cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A single-pass, chain generating algorithm for region boundaries

Abstract An algorithm is described for converting region boundaries in an image array into chain-encoded line structures. The region boundaries would normally correspond- to the projected edges of a 3D body. The algorithm encodes sets of connected pixels into line segments, each described by a set of chain links. These line segments are then structured in a manner suitable for extracting closed contours (regions) and segment intersections (junctions). The conversion from pixel data to the chains line structure format is accomplished with a single pass over the image. A number of examples are given to illustrate use of the algorithm for preprocessing an image in scene analysis.
Hormonal control of neuron number in sexually dimorphic spinal nuclei of the rat: II. Development of the spinal nucleus of the bulbocavernosus in androgen-insensitive (Tfm) rats

The spinal nucleus of the bulbocavernosus (SNB) is a sexually dimorphic motor nucleus whose development is under the control of steroid hormones. The SNB contains many more motoneurons in adult male rats than in females, and this sex difference is produced by a sexually dimorphic motoneuron death which is regulated by androgens. To study further the role of androgens in the development of sex differences in SNB motoneuron number, we examined SNB development in males with the testicular feminization mutation (Tfm) which renders them insensitive to androgens. Counts of SNB motoneurons perinatally revealed that SNB development in normal male and female King-Holtzman rats was similar to that reported previously for Sprague-Dawley rats; SNB motoneuron number increased from initially low levels at embryonic day 18 through the day before birth, when motoneuron numbers in both sexes were substantially higher than adult levels. After this prenatal increase, motoneuron number declined in both sexes, until by postnatal day 10 motoneuron numbers were in their adult ranges and the sex difference was fully expressed. Females lost more motoneurons than did males during this period, and this loss was due to motoneuron death as revealed by counts of degenerating cells. SNB development in King-Holtzman Tfm males was similar to that of normal males through embryonic day 20, suggesting that androgens may not be necessary for the initial increase in motoneuron numbers in the SNB. Thereafter, SNB motoneuron numbers in Tfm males declined in a female-typical fashion; Tfm males and normal females did not differ at any postnatal age. The incidence of degenerating cells in Tfm males over this period was like that of normal females and significantly higher than that of normal males. These results indicate that just as treatment of females with androgens during development attenuates cell death in the SNB to male-typical levels, resulting in masculine motoneuron numbers, the Tfm male's insensitivity to androgens results in a female-typical cell death resulting in feminine SNB motoneuron numbers.
Living planktic foraminifera in the central tropical Pacific Ocean: articulating the equatorial `cold tongue' during La Niña, 1992

Abstract In ‘cold tongue’ conditions of August–September, 1992, living planktic foraminifera in the equatorial Pacific tracked circulation featuresand phytoplankton abundance. An Equatorial Assemblage, associated with the cool and productive equatorial region, contained G. bulloides , a species often associated with tropical coastal upwelling, as well as the nonspinose herbivores G. menardii, G. glutinata, P. obliquiloculata and N. dutertrei previously associated with equatorial environments. Within surface subtropical waters poleward of 5°N and 5°S, G. sacculifer, G. ruber , and G. conglobatus dominated foraminiferal populations. These species have successfully adapted to oligotrophic conditions by exploiting dinoflagellate endosymbionts. High standing stocks of these species in equatorial regions suggest that they can also thrive within equatorial light levels and temperatures. A Deep Southern Assemblage, dominated by nonspinose G. conglomerata and G. tumida and spinose G. aequilateralis had a subsurface maximum at 80–200 m outside of active upwelling, and outcropped to the surface at 1°S. From El Nino to ‘cold tongue’ conditions, equatorial fauna reflected higher primary productivity and an increase in the role of advection by the South Equatorial Current.
The methodological implications of Gadamer's distinction between statements and speculative language

Abstract Gadamer's notion of statements, distinguished from the otherwise speculative nature of language, is explored with regard to its implications for reflexivity in qualitative research. After reviewing the importance of ‘speculative’ language for phenomenological research, this paper discusses the problem that statements pose for phenomenological methods. The methodological challenges faced in trying to facilitate experiential accounts rather than statements are examined, with particular attention to the central role of the researcher‐participant conversation. The methodological implications of a conversational approach to phenomenological research are then presented, and this approach is discussed in terms of reflexivity.
Down-regulation of the canonical Wnt β-catenin pathway in the airway epithelium of healthy smokers and smokers with COPD.

