cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On Praise, Side Effects, and Folk Ascriptions of Intentionality.

In everyday discourse, we often draw a distinction between actions that are performed intentionally (e.g. shutting a car door) and those that are performed unintentionally (e.g. shutting a car door on your finger). This distinction has interested philosophers working in a number of different areas (e.g. action theory, free will, moral responsibility, and the philosophy of law). And while most philosophers agree that the concept of intentional action plays an important role in our folk psychology, there is still wide-scale disagreement about the precise nature of this role. Until recently, because there has been a dearth of empirical data about folk ascriptions of intentional action, the conceptual analyses of intentionality developed by philosophers have been mostly
What we know about the genetics of asthma at the beginning of the 21st century.

The understanding of the genetic controls that lead to the development of asthma is essential to its proper diagnosis and management. As we enter the 21 st century, the goals of genetic research in asthma and allergies will be to: 1) identify genetic factors, 2) define environmental cofactors, 3) characterize how genes and the environment work together to cause disease, 4) develop treatment and prevention measures, including drugs designed for the individual's genetic make-up.
Spectroscopy With Triangular Modulation

Spectroscopy with triangular modulationP. L. PolavarapuVanderbilt University, Department of ChemistryNashville, Tennessee 37235ABSTRACTA procedure where the variation of a physical property in time can be represented by a triangularwave is considered. This triangular modulation can be used in Fmk instruments operating in the step -
Pd/Sn catalyst for toluene acetoxylation

Silica supported PdSn catalysts were prepared by controlled surface precipitation of SnCl2 with subsequent redox—deposition of Pd over the tin hydroxide layer. The variables studied were the pH level attained after the tin hydroxide precipitation, the effect of the Pd:Sn ratio, the palladium loading and the temperature of the final He heat treatment. The samples were characterized by DRFI-IR, physisorption, hydrogen, oxygen and CO chemisorption, single turnover reaction procedure and acetoxylation activity measurements. The results of this study suggest that the initial precipitation of the tin hydroxide takes place without significant interaction between the partially hydrolyzed SnCl2 and the surface silanol groups. The final pH in this step controls the strength of attachment and the distribution of the tin hydroxide species on the silica surface and apparently the size of the immobilized palladium particles. The DRFT-IR spectra of the samples taken at various stages of preparation suggest that the PdSnx coverage is completely formed in the drying stage and subsequent sintering in He at 300°C only increases the number of the bridging SnOSi bonds. The optimized system requires a pH level of 4.2–4.7 in the tin precipitation step, a Pd:Sn ratio of 0.5, a Pd loading of 1–1.25% by weight and a helium sintering temperature of 250–270°C. The ex-situ prepared catalyst displayed higher acetoxylation activity than did the in-situ formed catalysts which were prepared from Sn(OH)2, Pd(OAc)2 and KOAc.
Effect of fluoxetine on serotonin and dopamine concentration in microdialysis fluid from rat striatum

Fluoxetine injected i.p. into rats at a dose of 10 mg/kg rapidly increased serotonin concentration in microdialysis fluid from the striatum by at least 4-fold, an increase that was maintained throughout the 3 hr observation period. Dopamine concentration in the microdialysis fluid did not change. The concentration of the two dopamine metabolites, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and homovanillic acid, was not changed in the microdialysis fluid, whereas the concentration of the serotonin metabolite, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, was significantly decreased after fluoxetine injection. The increased extracellular concentration of serotonin no doubt resulted from inhibition of the serotonin uptake carrier by fluoxetine, and the lack of change in dopamine is evidence for the specificity of action of this uptake inhibitor.
On the use of stochastic ordering to test for trend with clustered binary data

We introduce the use of stochastic ordering for defining treatment-related trend in clustered exchangeable binary data for both when cluster sizes are fixed and when they vary randomly. In the latter case, there is a well-documented tendency for such data to be sparse, a problem we address by making an assumption of interpretability or, equivalently, marginal compatibility. Our procedures are based on a representation of the joint distribution of binary exchangeable random variables by a saturated model, and may hence be considered nonparametric. The definition of trend by stochastic ordering is proposed to ensure a flexibility that allows for various forms of monotone increases in response to the cluster as a whole to be included in the evaluation of the trend. We obtain maximum likelihood estimates of probability functions under stochastic ordering using mixture-likelihood-based algorithms. Since the data are sparse, we avoid the use of asymptotic results and obtain p-values of the likelihood ratio procedures by permutation resampling. We demonstrate how the proposed framework can be used in risk assessment, and provide comparisons with existing procedures.
Geology and Bouguer anomalies of Hainan Island and vicinity

