cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of a posterior fourchette finding with other evidence of sexual abuse in prepubertal females

BACKGROUND: We have noted a clinical finding in the genital exam of prepubertal females which has not been previously reported in the literature: thinning or diminution of the posterior fourchette. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether thinning of the posterior fourchette is associated with child sexual abuse. METHODS: We performed a case-control study of girls referred to an inner-city public hospital child protection center evaluating 200-250 new patients/year. Logbooks recording every patient seen in the center were used to identify cases and controls. Cases were all 3 to 11 year old prepubertal females who were seen for a sexual abuse evaluation between 1995 and 2000 who had posterior fourchette thinning. Controls were all prepubertal females seen during the study period who matched cases on age, date of visit, ethnicity and examiner, but had normal posterior fourchettes. Medical records were reviewed to confirm eligibility and supplement information about subject disclosure of sexual abuse and physical findings. Cases and controls were compared for evidence of sexual abuse, defined as disclosure of sexual abuse and/or abnormal hymenal findings (transection or thinning). As per protocol, determination of all genital findings was made by 1 of 2 examiners blinded to details of the patients disclosure. RESULTS: 475 girls age 3 to 11 (pubertal and prepubertal) were evaluated for possible sexual abuse. There were 37 cases who were prepubertal with a thinned posterior fourchette, and 89 matched controls. Included in this analysis were the 32/37 cases (86%) and 81/89 controls (91%) with complete data (range 1-4 controls per case). 87.5% of cases had evidence of sexual abuse compared to 24.7% of controls (OR = 21.14, p < .001). These results remained significant even after excluding the 19 cases and 4 controls with abnormal hymenal findings (69.2% vs 20.8%, OR = 8.6, p = .001). In a multiple logistic regression adjusting for age, ethnicity, examiner and date of visit, cases were significantly more likely than controls to have evidence of sexual abuse (adjusted OR = 22.8, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: In a case-control study of prepubertal girls, thinning of the posterior fourchette was associated with evidence of sexual abuse. Confirmation of these results will require prospective study.
Geometric constraints on hypothesis generation for monocular building extraction

A recurring issue in data-driven feature extraction systems is the combinatorics of search in hypothesis space. Brute force attempts at feature generation, where all possible combinations of edges are evaluated, leads to exponential growth in the size of the search space. In monocular building extraction systems, this difficulty is encountered in creating plausible building model hypotheses from raw edge segments extracted from aerial imagery. This work presents constraints on intermediate feature generation, based on vanishing point geometry derived from a photogrammetric camera model, to significantly reduce the search space. Qualitative and quantitative results are presented in the context of PIVOT, a fully automated monocular building extraction system.
THE EFFECT OF HYDROCORTISONE ON HeLa CELL GROWTH

HeLa Chessen cells have a doubling time of 18 hr when grown in MEM containing 10% calf serum and antibiotics. When hydrocortisone (1.7 μg/ml) is added to exponentially distributed cells in log growth in this medium, a new pattern of growth begins to emerge after 10–12 hr. This pattern is characterized by a transitional state lasting for about 6 hr, and then a new doubling time of about 35 hr is maintained thereafter. Hydrocortisone removes about 5% of the cells from the proliferative pool and extends the generation time of proliferating cells to about 30 hr. The extension of the generation cycle appears to occur almost entirely in late G1. Cells grown as clones (average 6 cells/clone) prior to the addition of hydrocortisone, undergo these changes with doses as low as 0.00017 μg/ml of medium. When the average clone size is 1.5 cells per clone, the drug concentration must be 0.017 μg/ml or higher to initiate this response. The HeLa S3 strain continues to grow with an 18-hr doubling time in the presence of hydrocortisone after a temporary delay in growth occurring between the 12th and 16th hour.
An Uncontrolled Walking Toy That Cannot Stand Still

We built a simple two-leg toy that can walk stably with no control system. It walks downhill powered only by gravity. It seems to be the first McGeer-like passive-dynamic walker that is statically unstable in all standing positions, yet is stable in motion. It is one of a few known mechanical devices that are stable near a statically unstable configuration but do not depend on spinning parts. Its design is loosely based on simulations which do not predict its observed stability. Its motion highlights the possible role of uncontrolled nonholonomic mechanics in balance.
Presidential Address. “Racial Intergroup Relations in a Set of Cities: A Twenty-Year Perspective”

