WDM) system based on surface-normal volume holographic gratings and substrate-guided waves

We demonstrate a four channel integrated wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) and demultiplexer (WDDM) based on volume holographic gratings and substrate-guided waves at near IR wavelengths. The four operating wavelengths are centered at 750, 780, 810 and 840 nm respectively. The WDM and WDDM are demonstrated using 50/125 multimode fibers. The channel-to- channel crosstalk level is measured to be less than -40 dB. The system insertion losses are -23 dB, -21 dB, -20 dB, -22 dB respectively for 750 nm, 780 nm, 810 nm and 840 nm.
Diagnostic and therapeutic curettage in gestational trophoblastic disease

From June 1976 through June 1989, 37 nonconsecutive patients underwent uterine curettage during the course of their gestational trophoblastic disease. In 22 patients (59%) trophoblastic tissue was obtained. Three (8.1%) patients sustained a uterine perforation during the procedure. In six patients curettage was performed for bleeding. There were six patients curetted during assessment for metastatic trophoblastic disease. Twenty-eight patients underwent curettage for the presumed diagnosis of nonmetastatic gestational trophoblastic disease. In retrospect, four of these women (14.3%) had insufficient criteria for the diagnosis of gestational trophoblastic disease. Of the remaining 23 patients, four (17.4%) went into clinical remission without further treatment. Ten patients (43.5%) had a transitory decline in serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin levels that subsequently rose or plateaued. Six patients (26.1%) showed no effect from the curettage on their serum p-human chorionic gonadotropin trend during a short period of observation. Three patients (13.0%) with nonmetastatic gestational trophoblastic disease were not observed for a possible therapeutic effect after curettage. Thus, in only 4/20 (20%) women with nonmetastatic trophoblastic disease was a therapeutic effect from curettage shown.
An interpretation of the magnetic properties of the perovskite-type mixed crystals La1-xSrxCoO3-λ

Abstract It is pointed out that trivalent cobalt with an octahedral co-ordination of oxygen ions has a low-spin and a high-spin state of comparable energy. The anomalous magnetic properties of the perovskite-type mixed crystals La 1− x Sr x CoO 3− λ are interpreted in the light of this fact. It is assumed that the tetravalent cobalt ion is always in the low-spin state in this system. It is shown how the geometry of the perovskite-type lattice lends itself to the formation of two sublattices, each consisting of a set of (111) planes, in one of which the cobalt ions are predominantly in a high-spin state and in the other in a low-spin state. Experiments indicate that the magnetic interaction between trivalent cobalt ions in the high-spin state is antiferromagnetic, whereas the interaction between the low-spin tetravalent cobalt ions and the high-spin trivalent cobalt ions is ferromagnetic. These interactions are considered in relation to modified superexchange and the semicovalent-exchange models. The ferromagnetic Co 3+ −Co IV interaction permits a sharp distinction to be made between the two, although there is always some ambiguity in qualitative models. Further, the ferromagnetic interaction can be understood without recourse to Z ener 's double-exchange mechanism.
Haydock recursion-method calculations of the local density of states of NiSi 2 and Ni 3 Si

The Haydock recursion method, with Hamiltonian matrix elements obtained from fits to band-structure calculations of ${\mathrm{NiSi}}_{2}$ and ${\mathrm{Ni}}_{3}$Si is used to calculate local densities of states for these compounds. The objective is to determine how well the method reproduces features of local density of states from more rigorous calculations. The method is quite successful yielding a picture of local bonding consistent with other calculations. Resolution of fine structure is fair, usually appearing as shoulders on a broadened peak.
Structure-function relationships in the inorganic salt-induced precipitation of α-chymotrypsin

Abstract α-Chymotrypsin (αCT) was used as a model protein to study the effects of salt-induced precipitation on protein conformation. Process parameters investigated included the type and amount of salt used to induce precipitation. The salts studied included Na 2 SO 4 , NaCl, NaBr, KBr and KSCN. Precipitate secondary structure content was examined via laser Raman spectroscopy. Conventional and saturation transfer electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy were employed to probe the tertiary structure of the active site in spin-labelled αCT precipitates. As the molal surface tension increment of the inducing salt increased, the β-sheet content increased and the α-helix content decreased. There was no significant variation in secondary structure with the amount of salt used. The fraction of precipitate that recovered activity on redissolution was correlated with the change in secondary structure content. Spin-labelled precipitate spectra indicated that the active site remains unaltered during precipitation. Molecular modelling was employed to investigate how physical property of αCT were affected by these types of conformational change. Estimated physical property changes could not account entirely for observed deviations from current equilibrium theory for salt-induced precipitation. The spectroscopic observations were also combined with activity/solubility results to propose a mechanism for the salt-induced precipitation of globular proteins.
Fuzzy systems and cybernetics

