cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic and least squares algorithms for estimating spectral EIS parameters of prostatic tissues.

We employed electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to evaluate the electrical properties of prostatic tissues. We collected freshly excised prostates from 23 men immediately following radical prostatectomy. The prostates were sectioned into 3 mm slices and electrical property measurements of complex resistivity were recorded from each of the slices using an impedance probe over the frequency range of 100 Hz to 100 kHz. The area probed was marked so that following tissue fixation and slide preparation, histological assessment could be correlated directly with the recorded EIS spectra. Prostate cancer (CaP), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), non-hyperplastic glandular tissue and stroma were the primary prostatic tissue types probed. Genetic and least squares parameter estimation algorithms were implemented for fitting a Cole-type resistivity model to the measured data. The four multi-frequency-based spectral parameters defining the recorded spectrum (ρ∞, Δρ, fc and α) were determined using these algorithms and statistically analyzed with respect to the tissue type. Both algorithms fit the measured data well, with the least squares algorithm having a better average goodness of fit (95.2 mΩ m versus 109.8 mΩ m) and a faster execution time (80.9 ms versus 13 637 ms) than the genetic algorithm. The mean parameters, from all tissue samples, estimated using the genetic algorithm ranged from 4.44 to 5.55 Ω m, 2.42 to 7.14 Ω m, 3.26 to 6.07 kHz and 0.565 to 0.654 for ρ∞, Δρ, fc and α, respectively. These same parameters estimated using the least squares algorithm ranged from 4.58 to 5.79 Ω m, 2.18 to 6.98 Ω m, 2.97 to 5.06 kHz and 0.621 to 0.742 for ρ∞, Δρ, fc and α, respectively. The ranges of these parameters were similar to those reported in the literature. Further, significant differences (p < 0.01) were observed between CaP and BPH for the spectral parameters Δρ and fc; this is especially important since current prostate cancer screening methods do not reliably differentiate between these two tissue types.
Far-Field Diffraction and Polarization Properties of a Three-Dimensional Hollow, Homogeneous, Isotropic Cone*†

A brief description is given of a theory for computing the form of the far-field diffraction and polarization properties of a hollow, homogeneous, isotropic cone, when it is placed between arbitrarily oriented polarizer and analyzer. For this theory, the incident plane wavefront and circular aperture are normal to the axis of the cone. The solution is an “optical one” for which the circular aperture is large compared with the wavelength, the diffraction properties of the cone in the plane of circular aperture are negligible, and multiple reflections between the cone, circular aperture, and focusing system are neglected. All the multiple reflections which arise inside the cone walls and make contributions to the amplitude and phase in the circular aperture are, however, included. Within these limits, it is possible to compute the radiant flux and form of the far-field diffraction pattern for a cone of arbitrary angle, wall thickness, and optical properties, when it is placed between arbitrarily oriented polarizer and analyzer. In all cases, the symmetry properties of these far-field diffraction patterns can be predicted from the forms of the equations. Computations on the detailed forms of these far-field diffraction patterns have been carried out with an IBM 7090 computer, and three-dimensional models constructed and photographed to show their symmetry properties. It has not been possible experimentally to check these computations because of the problems arising in the making and testing of a cone of the required interferometer quality.
Maintaining patients' improvements in a token economy.

Abstract Eighteen long stay male patients (diagnosis chronic schizophrenia) were involved in a six month token economy prior to random assignment to one of three experimental groups to investigate the importance of social reinforcement and other token-related variables in maintaining improvements brought about by the token system. Assessment included standardised psychiatric rating scales, nurse rating scales, and behavioural measures. Analysis of variance suggests the full token economy system produced significant improvements, but that the social factors involved in token exchanges were not demonstrably important sources of reinforcement. and that none of the variables studies at the experimental phase were critical factors. Once patients returned to a complete token system, results indicate that this may have more value in the promotion of work activities rather than social responding. It is argued that the token system provides a necessary clear structure within which nurses can encourage continuous improvements with long stay patients.
The impact of angular separation on the performance of biplane correlation imaging for lung nodule detection

In this paper, we evaluate the performance of biplane correlation imaging (BCI) using a set of off-angle projections acquired from an anthropomorphic chest phantom. BCI reduces the effect of anatomical noise, which would otherwise impact the detection subtle lesions in planar images. BCI also minimizes the number of false positives (FPs) when used in conjunction with computer aided diagnosis (CAD) applied to a set of coronal chest x-ray projections by eliminating non-correlated nodule candidates. In BCI, two digital images of the chest are acquired within a short time interval from two slightly different posterior projections. The image data are then incorporated into the CAD algorithm in which nodules are detected by examining the geometrical correlation of the detected signals in the two views, thus largely "canceling" the impact of anatomical noise. Seventy-one low exposure posterior projections were acquired of an anthropomorphic chest phantom containing tissue equivalent lesions with small angular separations (0.32 degree) over a range of 20 degrees, [-10°, +10°], along the vertical axis. The data were analyzed to determine the accuracy of the technique as a function of angular separation. The results indicated that the best performance was obtained when the angular separation of the projection pair was greater than 6 degrees. Within the range of optimum angular separation, the number of FPs per image, FPpI, was ~1.1 with average sensitivity around 75% (supported by a grant from the NIH R01CA109074).
Characterization of Porous PLGA/PLA Microparticles as a Scaffold for Three Dimensional Growth of Breast Cancer Cells