In 1990, Albert Karnig and I published an article in the American Political Science Review, “Black and Latino Socioeconomic and Political Competition,” which examined the extent of socioeconomic and political competition between blacks and Latinos in a set of U.S. cities using 1980s data. We made a number of predictions about the future of racial politics in cities based on our results. This article revisits the cities in the 1990 article to see what changes, if any, may have occurred over the course of 20 years. The results from the original 1980 cities viewed in 1990 and 2000 presents a very mixed picture. The accuracy of our predictions varied over the years.
Surface maturation in female Schistosoma mansoni, S. mattheei and Schistosomatium douthitti.

Abstract Gh Pta B. C. and Basch P. F. 1988. Surface maturation in female Schistosoma mansoni. S. mattheei and Schistosomatium douthitti . International Journal for Purasitology 18 : 275–280. Females of Schistosomatium douthitti in unisexual infections regularly produce viable eggs; in Schistosoma mattheei such females produce only distorted, inviable eggs; and in Schistosoma mansoni unisexual females do not mature at all. We studied tegumental surface maturation by scanning electron microscopy in unisexual and paired females of all three species and found striking differences only in S. mansoni . Although both are very complex, the surface of unisexual female S. mansoni tended to have spongy-textured ridges about 2 μm apart, whereas that of paired females had smooth-textured ridges about 0.5μm apart. Mice having unisexual female infections 7 weeks old were re-infected with males and perfused 4, 5 or 6 weeks later. Newly paired females rapidly attained a surface typical of mature worms. Unisexual females paired in vitro with intact males also developed surfaces typical of mature adults, but unisexual females paired in vitro with cut pieces of male worms achieved at best an intermediate condition.
Reperfusion therapy for acute myocardial infarction

A mechanical approach to reperfusion using direct coronary angioplasty is now an established and effective treatment for acute myocardial infarction, but it is not immediately available at most community hospitals. This article will outline the indications for use of reperfusion therapy on patients with AMI, discuss all currently available treatment options, and examine the potential role of combined pharmacologic and mechanical therapy for reperfusion in AMI.
Repair of double aortic arch associated with D-transposition of the great arteries

D-transposition of the great arteries is infrequently associated with anomalies of the aortic arch. We report a rare case of double aortic arch associated with D-transposition of the great arteries. The diagnosis was made by angiography and transthoracic echocardiography. The patient underwent a successful simultaneous arterial switch operation and division of the vascular ring through a median sternotomy incision.
The art of teaching and learning

As a faculty member my heart and love belong to teaching and students, hence, my title, “The Art of Teaching and Learning.” In his book, “The Courage to Teach,” Palmer (1998), states the following ...
Issues in the determination of the optimal portfolio of electricity supply options

Abstract In recent years a growing amount of attention has been focused on the need to develop a cost-effective portfolio of electricity supply options that provides society with a measure of protection from such factors as fuel price volatility and supply interruptions. A number of strategies, including portfolio theory, real options theory, and different measures of diversity have been suggested. In this paper we begin by first considering how we might characterize an optimal portfolio of supply options and identify a number of constraints that must be satisfied as part of the optimization process. We then review the strengths and limitations of each approach listed above. The results of our review lead us to conclude that, of the strategies we consider, using the concept of diversity to assess the viability of an electricity supply portfolio is most appropriate. We then provide an example of how a particular measure of diversity, the Shannon–Weiner Index, can be used to assess the diversity of the electricity supply portfolio in the state of Illinois, the region served by the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO), and the continental United States.
SWAT Surveillance Wall Acclivitous Tracker

This paper deals with a basic model of surveillance system which can travel in horizontal as vertical surface. SWAT which stands for Surveillance Wall Acclivitous Tracker is a wireless controlled surveillance system. The SWAT is powered from an AC voltage and the control inputs are coordinated through the PIC16F628. SWAT in reality resembles a lizard and scales the vertical surface using suction cups driven by suction motors. SWAT also has a night vision camera for capturing the details and the details are sent to the remote server in wireless channel. Though the SWAT doesn't have an on board power supply and suction motor to support it, in future there are provisions for having them onboard.
Corrosion of pacemaker electrodes.