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to stimulate thought and discourse toward postmodernism and its less known roots.Design/methodology/approach – The paper addresses the relationship between postmodernism and the development of the fuzzy sets theory, in the 1970s.Findings – The paper points out how Kybernetes, under the leadership of Dr J Rose, was the first international journal to accept papers in this new field.Originality/value – An interesting personal recollection and summary of 30 years of the topic of fuzzy systems.
Uptake of Ferrintin Into Neurosecretory Terminals

The release of neurosecretory products from terminals in the corpus cardiacum has been described in a few insect species (Scharrer 1963, 1968; Johnson 1966; Bowers & Johnson 1966; Normann 1965; Smith & Smith 1966; Smith 1970). Exocytosis has been suggested as the mechanism of release in Calliphora erythrocephala (Normann 1965, 1969) and in Carausius morosus (Smith & Smith 1966; Smith 1970), whereas fragmentation into ‘synaptoid’ regions has been indicated in Periplaneta americana (Scharrer 1963, 1968) and in Myzus persicae (Johnson 1966; Bowers & Johnson 1966). It is clear that structures representing both these features exist and differences in interpretation may depend on the sequence of events contributing to release. Using an electron-dense marker, an attempt has been made to determine the origin of the small vesicles which occur in neurosecretory axons and to throw some light on the dynamics of the release process.
Relationship of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on C-Reactive Protein and Homocysteine in Haitian and African Americans with and without Type 2 Diabetes

Background: Omega-3 fatty acids (n-3) may be protective of cardiovascular risk factors for vulnerable populations. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between n-3 with, C-reactive protein (CRP), and homocysteine (HCY) in Black minorities with and without type 2 diabetes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 406 participants: Haitian Americans (HA): n=238. African Americans (AA): n=172. Participants were recruited from a randomly generated mailing lists, local diabetes educators, community health practitioners and advertisements from 2008-2010. Sociodemographics and anthropometrics were collected and used to adjust analyses. All dietary variables were collected using the semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and used to quantify vitamin components. Blood was collected to measure CVD risk factors (blood lipids, HCY, and CRP). Results: African Americans had higher waist circumferences and C-reactive protein and consumed more calories as compared to Haitian Americans. Omega 3 fatty acid intake per calorie did not differ between these ethnicities, yet African Americans with low n-3 intake were three times more likely to have high C-reactive protein as compared to their counterparts [OR=3. 32 (1. 11, 9. 26) p=0.031]. Although homocysteine did not differ by ethnicity, African Americans with low omega 3 intake (<1 g/day) were four times as likely to have high homocysteine (>12 mg/L) as compared to their counterparts, adjusting for confounders [OR=4.63 (1.59, 12.0) p=0.004]. Consumption of n-3 by diabetes status was not associated with C-reactive protein or homocysteine levels. Conclusions: Consumption of n-3 may be protective of cardiovascular risk factors such as C-reactive protein and homocysteine for certain ethnicities. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.
Importance of systems engineering in early acquisition

The US Department of Defense is facing challenges in the successful acquisition of major defense systems. Systems engineering applied early in the acquisition process has been recognized as a key enabler of acquisition success. This paper presents recent experience with applying a systems approach to the defense acquisition system through the application of business process modeling, with a focus on the critical systems engineering activities and their role in providing the technical foundation for program decisions.
Arbitrage and the Expectations Hypothesis