We have designed and evaluated biodegradable porous polymeric microparticles as a scaffold for cell growth. The hypothesis was that microparticles with optimized composition and properties would have better cell adhesion and hence cell growth into a tissue-like structure. Solvent-evaporation method was modified using sucrose as an additive to form large porous microparticles of poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic) (PLGA) and polylactide (PLA) polymers. Microparticles containing hydrophilic polymers (poly(vinyl alcohol) and chitosan) incorporated in their internal matrix structure were also formulated. Different formulations of microparticles were evaluated for physical properties, cell adhesion, and cell growth in culture. PLA microparticles containing poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) in the matrix structure (PLA-PVA) and treated with serum prior to cell seeding demonstrated better cell adhesion and cell growth than other formulations of microparticles. Cells were seen to grow into clumps, engulfing microparticles completely with time, and forming a 3-D tissue-like structure. Cell density of 1.5 x 10(6) cells per mg of microparticles was achieved in 9 days of culture, which was a 7-fold increase from the initial seeding cell density. The mechanism of better cell growth on PLA-PVA microparticles appears to be due to the PVA associated with the internal matrix structure of microparticles. These microparticles demonstrated better wetting in culture and also cell adhesion. In addition to tissue engineering applications, microparticles with cancer cells grown into a tissue-like structure in vitro can be potentially used as a model system for preclinical evaluation of the cytotoxic effect of anticancer agents.
Highlights of the special imaging issue

A selection of images and drawings of cells, tissues, and embryos from mouse, zebrafish, and chick embryos, kindly provided by the authors of this special issue. Please read the articles for details.
Risk behaviors in high school and college sport

Athletes have traditionally been considered greater risk takers than their peers. Some research suggests that athletic participation is associated with increased risk behaviors in males but may be protective in females. Still there is significant intersport variability, and some "nonathlete" risk behaviors exceed those of athletes. Motor vehicle accidents, sensation-seeking behaviors that contribute to unintentional injury and violence, alcohol, illicit drug and tobacco use, sexual misadventure, unhealthy dietary habits, and physical inactivity and obesity are major health risk considerations. There is new focus upon the negative health-related consequences of other risk behaviors such as gambling, sleep apnea and obesity, inappropriate medication, energy drink or contaminated supplement use, and depression/suicide. While it is important to look at the prevalence of "risk behaviors in sport," our cautions regarding these behaviors need to be shared with all youth regardless of athletic disposition.
Effect of different resuscitation strategies on neutrophil activation in a swine model of hemorrhagic shock

Activated neutrophils play a pivotal role in resuscitation injury. The strategies used for resuscitation (types of fluids and methods of administration) can affect the degree of neutrophil activation. The aim of this study was to test the commonly available resuscitation fluids in a large animal model of hemorrhagic shock to determine the strategy associated with the least degree of neutrophil activation. Methods: Female swine (n = 63, weight 45–60 kg) were anesthetized using isoflurane and catheters were placed for hemodynamic monitoring. After 120 min, they were subjected to a volume controlled hemorrhage (28 ml/kg) over 15 min, kept in shock for 60 min, and then resuscitated. The resuscitation groups were as follows: (1) anesthesia only (n = 5); (2) hemorrhage, sham resuscitation (n = 5); (3) LR-fast rate 3× blood loss (n = 6); (4) LR slow rate-3× blood loss (n = 6); (5) LR low volume-1× blood loss (n = 6); (6) Dextran 40-1× blood loss (n = 6); (7) 6% hetastarch-1× blood loss (n = 6); (8) 5% albumin-1× blood loss (n = 6); (9) 25% albumin-1/5× blood loss (n = 6); (10) whole blood resuscitation-1× blood loss (n = 6); (11) 7.5% hypertonic saline (HTS)-0.3× blood loss (n = 5). Resuscitation fluids were infused over 1 h in all groups except group 4 (LR slow rate, which was over 3 h). Animals were observed for 180 min following the resuscitation period. Neutrophil oxidative burst activity was determined in whole blood using flow cytometery. Results: Animals resuscitated with dextran and hetastarch showed significantly ( P<0.05) higher neutrophil burst activity. Resuscitation with LR also caused neutrophil activation ( P<0.05), and the highest degree of activation was seen when a large volume of LR was given at a fast rate (group 8). However, all LR infusion protocols were associated with significant neutrophil activation compared with anesthesia (group 1) or sham resuscitation (group 2). No significant activation was seen in the animals resuscitated with albumin or fresh whole blood. Conclusion: Artificial colloids and LR (independent of rate or volume of infusion) caused significant neutrophil activation, which was not seen with albumin and whole blood resuscitation. These findings suggest that the type of resuscitation fluid and method of infusion can influence neutrophil function. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.
Impurity Transport Calculations for a Drift-Dependent Tokamak Scrape-Off Plasma