As improvements in pacemaker components and design increase pacemaker life, problems with other components may emerge such as corrosion of the electrodes. Explanted electrodes were examined under a scanning electron microscope and the degree of corrosion was graded and correlated with the reasons for expiantation, the status of the explanted pacemaker, and the duration of the implant. Fifty-six explanted electrodes were removed for loss of capture or sensing, pacemaker extrusion, broken wires, or after death. A numerical grading system was used to qualitate the degree of corrosion. The pacemaker itself was retrieved in 50 cases, permitting evaluation of the entire pacing system. The dc component of the pacemaker output was measured. Without She aid of magnification most electrodes appeared shiny and smooth. With one exception all corrosion was microscopic. Significant corrosion was seen on all pacemaker electrodes that had been connected to pacemakers with dc offset currents greater than 5 microamperes. All except the “youngest” explanted electrode showed some degree of corrosion. The data suggest that corrosion was directly related to the duration of implantation. With the possible exception of one case, no consistent adverse clinical effects were observed, even when electrodes were heavily corroded. Whether or not corrosion eventually will progress to the point that clinical problems become manifest cannot be predicted at this time.
Second messenger pathways involved in up-regulation of an L-type calcium channel.

Catfish cone horizontal cells contain a voltage-gated L-type calcium channel that is modulated by activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). Activation of group I mGluRs with the mGluR I agonist, (S)-3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine [(S) 3,5-DHPG], potentiated peak calcium current amplitude, shifted the membrane potential corresponding to peak current activity, and widened the calcium current's activation range. In this study, we have examined the mechanisms linking activation of the mGluRs with “up-regulation” of calcium current activity. Under whole-cell voltage-clamp conditions favoring expression of the L-type calcium current, we provide evidence that activation of mGluRs initiate the diacylglyceral (DG) second messenger pathway to activate protein kinase C (PKC) and up-regulate calcium channel activity. This evidence was based on results using a number of PKC activators and inhibitors. PKC activators mimicked the effect of (S) 3,5-DHPG on calcium current activity. Up-regulation of the calcium channel by PKC activators or (S) 3,5-DHPG was eliminated if PKC inhibitors were present. These results also demonstrated that activation of group I mGluRs were linked to a pertussis toxin sensitive G-protein. When the GTP analog, guanosine 5-0-(3-thiotriphosphate (GTPγS), was allowed to diffuse into voltage-clamp cells, up-regulation of the calcium channel occurred and mimicked the effect of (S) 3,5-DHPG. However, when pertussis toxin (PTX) was allowed to diffuse into the cell along with GTPγS, GTPγS failed to modulate calcium current activity. IP3 (inositol 1,4,5 triphosphate) is a second product produced by activation of group I mGluRs. Once formed, IP3 can trigger calcium release from IP3-sensitive intracellular stores. To determine if the IP3 second messenger system was involved in up-regulation of calcium channel, (S) 3,5-DHPG was applied to voltage-clamped cone horizontal cells containing different concentrations of the calcium buffer, EGTA. Low concentrations of EGTA failed to buffer calcium released from intracellular stores. In the presence of low EGTA concentrations, (S) 3,5-DHPG's enhancement of the calcium current amplitude was reduced. Inhibition of the calcium current amplitude in low concentrations of EGTA was eliminated in the presence of the intracellular calcium store blocker, heparin. These results suggest that both the DG and IP3 second messenger pathways are involved in modulation of the voltage-gated calcium channel in catfish cone horizontal cells. The DG pathway up-regulates the voltage-gated calcium channel activity whereas calcium released from IP3 intracellular stores inhibits peak current amplitude.
On the contribution of motor vehicles to the athenian “Nephos”: An application of factor signatures

Abstract Suspended particles were sampled at several sites in Athens during the summer of 1982 and the winter of 1982–1983. This paper examines the trace element and carbon composition of the Athens aerosol. Chemical element balances indicate that motor vehicle exhaust was a major contributor to fine particle mass concentrations. Statistical analyses of the ambient measurements indicate that the emissions of elemental and organic carbon by local vehicles were relatively high. The observed effects of an experiment in which stringent restrictions were placed on vehicle use were somewhat ambiguous.
Ultrasensitive detection of 3D cerebral microvascular network dynamics in vivo