This paper shows that all traditional forms of the expectations hypothesis can be consistent with the absence of arbitrage if markets are incomplete. A key implication is that the validity of the expectations hypothesis is purely an empirical issue; the expectations hypothesis cannot be ruled out on a priori theoretical grounds. ONE OF THE OLDEST AND BEST-KNOWN MODELS in finance is the expectations hypothesis of the term structure. Introduced by Fisher (1896) more than a century ago, the expectations hypothesis has become a standard framework for explaining how yields of different maturities are related and it provides an important empirical benchmark. From a theoretical perspective, however, the expectations hypothesis is not generally viewed as a viable model of the term structure. In particular, Cox, Ingersoll and Ross (1981) show that the traditional expectations hypothesis is actually a set of mutually exclusive propositions and offer a proof that most forms of the expectations hypothesis admit arbitrage. Recently, McCulloch (1993) and Fisher and Gilles (1998) present counterexamples to the Cox et al. proof, showing that the traditional forms of the expectations hypothesis can be consistent with the absence of arbitrage. They acknowledge, however, that their counterexamples are somewhat contrived and view them as economically implausible. These results leave the impression that the expectations hypothesis is only consistent with the absence of arbitrage in pathological cases of little practical interest. In this paper, we argue that the expectations hypothesis is much more theoretically defensible than commonly believed. An important point often overlooked is that the Cox et al. (1981) results are developed in an economic setting where bonds are redundant securities. In the more realistic case where bond prices display security-specific variation (and there is mounting evidence of this), traditional forms of the expectations hypothesis can hold quite generally without arbitrage. Only weak conditions guaranteeing the existence of an equivalent martingale measure need be satisfied for the various forms of the expectations hypothesis to hold without arbitrage. A key
Analysis of Variance: Random and Mixed Effects Models

SAS procedures GLM and MIXED are used to illustrate the analysis of a variety of random and mixed effects models. These include one-way random models, two-way crossed and nested random effects models, and two-way mixed effects models. Applications include a variety of experiments with random effects including randomized blocks, nested factorials, and split-plot type experiments. Estimation and statistical inference associated with classical method of moments and maximum likelihood estimates are illustrated using SAS output from GLM and MIXED procedures. Particular attention is paid to how expected mean squares output by SAS are used to calculate estimates of variance components and how these may be different from those obtained from likelihood methods.
Nanoscale waveguiding methods

While 32 nm lithography technology is on the horizon for integrated circuit (IC) fabrication, matching the pace for miniaturization with optics has been hampered by the diffraction limit. However, development of nanoscale components and guiding methods is burgeoning through advances in fabrication techniques and materials processing. As waveguiding presents the fundamental issue and cornerstone for ultra-high density photonic ICs, we examine the current state of methods in the field. Namely, plasmonic, metal slot and negative dielectric based waveguides as well as a few sub-micrometer techniques such as nanoribbons, high-index contrast and photonic crystals waveguides are investigated in terms of construction, transmission, and limitations. Furthermore, we discuss in detail quantum dot (QD) arrays as a gain-enabled and flexible means to transmit energy through straight paths and sharp bends. Modeling, fabrication and test results are provided and show that the QD waveguide may be effective as an alternate means to transfer light on sub-diffraction dimensions.
Effects of Chronic Ethanol Consumption and Aging on Proenkephalin and Neurotensin

We examined the combined effects of chronic ethanol consumption and aging on mRNA and peptide for proenkephalin (PE), the precursor of met- and leu-enkephalin. This study also evaluated the effects of aging and alcohol on the level of the mRNA encoding the common precursor of neurotensin (NT) and neuromedin N (NN). PE mRNA and NT/NN mRNA were quantitated in multiple brain areas of 5- and 24-month-old male Fischer 344 rats. Aging, but not chronic ethanol consumption, altered PE mRNA and peptide levels. Aging was accompanied by a loss of PE peptide and PE mRNA in the rostral striatum. In aged rats, PE mRNA was also reduced in the shell region of the nucleus accumbens. The decline in PE mRNA in the rostral striatum and shell region of the nucleus accumbens was caused by a reduction in the number of cells that contain PE mRNA. The percentage of PE mRNA-containing neurons that express a high amount of PE mRNA was also lower in the rostral striatum of 24-month-old rats. The effects of aging may impair motor function and alter the rewarding properties of ethanol consumption. Neither aging nor alcohol changed the PE mRNA levels in the core region of the nucleus accumbens, the frontal cortex, and the piriform cortex. In contrast to PE mRNA, neither aging nor chronic ethanol consumption affected NT/NN mRNA in the regions analyzed. Normal NT/NN mRNA levels were found in the lateral septum and two hippocampal brain areas: the dorsal subiculum and CA1 regions.
In vitro survival of human pathogenic fungi in Hawaiian beach sand

In vitro studies utilizing 4 pathogenic fungi, Trichosporon cutaneum, Candida albicans, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, all known from Hawaiian beaches, indicate that they survive in the fluctuating beach habitat where they can serve as potential sources of infection for significant periods of time. Survival was measured by testing the viability of propagules at intervals for 6 months.All species survived 5 months under 1 or more experimental conditions. Survival patterns showed both increases and decreases depending upon the given parameters designed to simulate various beach conditions. Propagules inoculated on hair and horn (keratinized inoculum) did not remain viable longer than propagules from pure culture suspensions (non-keratinized).Microbial antagonism was not a major factor in survival. All species survived at least 1 month in non-sterile sand inoculated with keratinized propagules. This condition approximated the natural sand habitat. Alternate wetting and drying of sand ca...
An experimental study of pathways from the basal ganglia.