Two dimensional calculations of impurtiy transport in a high recycling divertor scrape-off region have been made with an updated version of the ZTRANS Monte Carlo computer code. The calculations use plasma parameters for the Doublet 3 divertor, as computed by the Planet Fluid Transport Code. The effects of electric field, particle drift velocities, and thermal forces are included in the calculations. For all impurity species studied, it is found that impurity transport is dominated by frictional forces, over most of the scrape-off region. Light impurities, however, impinge substantially closer to the divertor plate center than do heavy impurities, which tend to impinge at the outer plate boundary. 8 refs., 4 figs., 2 tabs.
Hippocampal phosphoinositide turnover is altered by hippocampal sympathetic ingrowth and cholinergic denervation.

Abstract Cholinergic denervation of the hippocampus, by medial septal (MS) lesions, results in an unusual neuronal rearrangement in which peripheral sympathetic nerves, which originate from the superior cervical ganglia, grow into the hippocampal formation. To assess the functional significance of hippocampal sympathetic ingrowth (HSI), hydrolysis of phosphoinositides was examined in three groups: control, MS lesions + sham ganglionectomy (HSI group); and MS lesions + ganglionectomy (MSGx; no ingrowth). Four months after surgery, both norepinephrine (NE) and carbachol were found to produce a dose-dependent increase in the hydrolysis of hippocampal phosphoinositides in all groups. However, the presence of HSI, when compared to control and MSGx groups, significantly enhanced the turnover of phosphoinositides when stimulated by carbachol, but not NE. In further studies, the time course of this effect was studied. One week after surgery, carbachol-stimulated phosphoinositide turnover was equivalent among all groups; by 2 weeks, phosphoinositide turnover was enhanced in the HSI and MSGx group; by 4 weeks. PI turnover was markedly diminished in the MSGx group when compared to both the HSI and control groups, which were equivalent to each other. To ensure that the ganglionectomy alone did not alter phosphoinositide turnover, a ganglionectomy-alone group was studied at the 4-week time point. In this group, phosphoinositide turnover was equivalent to controls, suggesting no influence of the superior cervical ganglia on this response. In all groups, atropine inhibited carbachol-stimulated phosphoinositide turnover. These results suggest that both cholinergic denervation (i.e., MSGx group) and HSI produce marked functional alterations in hippocampal metabolic activity.
Synthesis of N-hydroxysuccinimide esters using polymer bound HOBT

Abstract The preparation of the N-hydroxysuccinimide esters via reactions mediated by polymer bound 1-hydroxybenzotriazole (HOBT) is reported.
Developing an experimental model for surgical drainage investigations: an initial report.

Abstract Background We sought to pilot and initiate validation of a surgical drainage model. Methods We designed a laboratory model to compare Jackson-Pratt surgical drains using 3 soups to emulate body fluids of serous, purulent, and necrotic debris. Each drain was trialed with each of the 3 fluids. Time and completeness of drainage were recorded. A survey of surgical residents and faculty was performed for convenience sampling. Results Under serous conditions, the round Jackson-Pratt drained the cavity quicker, but left a larger residual volume of fluid. Under purulent conditions, the round Jackson-Pratt was slower and drained less fluid. With debris fluid, the round Jackson-Pratt was quicker with less residual fluid whereas the flat type clogged each time. Survey results showed adequate concordance with surgeons in agreement on soup choice. Conclusions The Jackson-Pratt drains perform differently depending on the drainage situation. The surgical community requires improved drain data to drive practice patterns.
Justification in the mathematics classroom: A study of prospective elementary teachers

Abstract This study focuses on mathematical justification in the context of a mathematics course for prospective elementary teachers. The course was run as a whole-class constructivist teaching experiment. The analysis of the data provides a detailed look at how classroom norms for mathematical justification were established given the prospective teachers' traditional expectations of school mathematics and the teacher's reform-oriented notions. Three episodes from the class transcripts are analyzed in this article. They reveal the interactive process of negotiating new classroom norms for doing mathematics, the range of student responses to situations for justifications, and the complex interrelationship between the investigation of mathematical validity and development of mathematical understanding in the classroom community.
Survey of advanced suspension developments and related optimal control applications

Abstract The paper surveys applications of optimal control techniques to the design of active suspensions, starting from simple quarter-car, 1D models, which are followed by their half-car, 2D, and full-car, 3D, counterparts. While the main emphasis is on Linear-Quadratic (LQ) optimal control and active suspensions, the paper also addresses a number of related subjects including semi-active suspensions; robust, adaptive and nonlinear control aspects and some of the important practical considerations. © 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.
Structure and properties of the region of homology between plasmids pMB1 and ColE1.