Background The Wnt pathway mediates differentiation of epithelial tissues; depending on the tissue types, Wnt can either drive or inhibit the differentiation process. We hypothesized that key genes in the Wnt pathway are suppressed in the human airway epithelium under the stress of cigarette smoking, a stress associated with dysregulation of the epithelial differentiated state. Methodology/Principal Findings Microarrays were used to assess the expression of Wnt-related genes in the small airway epithelium (SAE) obtained via bronchoscopy and brushing of healthy nonsmokers, healthy smokers, and smokers with COPD. Thirty-three of 56 known Wnt-related genes were expressed in the SAE. Wnt pathway downstream mediators β-catenin and the transcription factor 7-like 1 were down-regulated in healthy smokers and smokers with COPD, as were many Wnt target genes. Among the extracellular regulators that suppress the Wnt pathway, secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2), was up-regulated 4.3-fold in healthy smokers and 4.9-fold in COPD smokers, an observation confirmed by TaqMan Real-time PCR, Western analysis and immunohistochemistry. Finally, cigarette smoke extract mediated up-regulation of SFRP2 and down-regulation of Wnt target genes in airway epithelial cells in vitro. Conclusions/Significance Smoking down-regulates the Wnt pathway in the human airway epithelium. In the context that Wnt pathway plays an important role in differentiation of epithelial tissues, the down-regulation of Wnt pathway may contribute to the dysregulation of airway epithelium differentiation observed in smoking-related airway disorders.
Exploring Daily Physical Activity and Nutrition Patterns in Early Learning Settings: Snapshots of Young Children in Head Start, Primary, and After-School Settings

The purpose of this research project was to gain a greater understanding of daily routines of 4–7 year olds regarding physical activity and nutrition practices in typical early learning environments. The settings selected for this observational study included Head Start, primary, and after-school learning environments in a city in the southeast. Specifically, this exploratory study focused on the research question: What are typical daily physical activity and nutrition patterns in community-based early learning settings for young children 4–7 years of age in the United States? Two overarching themes were identified through data analysis: restriction of activity and restriction of physical movement. Results indicated that children in elementary school settings had fewer opportunities for indoor and outdoor physical activity than children in other settings and that children seek to be physically active and will do so when given the opportunity. Increasing time for both structured and unstructured physical activity and play for children ages 4–7 in early learning settings was recommended by the researchers.
Interactions between estrogen effects and hunger effects in ovariectomized female mice. I. Measures of arousal.

Abstract Measures of arousal were used to study effects of estradiol and food restriction, and their potential interactions, in ovariectomized female C57Bl/6 mice. It was hypothesized based on a proposed theoretical equation [Pfaff, D.W., 2006a. Brain Arousal and Information Theory. Harvard University Press, Cambridge, Pfaff, D.W., (Ed.), 2006b. Knobil and Neill's The Physiology of Reproduction, 3rd edition. Elsevier/Academic Press, San Diego] that each treatment would increase arousal-related behaviors and that their combination would further increase arousal behavior. Following baseline testing, animals ( n = 28) were divided into 3 groups that, in different experimental phases, received either estradiol (in subcutaneous capsules), restricted diet (a liquid diet providing 60% of daily caloric requirements) or a combination of those two. An automated arousal behavior monitoring system was used to measure home cage voluntary motor activity and sensory responsiveness, these being components of a new operational definition of ‘generalized arousal’. Key findings: (1) During the light, all treatments reduced voluntary activity. (2) In the dark, estrogens increased, while estrogens in combination with restricted diet decreased, horizontal activity. (3) In the dark, restricted diet alone had little effect on voluntary activity, but reduced it when combined with estrogen treatment. (4) All treatments reduced responses to the olfactory stimulus. The dependence of results on time of day was unexpected. Further, different patterns of results for the three treatments suggest that estrogens and food restriction did not have equivalent or additive effects on arousal. While contrary to the main prediction, these findings are discussed in terms of the animals' adaptive preparations for reproduction [Schneider, J.E., 2006. Metabolic and hormonal control of the desire for food and sex: implications for obesity and eating disorders. Horm. Behav. 50, 562–571].
The Ivory Tower and the Brick & Mortar: Minding the Gap☆

Abstract This paper addresses the issue of the disconnect that exists between environment-behavior research and design professions, explores the reasons for the perpetual lack of connection, and suggests some practical solutions that both researchers and practitioners can adopt to bridge the gap. The discussion points out that research and practice should not be mutually exclusive and that they should work in unison. The paper suggests a few approaches towards creating this link. Although fundamental epistemological disparities separate them, the fields of inquiry and practice can be linked by the most critical aspect; the socio-psycho-cultural dimensions of design.
Objective Response of Multiple Myeloma to Cyclosporin A

Two patients with advanced multiple myeloma were treated with oral low-dose cyclosporin A, one without other therapy and one in conjunction with chemotherapy to which the patient had been previously unresponsive. Both patients had objective laboratory and clinical responses. In the patient treated with cyclosporin A alone, decreasing serum IL-6 and beta-2-microglobulin levels fell as the clinical response evolved. Cyclosporin A deserves further evaluation in the therapy of multiple myeloma.
Knowledge management in tourism: policy and governance applications, bridging tourism theory and practice

The central argument of this book is that there is no one monolithic knowledge that can be generalized into different contexts given that each place or community has its own unique and specific way...
Category labels induce boundary-dependent perceptual warping in learned speech categories