Despite widespread applications of multiphoton microscopy in microcirculation, its small field of view and inability to instantaneously quantify cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv) in vascular networks limit its utility in investigating the heterogeneous responses to brain stimulations. Optical Doppler tomography (ODT) provides 3D images of CBFv networks, but it suffers poor sensitivity for measuring capillary flows. Here we report on a new method, contrast-enhanced ODT with Intralipid that significantly improves quantitative CBFv imaging of capillary networks by obviating the errors from long latency between flowing red blood cells (low hematocrit ~20% in capillaries). This enhanced sensitivity allowed us to measure the ultraslow microcirculation surrounding a brain tumor and the abnormal ingrowth of capillary flows in the tumor as well as in ischemia triggered by chronic cocaine in the mouse brain that could not be detected by regular ODT. It also enabled significantly enhanced sensitivity for quantifying the heterogeneous CBFv responses of vascular networks to acute cocaine exposure. Inasmuch as lipid emulsions are widely used for parenteral nutrition the Intralipid contrast method has translational potential for clinical applications.
Evaluation of neoadjuvant therapy and histopathologic response in primary, high‐grade retroperitoneal sarcomas using the sarcoma nomogram

BACKGROUND: Patients with primary high-grade retroperitoneal soft tissue sarcomas have a 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS) of <40%. The impact of neoadjuvant therapy on histopathologic response and DSS are unknown. METHODS: From 1987 to 2007, 55 patients with primary high-grade retroperitoneal sarcoma received neoadjuvant therapy. All patients underwent surgical resection, and response was assessed histopathologically. Patients with ≥95% pathologic necrosis were classified as responders. Clinicopathologic variables were analyzed for association with DSS. Observed DSS was then compared with the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Sarcoma Nomogram predicted DSS. RESULTS: The median tumor size was 15 cm, and the median follow-up time for survivors was 68 months. The 5-year DSS for all 55 patients was 47% and did not significantly differ from the 37% predicted by the sarcoma nomogram for such patients (P = .44). Fourteen (25%) of the patients had ≥95% pathologic necrosis and were defined as responders; 41 (75%) were nonresponders. The 5-year DSS for responders was 83%. This was significantly better than the 5-year DSS of 34% for nonresponders (P = .002) and the 39% predicted by the sarcoma nomogram for responders (P = .018). The 34% 5-year DSS for nonresponders did not significantly differ from the 35% predicted by the sarcoma nomogram (P = .51). CONCLUSIONS: Neoadjuvant therapy was not associated with an overall improvement in DSS in patients with primary high-grade retroperitoneal sarcoma compared with the sarcoma nomogram prediction. Histopathologic response to neoadjuvant therapy was associated with a significantly improved DSS compared with nonresponders and with the sarcoma nomogram prediction for such patients. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
A PRECAUTIONARY NOTE ON THE USE OF DIBOTYL-N,N-DIETHYLCARBAMOYLPHOSPHONATE IN SOLVENT EXTRACTION

Investigation of dibutyl-N,N-diethylcarbamoylphosphonate (DBDECP) as a solvent extraction reagent has revealed that the commercially available compound apparently contains low concentrations of aqueous soluble impurities which drastically effect the distribution ratios obtained using tracer scale radiochemical techniques. Analysis of previously published data regarding this extractant indicates that wide variations exist in some of the reported distribution ratios obtained for this compound under quite similar conditions. Caution must be exercised, therefore, in interpreting solvent extraction data obtained with DBDECP.
Drug-Induced Lupus Anticoagulants and Antiphospholipid Antibodies

Lupus anticoagulants (LA) are immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM, and/or IgA) which interfere with one or more of phospholipid-dependent in vitro coagulation tests, eg, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), kaolin clotting time (KCT), dilute Russell viper venom time (dRVVT), and dilute prothrombin time (dPT). LAs may be seen in a variety of clinical settings including the primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), other autoimmune diseases, secondary to infections, malignancies, and in association with certain drugs. LAs associated with the antiphospholipid syndrome and other autoimmune disease recognize certain phospholipid-binding proteins (β2-glycoprotein I [β2GPI] or prothrombin). Many drugs have been implicated as possibly causing LAs, although the majority of such cases are limited to a select few. Drug-induced LAs are heterogeneous, differing in laboratory findings as well as related clinical complications. This paper reviews the English medical literature on drug-induced LA and potential mechanisms of induction.
A temporal edge-based image segmentor