Physical maps of the two independently isolated Escherichia coli plasmids, pMB1 and ColE1, were prepared with 13 restriction endonucleases and compared. A 5.1 kilobase continuous region covering 55% of pMB1 and 75% of ColE1 was found to have similar, but non-identical, restriction maps. The differences in the maps of this region probably arose by localized mutational events rather than by major sequence rearrangements. The F-factor was found to mobilize pMB1 efficiently for conjugal transfer. A region on pMB1 required for its F-mediated transfer was mapped. Results of our study combined with results of other investigators suggest that pMB1 and ColE1 share functional properties such as colicin production, colicin immunity, mode of replication, and mobilization by the F-factor, and that the sequences required to code these functions are contained within the 5.1 kilobase homologous region.
Mass spectrometry cleavable strategy for identification and differentiation of prenylated peptides

Prenylation of protein (farnesylation and geranylgeranylation) is involved in several human cancers, such as pancreatic, colon, and acute myeloid leukemia as well as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), a genetic disease that is associated with premature aging for children. Current biochemical methods are not very efficient in identifying and differentiating large-scale prenylations in vivo or in vitro. There are limited methods available for large-scale detection of prenylated proteins using mass spectrometry and no methods currently available which can distinguish farnesylation and geranylgeranylation modification in a single experimental setup. In this study, a simple and novel method for detection and distinction of large-scale prenylated peptides using mass spectrometry-cleavable approaches was developed. The method utilizes simple chemistry on the prenyl group and cleavable properties of a sulfoxide group in the gas phase to produce a signature mass spectrum during tandem mass spectrometric ...
Constraint-based motion planning for virtual prototyping

We present a novel framework for motion planning of rigid and articulated robots in complex, dynamic, 3D environments and demonstrate its application to virtual prototyping. Our approach transforms the motion planning problem into the simulation of a dynamical system in which the motion of each rigid robot is subject to the influence of virtual forces induced by geometric constraints. These constraints may enforce joint connectivity and angle limits for articulated robots, spatial relationships between multiple collab-orative robots, or have a robot follow an estimated path to perform certain tasks in a sequence. Our algorithm works well in dynamic environments with moving obstacles and is applicable to challenging planning scenarios where multiple robots must move simultaneously to achieve a collision free path. We demonstrate its effectiveness for parts removal, automated car painting, and assembly line planning scenarios.
A novel pedagogical method for Integrated Circuit and systems education using the Variational Thermodynamic principle

Unquestionably, one of the most important developments in this century has been the avalanche advancement of Integrated Circuits technology incorporating solid state systems into areas never before imagined. Students face special challenges to understand these complex systems using conventional instructional methods. We here present a new pedagogical approach using the Variational Thermodynamic principle to analyze and educate engineering students the quasi-static behavior of such circuit and systems at a level of detail not otherwise available either experimentally or by standard methods. Application of this method is expected to enhance students' grasp of the topic up to the design level.
Development of a beef flavor lexicon and its application to compare the flavor profile and consumer acceptance of rib steaks from grass- or grain-fed cattle.

Abstract Ten panelists were selected from the local community to develop a meat lexicon composed of 18 terms that describe flavor attributes found in red meats. This flavor lexicon was used to compare the flavor profile of meat from beef cattle finished on grass or grain. Steaks from grass-fed animals were significantly (P
The transport of test ions in a quiet plasma

Experimental measurements of cross‐field transport of test ions in a quiet plasma are reported. In a plasma with density fluctuations below 〈(δn/n0)2〉1/2≊0.002, the experimental results agree with simple predictions of test ion diffusion resulting from collisional processes for the range of parameters tested. The observed transport may be attributed to Coulomb collisions and the results disagree with predictions based solely on Bohm diffusion or turbulent processes.
3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A lyase deficiency: postnatal management following prenatal diagnosis by analysis of maternal urine.

Two PATIENTS with a deficiency of 3-hydroxy-3methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) lyase have been described? '-' This enzyme catalyzes the final step of leucine degradation and plays a key role in ketone body formation. Clinically the defect is associated with metabolic acidosis and hypoglycemia. The biochemical diagnosis is based on the finding of abnormal organic aciduria with highly increased urinary excretion of 3-hydroxy
On the Cooling of Fibers

Etude numerique de l'influence de l'etirement des filaments sur le refroidissement, par convection et rayonnement, les fibres de polymere preparees par le procede de filage a l'etat fondu
How to track renormalization group flows in parameter space

Abstract A method to track Monte Carlo renormalization group trajectories without searching in a large parameter space is described. The method involves the use of the microcanonical ensemble using Creutz's demons. The two-dimensional Ising model with three couplings is used to demonstrate the efficiency of the method in approximately locating the fixed point.
Service Learning with Latino Communities: Effects on Preservice Teachers.