Adults tend to perceive speech sounds from their native language as members of distinct and stable categories; however, they fail to perceive differences between many non-native speech sounds without a great deal of training. The present study investigates the effects of categorization training on adults’ ability to discriminate non-native phonetic contrasts. It was hypothesized that only individuals who successfully learned the appropriate categories would show selective improvements in discriminating between-category contrasts. Participants were trained to categorize progressively narrow phonetic contrasts across one of two non-native boundaries, with discrimination pre- and post-tests completed to measure the effects of training on participants’ perceptual sensitivity. Results suggest that changes in adults’ ability to discriminate a non-native contrast depend on their successful learning of the relevant category structure. Furthermore, post-training identification functions show that changes in perceptual categories specifically correspond to their relative placement of the category boundary. Taken together, these results indicate that learning to assign category labels to a non-native speech continuum is sufficient to induce discontinuous perception of between- versus within-category contrasts.
Efficacy of hydrosurgical debridement and nanocrystalline silver dressings for infection prevention in type II and III open injuries

The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the clinical and culture-positive infection rates of open Gustilo/Anderson type II and III fractures using a protocol nanocrystalline silver wound dressing and hydrosurgical debridement. Retrospective case series through chart review on all type II and III open fractures were treated using a novel protocol from December 2005 to March 2008 (N = 17). All Gustilo/Anderson grade II and III open fractures were treated with a novel protocol at a Level I trauma centre. Open Gustilo/Anderson grade II and III fractures were acutely stabilised in the trauma centre/emergency department, while a nanocrystalline silver dressing was placed within the wound. Debridement using a hydrosurgical scalpel and gravity irrigation was performed within 6‐8 hours of injury. Cultures were obtained prior to definitive fixation. The primary outcome measurements were positive cultures and clinical infection rates. Seventeen patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age (33·5) and injury severity score (12·7) were gathered. There were 4 grade II open fractures (23·5%), 11 grade IIIA (64·7%) and 2 grade IIIB open fractures (11·8%). The mean time to intravenous antibiotics was 61·5 minutes. The mean time to initial debridement/irrigation was 222·1 minutes. The average number of surgical procedures was 2·35 with a mean length of stay of 11·8 days. Six patients developed positive cultures from the traumatic wounds, five were contaminants. One clinical infection was found (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). The overall clinical infection rate in this series was 5·9% (1/17). The only infection was in a Gustilo/Anderson grade II fracture. There were no infections in the more high-energy Gustilo/Anderson grade IIIA and IIIB fractures compared with the Gustilo/Anderson control of 4‐42%. We conclude that this novel protocol for open-fracture treatment is a promising intervention. A further prospective randomised clinical study is warranted.
Cardiopulmonary transplantation: current practice

Heart-lung transplantation has become an effective form of therapy for end-stage cardiopulmonary disease. Early results have steadily improved, and a 1-year survival rate of over 60% is now expected. The fact that lungs can be preserved for an extended period allows organs to be procured almost anywhere and this, in turn, has slightly improved the availability of organs for transplant. A diagnosis of lung rejection remains imprecise and progress still needs to be made in this area. Obliterative bronchiolitis of a variable degree remains the major medium-term complication, probably representing chronic graft rejection. Although longterm progress cannot yet be predicted, heart-lung transplantation remains the only option for a normal life for this special group of patients.
A Violent Future? Political Risk Insurance Markets and Violence Forecasts

There is a substantial literature that has linked past acts of violence to investment. In this article, we argue that the appropriate mechanism linking violence to investment is investor perception...
Visual memory for moving scenes

In the present study, memory for picture boundaries was measured with scenes that simulated self-motion along the depth axis. The results indicated that boundary extension (a distortion in memory for picture boundaries) occurred with moving scenes in the same manner as that reported previously for static scenes. Furthermore, motion affected memory for the boundaries but this effect of motion was not consistent with representational momentum of the self (memory being further forward in a motion trajectory than actually shown). We also found that memory for the final position of the depicted self in a moving scene was influenced by properties of the optical expansion pattern. The results are consistent with a conceptual framework in which the mechanisms that underlie boundary extension and representational momentum (a) process different information and (b) both contribute to the integration of successive views of a scene while the scene is changing.
Damned if you do and damned if you don’t Rhetorical heresthetic in the Israeli Knesset

I use quantitative textual analysis of the Israeli Knesset’s legislative debates to analyse legislative parties’ strategies. The analysis demonstrates three results. First, given an opportunity provided by an exogenous shock to the Israeli political system, dovish opposition parties used their floor speeches strategically to emphasize a frame of Israeli security on which the hawkish majority held a losing position. Second, due to its weak position, the hawkish coalition eventually ‘deserted’ the frame. Third, this dynamic resulted in a major change in the legislative discourse on security, and in the consolidation of a frame of security that highly favoured the opposition. I argue that this strategy constitutes rhetorical heresthetic, since it emphasizes the internal contradictions of the majority and contributes to its split. In general, these results demonstrate that legislative rhetoric is an important venue of oppositional behaviour, especially given the limited agenda control the majority has over le...
Surgical and postoperative factors influencing short-term survival of horses following small intestinal resection: 92 cases (1994-2001).