Abstract A general edge detection procedure is combined with new uses of temporal information in a segmentation algorithm for time-varying imagery. Edge detection is performed by thinning and thresholding the Prewitt gradient. Gaps in object boundaries are then filled by temporal information obtained by a multi-frame process of filtering, edge enhancement, and edge linking. The performance of the algorithm is tested by application to both FLIR and synthetic data. The FLIR data was collected by a sensor on a moving aerial platform recording a target that was also in motion. The synthetic data was created to model this type of complex motion in a controlled environment. The success of the method in segmenting target data and its advantages over conventional single frame techniques is discussed and illustrated.
Smooth muscle and adenoma-like renal tumor: a previously unreported variant of mixed epithelial stromal tumor or a distinctive renal neoplasm?☆

We describe 6 cases of a biphasic renal neoplasm, which we designate smooth muscle and adenoma-like renal tumor, which do not cleanly fit any category as currently defined. There were 4 females and 2 males (age, 27-70 years); neither male had a history of hormone exposure. All 5 neoplasms with available history were discovered incidentally on imaging studies with sizes ranging from 4 to 20 cm. The stroma was composed of smooth muscle fascicles alternating with looser, edematous areas; none of the cases contained ovarian-like stroma. The complex but cytologically benign epithelial component consisted of tubulopapillary nodules, branching tubules, clefts, and large cysts. The stroma of all of the cases labeled diffusely for desmin. Estrogen receptor labeling was absent in 4 cases with only minimal (<10%) weak labeling in the remaining 2. The epithelial component of each case labeled diffusely for cytokeratin 7 and was patchy for α-methyl-CoA racemase (P504S). Carbonic anhydrase IX, HMB45, WT-1, and inhibin were negative. None of the 5 cases tested demonstrated trisomies of chromosome 7 or 17 by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Two patients with significant follow-up are disease free at 18.5 and 2.5 years. Smooth muscle and adenoma-like renal tumor could potentially represent a variant of mixed epithelial stromal tumor, which would expand its reported spectrum. However, the absence of clinical history of hormone exposure, predominance of smooth muscle with lack of ovarian-like stroma, prominence of epithelial nodules, and typical absence of estrogen receptor labeling suggest that it may represent a distinct entity.
Trapping nanoparticles with cylindrical polarization

Metallic and magnetic nano-particles are generally considered difficult to trap due to strong scattering and absorption forces. In this paper, we propose new methods of trapping metallic and magnetic nano-particles using highly focused cylindrically polarized beams. It is shown that an optical tweezers using cylindrical polarization can stably trap metallic/magnetic particles in 3-dimension, owing to the unique focusing properties of cylindrically polarized beams. Metallic particles can be stably trapped by highly focused radial polarization. The extremely strong axial electrical field from a highly focused radially polarized beam provides a large gradient force. Meanwhile, this strong axial field component does not contribute to the Poynting vector along the optical axis. Consequently, it does not create axial scattering/absorption forces. Owing to such a spatial separation of the peaks of gradient force and scattering/absorption forces, a stable 3-D optical trap for metallic nano-particles can be formed. Similarly, an optical tweezers using azimuthal polarization may provide stable 3-D trapping of magnetic nano-particles due to an extremely strong axial magnetic field.
Credit Portfolios, Credibility Theory, and Dynamic Empirical Bayes

We begin with a review of (a) the pricing theory of multiname credit derivatives to hedge the credit risk of a portfolio of corporate bonds and (b) current approaches to modeling correlated default intensities. We then consider pricing of insurance contracts using credibility theory in actuarial science. After a brief discussion of the similarities and differences of both pricing theories, we propose a new unified approach, which uses recent advances in dynamic empirical Bayes modeling, to evolutionary credibility in insurance rate-making and default modeling of credit portfolios.
Further results on the synthesis of finite-time stable systems