Abstract Northern Hainan Island is part of the Caledonian Cathysian fold system. Central and southern Hainan Island are part of the Variscan southeast maritime terrane. During Late Triassic-Jurassic time (the Indo-Sinian Movement), the Mekong foldbelt collided with the Yangtze terrane. The northwest-dipping subduction zone developed on the southeastern margins of the southeast maritime terrane during Jurassic-Cretaceous time (the Yenshanian Movement). Yenshanian intrusives present in Hainan Island extend northeastward as a magnetic arc across the Chinese continental shelf. Five Bouguer anomaly zones are recognized on Hainan Island. The anomalies in northern and northeastern Hainan Island reflect the thickness of Neogene and Quaternary sediments there, and anomalies in central, northwestern, and southeastern Hainan Island reflect the Variscan tectonic pattern of the region. The Bouguer anomalies increase southward from −20 mgal along the coast to +50 mgal near the edge of the continental shelf, and from +50 mgal to +220 mgal from the continental slope to the abyssal basin.
On the effect of tip vortices in low-Reynolds-number post-stall flow control ∗

We numerically investigate the application of steady blowing to three-dimensional stalled flows around low-aspect-ratio rectangular flat-plate wings at a Reynolds number of 300. The objective of this study is to explore techniques to enhance lift by directly modifying the dynamics of the wake vortices. Out of various combinations of forcing location and direction considered, we identify two configurations that provide significant lift enhancement. In these cases, actuation appears to strengthen the tip vortices for increased downward induced velocity upon the leading-edge vortices. This in turn moves the low-pressure core directly above the top surface of the wing to greatly enhance lift.
Value of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in low risk chest pain observation unit patients

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) rises with cardiac injury/ischemia. We evaluated its efficacy in aiding in the identification of an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in patients (pts) admitted to the chest pain unit (CPU) for possible ACS. Retrospective study of all patients admitted to the CPU with chest pain who underwent hs-CRP testing as part of their CPU evaluation from January 2004 to October 2008. Patients were low risk for ACS (compatible symptoms, nondiagnostic initial ECG, and negative cTnI). ACS was diagnosed by positive functional study, cardiac catheterization, or cardiac event during 30-day follow-up. Positive hs-CRP was defined based on local laboratory levels (>1.0 mg/l or >3.0 mg/l), and population-based and prior study values >2.0 mg/l. Chi-square analysis was performed, and odds ratios (OR) are presented. Multivariate analysis was done to determine whether hs-CRP was independently associated with the diagnosis of ACS. Cardiac risk factors, demographics, and diagnosis of ACS were included in the model. Medians with IQR are presented for continuous data. Ninety-five percent confidence intervals are presented where applicable. A total of 958 patients had hs-CRP testing as part of their CPEU evaluation. Excluded from the analysis were 39 patients lost to follow-up. The final cohort comprised 478 (52%) women and 441 (48%) men with a median age of 56 (IQR 48-64). ACS was diagnosed in 128 (13.4%). The median cohort hs-CRP value was 2.2 mg/l (IQR 0.7, 5.8) and 2.3 mg/l (IQR 0.6, 5.9) in those with and without ACS, respectively. In the multivariate analysis hs-CRP was not independently associated with the diagnosis of ACS (0.99; 95% CI 0.98 - 1.01). In large patient cohort managed in a single-center CPU, measurement of hs-CRP did not enhance the diagnostic accuracy for ACS. Routine hs-CRP as a diagnostic tool should not be recommended in the CPU setting.
An equation of state for molten polymers

A simple, generalized equation of state has been developed for molten polymers. The equation yielded calculated pressure–volume–temperature data that deviated by 1% or less from experimentally determined data. The use of the equation requires only that the polymer's glass temperature and density at 25°C and 1 atm be known. Polymer glass temperatures can also be estimated with the equation.
A Primer on Common Law & Related Causes of Action in Climate Change Litigation

There is an ongoing debate in the scholarly and policy communities about the extent to which common law tools are likely to be an important part of climate change law as it unfolds. Some commentators suggest that there are strong grounds for including common law causes of action in the tool box of strategies for addressing concerns about climate change; efforts to persuade the courts can galvanize government officials to take action on statutory grounds and produce significant returns for plaintiffs. Others urge that comprehensive regulation of greenhouse gases is the superior GHG mitigation strategy and assert that private litigation is distinctly unsuited for dealing with such a global problem. In this chapter in the forthcoming book Global Climate Change and U.S. Law, we begin with an overview of the courts’ contribution to this discussion thus far. Next, we summarize the major threshold issues that will ultimately determine whether these cases can proceed to the merits. These include standing, displacement, preemption, and the political question doctrine. Provided these hurdles can be overcome, climate change litigants will face a number of practical issues involving choice of defendants and forum, matters of proof, and the availability of insurance; we discuss these considerations below. Finally, we cover other possible legal theories that do not easily fit elsewhere: causes of action under the Alien Tort Statute; and other quasi-adjudicatory claims grounded in international law.
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis in skeletally immature patients

Fixation by a single screw is considered the current treatment of choice for a slipped capital femoral epiphysis. This approach promotes premature physeal closure. The use of a modified, standard, single, cannulated screw designed to maintain epiphyseal fixation without causing premature closure of the physis was reviewed in ten patients. The nine boys and one girl aged between 10.6 and 12.6 years with unilateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), were markedly skeletally immature (Tanner stage I, bone age 10 to 12.6 years). Clinical and radiological review at a mean follow-up of 44.3 months (36 to 76) showed no difference in the time to physeal closure between the involved and uninvolved side. Measurement of epiphyseal and physeal development showed continued growth and remodelling in all patients. Use of this device provided epiphyseal stability and maintained the capacity for physeal recovery and growth following treatment for both unstable and stable slipped capital femoral epiphysis.
Effects of the bidentate malonate ligand on the utilization and cytotoxicity of platinum compounds in the L1210 cell line.