Summary Although short-term survival rates following small intestinal resection reportedly range from 48–88%, there is little information on predicting which horse may or may not survive small intestinal (SI) resection and anastomosis. The aim of this study was to identify factors that contribute to nonsurvival in horses following small intestinal resection. Medical records of horses which recovered from anaesthesia following SI resection were reviewed. Clinical and surgical variables were evaluated for their association with short-term survival using logistic regression and were reported as odds ratios (OR), including the 95% confidence interval (CI), indicating the likelihood of horses not surviving to hospital discharge. Ninety-two records met the criteria for inclusion. Thirty-six (81.8%) of the horses that underwent jejunojejunostomy (JJ) and 34 (70.8%) of the horses that underwent jejunocaecostomy (JC) survived to discharge. Multiple logistic analysis indicated that postoperative ileus (OR = 29.7; 95% CI 2.5–354.6), repeat celiotomy (OR = 18; CI 1.7–187.6), and an elevated heart rate of ≥ 60 beats/min (OR = 5.6; CI 1.5–20.6) were the principal factors associated with nonsurvival. A low total plasma protein of <55 g/l (OR = 1.8; CI 0.5–7.6) was incorporated in the final model because its inclusion improved the overall validity of the model Clinicians should be aware of the factors associated with the greatest likelihood of nonsurvival following small intestinal resection, so that they can institute aggressive treatment and accurately inform owners on the likelihood of survival.
Leak estimation in water distribution systems by statistical analysis of flow readings

A new method is presented for detecting the magnitude of leaks in small residential service zones (under 1,000 homes) of a drinking water distribution system. It is assumed that continuous measurements of flow rates through the main supply line into a residential service zone are available during periods of low use. The sample mean and variance from the set of measured flow rates are computed as the set is truncated progressively from below. Trajectories of the sample statistics and their derivatives are plotted versus the level of data truncation. In the presence of leaks, these trajectories diverge from their expected theoretical path when plotted on a standardized graph derived from a mixed truncated normal distribution. The point of departure on the standardized graph indicates where the truncation threshold matches the maximum rate of network leakage. A performance limit for the proposed method is derived to account for network size and time averaging. Several examples, based on observed and simulated pipe flows, demonstrate application of the leak detection method.
The leading edge is the primary force producing component of migrating fibroblasts

To examine how cells generate force at the level of single extracellular matrix fibers, a miniature force-transducer system was created around a novel microfabricated silicon device. We characterize the development of isometric force on single collagen type-I fibers. We show that cells remodel individual collagen fibers by moving them inward using a hand-over-hand cycle of binding, movement, and release. This remodelling is caused by only a 2-3 micrometer region of active lamellapodium. We also show that movement of individual fibers is rapid at low restrictive forces, and this velocity quickly decreases as forces approach 60 pN. A single cell is capable of generating between 180-250 pN of force on a single fiber. This data supports the hypothesis that the leading edge of migrating cells is primarily responsible for generating force on the substrate.
A practical synthetic route to 4′-alkylaristeromycin derivatives: 4′-methylaristeromycin

Abstract (−)-(1 S ,4 R )-4-Hydroxy-2-cyclopenten-1-yl acetate provided a convenient entry point for a 16-step chiral preparation of 4′-methylaristeromycin. This procedure is adaptable to a number of carbocyclic nucleosides with a diversity of substitution at C-4′ and C-5′ and a variety of heterocyclic bases.
Cancer and the complement cascade

Despite significant research on the role of inflammation and immunosurveillance in the immunologic microenvironment of tumors, little attention has been given to the oncogenic capabilities of the complement cascade. The recent finding that complement may contribute to tumor growth suggests an insidious relationship between complement and cancer, especially in light of evidence that complement facilitates cellular proliferation and regeneration. We address the hypothesis that complement proteins promote carcinogenesis and suggest mechanisms by which complement can drive the fundamental features of cancer. Evidence shows that this diverse family of innate immune proteins facilitates dysregulation of mitogenic signaling pathways, sustained cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, insensitivity to apoptosis, invasion and migration, and escape from immunosurveillance. Given that the traditionally held functions for the complement system include innate immunity and cancer defense, our review suggests a new way of thinking about the role of complement proteins in neoplasia.
Work in Progress - Automated Discourse Interventions and Student Teaming

The ability to successfully work in teams is a crucial part of an engineer's workplace success. Engineering education can be improved through a better understanding of how effective teamwork develops. A (patent pending) software tool that "listens" to team conversations and generates automatic interventions into team discourse can effectively mimic the actions of a skilled facilitator. Automated facilitation tools may help students improve their team skills by providing a simplified model for conversational interventions, which students can readily imitate. This paper describes this tool and presents preliminary findings from student reactions to the tool's use
Surveillance of Community-Based Reservoirs Reveals the Presence of CTX-M, Imported AmpC, and OXA-30 β-Lactamases in Urine Isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli in a U.S. Community