The logarithm of the square of the Euclidean norm is proposed as a Lyapunov function for synthesis of control systems which are finite-time stable. In some cases this appears to be a more useful Lyapunov function than the square of the Euclidean norm, since the inequalities resulting from use of a logarithmic Lyapunov function are typical of those which occur in classical stability theory. Thus, intuition developed in design of asymptotically stable systems is directly applicable to the design of finite-time stable systems. Also, in some cases the logarithmic Lyapunov function will provide a wider range of parameter values for which it is known that one has finite-time stability.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine Practitioners and Accountable Care Organizations: The Train Is Leaving the Station

Legislation that supports the establishment of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) was recently enacted into law as part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and in 2012 the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will begin contracting with ACOs. Although ACOs will play a significant role in reform of the U.S. health care delivery system, thus far, discussions have focused exclusively on the coordination of conventional health services. This article discusses the potential engagement of the complementary and alternative (CAM) workforce in ACOs and the foreseeable impacts of ACO legislation on the future of U.S. CAM services.
Husserl and the Penetrability of the Transcendental and Mundane Spheres

There is a two-fold problem the phenomenologist must face: the first has to do with thinking like a phenomenologist given that one is always already steeped in the mundane sphere; the second has to do with the phenomenologist entering into dialogue with those scientists, psychologists, sociologists and other laypersons who still remain in the mundane sphere. I address the first problem by giving an Husserlian-inspired account of the movement from the mundane to the transcendental, and show that there are decent prospects for getting life-world folks to start thinking like phenomenologists. I address the second problem by showing that Husserl has himself caught in a dilemma: either the reduction takes place and no communication is possible between phenomenologist and non-phenomenologist, or the reduction does not take place and the phenomenological method remains a psychological makeshift, supposedly accessible to Husserl and his esoteric followers.
The Effects of Growth Hormone (GH) Treatment on GH and Insulin/IGF-1 Signaling in Long-Lived Ames Dwarf Mice

The disruption of the growth hormone (GH) axis in mice promotes insulin sensitivity and is strongly correlated with extended longevity. Ames dwarf (Prop1(df), df/df) mice are GH, prolactin (PRL), and thyrotropin (TSH) deficient and live approximately 50% longer than their normal siblings. To investigate the effects of GH on insulin and GH signaling pathways, we subjected these dwarf mice to twice-daily GH injections (6 microg/g/d) starting at the age of 2 weeks and continuing for 6 weeks. This produced the expected activation of the GH signaling pathway and stimulated somatic growth of the Ames dwarf mice. However, concomitantly with increased growth and increased production of insulinlike growth factor-1, the GH treatment strongly inhibited the insulin signaling pathway by decreasing insulin sensitivity of the dwarf mice. This suggests that improving growth of these animals may negatively affect both their healthspan and longevity by causing insulin resistance.
Bone grossing techniques: helpful hints and procedures

The present article is intended to offer pathologists and pathology residents helpful hints and procedures as well as some general approaches to technical questions of bone grossing in a surgical pathology laboratory. An emphasis on the personal experience of the author in grossing bones has been made. Three main conditions determine successful gross bone sections: specimen immobilization, the appropriate cutting instrument, and correct specimen orientation. From the technical point of view, the most important seems to be immobilization. A variety of devices and gadgets can be used to make the bone specimen stable while sectioning. Among them, hard-pressed cardboard cartons are the most helpful. They have the advantage in complicated bone specimens to allow the grossing person to cut through the immobilization device, thus assuring a complete section. There are definite particularities in technical approaches to different bone specimens. Even a femoral head, the most popular specimen, requires different grossing techniques depending on the clinical circumstances. Examples of grossing techniques for different bone specimens are described in detail. The technique can be applied in similar clinical situations to other bone specimens.
Seven keys to better forecasting