Abstract Previous studies have investigated the cytotoxicity of platinum(II) compounds with bidentate leaving ligands, but little is known about their uptake or mechanism of action inside the cell. We have compared the uptake and intracellular effects of cis -1,2-diaminocyclohexanemalonatoplatinum(II) [Pt(mal)( cis -DACH)] and cis -1,2-diaminocyclohexane-dichloroplatinum(II) [PtC] 2 ( cis -DACH)] in the L1210 cell line. In the 3-h colony formation assay, PtCl 2 ( cis -DACH) is almost 10 times more cytotoxic than Pt(Mal)( cis -DACH). However, when the time of incubation with platinum drug is increased from 3 to 24 h the cytotoxicity of PtCl 2 ( cis -DACH) changes relatively little while the cytotoxicity of Pt(mal)( cis -DACH) increases over 10-fold. As a consequence, Pt(mal)( cis -DACH) is only slightly less cytotoxic than the dichloro compound by 24 h. These data can readily be explained by differences in the time course of uptake. Pt(mal)( cis -DACH) is initially taken by the cell at a much slower rate than PtCl 2 ( cis -DACH), but the uptake continues linearly for at least 24 h with the malonate compound, while uptake for the dichloro compound begins to plateau between 5 and 8 h. The earlier plateauing of PtCl 2 ( cis -DACH) uptake is most likely to be due to a quicker approach to equilibrium between intracellular and extracellular concentrations of unchanged drug which is caused by a more rapid inactivation of PtCl 2 ( cis -DACH) in the media coupled with the more rapid uptake of PtCl 2 ( cis -DACH) by the cells. When compared at equal cytotoxicity, the uptake of platinum into the intracellular pool of low molecular weight platinum compounds is significantly greater for Pt(mal)( cis -DACH) even though the rate of platinum incorporation into DNA is essentially the same for both compounds at early times. These data suggest that a smaller percentage of the low molecular weight platinum is in a reactive form inside the cell for Pt(mal)( cis -DACH). While the inhibition of cell survival exactly parallels incorporation of platinum into DNA for both compounds, there is a significant lag before the onset of inhibition of DNA synthesis for Pt(mal)( cis -DACH). This observation suggests that the conversion of monoadducts to diadducts may be slower for platinum compounds with bidentate leaving ligands.
CD2 expression on murine intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes is bimodal and defines proliferative capacity

The CD2 molecule is normally expressed on nearly all murine lymphocytes, and is co-stimulatory in T cell activation via the antigen receptor (TCR). A naturally occurring T lymphocyte population that is bimodal for CD2 expression was found in the intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL). TCR alpha beta + IEL contain CD2- and CD2+ cells of approximately equal proportion, while TCR gamma delta + IEL are predominantly CD2-. The proliferative response of IEL to stimulation with an anti-CD3 mAb or with PMA plus ionomycin co-segregated with CD2 expression; the CD2+ subset proliferated vigorously under these conditions while the CD2- subset was much less responsive. The responding CD2+ IEL contained both TCR alpha beta + and TCR gamma delta + cells. However, activation of the CD2- IEL with anti-CD3 mAb resulted in only the expansion of TCR gamma delta + IEL, while activation with PMA plus ionomycin did not promote expansion of either the TCR alpha beta + or the TCR gamma delta + IEL. These findings parallel observations in the autoimmune lpr mouse, where massive numbers of peripheral TCR alpha beta + CD4-CD8- T cells that lack CD2 expression are also hyporesponsive to mitogenic stimulation. The apparent anergy of CD2- TCR alpha beta + IEL, as well as CD2- T cells from lpr mice, demonstrates that the absence of CD2 on TCR alpha beta + T lymphocytes co-segregates with nonresponsiveness.
Gain-of-function Mutations in Transient Receptor Potential C6 (TRPC6) Activate Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2)

Gain-of-function mutations in the canonical transient receptor potential 6 (TRPC6) gene are a cause of autosomal dominant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The mechanisms whereby abnormal TRPC6 activity results in proteinuria remain unknown. The ERK1/2 MAPKs are activated in glomeruli and podocytes in several proteinuric disease models. We therefore examined whether FSGS-associated mutations in TRPC6 result in activation of these kinases. In 293T cells and cultured podocytes, overexpression of gain-of-function TRPC6 mutants resulted in increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation, an effect dependent upon channel function. Pharmacologic inhibitor studies implicated several signaling mediators, including calmodulin and calcineurin, supporting the importance of TRPC6-mediated calcium influx in this process. Through medium transfer experiments, we uncovered two distinct mechanisms for ERK activation by mutant TRPC6, a cell-autonomous, EGF receptor-independent mechanism and a non-cell-autonomous mechanism involving metalloprotease-mediated release of a presumed EGF receptor ligand. The inhibitors KN-92 and H89 were able to block both pathways in mutant TRPC6 expressing cells as well as the prolonged elevation of intracellular calcium levels upon carbachol stimulation seen in these cells. However, these effects appear to be independent of their effects on calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and PKA, respectively. Phosphorylation of Thr-70, Ser-282, and Tyr-31/285 were not necessary for ERK activation by mutant TRPC6, although a phosphomimetic TRPC6 S282E mutant was capable of ERK activation. Taken together, these results identify two pathways downstream of mutant TRPC6 leading to ERK activation that may play a role in the development of FSGS.
Contractual Disputes and the Channels for Interfirm Communication