β-Lactamases produced by urine isolates from patients in long-term care facilities (LTCFs), outpatient, clinics, and one hospital in a U.S. community were characterized. A total of 1.3% of all Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates collected from patients in 30 LTCFs and various outpatient clinics produced extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and/or imported AmpC β-lactamases.
Movement of flathead catfish in the Missouri River: examining opportunities for managing river segments for different fishery goals

The dispersal patterns of 2939 flathead catfish, Pylodictis olivaris (Rafinesque), were determined within a 90-km section of the Missouri River, USA. Fish were captured by electric fishing and tagged in early June each year from 1999 through 2001. Dispersal was determined via angler tag returns between 1999 and 2001 or by subsequent recapture during sampling 1 or 2 years after initial tagging (June 2000 or 2001). Dispersal was localised for the majority of the 370 flathead catfish recaptured in the Missouri River. Over 80% of recaptures were within 5 km of tagging location, and 94% were within 20 km of tagging location. Maximum displacement was 160 km. To examine differences in movement patterns of various sized fish, flathead catfish were placed into one to three size groups (305–380, 381–507, or ≥508 mm). A significant difference (P < 0.001) was detected in dispersal patterns among the three size groups; the largest size group moved greater distances than either of the smaller size groups. Movements average 4.5, 5.6 and 12.6 km for small, medium, and large size classes, respectively. Dispersal movements of flathead catfish in the Missouri River appeared to be localised, suggesting that different sections of the Missouri River could be managed for different fishery goals for flathead catfish to accommodate a variety of angler types and desires.
Performance of efficiently encodable low-density parity-check codes in noise bursts on the EPR4 channel

We consider in this paper the possibility of using a low-density parity-check (LDPC) code as the complete error control system in a magnetic recording channel. We compare the performance of selected LDPC codes with two Reed-Solomon (RS) code schemes on an extended partial-response class 4 (EPR4) channel, with particular emphasis on their performance in noise bursts (induced by media defects or thermal asperities). We quantify the performance of LDPC codes in noise bursts via a maximum-burst-length parameter, and we present a simple algorithm for computing this parameter. We find some very promising initial results: the LDPC codes are very robust against large noise bursts (128 bits long or more), and are superior to the RS schemes examined in the measurable error rate region. The extent to which they are superior depends on the particular LDPC scheme involved, and the results provide motivation for further investigation in this area.
Fracture of fiber reinforced composites

Characteristics of the fracture of fiber reinforced plastic composites are described in terms of the elastic stress distribution at the crack tip, the mechanism of crack tip damage, and the modes and conditions of final fracture. The three-dimensional, stress field at the tip of a sharp crack in a laminate is presented and contrasted to traditional two-dimensional models. The response of the material in the form of inter- and intraply damage formation and growth under increasing load is characterized, and its effect in blunting the main crack is examined. The final fracture conditions, which may range from quasi-brittle to notch insensitive, are discussed and related to the damage zone extension. Observed and anticipated effects of various material and geometric parameters are also discussed.
Chemoradiotherapy Followed by Surgery in Rectal Cancer: Improved Local Control Using a Moderately High Pelvic Radiation Dose

Methods: Fifty-seven patients with histologically proven adenocarcinoma of the mid to lower rectum were treated using preoperative CCRT and surgery. Median radiation dose to the pelvis was 5400 cGy (5040 –5 580 cGy). CCRT was administered during the first and fifth weeks of radiotherapy with bolus intravenous 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) 400 mg/m 2 /day and leucovorin (LV) 20 mg/m 2 /day for 5 days. Surgery was attempted 4 –8 weeks after completing preoperative CCRT. Post-operative chemotherapy was then added for up to four cycles of intravenous 5-FU and LV. Results: Toxicities during CCRT were generally mild and manageable: Grade 1/2 anemia, 3.5%; Grade 1/2 leukopenia, 45.6%; Grade 3 leukopenia, 3.5%; Grade 1/2 diarrhea, 22.8%; Grade 1/2 abdominal discomfort, 7%; and perianal skin reaction, 5.3%. No late complication requiring surgical intervention occurred. Complete surgical resection with a negative resection margin was achieved in 98.2% of patients, and the down-staging rate was 52.6% (30/57; 95% CI 39.6–65.6%). Complete pathologic response was obtained in 5.3% patients (3/57; 95% CI 0-11.1%) and in other 2 patients only sporadic tumor cells nests were noted in surgical specimens. The sphincter preservation rate was 77.2% (44/57; 95% CI 66.3 –8 8.1%). Of 30 patients with tumors located within 5 cm from the anal verge, sphincter preservation was possible in 18 patients (60.0%; 95% CI 47.3 –7 2.7%). With a median follow-up duration of 40 months, overall and disease-free survival (DFS) rates over 3 years were 91.8% (95% CI 85.5 –98.2%) and 79.7% (95% CI 71.2–8 8.2%), respectively. At univariate analysis, significant factors for DFS was LN involvement status (P ¼ 0.024). Local and distant failure rates over the same period were 5.3 and 21.1%, respectively. Conclusions: Preoperative CCRT produced encouraging down-staging rates and was found to facilitate complete resection and sphincter saving in distal rectal cancer with acceptable toxicity. Further studies are warranted using this moderately high radiation dose to the pelvis to improve the local control.
An Analysis of Estimates Arising from the Tennessee Econometric Model as Presented in an Economic Report to the Governor: A Report to the State Funding Board, 1995