Results from a qualitative study on the effects of service learning on preservice teacher development in working with culturally diverse learners, specifically within the context of bilingual education and teachers of English as a second language, are discussed. Data were gathered from course reflection papers and participant interviews of college students who participated in service-learning projects with Latino communities. A discourse ensues on five themes that were discovered from the analysis.
Increased phosphorylation of a membrane protein consequent to amygdaloid kindling.

: The phosphorylation of both particulate and soluble proteins in the amygdala was examined in electrically kindled rats. In animals receiving electrical stimulation in the left amygdala for 5–6 days that displayed electrical after-discharges but no motor seizures, no changes were observed in the phosphorylation of either particulate or soluble proteins. In animals stimulated for 20–21 days where major motor seizures were produced, the phosphorylation of a protein having a molecular weight of 45,000 (45K) was markedly increased. The phosphorylation of this protein was increased in both the right (unstimulated) and left (stimulated) amygdala. Major motor seizures induced by electroconvulsive shocks, however, did not alter phosphorylation of this protein. Phosphorylation of the 45K protein was stimulated by calcium and calmodulin. The 45K protein is a major phosphoprotein of amygdala, representing 3.2% of the total particulate phosphoproteins in control animals and 7.4% in the kindled animals. In the presence of calcium-calmodulin, 16.2% of net protein phosphorylation was accounted for by the 45K protein.
Scaling and saturation laws for the expansion of concrete exposed to sulfate attack

Reinforced concrete structures exposed to aggressive environments often require repair or retrofit even though they were designed to last >50 years. This statement is especially true for structures subjected to sulfate attack. It is critical that fundamental models of life prediction be developed for durability of concrete. Based on experimental results obtained over a 40-year period, scaling and saturation laws were formulated for concrete exposed to sulfate solution. These features have not been considered in current models used to predict life cycle of concrete exposed to aggressive environment. The mathematical analysis shows that porous concrete made with high and moderate water-to-cement ratios develops a definite scaling law after an initiation time. The scaling coefficient depends on the cement composition but does not depend on the original water-to-cement ratio. Dense concrete made with low water-to-cement ratios develops a cyclic saturation curve. An index for “potential of damage” is created to allow engineers to design concrete structures with better precision and cement chemists to develop portland cements with optimized composition.
Canine Sniffs and Policing the Drug War

The war on drugs has resulted in numerous policing reforms, partly a function of policy established through the court system. In Illinois v. Caballes (2005), the Supreme Court held that a canine sn...
Rapid millimetre-wave sampler response characterization to well beyond 120GHz using an improved nose-to-nose method

Simple enhancements to the nose-to-nose method of characterizing samplers are described. The technique is applied to a millimetre-wave sampler. These allow sampler magnitude and phase response to be measured to 150GHz and above. Excellent agreement is found with magnitude measurements made using conventional traceable power sensors.
FDTD formulation for dispersive chiral media using the Z transform method

A finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) scattered-field formulation for dispersive chiral media is developed and presented in this paper. The FDTD formulation is based on the Z transform method and models the frequency-dependent dispersive nature of permittivity, permeability, and chirality as well. The permittivity and permeability are assumed to follow the Lorentz model while the chirality is assumed to follow the Condon model. The formulation is developed for three-dimensional electromagnetic applications. Results of this formulation are presented for the copolarization and cross-polarization of the reflected and transmitted waves from a chiral slab due to normal incidence of a plane wave and for the scattered field from a chiral sphere, a chiral cube, and a finite chiral cylinder. Validation is performed by comparing the results with those based on the exact solutions and those obtained from method of moments solutions.
Fatty Acids Augment Endothelium-Dependent Dilation in Hand Veins by a Cyclooxygenase-Dependent Mechanism

Abstract Evidence supports the hypothesis that elevated nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) in patients with insulin resistance, eg, obese hypertensive subjects, contribute to increased vascular α-adrenergic reactivity and tone by impairing endothelium-dependent vasodilation. To generate further support for this notion, we studied responses to endothelium-dependent and independent dilators under control (0.9% NaCl/heparin) conditions in one hand and with elevated NEFAs in the contralateral hand (10% intralipid/heparin). To observe venodilator responses, the dorsal hand vein diameter was first reduced by ∼60% with phenylephrine. Studies were repeated with indomethacin to block the generation of cyclooxygenase products. In contrast to previous in vitro data, elevating NEFAs locally in vivo augmented rather than suppressed venodilator responses to the two endothelium-dependent dilators acetylcholine and methacholine ( P 1 -adrenoceptor–mediated constriction in hand veins by a cyclooxygenase-dependent mechanism. These hand vein studies do not support the notion that the elevated NEFAs in obese hypertensive patients augment α 1 -adrenoceptor–mediated reactivity by reducing nitric oxide synthesis.
University of Iowa at TREC 2008 Legal and Relevance Feedback Tracks