This paper is a contribution to the ever current discussion of the function and the connections of the basal ganglia. An attempt has been made to correlate so far as possible the results of this experimental study with the data available in the literature, However, it does not take the student of this region long to realize that such data are often confusing and extremely controversial. It seems probable that much of the difference of opinion is due to the fact that authors dealing with the subject have applied a variety of technics, none of which is sufficient alone to make possible definite conclusions. The limitations of the classical technic employed in the present study are recognized, and furthermore the material presented is small in amount. The author accordingly wishes to emphasize that the failure of the present material to confirm the connections described by some other, authors cannot be regarded as a sufficient reason for a denial of their existence. However, the positive results here reported are regarded as offering documentation of certain connections which have been in dispute particularly since the appearance of the paper of Ranson and Ranson in 1941.
Exploring the potential of collaborative filtering for user-adaptive mammography education

Specialized training in breast imaging is critical to ensure high diagnostic accuracy of the radiologists who read screening mammograms in their daily practice. Previously, we proposed a framework for an individualized computer-aided mammography training system as a time-efficient and effective support for radiology education. The system utilizes the concept of user modeling to adapt the training protocol to meet the individual needs of the radiologists-in-training. User models are derived to predict the difficulty that a previously unseen case will pose to the modeled user. Constructing accurate models of the trainees is crucial for the overall effectiveness of the proposed training. In this paper we explore the potential of collaborative filtering for this task. Collaborative filtering is based on the assumption that the relation between ratings of different users or between ratings of different items observed for previous items will translate to new items and users. In the context of radiology trainee modeling we use this approach to predict errors that the trainees will make for unseen cases. These predicted errors can serve as the basis to identify challenging cases that are expected to be more beneficial when included in the training of a given trainee. We performed an experimental evaluation of the algorithm using data collected at Duke University Medical Center from 10 radiology residents for the problem of determining the malignancy status of masses based on their mammographic appearance. Our experiments showed that the collaborative filtering algorithm is able to distinguish cases of high and low difficulty and therefore demonstrated the promise of this approach in building adaptive computer-aided educational systems in radiology education.
Kinetics of d-glucose and 2-deoxy-d-glucose transport by Rhodotorula glutinis

Abstract The yeast Rhodotorula glutinis (Rhodosporidium toruloides) is capable of accumulative transport of a wide variety of monosaccharides. Initial velocity studies of the uptake of 2-deoxy- d -glucose were consistent with the presence of at least two carriers for this sugar in the Rhodotorula plasma membrane. Non-linear regression analysis of the data returned maximum velocities of 0.8±0.2 and 2.0±0.2 nmol/min per mg (wet weight) and Km values of 18±4 and 120±20 μM, respectively, for the two carriers. Kinetic studies of d -glucose transport also revealed two carriers with maximum velocities of 1.1±0.4 and 2.4±0.4 nmol/min per mg (wet weight) and Km values of 12±3 and 55±12 μM. As expected, 2-deoxy- d -glucose was a competitive inhibitor of d -glucose transport. Ki values for the inhibition were 16±8 and 110±40 μM. These Ki values were in good agreement with the Km values for 2-deoxy- d -glucose transport. d -Xylose, the 5-deoxymethyl analog of d -glucose, appears to utilize the d -glucose/2-deoxy- d -glucose carriers. This pentose was observed to be a competitive inhibitor of d -glucose (Ki values=0.14±0.06 and 5.6±1.6 mM) and 2-deoxy- d -glucose (Ki values=0.15±0.07 and 4.6±1.2 mM) transport.
Power and sample assessments for tests of hypotheses on cost-effectiveness ratios.