Interfirm information exchange as to the reliability of trade partners supports the development of markets by mitigating information asymmetries and providing the basis for relational contracting. While this general point has been made in a variety of contexts, most of the literature analyzes only a single channel or institutional mechanism that firms in a particular environment have for disseminating relational information. That is, some researchers have focused on the importance of informal communication within a group or network of firms; others have concentrated on the role of a formal organization that helps bring about or mediate this information flow. This article makes a contribution to this literature by exploring the interaction of formal and informal mechanisms as determinants of relational information flows. Specifically, we explore whether membership in a formal organization, a business association, contributes to interfirm communication about disputes with trade partners if firms already communicate informally. Based on evidence from five transition countries, we find that the role of business associations in this regard is in some circumstances statistically and economically significant, even when controlling for the level of preexisting interfirm communication. Notably we find that the marginal value of business associations can be particularly important when the transacting parties are in different cities; in this case, the probability that information of a firm's dispute with a client becomes known to the client's other suppliers increases by 18%. In addition, we find that the role of business associations in promoting relational information flows is sensitive to the degree of local competition in their members' markets. We also confirm that firms that already engage in regular informal communication with trade partners are much more likely to have news of their disputes disseminated and we show how the flow of relational information is sensitive to a firm's institutional environment and specific features of a bilateral relationship in which a dispute might arise. Copyright 2005, Oxford University Press.
Feruloyl Esterase Activity of the Clostridium thermocellum Cellulosome Can Be Attributed to Previously Unknown Domains of XynY and XynZ

The cellulosome of Clostridium thermocellum is a multiprotein complex with endo- and exocellulase, xylanase, beta-glucanase, and acetyl xylan esterase activities. XynY and XynZ, components of the cellulosome, are composed of several domains including xylanase domains and domains of unknown function (UDs). Database searches revealed that the C- and N-terminal UDs of XynY and XynZ, respectively, have sequence homology with the sequence of a feruloyl esterase of strain PC-2 of the anaerobic fungus Orpinomyces. Purified cellulosomes from C. thermocellum were found to hydrolyze FAXX (O-(5-O-[(E)-feruloyl]-alpha-L-arabinofuranosyl)-(1-->3)-O-beta-D- xyl opyranosyl-(1-->4)-D-xylopyranose) and FAX(3) (5-O-[(E)-feruloyl]-[O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-(1-->2)]-O-alpha-L- arabinofuranosyl-[1-->3])-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-(1-->4)-D-xylopyranose) , yielding ferulic acid as a product, indicating that they have feruloyl esterase activity. Nucleotide sequences corresponding to the UDs of XynY and XynZ were cloned into Escherichia coli, and the expressed proteins hydrolyzed FAXX and FAX(3). The recombinant feruloyl esterase domain of XynZ alone (FAE(XynZ)) and with the adjacent cellulose binding domain (FAE-CBD(XynZ)) were characterized. FAE-CBD(XynZ) had a molecular mass of 45 kDa that corresponded to the expected product of the 1,203-bp gene. K(m) and V(max) values for FAX(3) were 5 mM and 12.5 U/mg, respectively, at pH 6.0 and 60 degrees C. PAX(3), a substrate similar to FAX(3) but with a p-coumaroyl group instead of a feruloyl moiety was hydrolyzed at a rate 10 times slower. The recombinant enzyme was active between pH 3 to 10 with an optimum between pH 4 to 7 and at temperatures up to 70 degrees C. Treatment of Coastal Bermuda grass with the enzyme released mainly ferulic acid and a lower amount of p-coumaric acid. FAE(XynZ) had similar properties. Removal of the 40 C-terminal amino acids, residues 247 to 286, of FAE(XynZ) resulted in protein without activity. Feruloyl esterases are believed to aid in a release of lignin from hemicellulose and may be involved in lignin solubilization. The presence of feruloyl esterase in the C. thermocellum cellulosome together with its other hydrolytic activities demonstrates a powerful enzymatic potential of this organelle in plant cell wall decomposition.
Development of a New Deer Repellent for the Protection of Forest Resources

We have identified hydrolyzed casein as a promising repellent for minimizing damage to forest resources inflicted by browsing ungulates. Eight and twelve percent hydrolyzed casein formulations prepared in water with a latex-based agricultural sticker significantly reduced browse damage by captive black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) to western redcedar (Thuja plicata) saplings. These repellent formulations can be prepared by the user at significant cost savings versus commercial products. West. J. Appl. For. 21(2):
Acute cholecystitis: risk factors for conversion to an open procedure