Abstract : This is the second year that our research group has participated in the TREC Legal Track. Our ad hoc retrieval system has been modified to extract the additional Boolean query fields added to the 2008 topics, and to privilege documents found by the Boolean reference run when conducting our queries. We have also submitted runs that fuse the results from existing runs. For the relevance feedback task, our system uses ranking information of relevant and non-relevant documents from previously submitted runs to the TREC Legal Track to train a classifier. The classifier is applied to the remaining unjudged documents to create a new ranked list. This approach is applied to sets of input runs, including a hybrid run where a classifier trained on one set of runs is applied to the unjudged documents from another set of runs. Our index remains unchanged from our submission to TREC Legal in 2007, and new changes to our retrieval system are accomplished through the selection of topic fields for input and post-retrieval processing.
Electrokinetic Formation of “Microbridges” for Protein Biomarkers as Sensors

We demonstrate a technique to detect protein biomarkers contained in vulnerable coronary plaque using a platform-based microelectrode array (MEA). The detection scheme is based on the property of high specificity binding between antibody and antigen similar to most immunoassay techniques. Rapid clinical diagnosis can be achieved by detecting the amount of protein in blood by analyzing the protein's electrical signature. Polystyrene beads which act as transportation agents for the immobile proteins (antigen) are electrically aligned by application of homogenous electric fields. The principle of electrophoresis is used to produce calculated electrokinetic movement among the anti-C-reactive protein (CRP), or in other words antibody funtionalized polystyrene beads. The electrophoretic movement of antibody-functionalized polystyrene beads results in the formation of “Microbridges” between the two electrodes of interest which aid in the amplification of the antigen—antibody binding event. Sensitive electrical e...
Rotation about the C-N bond in 2-aza-1,3-butadiene and the N-N bond in 2,3-diaza-1,3-butadiene: a molecular orbital study

The geometry and energy of 2-aza-1,3-butadiene and 2,3-diaza-1,3-butadiene have been calculated using the 6-31G* basis set as a function of the CNCC and CNNC dihedral angles, respectively. With the 2-aza derivative potential minima are located at 0° (trans) and at about 130° for a gauche structure approximately 9.5 kJ mol−1 less stable than the trans. Potential maxima are at about 75° giving a gauche barrier height of approximately 19 kJ mol−1 relative to the trans structure, and at 180° (cis) giving a barrier height of approximately 14.5 kJ mol−1 relative to the 130° gauche structure. With the 2,3-diaza derivative the gauche barrier has disappeared and there are a series of gauche structures in the region 70°–100° of almost equal energy 12.5-15 kJ mol−1 less stable than the trans. In addition the cis barrier is much greater, nearly 70 kJ mol−1 relative to the trans structure. Inclusion of electron correlation, accounting for about 50% of the correlation energy, produces no significant changes in the shape of the potential energy curves. There are systematic and progressive changes in almost all the geometrical parameters as the CH groups in butadiene are replaced by N. The outward tilt and compression within the methylene groups show adverse steric interactions to be operative in the cis structures. The values of Vnn indicate that gauche structures of both the 2-aza and the 2,3-diaza derivatives near the cis structure are more compact (as with butadiene), and gauche structures of the 2-aza derivative near the trans structure are less compact (as with butadiene). Originating in the changes in bond lengths and bond angles, rotation-independent nuclear–nuclear interactions again play an important role.
Variable word length DSP using serial-by-modulus residue arithmetic

The concept of a variable-word-length sum-of-products signal processing kernel is developed based on a serial-by-modulus (SBM) residue number system (RNS) architecture. Because the RNS is not a weighted number representation, if the instantaneous dynamic range requirement can be estimated it is possible to perform the computation with only enough residue digits to provide the necessary dynamic range. Although it is difficult to estimate instantaneous dynamic range requirements for arbitrary computational processes encountered in general-purpose computers, in well-defined signal processing tasks, such as the sum-of-products kernel found in digital filters and vector processors, it may be possible to take advantage of a variable-word-length design to improve computational efficiency for special-purpose processors. Computer experiments were performed in software written in C that was designed to emulate an SBM FIR (finite impulse response) filter. >
Lp(a) and risk of recurrent cardiac events in obese postinfarction patients

Studies of recurrent coronary events in obese postinfarction patients show mixed results despite potential importance of obesity-related pathophysiologic processes and associated markers in establishing and predicting risk. The study aim was to determine specific markers of recurrent risk in obese postinfarction patients. Nondiabetic patients of the Thrombogenic Factors and Recurrent Coronary Events (THROMBO) postinfarction study were classified according to BMI as normal weight ( A polymorphism of the apolipoprotein A-I gene and the −250G>A polymorphism of the hepatic lipase gene in establishing risk. We conclude that interactions of elevated Lp(a) with polymorphisms of the apolipoprotein A-I and hepatic lipase genes, primarily reflective of altered lipoprotein metabolism, play an important role in the establishment of recurrent coronary event risk in obese, nondiabetic postinfarction patients. These findings suggest close monitoring and consideration of weight reduction for obese postinfarction patients with elevated Lp(a) levels.
Development of Embedded Heatsinking Layers for Compact Arrays of X-Ray TES Microcalorimeters