We address the issue of statistical power and sample size for cost-effectiveness studies. Tests of hypotheses on the cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) are constructed from the net cost and incremental effectiveness measures. When the difference in effectiveness is known, we derive formulae for statistical power and sample size assessments for one- and two-sided tests of hypotheses of the CER. We also construct a test of the joint hypothesis of cost-effectiveness and effectiveness and derive an expression connecting power and sample size. Our methods account for the correlation between cost and effectiveness and lead to smaller sample size requirements than comparative methods that ignore the correlation. The implications of our formulae for cost-effectiveness studies are illustrated through numerical examples. When compared with trials designed to demonstrate effectiveness alone, our results indicate that a trial appropriately powered to demonstrate cost-effectiveness might require sample sizes many times greater. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
EEG Electrode Sensitivity-An Application of Reciprocity

In this paper, the reciprocity theorem is used to determine the sensitivity of EEG leads to the location and orientation of sources in the brain. Quantitative information used in determining the sensitivity is derived from constant potential plots of a three-concentric-sphere mathematical model of the head with current applied through surface leads (the reciprocal problem), and from an electrolytic tank employing a human skull. Advantages of the reciprocal or lead field approach are outlined and the following conclusions are drawn. 1) Leads placed at the end of a diameter through the center of the brain have a range of sensitivity due to source location of only 3 to 1. 2) For the same electrode placement, sensitivity is maximum to sources oriented parallel to the line of the electrodes regardless of source location. 3) Electrodes spaced 5 cm apart are about ten times more sensitive to proximal cortical sources (by virtue of position) than to sources near the center of the brain.
Enlightened Stem Cells in the Heart: More Efficient and Safer Reporter Gene Imaging

Heart failure remains a major cause of death worldwide, with 6 million patients in the United States alone. Short of transplanting a new organ, there are currently limited options to overcome the poor prognosis of end-stage heart failure. This urgent clinical need drives the exploration of cardiac repair with stem cells. Although the ultimate goal of replacing dead myocytes in patients’ hearts is yet to be accomplished, many efforts aim to use the regenerative properties of stem cells for strategies to repair injured myocardium. The therapeutic potential of bone marrow–derived stem cells was evaluated first. Both cytokine-induced mobilization of bone marrow progenitor cells and their direct injection into the myocardium improved cardiac function, potentially by giving rise to new cardiomyocytes and vascular structures in preclinical experimentation. It was also discussed whether the effects were paracrine in nature. However, some clinical trials using bone marrow cells failed to achieve long-lasting beneficial effects. Currently, the field focuses on expanding cardiac progenitor cells, embryonic stem cells, and the use of induced pluripotent stem cells derived from differentiated cells, such as fibroblasts.1,2 No matter which cells are transplanted, key questions to be resolved include the mode of administration, sufficient cell homing, efficient engraftment, …
Some effects of humidity and heat on the tableting properties of microcrystalline cellulose formulations. I.

Microcrystalline cellulose was exposed to the atmosphere of the tableting room. It was found that this exposed material did not tablet as well as material taken from the original, sealed container. Heating of the exposed material improved its tableting characteristics as was shown by increases in the weight and hardness of the tablets produced. Lubrication of the exposed material served to increase tablet weight, but this was accompanied by a decrease in the hardness of the tablets. The combination of heat and lubrication also gave heavier tablets, but again at a sacrifice in hardness.
Evaluation of Whole-Blood Lumiaggregation:

An evaluation of whole-blood lumiaggregation was conducted in a normal population. Platelet aggregation and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) secretion were monitored in a three-phase study that analyzed sample dilution, agonist dose response, and method comparison. In the first phase, the blood:saline ratio was varied; in the second phase, the concentration of the agonists was varied ; and in the last phase, a comparison of impedance aggregation and ATP release in whole blood to optical aggregation and ATP release in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was performed. Five common platelet agonists— collagen, adenosine diphosphate (ADP), arachidonic acid, thrombin, and ristocetin—were used in this evaluation of the lumiaggregometer (Chrono-Log Corp., Havertown, PA, U.S.A.). The data revealed that the optimum blood:saline ratio for conducting platelet antigen studies is 1:1, although with some agonists other dilutions can be used. The agonist dose-response phase basically confirmed the manufacturer's concentration recomm...
Fuels Reduction in a Western Coniferous Forest: Effects on Quantity and Quality of Forage for Elk