Abstract Background Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most common general surgical procedures performed. Conversion to an open procedure (CTO) is associated with increased morbidity and length of stay. Patients presenting with acute cholecystitis are at higher risk for CTO. Studies have attempted to examine risk factors for CTO in patients who undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis but are limited by small sample size. The aim of this study was to identify preoperative variables that predict higher risk for CTO in patients presenting with acute cholecystitis. Materials and methods Patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis from 2005–2011 were identified from the American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Participant Use File. Patients who underwent successful laparoscopic surgery were compared with those who required CTO. Demographics, comorbidities, and 30-d outcomes were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression was used for variables with P value Results A total of 7242 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis. CTO was reported in 436 patients (6.0%). Those who required conversion were older (60.7 ± 16.2 versus 51.6 ± 18.0, P = 0.0001) and mean body mass index was greater (30.8 ± 7.6 versus 30.0 ± 7.3, P = 0.033) compared with those whose procedure was completed laparoscopically. Vascular, cardiac, renal, pulmonary, neurologic, hepatic disease, diabetes, and bleeding disorders were more prevalent in CTO patients. Mortality (2.3% versus 0.7%, P Conclusions CTO for acute cholecystitis remains low but not clinically negligible. The identified risk factors can potentially guide management and patient selection for delayed intervention for acute cholecystitis.
An ultrasonic method for measuring tissue displacement: technical details and validation for measuring myocardial thickening

The authors developed a method for measuring myocardial thickening from a single ultrasonic transducer attached to the epicardium. Displacement of the underlying myocardial tissue is measured by following the phase of the echoes within a sample volume range-gated across the myocardium. The output is in the form of an analog signal. To verify the accuracy, resolution, and limitations of the system, the authors derived the equations relating the position of a reflector to the phase of its echo and compared the system output in vitro to a known input using a single moving target and a random distribution of scatterers, and in vivo to that of an ultrasonic transit-time dimension gauge. The results demonstrate that the 10 MHz system can accurately follow the motion of single or multiple targets with a resolution of 0.02 mm. In 25 dogs myocardial thickening measured with the displacement system compared favorably in both waveform and magnitude with thickening measured by the two-crystal transit-time method. Applications for the displacement method are discussed. >
Parsing and browsing tools for colonoscopy videos

Colonoscopy is an important screening tool for colorectal cancer. During a colonoscopic procedure, a tiny video camera at the tip of the endoscope generates a video signal of the internal mucosa of the colon. The video data are displayed on a monitor for real-time analysis by the endoscopist. We call videos captured from colonoscopic procedures colonoscopy videos. Because these videos possess unique characteristics, new types of semantic units and parsing techniques are required. In this paper, we define new semantic units called operation shots, each is a segment of visual and audio data that correspond to a therapeutic or biopsy operation. We introduce a new spatio-temporal analysis technique to detect operation shots. Our experiments on colonoscopy videos demonstrate that the technique does not miss any meaningful operation shots and incurs a small number of false operation shots. Our prototype parsing software implements the operation shot detection technique along with our other techniques previously developed for colonoscopy videos. Our browsing tool enables users to quickly locate operation shots of interest. The proposed technique and software are useful (1) for post-procedure reviews and analyses for causes of complications due to biopsy or therapeutic operations, (2) for developing an effective content-based retrieval system for colonoscopy videos to facilitate endoscopic research and education, and (3) for development of a systematic approach to assess endoscopists' procedural skills.
High-frequency response in carbon nanotube field-effect transistors

We report electrical measurements of the radio frequency response of carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNFETs). The very low current drive of CNFETs makes conventional high-frequency measurements difficult. To overcome this problem, we have used a novel approach to easily measure the response up to 250 MHz in nonoptimized experimental conditions. We observe a clear response of our CNFETs with no deterioration in signal up to at least 250 MHz, which is the limit for our present configuration.
Clinical Manifestations and Management of Prune-belly Syndrome in a Large Contemporary Pediatric Population

Objective To review the clinical manifestations and operative management of a large contemporary pediatric cohort of patients with prune-belly syndrome (PBS). Methods PBS patients aged International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code (756.71). Demographics, concomitant diagnoses, surgical history, imaging studies, and renal or bladder function were evaluated. Results Data were available for 46 pediatric patients (44 boys and 2 girls). Mean age was 7.6 ± 4.7 years (range, 0.9-20 years). Average length of clinical follow-up was 6.8 ± 5 years. Forty-five children (97.8%) had hydroureteronephrosis, and 36 of them (78.3%) had vesicoureteral reflux. Five patients (10.9%) had significant pulmonary insufficiency, and 2 patients (4.3%) were oxygen dependent. Eighteen children (39.1%) had other congenital malformations, including cardiac in 4 patients (8.7%) and musculoskeletal anomalies in 10 patients (21.7%). Orchidopexy was the most common surgery, with all boys aged ≥3 years having undergone the procedure. Twenty-two patients (47.8%) had a history of ureteral surgery, 22 (47.8%) had bladder surgery, 11 (23.9%) had renal surgery, and 6 (13%) had urethral procedures. Nineteen patients (41.3%) underwent abdominoplasty. Eighteen children (39.1%) had documented chronic kidney disease, and 8 children (17.4%) underwent renal transplantation. Average age at transplantation was 5.1 ± 2.9 years. The mean nadir creatinine level for patients with end-stage renal disease was 1.4 mg/dL compared with 0.4 mg/dL for those not requiring transplantation ( P Conclusion Children with PBS have significant comorbidities and require frequent operative intervention, with disease heterogeneity necessitating an individualized management approach. Early end-stage renal disease is prevalent, with approximately 15% of children requiring kidney transplantation.
Susceptibilities of simian immunodeficiency virus to protease inhibitors.