Transition-edge sensor microcalorimeter arrays in compact geometries and large formats experience local heating from bias power and x-ray hits that must be dissipated in the frame. For devices on solid, non-perforated silicon substrates, we have introduced an underlying embedded copper heatsinking layer to enhance the ability of the frame to remove this heat. In particular, such a layer can mitigate thermal crosstalk between nearby pixels within the array. Further improvements in array performance, such as decreased magnetic field sensitivity and stray inductance, are possible by turning the heatsinking layer into a superconducting ground plane. In this presentation, we report on the development of heatsinking layers consisting of a 1-2 μm thick high-quality copper layer which is sandwiched between two thin refractory metal-based diffusion barriers. These diffusion barriers are designed to avoid copper migration into the surrounding material over time, especially during our high temperature TES fabrication process which takes place in excess of 400°C . A 0.3-0.5 μm thick PECVD SiO2 cover layer isolates the heatsinking layer from the detector circuit. We present first results on our attempt to tailor the materials forming the diffusion barrier to fabricate both well defined superconducting ground planes and non-superconducting layers with the desired barrier characteristics.
Perfluorocyclohexenyl aryl ether polymers via polycondensation of decafluorocyclohexene with bisphenols

A novel class of semifluorinated perfluorocyclohexenyl (PFCH) aryl ether homo/copolymers was successfully synthesized with high yield through the step-growth polymerization of commercially available bisphenols and decafluorocyclohexene in the presence of a triethylamine base. The synthesized polymers exhibit variable thermal properties depending on the functional spacer group (R). PFCH aryl ether copolymers with random and alternating architectures were also prepared from versatile bis-perfluorocyclohexenyl aryl ether monomers. The PFCH polymers show high thermal stabilities with a 5% decomposition temperature ranging from 359 to 444 °C in air and nitrogen atmosphere. These semifluorinated PFCH aromatic ether polymers contain intact enchained PFCH olefin moieties, making further reactions such as crosslinking and application specific functionalization possible. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 232–238
A GCD attack resistant CRTHACS for secure group communications

We propose an improved CRTHACS scheme for secure group communications. The scheme resists several GCD attacks which exist in the original CRTHACS scheme [X. Zou et al., (2001)] and were reported in [R. Steinwandt et al., (2003)].
Beyond interaction customer influence on housekeeping and room service work in hotels

The literature on the role of customers in service work has neglected work that does not involve significant face-to-face interaction, assuming it to be distant from customer influence and thus hig...
Clinical and Management Implications Associated with Histologic Subtypes of Renal Cell Carcinomas

Each subtype of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has distinct clinical, pathologic, and imaging features that can strongly impact presentation, diagnosis, management, and prognosis, although considerable overlap exists. In general, clear cell tumors tend to be more aggressive than papillary or chromophobe tumors, while collecting duct and medullary cell RCC are even more ominous. Metastasis is most common with clear cell RCC, yet this tumor type is also the most likely to respond to high-dose interleukin 2 (IL-2) or targeted treatments. Each subtype of RCC has a familial counterpart, and the implications of sporadic versus familial etiology should be recognized because they can greatly impact clinical management. The treatment paradigms for localized RCC, locally advanced RCC, and metastatic RCC must be tailored to histologic subtype to optimize patient outcomes.
An optimization approach to design monitoring schemes for CO2 leakage detection

Abstract This paper demonstrates an approach to identify optimal monitoring designs that minimize the time to first detection of CO2 leakage from a subsurface storage formation. This research is part of the National Risk Assessment Partnership (NRAP), a DOE project tasked with conducting risk and uncertainty analysis in the areas of reservoir performance, natural leakage pathways, wellbore integrity, groundwater protection, monitoring, and systems level modeling. Our approach applies a simulated annealing algorithm that searches the solution space by iteratively mutating potential monitoring designs. A user-defined leakage signature based on change from initial conditions is implemented to infer CO2 leakage had occurred. An example application was performed to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of this method compared to an exhaustive search of the entire solution space. We accounted for uncertainty in the example by evaluating the performance of potential monitoring designs across a set of simulated leakage realizations. The example application approached the optimal time to leakage detection in a few minutes using a standard workstation, which was several orders of magnitude faster than an exhaustive search of the solution space, thus exhibiting efficiency and effectiveness. A user-friendly tool, DREAM (Designs for Risk Evaluation and Management), is being developed for use on personal computers to make this method accessible to stakeholders, regulators, and researchers.
On dataless hierarchical text classification

In this paper, we systematically study the problem of dataless hierarchical text classification. Unlike standard text classification schemes that rely on supervised training, dataless classification depends on understanding the labels of the sought after categories and requires no labeled data. Given a collection of text documents and a set of labels, we show that understanding the labels can be used to accurately categorize the documents. This is done by embedding both labels and documents in a semantic space that allows one to compute meaningful semantic similarity between a document and a potential label. We show that this scheme can be used to support accurate multiclass classification without any supervision. We study several semantic representations and show how to improve the classification using boot-strapping. Our results show that bootstrapped dataless classification is competitive with supervised classification with thousands of labeled examples.
Strategies and resources for successful preceptor development.