The Comptroller of the Treasury of the State of Tennessee is required by law to provide the State Funding Board with an assessment of the "reasonableness" of the state's economic forecast. No definition of "reasonable" was provided in the law. This report provides an empirically grounded standard for assessing the reasonableness of the forecast, based on the superiority of the forecast estimate to a "strawman" prediction using last year's figures.
Mission Impossible: Hiring for Mission in a Vague World

Today's lesson is about hiring for mission. While it may fit this issue's sub-theme regarding religiously affiliated law schools, the general principles apply to any law school that takes their well-defined mission seriously. Whatever the character of your school, it will change unless faculty hiring focuses largely on the mission. Each year, hundreds of lawyers apply to teach who have excellent credentials in every area of subject need. When the applicant pool contains an assortment of diverse candidates with virtually fungible qualifications, law schools should choose those who best support the mission of the law school.
Clutch Cycling Mode of Compressor Capacity Control of Transcritical R744 Systems Compared to R134a Systems

The paper presents an experimental analysis of the performance of a prototype air conditioning system based on transcritical operation with R744 as the refrigerant. A comparative analysis of the performance of three systems is also presented: two R744 (with back pressure and manual expansion valves) and R134a with a fixed area orifice tube. Results show that there is an optimal setting of the back pressure valve in cycling conditions that maximizes COP for the R744 system. That is very important because the system operates most of the time in cycling mode, where there is excessive capacity, and the objective is to maximize COP. Furthermore, it is shown that those values follow the same relation as developed for non-cycling operation.
Major Problem Areas as Perceived by Presidents of Small Manufacturing Firms: A Case Study

The article presents the results of a survey conducted among presidents of small manufacturing firms in Virginia about problems facing their firms. The questionnaire was mailed to 300 companies, 92...
Abstract LB-352: B-CLL phenotype in Eµ-miR-29 transgenic mice

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) is the most common leukemia in the western world. Human B-CLL occurs in two forms: aggressive (showing high ZAP-70 expression and unmutated IgH VH) and indolent (showing low ZAP-70 expression and mutated IgH VH). We found that miR-29a is upregulated in indolent human B-CLL compared to aggressive B-CLL and normal CD19+ B-cells. To study the role of miR-29 in B-CLL, we generated Eµ-miR-29 transgenic mice overexpressing miR-29 in mouse B-cells. Flow cytometric analysis revealed a markedly expanded CD5+ population in the spleen of these mice starting at 2 months of age. Over 80% of miR-29 transgenic mice exhibited an expanded population of CD5+ B-cells, a characteristic of the B-CLL phenotype. An average of 56% of the B-cell population in these transgenics were CD5 positive. At the age of 2 years these mice showed significantly enlarged spleens and an increase in CD5+ B-cell population of up to 100% of B-cells. Over 8% (3/36) of Eµ-miR-29 transgenic mice developed frank leukemia and prematurely died from the disease at the age of 24-26 months. The expanded CD5+ B-cell population was found to be proliferative, with an increased number of cells in the S-phase of the cell cycle, compared to wild type CD19+ B-cells. These results suggest that deregulation of miR-29 can cause, or at least significantly contribute to the pathogenesis of indolent B-CLL. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-352.
Development of Heliothis virescens and Diatraea saccharalis on a Soyflour-Corn Oil Diet

Larval and pupal development times and male and female pupal weights were similar for the tobacco budworm (TBW), Heliothis virescens (F.) (Noctuidae), fed a soyflour-corn oil diet and a soyflour-wheat germ diet (standard) for five consecutive generations. We also observed similar results for the sugarcane borer (SCB), Diatraea saccharalis (F.) (Pyralidae), feeding on the same diets for the same number of generations. Egg hatch and adult emergence for each species reared on the standard and experimental diet were similar throughout five consecutive generations. Total food consumption (grams per larva) of these two diets by TBW larvae was not significantly different, whereas SCB larvae consumed significantly more of the experimental diet. In most cases, the SCB larvae ate more food, gained more weight, and produced more frass in a 48- and 120-h period when fed the soyflour-corn oil diet than when fed the standard diet. The TBW larvae ate more of the standard diet and produced more frass in a 48-h feeding period; however, food consumption and frass production for these larvae fed both diets were similar for a 120-h feeding period.
Second-order many-body perturbation study on thermal expansion of solid carbon dioxide.