We used a focal infectivity assay with HeLa H1-JC.37 cells to directly compare susceptibilities of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) to protease inhibitors. SIVmac239 was inhibited by indinavir, saquinavir, and ritonavir, with 50% effective concentrations (means ± standard deviations) of 39 ± 8, 55 ± 3, and 13 ± 5 nM, respectively. The corresponding values for inhibition of HIV-1 were 66 ± 4, 47 ± 10, and 25 ± 14 nM, respectively.
In-process evaluation for software inspection and test

The goal of software inspection and test is to reduce the expected cost of software failure over the life of a product. The authors extend the use of defect triggers, the events that cause defects to be discovered, to help evaluate the effectiveness of inspections and test scenarios. In the case of inspections, the defect trigger is defined as a set of values that associate the skills of the inspector with the discovered defect. Similarly, for test scenarios, the defect trigger values embody the deferring strategies being used in creating these scenarios. The usefulness of triggers in evaluating the effectiveness of software inspections and tests is demonstrated by evaluating the inspection and test activities of some software products. These evaluations are used to point to deficiencies in inspection and test strategies, and to progress made in improving such strategies. The trigger distribution of the entire inspection or test series may then be used to highlight areas for further investigation, with the aim of improving the design, implementation, and test processes. >
Interrelationships Among Performance, Circulating Concentrations of Adrenaline, Noradrenaline, Glucose, and the Free Fatty Acids in Men Performing a Monitoring Task

This investigation was to determine the interrelationships among circulating concentrations of adrenaline, noradrenaline, glucose, and “free” fatty acids ([A], [NA], [G], and [FFA], respectively) in 11 men at rest and while performing “mental” work, i.e., a visual monitoring task. They performed the task and on another occasion served in a control condition where they merely watched slide projections. Basal levels of both [A] and [NA] were inversely related to [G]. [A] increased initially during the task but later returned to its basal level. The decline in [A] paralleled performance in the task. [A] declined to below its basal level in the control condition. [NA] was not related to performance in the task. [G] and [FFA] were elevated with respect to corresponding basal levels in both the task and the control condition. The bearing of the results upon current theories of human vigilance and psychophysiological mobilization during mental work was discussed.
Comparative assessment of the West Bering Sea and East Bering Sea Large Marine Ecosystems

Abstract A comparison between the West and East Bering Sea Large Marine Ecosystems (LMEs) is a study in contrast. These LMEs feature different geographical, bathymetric, and geomorphological settings that determine profound differences between their climate, circulation, frontal pattern, primary production, and fisheries yields. This paper focuses largely on physical factors that affect ecology and fisheries to demonstrate that these physical factors vary dramatically across the Bering Sea.
Relative energies of alpha and beta isomers of Keggin dodecatungstogallate.

The relative energies of β Keggin heteropolytungstates, Xn+W12O40(8-n)-, decrease as Xn+ is varied within period 3, from P5+ to Si4+ to Al3+. With heating of α-H5Ga3+W12O40 at 200 °C in water, an equilibrated mixture of α (Td; one 183W NMR signal) and β (C3v; three signals; 1:2:1 ratio) isomers is obtained. From ΔGexp = −RT ln Kβ→α, in which (from 71Ga NMR spectra) Kβ→α (= [α]/[β]) = 5.0, β-GaW12O405- is 0.65 kcal mol-1 higher in energy than α-GaW12O405-. This finding is evaluated by analysis of the X-ray crystal structure α-K2Na3[GaW12O40]·9.3H2O [trigonal, space group P3221, a = 18.9201(13) A, b = 18.9201(13) A, c = 12.5108(12) A, Z = 3, T = 100(2)K], comparison of the Shannon and Prewitt radii and Pauling electronegativities of Al3+ and Ga3+, and insight from density functional theory calculations, which predicted Eβ − Eα = 0.32 kcal mol-1.
Spillover Effects of Brand Alliance and Service Experience on Host Brands in Loyalty Program Partnerships