44 S ales forecasting is a management function that companies often fail to recognize as a key contributor to corporate success. From a top-line perspective, accurate sales forecasts allow a company to provide high levels of customer service. When demand can be predicted accurately, it can be met in a timely and efficient manner, keeping both channel partners and final customers satisfied. Accurate forecasts help a company avoid lost sales or stock-out situations, and prevent customers from going to competitors. At the bottom line, the effect of accurate forecasts can be profound. Raw materials and component parts can be purchased much more cost-effectively when last minute, spot market purchases can be avoided. Such expenses can be eliminated by accurately forecasting production needs. Similarly, logistical services can be obtained at a much lower cost through long-term contracts rather than through spot market arrangements. However, these contracts can only work when demand can be predicted accurately. Perhaps most important, accurate forecasting can have a profound impact on a company's inventory levels. In a sense, inventory exists to provide a buffer for inaccurate forecasts. Thus, the more accurate the forecasts, the less inventory that needs to be carried, with all the well-understood cost savings that brings. The ultimate effects of sales forecasting excellence can be dramatic. Mentzer and Schroeter (1993) describe how Brake Parts, Inc., a manufacturer of automotive aftermarket parts, improved its bottom line by $6 million per month after Excellence in sales forecasting can boost a firm 's financial health and gratify customers and employees alike, launching a company-wide effort to improve sales forecasting effectiveness. Nevertheless, firms often fail to recognize the importance of this critical management function. Our objective here is to take what we've learned about sales forecasting from working with hundreds of companies, and summarize that learning into seven key focus points (summarized in Figure 1) that will help any company improve its forecasting performance. Although no management function can be reduced to seven keys, or 70 keys for that matter, our hope is that the ideas presented here will inspire senior management to look closely at their own sales forecasting practices and recognize opportunities for improvement.
Strengthening Buildings to a Life Safety Criterion

Abstract This paper presents an approach to seismically strengthen buildings to a life‐safety criterion. Existing buildings do not comply with most provisions of modern model building codes and, as a result, are often considered seismically deficient. Buildings identified as seismic hazards are often not rehabilitated because the cost of the rehabilitation proves uneconomical, but the buildings usually continue in use because there are no funds to replace the structure. Building occupants continue to be exposed to hazardous conditions until building owners are forced to rehabilitate or demolish the structure by legally mandated seismic rehabilitate programs. Attainment of economical strengthening schemes requires that one identify essential goals and approach the seismic rehabilitation problem from the perspective of trying to achieve these goals. If prevention of building collapse and preservation of life‐safety are the objectives of seismic rehabilitation, acceptance of higher levels of building damage ...
Low-power weighted pseudo-random BIST using special scan cells

In this paper, a technique for weighted pseudo-random built-in self-test (BIST) of VLSI circuits is proposed, which uses special scan cells and a new weight selection algorithm to achieve low power dissipation. It is based on weighted pseudo-random scan testing in which only 3 weight values are used - 2 fixed values (0 or 1) and 1 random value (0.5). A new weight selection algorithm is used to select a set of weights that achieves high fault coverage while reducing power. The idea is to minimize power by careful selection of the set of scan cells having fixed values (0 or 1) in order to reduce switching activity. To implement this in hardware, a new scan cell design is proposed that can do scan and capture in the normal mode as well as fixed-bit mode. The new scan cell hardware increases the area of a typical circuit by less than 4%, but reduces power by as much as 96%, as indicated in experiments performed on benchmark circuits.
Innate Immune Cells Cast an Eye on DNA

The threonine phosphatase eyes absent (EYA) has been identified as a novel regulator of innate immune responses to cytosolic nucleic acids and undigested DNA from apoptotic cells. EYA regulates responses of yet unidentified DNA sensors and enhances interferon-beta and CXCL10 transcription.
Advances in gene therapy for intervertebral disc degeneration

Abstract Background context Gene therapy is a growing concept in many fields of medicine, and its potential applications are numerous. With a growing understanding of the molecular and cellular biology of intervertebral disc degeneration, alternatives to current treatment options are under investigation. Gene therapy offers an exciting new direction in the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration, and potential targets of genetic alteration are being explored. Purpose To describe and update the recent advances in research on gene therapy for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. Study design/setting Review of current research for the application of gene therapy as potential treatment for intervertebral disc degeneration. Methods Literature review. Results There is a growing body of research pertaining to the use of gene therapy as an adjunct or alternative to the current treatment options for intervertebral disc degeneration. In vitro studies have demonstrated that transfer of cDNA encoding growth factors to intervertebral disc cells can favorably modify their metabolic and biological functions. Additionally, initial in vivo studies have demonstrated successful transduction of growth factors to the intervertebral disc with confirmed upregulation of extracellular matrix synthesis. Investigators continue to explore the potential of gene therapy with several factors for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. Conclusions The potential of gene therapy to alter the course of intervertebral disc degeneration holds much clinical promise and continues to stimulate further investigations.
Characterization of Soybean Exhibiting High Expression of a Synthetic Bacillus thuringiensis cry1A Transgene That Confers a High Degree of Resistance to Lepidopteran Pests