Use of mechanical thinning and prescribed fire to reduce fuels in dry forest ecosystems has become increasingly common in western North America. Nevertheless, few studies have quantified effects of fuels reduction treatments on wildlife. We evaluated effects of fuels reduction on quantity and quality of forage available to elk (Cervus elaphus) in northeastern Oregon. From 2001 to 2003, 26 stands of true fir (Abies spp.) and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirbel] Franco) were thinned and burned, whereas 27 similar stands were left untreated to serve as experimental controls. We estimated percentage of cover, percentage of in vitro dry-matter digestibility (digestibility), and percentage of nitrogen (%N) of 16 important forage species and genera in treatment and control stands during spring (May–June) and summer (July–August) of 2005 and 2006. Quantity and quality of forage were lower in summer than spring in both stand types. In contrast, total cover of forage was higher in treatment than in control stands during spring, whereas the opposite was true during summer. For graminoids, %N was higher in control than in treatment stands whereas digestibility did not differ between stand types. For forbs, neither index of forage quality differed between stand types. When treatment stands were separated by years since burning, %N and digestibility of forbs and %N of graminoids increased from 2 to 5 yr following treatment, and by the fifth year after burning had exceeded maximum values observed in control stands in both seasons. As a result of the interacting effects of fuels reduction and season on forage characteristics, treated stands provided better foraging opportunities for elk during spring, whereas control stands provided better foraging opportunities during summer. Consequently, maintaining a mosaic of burned and unburned (late successional) habitat may be of greater benefit to elk than burning a large proportion of a landscape.
The dynamics of the bacterial diversity in the redox transition and anoxic zones of the Cariaco Basin assessed by parallel tag sequencing.

Massively parallel tag sequencing was applied to describe the bacterial diversity in the redox transition and anoxic zones of the Cariaco Basin. In total, 14 samples from the Cariaco Basin were collected over a period of eight years from two stations. A total of 244 357 unique bacterial V6 amplicons were sequenced. The total number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) found in this study was 4692, with a range of 511–1491 OTUs per sample. Approximately 95% of the OTUs found in the redox transition zone and anoxic layers of Cariaco are represented by less than 50 amplicons suggesting that only about 5% of the bacterial OTUs are responsible for the bulk of the microbial processes in the basin redox transition and anoxic zones. The same dominant OTUs were observed across all eight years of sampling although periodic fluctuations in their proportion were apparent. No distinctive differences were observed between the bacterial communities from the redox transition and anoxic layers of the Cariaco Basin water column. The largest proportion of amplicons belongs to Gammaproteobacteria represented mostly by sulfide oxidizers, followed by Marine Group A (originally described as SAR406; Gordon and Giovannoni [1996][1]), a group of uncultured bacteria hypothesized to be involved in metal reduction, and sulfate-reducing Deltaproteobacteria. Gammaproteobacteria, Deltaproteobacteria and Marine Group A make up 67–90% of all V6 amplicons sequenced in this study. This strongly suggests that the basin's microbial communities are actively involved in the sulfur-related metabolism and coupling of the sulfur and carbon cycles. According to detrended canonical correspondence analysis, ecological factors such as chemoautotrophy, nitrate and oxidized and reduced sulfur compounds influence the structuring and distribution of the Cariaco microbial communities. [1]: #ref-16
Case study: a young male with auditory hallucinations in paranoid schizophrenia.

PURPOSE. The purpose of this case study is to demonstrate use of the nursing process and the standardized nursing languages of NANDA International (NANDA-I), the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC), and the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) to assist a young male with paranoid schizophrenia to deal with auditory hallucinations. DATA SOURCES. Data were obtained from the experience and expertise of the author and published literature. DATA SYNTHESIS. This case study demonstrates nurses' clinical decision making in providing care for an adolescent with mental illness. CONCLUSION. This case study provides the pertinent nursing diagnosis, patient outcomes, and nursing interventions for a young male with auditory hallucinations in paranoid schizophrenia. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING. The use of NANDA-I, NOC, and NIC can provide the necessary framework for enhancing and improving the management of care with patients who experience auditory hallucinations in paranoid schizophrenia.
Kant’s Enlightenment

I urge here that Kant’s essay “What is Enlightenment?” be read in the context of debates at the time over the public critique of religion, and together with elements of his other writings, especially a short piece on orientation in thinking that he wrote two years later. After laying out the main themes of the essay in some detail, I argue that, read in context, Kant’s call to “think for ourselves” is not meant to rule out a legitimate role for relying on the testimony of others, that it is directed instead against a kind of blind religious faith, in which one either refuses to question one’s clerical authorities or relies on a mystical intuition that cannot be assessed by reason. Both of these ways of abandoning reason can be fended off if we always submit our private thoughts to the test of public scrutiny: which is why enlightenment, for Kant, requires both free thinking, by each individual for him or herself, and a realm of free public expression in which individuals can discuss the results of their thinking.