Three studies explored the consequences of loyalty program partnership on individual brands. The first study sought to determine what kinds of brand equity and category similarity would result in customers’ higher perceived attractiveness of and intention to join the loyalty program partnership. The study finds that higher category similarity increases both perceived attractiveness and joining intention towards a loyalty program partnership. When loyalty program partnership consisted of similar category businesses, individual brands also experienced changes to their brand equity levels. Low equity brands when partnered with high equity brands experienced a significant improvement in their brand equity levels. A high-high pairing increased the brand equity for the both host and partner brands while a low-low pairing increased the brand equity for the host brand. The second study investigated if participation in a loyalty program partnership affected the brand identity distinctiveness of the host brand. Contrary to expectations, host brand did not experience any loss in brand identity distinctiveness after a loyalty program partnership. The third study examined the possible effects of negative spillover in a loyalty program partnership in a partner service failure situation. In line with predictions, this study found that host brands were not immune to service failures by the partner brand. Even though the host brand did not cause the service failure, they were negatively affected by the service failure due to their association with the partner brand through loyalty program partnership. Negative effects on the host brand included decline in brand equity and lessened future behavioral intentions towards the host brand. Category similarity was again a significant factor in determining the effects of the negative spillover among the partner brands. Decline in the host brand equity was significant
Cytogenetic Analysis: A Potential Index for Recurrence of Early Carcinoma of the Bladder

AbstractIn 15 cancer patients cystoscopic resection or biopsy coupled with cytogenetic analysis at intervals of 3 to 69 months showed persistence of chromosomal patterns with markers (abnormal chromosomes) in 4 of 7 non-invasive and in 6 of 8 submucosal invasive carcinomas. Recurrence was limited to but constant in those carcinomas containing markers.Marker chromosomes have potential value as a prognostic aid. Further, the triad of tetraploidy, markers and submucosal invasive moderately well differentiated carcinoma appears to carry such a lethal prognosis as to militate for early radical resection.
Chromosomal Translocations and Gene Rearrangements in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a malignant clonal disorder arising from haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, manifest as an overgrowth of lymphoid blast cells resembling early B- or T-cell progenitors. ALL occurs as a result of genetic, epigenetic and chromosomal aberrations that lead to unregulated cellular proliferation, a block in lymphocyte differentiation, aberrant cell survival and enhanced self-renewal. Chromosomal lesions can lead to loss of tumour suppressor genes or activation of structurally intact oncogenes, or create novel chimeric transcription factors or activated tyrosine kinases. Here we discuss the mechanisms of gene dysregulation in ALL, such as those occurring through translocation of oncogenes to immunoglobulin or T-cell receptor loci, often mediated by RAG-mediated double-strand breaks. Furthermore, we summarise recent findings from genome and transcriptome resequencing of ALLs that have implications for prognosis and targeted therapy.
Metastatic Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The Importance of T2 Stratification and Hematologic Malignancy in Prognostication.

BACKGROUNDWhile infrequent, nodal metastases in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) can result in death from disease. Identification of those at risk for metastases is key to improved prognostication and treatment.OBJECTIVETo review metastatic cSCC at the study institution.METHODS AND MATERIALS
Application of Personal Computers to Lagrangian Modeling in Complex Terrain

Personal computers are now capable of solving complex problems related to the transport and diffusion of materials released into the atmosphere. Making such calculations rapidly and “on the spot” would be of great use in planning evacuations and cleanup activities when toxic materials are spilled as the result of some accident. It would be desirable if such calculations were not limited to the simple, steady-state assumptions usually required for such applications. A more realistic simulation, accounting for wind fields which change in space and time and variations in the meteorological conditions would be better. As personal micro-computers become ever more readily available, it is no longer unreasonable to believe that these capabilities could be supplied relatively cheaply. Mass- produced personal computers are already relatively inexpensive. In fact, their cost is, on an equivalent basis, less than that of the mechanical desk calculator of 20 years ago. Personal computers are becoming more powerful every year. However, they have limitations in the amount of core storage that is available and in their speed, so their use requires careful programming and some simplifications of the theory.
Implant compositions for the unidirectional delivery of drugs to the brain

AbstractThe overall objective of this study was to design and characterize the properties of a bioadhesive trilayer sustained-release implant device for the unidirectional local delivery of anticancer compounds to the brain following the removal of glioblastoma multiforme tumors. Using acetaminophen as a model drug compound, we compressed trilayer wafers that contained (i) a bioadhesive layer, (ii) a drug layer that contained a lipid and a pore-forming hydrophilic polymer, and (iii) a third layer comprising a lipid substance. To maintain a unidirectional pathway of drug release from these trilayer wafers, the edges and the surface lipophilic layer were coated with molten wax followed by cooling of the wafer. These wafers were subsequently heat cured to promote interlayer adhesion in the device. Polyethylene oxide was utilized both as the bioadhesive layer and the pore-forming hydrophilic polymer. Glyceryl behenate was employed as the lipid. The drug release properties of the trilayer wafer were a function...
Complete Genome Sequence of the Campylobacter helveticus Type Strain ATCC 51209.

ABSTRACT Campylobacter helveticus has been isolated from domestic dogs and cats. Although C. helveticus is closely related to the emerging human pathogen C. upsaliensis, no C. helveticus-associated cases of human illness have been reported. This study describes the whole-genome sequence of the C. helveticus type strain ATCC 51209 (=CCUG 30682T).
Prioritizing Symbiosis to Sustain Biodiversity: Are Symbionts Keystone Species?