An embedded-fragment ab initio second-order many-body perturbation (MP2) method is applied to an infinite three-dimensional crystal of carbon dioxide phase I (CO2-I), using the aug-cc-pVDZ and aug-cc-pVTZ basis sets, the latter in conjunction with a counterpoise correction for the basis-set superposition error. The equation of state, phonon frequencies, bulk modulus, heat capacity, Gruneisen parameter (including mode Gruneisen parameters for acoustic modes), thermal expansion coefficient (α), and thermal pressure coefficient (β) are computed. Of the factors that enter the expression of α, MP2 reproduces the experimental values of the heat capacity, Gruneisen parameter, and molar volume accurately. However, it proves to be exceedingly difficult to determine the remaining factor, the bulk modulus (B0), the computed value of which deviates from the observed value by 50–100%. As a result, α calculated by MP2 is systematically too low, while having the correct temperature dependence. The thermal pressure coeff...
Strategy and application of flatness control system based on multi-variable optimal control of 1450 mm cold strip mill

In order to improve the flatness of cold rolled strips, a control strategy of flatness control system is studied based on theoretical calculations and the field production conditions. A system structure and the multi-variable optimal control model are developed based on this study results. The actuator adjustment is calculated as no solution in the global optimal calculation by derivation with a singular matrix. Moreover, a saturation output of actuators such as work roll bending can be avoided using this method.A variable gain compensation model for flatness actuators is set for the design of flatness feedback control system. The flatness control system is applied to the 1 450 tandem cold mill. The application results show that the flatness control system has excellent accuracy and provides a basis for flatness control.
Successful repair of double-outlet right ventricle, complete atrioventricular canal, and atrioventricular discordance associated with dextrocardia and pulmonary stenosis.

The association of complete atrioventricular canal with other complex congenital cardiac anomalies has represented a significant challenge for the cardiac surgeon. The combination of double-outlet right ventricle with complete atrioventricular canal has been particularly difficult to correct, with no surgical successes having been reported until recently. This is a report of the first successful repair of double-outlet right ventricle, complete atrioventricular canal, and atrioventricular discordance (ventricular inversion) associated with common atrium, bilateral superior venae cavae, dextrocardia, and pulmonary stenosis. The specialized conduction tissue was identified by intracardiac electrophysiological mapping, and normal sinus rhythm was preserved. Postoperative cardiac catheterization showed excellent hemodynamics. One year postoperatively, the patient was attending school, playing, swimming without difficulty, and taking no cardiac medications. This good result lends encouragement for considering total repair for similar patients with the combination of double-outlet right ventricle, complete atrioventricular canal, and other associated congenital cardiac anomalies.
Myeloma International Staging System Retains Its Prognostic Value at Disease Relapse.

Abstract Background: The international staging system is a simple, but powerful staging system that is based on two simple and easily available laboratory measurements. The system was developed and validated on a large group pf patients from across the world and has become the standard for patients with newly diagnosed myeloma. While it's prognostic value is clear in patients with newly diagnosed myeloma, its value at relapse has not been explored. Methods: We examined a uniform cohort of patients relapsing after an autologous stem cell transplant to assess the utility of ISS determined at the time of documented relapse. Relapse was defined using standard EBMTR response criteria. Beta-2 microglobulin and albumin values from within 30 days of the date of relapse were extracted from the medical records. ISS was determined based on the published cut offs. Results: Of the 389 patients evaluated, 132 had values available for B2M and 276 patients had the serum albumin available. Only 131 patients had both the data available and the ISS stage could be determined. Of these patients, 64 patients (49%) were ISS stage I, 50 (38%) were stage II and 17 (13%) were stage III. An albumin 3.5 mg/dL compared to 23.3 months for those with lower B2M (P = 0.014). The ISS stage predicted overall survival for this group of patients with the OS from relapse estimated at 27.3 mos, 17.8 mos and 12.3 months for ISS stage I, II and III respectively. Conclusions: In a uniform group of patients relapsing after autologous stem cell transplantation, the B2M and albumin maintain their prognostic value and allows the use of the International Staging System for determining prognosis. This supports the use of ISS stage in relapsed trials and will allow comparisons across studies. Results should be validated in a larger dataset that will allow comparisons to other known prognostic factors. Download : Download high-res image (75KB) Download : Download full-size image Figure
CHAPTER 14 – Electron Transport and Oxidative Phosphorylation

The energy requirements of aerobic cells are met by the energy released in the oxidation of carbohydrates, fatty acids, and amino acids by molecular oxygen. The numerous coupled redox reactions are tightly linked and take place in the inner mitochondrial membrane. This reaction sequence is called the respiratory chain electron transport. Electrons in substrate or cofactor begin with a high potential energy and end at oxygen with a lower potential energy. During this electron flow, a portion of the free energy liberated is conserved by an energy-transducing system, through which electrical energy is changed to chemical energy. Since the energy is conserved in the terminal phosphoanhydride bond of ATP through phosphorylation of ADP to ATP, the overall coupled process is known as oxidative phosphorylation. The three hypotheses that have been proposed to explain how the mechanism of energy conservation is coupled to electron transport are the chemical, conformational, and chemiosmotic hypotheses. The chemical hypothesis proposes that the energy is conserved by the formation of high-energy intermediates as reducing equivalents pass from one carrier to the next. The conformational hypothesis proposes that the energy-yielding steps generate protein conformational changes that are used in ATP synthesis. According to the chemiosmotic hypothesis, an electrochemical gradient (pH gradient), generated across the inner mitochondrial membrane by the passage of reducing equivalents along the respiratory chain, provides the driving force for the synthesis of ATP.
Operational Characteristics of Cognitive Schemas Derived from Behavioral Economics: Implications for Psychotherapists