Designing and implementing an effective preceptor development plan can be a challenge for many pharmacy residency program directors (RPDs) and preceptors. According to data reported by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Commission on Credentialing in August 2010, 81% of the
"Marketization, Controlling Ownership, and CEO Compensation"

A rich literature indicates that firm size and firm performance are the main determinants of CEO compensation. However, few papers explore the moderating effects affecting these relationships. Appl...
Evaluation of a Selective Medium for Mycobacteria

Maximum recovery of mycobacteria from clinical specimens requires an efficient decontaminating agent which is not harmful to mycobacteria. None of the methods described to date will permit survival of all the mycobacteria in a specimen while simultaneously destroying the contaminants. Studies comparing (1) Mycobactosel, Lowenstein-Jensen medium (with and without penicillin in the inoculum), and 7H10 medium using clinical specimens for (a) rate of isolation of acid-fast organisms, and (b) rate and types of contamination; and (2) Mycobactosel and 7H10 medium for rate of growth and size and morphology of colonies of stock cultures of mycobacteria and Nocardia asteroides are reported. These studies show that the contamination rate is significantly reduced on Mycobactosel and the recovery rate of mycobacteria is equal to or better than that on Lowenstein- Jensen medium, with or without the use of penicillin in the inoculum, and on 7H10. Growth appears about one week later on Mycobactosel than on 7H10, although colonial morphology at maturity is similar to that seen on 7H10. To provide both rapid growth and maximum recovery of acid-fast organisms in routine culturing of clinical specimens, it is recommended that a nonselective medium, such as 7H10, be used in conjunction with a selective one, such as Mycobactosel.
Electroconvulsive Therapy in the Medically Ill Patient

When properly used, ECT can be one of the most effective and specific treatments available. An appreciation of the characteristics of the ECT-responsive patient and an understanding of the physiologic and pharmacologic events associated with an electrically induced seizure in an anesthetized patient will allow the psychiatrist to better weigh the risks and benefits involved, and to anticipate, quickly recognize, and treat any adverse responses.
Cybercrime and Cybersecurity in the Global South: Status, Drivers and Trends

By all accounts, the global cybercrime industry is significantly bigger than most of the major and well-known underground and underworld industries, such as the illegal drugs trade and human trafficking.1 While, as is the case of any underground economy (Naylor, 2005), estimating the size of the cybercrime industry and its subset has been a challenge, the most often cited figure for the annual worldwide loss to cybercrime is US$1 trillion.2 According to the 2011 Norton Cybercrime Report released by Symantec, 69 per cent of the world’s Internet users have been victimized by cybercriminals at some point in their lives. From our perspective, the most important aspect of the global cybercrime industry is that the highest incidences of cybercrime as well as growth rates have been reported in some of the economies of the Global South (hereinafter GS). For instance, among the 12 countries that experienced the highest increases in their share of cyberattacks during 2005–2009, 11 were from the GS: Romania (1,501 per cent), Colombia (749 per cent), Indonesia (675 per cent), Thailand (570 per cent), Bangladesh (416 per cent), Iran (370 per cent), Zimbabwe (361 per cent), Saudi Arabia (237 per cent), Nigeria (214 per cent), Vietnam (193 per cent) and Kenya (161 per cent) (Kim et al., 2012).
Early intervention with recombinant human erythropoietin for chemotherapy-induced anemia

Chemotherapy-induced anemia (CIA) is a frequent complication of modern myelosuppressive chemotherapy (Groopman and Itri 1999). Complications of CIA include fatigue and its associated physical, emotional, psychological, and social effects (Curt 2000). The effects of CIA are perhaps most noticeable in the treatment of elderly cancer patients at increased risk of mortality, functional dependence, cognitive disturbances, falls, and cerebrovascular and cardiovascular effects (Balducci et al. 2000). The incidence of severe anemia (hemoglobin <8g/dL) has been reported to range from 50% to 60% in patients with certain malignancies receiving chemotherapy while the total incidence of anemia including grade 1 (hemoglobin = 10g/dL to <12g/dL) and 2 (hemoglobin = 8g/dL to hemoglobin <10g/dL) is high across most major solid tumors (Groopman and Itri 1999; CTEP 1998; FDA 2004).
Classical Economists and Education

The role of the classical economists in the education movement has not been studied in depth, although as Mark Blaug notes, ‘there is a small but growing literature’ on the subject.1 The existing literature provides a wide range of opinions concerning the impact of the classical economists on education policy. Statements range from those of E. G. West, who states classical economists ‘were of all people the most forceful advocates and pioneers of state education,’ to those of Blaug who writes, ‘by paying close attention to dates … we come to realize that the classical economists gradually adjusted their ideas on education in the wake of legislative changes; instead of having an influence on policy, policy had an influence on them’ (West, 1970, pp. 111; Blaug, 1975, p. 568).2