Identifying keystone species appears to be pivotal in the strategies designed to prioritize important ecological zones and preserve high levels of biodiversity. Yet, definitions and the means of determining keystones are shifting and ambiguous. Microbial symbionts such as the dinoflagellate Symbiodinium spp. in hermatypic corals and selected fungal species in mycorrhizal plant associations are more clear and critical keystone species. The research agenda in the conservation biology and ecology disciplines can no longer afford to be limited to traditional mega-flora and-fauna perspectives. Indeed, symbiotic systems appear to be a cornerstone of biodiversity.
Abstract 009: Genetically Modified Probiotics for Oral Delivery of Angiotensin-(1-7) Confers Protection Against Pulmonary Hypertension

Background: Previous studies have established that activation of the members of the vasoprotective axis of the renin-angiotensin system [Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) or Angiotensin-(1-7) ...
Replacing Soybean Meal with Alternative Protein Sources in Diets for Pond-raised Hybrid Catfish, ♀ Ictalurus punctatus × ♂ Ictalurus furcatus

The present study investigated the replacement of soybean meal with combinations of two or three alternative protein sources in diets for pond-raised hybrid catfish, ♀ Ictalurus punctatus × ♂ Ictalurus furcatus. Alternative protein sources evaluated included cottonseed meal, distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), peanut meal, and porcine meat and bone meal (PMBM). Hybrid catfish fingerlings with a mean initial weight of 35 g/fish were stocked into 25 earthen ponds (0.04 ha) at a density of 14,826 fish/ha. Fish were fed once daily to apparent satiation for 166 d. No significant differences were observed for total diet fed, net yield, weight gain, survival, carcass yield, fillet yield, or fillet proximate composition among dietary treatments. Results show soybean meal may be completely replaced by combinations of cottonseed meal and one or two other alternative protein sources including DDGS, peanut meal, and PMBM in the diet without markedly affecting production and processing characteristics and fillet proximate composition of pond-raised hybrid catfish. These alternative diets may be used during foodfish production when prices are favorable.
The blastema and epimorphic regeneration in mammals.

Abstract Studying regeneration in animals where and when it occurs is inherently interesting and a challenging research topic within developmental biology. Historically, vertebrate regeneration has been investigated in animals that display enhanced regenerative abilities and we have learned much from studying organ regeneration in amphibians and fish. From an applied perspective, while regeneration biologists will undoubtedly continue to study poikilothermic animals (i.e., amphibians and fish), studies focused on homeotherms (i.e., mammals and birds) are also necessary to advance regeneration biology. Emerging mammalian models of epimorphic regeneration are poised to help link regenerative biology and regenerative medicine. The regenerating rodent digit tip, which parallels human fingertip regeneration, and the regeneration of large circular defects through the ear pinna in spiny mice and rabbits, provide tractable, experimental systems where complex tissue structures are regrown through blastema formation and morphogenesis. Using these models as examples, we detail similarities and differences between the mammalian blastema and its classical counterpart to arrive at a broad working definition of a vertebrate regeneration blastema. This comparison leads us to conclude that regenerative failure is not related to the availability of regeneration-competent progenitor cells, but is most likely a function of the cellular response to the microenvironment that forms following traumatic injury. Recent studies demonstrating that targeted modification of this microenvironment can restrict or enhance regenerative capabilities in mammals helps provide a roadmap for eventually pushing the limits of human regeneration.
Fast algorithms for mining co-evolving time series

Time series data arise in many applications, from motion capture, environmental monitoring, temperatures in data centers, to physiological signals in health care. In the thesis, I will focus on the theme of learning and mining large collections of co-evolving sequences, with the goal of developing fast algorithms for finding patterns, summarization, and anomalies. In particular, this thesis will answer the following recurring challenges for time series: 1. Forecasting and imputation: How to do forecasting and to recover missing values in time series data? 2. Pattern discovery and summarization: How to identify the patterns in the time sequences that would facilitate further mining tasks such as compression, segmentation and anomaly detection? 3. Similarity and feature extraction: How to extract compact and meaningful features from multiple co-evolving sequences that will enable better clustering and similarity queries of time series? 4. Scale up: How to handle large data sets on modern computing hardware? We develop models to mine time series with missing values, to extract compact representation from time sequences, to segment the sequences, and to do forecasting. For large scale data, we propose algorithms for learning time series models, in particular, including Linear Dynamical Systems (LDS) and Hidden Markov Models (HMM). We also develop a distributed algorithm for finding patterns in large web-click streams. Our thesis will present special models and algorithms that incorporate domain knowledge. For motion capture, we will describe the natural motion stitching and occlusion filling for human motion. In particular, we provide a metric for evaluating the naturalness of motion stitching, based which we choose the best stitching. Thanks to domain knowledge (body structure and bone lengths), our algorithm is capable of recovering occlusions in mocap sequences, better in accuracy and longer in missing period. We also develop an algorithm for forecasting thermal conditions in a warehouse-sized data center. The forecast will help us control and manage the data center in a energy-efficient way, which can save a significant percentage of electric power consumption in data centers.