The â€œwhatâ€ (i.e. deficiencies) of dysfunctional cognitive schemas have long had the attention of clinicians seeking to help troubled clients/patients while the â€œhowâ€ (i.e. operating characteristics) regarding such schemas have been largely assumed, implied or ignored in the literature.Â Enter the research from behavioral economics, a discipline that seeks to understand the processes by which individuals make judgments, decisions and choices.Â Kahnemanâ€™s (2011) analysis of this question resulted in his (and othersâ€™) description of System 1 and System 2 thinking and a variety of heuristics (e.g. anchoring, availability, representativeness, priming, confirmation bias, etc.) used in those two systems to describe the processes by which human beings make decisions. Operating from dysfunctional schemas, there is no reason to doubt that clients/patients use these same cognitive processes in dealing with lifeâ€™s inevitable difficulties without relief from their suffering. This paper, by suggesting and describing the how (i.e. operational characteristics) of cognitive schemas and Systems 1 and 2 thinking heuristics, endeavors to add another dimension of understanding to client/patient thinking that may adjunctively facilitate the amelioration of human suffering through the therapeutic enterprise.Â
Histone Methylation by SET Domain Proteins in Fungi

Histone-modifying enzymes are responsible for regulating transcription, recombination, DNA repair, DNA replication, chromatid cohesion, and chromosome segregation. Fungi are ideally suited for comparative chromatin biology because sequencing of numerous genomes from many clades is coupled to existing rich methodology that allows truly holistic approaches, integrating evolutionary biology with mechanistic molecular biology and ecology, promising applications in medicine or plant pathology. While genome information is rich, mechanistic studies on histone modifications are largely restricted to two yeasts, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe, and one filamentous fungus, Neurospora crassa-three species that arguably are not representative of this diverse kingdom. Here, histone methylation serves as a paradigm to illustrate the roles chromatin modifications may play in more complex fungal life cycles. This review summarizes recent advances in our understanding of histone H3 methylation at two sites associated with active transcription, lysine 4 and lysine 36 (H3K4, H3K36); a site associated with the formation of constitutive heterochromatin, lysine 9 (H3K9); and a site associated with the formation of facultative heterochromatin, lysine 27 (H3K27). Special attention is paid to differences in how methylation marks interact in different taxa.
Prospects for Stable Isotopic Analysis of Later Pleistocene Hominid Diets in West Asia and Europe

The transition from “archaic” to “modern” human behavior, coincident with the transition from the Middle to the Upper Paleolithic (MP/UP) and the Middle to the Later Stone Age (MSA/LSA), may have been accompanied by changes in dietary adaptations. Increased mobility and exchange of exotic lithics and other resources in the UP/LSA may reflect modern human capacities for adjusting social and territorial organization to environments with different food resource structures (Ambrose and Lorenz 1990; Lieberman and Shea 1994). Changes in diet composition may have occurred as well. Middle Paleolithic and MSA humans in Europe and southern Africa have been characterized as less effective predators than those in the Upper Paleolithic and LSA (Binford 1984, 1985; Klein 1989), or to have had predation patterns resembling those of non-human carnivores and scavengers (Stiner and Kuhn 1992; Stiner 1993, 1994). Other studies have concluded that there were no significant differences in faunal exploitation patterns or predator effectiveness (Chase 1989). Neandertal skeletal morphology and paleopathology indicate they frequently engaged in strenuous activities and suffered traumas like those of rodeo cowboys, suggesting bold confrontational predation patterns (Berger and Trinkaus 1995). Linear enamel hypoplasias, which reflect nutritional stress and/or infection, occur predominantly before or during weaning age in Upper Paleolithic anatomically modern humans, but occur throughout dental development in Neandertals and other archaic humans (Ogilvie et al. 1989; Skinner 1996). The restricted distribution of hypoplasias in modern humans may reflect bouts of infection associated with the introduction of solid foods. Combined with evidence for younger average age at death and rapid dental wear, the prevalence and distribution of enamel defects in Neandertals suggests “periods of poor nutritional quality and/or famine must have been relatively common” (Trinkaus 1995:138). If differences in nutritional
Subcutaneous and intravenous hydromorphone infusions were equally effective for chronic cancer pain

Source Citation Moulin DE, Kreeft JH, Murray-Parsons N, Bouquillon AI. Comparison of continuous subcutaneous and intravenous hydromorphone infusions for management of cancer pain. Lancet. 1991 Feb ...