We report the generation of transgenic soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) via Agrobacterium-mediated gene transfers of a cry1A gene (tic107) from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) that exhibits a high degree of resistance against the lepidopteran pests Pseudoplusia includens (Walker) (soybean looper), Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (soybean pod- worm), and Anticarsia gemmatalis Hubner (velvetbean caterpillar). Three transgenic soybean lines (862, 726, and 781) were evaluated for expression, molecular composition, efficacy against target pests, and agronomic characteristics. We have designed and tested an expression cassette that consistently and reproducibly generates transgenic soybeans that accumulate the tic107 protein at levels as high as 6.12 m gm g 21 of total extractable protein. Expression levels of this magnitude of a Bt insecticidal protein have never been reported in soybean. Previous reports have indicated expression levels 100-fold lower in the highest-expressing lines. In addition, the phenotypes of these high-expressing lines were indistinguishable from their negative segregant and the transformation parent (Asgrow var. 'A3237'). In- sect bioassay data demonstrate complete protection against soybean looper, soybean podworm, and velvetbean caterpillar when negative controls exhibited defoliation as high as 98%. Unlike previous reports of transgenic soybeans, we report here highly efficacious, single-copy, and normal phenotypes of transgenic soybean plants containing the highly expressed cry1A gene.
A rule-based component customization technique for QoS properties

Component customization technique is an important part of component-based development (CBD) process. It allows the component to be effectively adapted and reused in diverse applications. However, existing component customization techniques focus on customizing the functionality of a component. Embedded systems generally have strict quality of service (QoS) requirements such as timeliness, memory limitations, output precisions, etc. Currently, customization for the satisfaction of QoS requirements has not been widely addressed. To address the problem, we propose the concept of configurable parameter. A configurable parameter is a constant or a variable defined in a component which, when adjusted, can provide QoS trade-offs. A QoS properties reconfigurable (QoS-R) component is a software component which can be reconfigured either statically or dynamically to provide desired QoS tradeoffs. In this paper, we present our current results in developing a new, systematic code parameterization technique which focuses on identifying configurable parameters in components and converting them into QoSR components.
Heavy metal-mineral associations in Coeur d'Alene river sediments: a synchrotron-based analysis.

Nearly a century of mining activities upstream have contaminated Lake Coeur d’Alene and its tributaries with Pb, Zn, and other heavy metals. Heavy metal concentrations in sediments of the Coeur d’Alene watershed have been shown to be inversely proportional to the sediment size fraction; thus, analysis on a very small scale is essential to determine the mobility and stability of heavy metals in this environment. Micron-scale synchrotron-based methods were used to determine the association of heavy metals with solid phases in sediments of the Coeur d’Alene River. Bulk X-ray diffraction (XRD), extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, and synchrotron-based microfocused XRD combined with microfocused X-ray fluorescence mapping indicate the presence of crystalline Pb- and Zn-bearing mineral phases of dundasite [Pb2Al4(CO3)4(OH)8·3H2O], coronadite [PbMn8O16], stolzite [PbWO4], mattheddleite [Pb10(SiO4)3.5(SO4)2Cl2], bindheimite [Pb2Sb2O7], and smithsonite [ZnCO3]. Likely phases for Zn and Pb adsorption were ferrihydrite, diaspore [AlO(OH)], manganite [Mn(III)O(OH)], muscovite [KAl2(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2], biotite [K(Fe,Mg)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2], and montmorillonite [Na0.3(Al,Mg)2Si4O10(OH)2·8H2O]. The large predominance of Fe and Mn (hydr)oxides over other sorbent minerals suggests that the metal sorption behavior is dominated by these (hydr)oxide phases.
Satellite Hemolytic Zones in Blood Agar Staphylococcus Cultures

Pathogenic strains of staphylococci are usually of the aureus hemolytic variety. Among the characteristics of the staphylococcic hemolysis that have been studied is its appearance on blood agar plates in the form of a clear zone immediately surrounding the colony, progressing in a few days 5 mm. or more from the colony. This hemolytic zone may darken and become opaque, or there may be alternating opaque and hemolyzed bands as described by Kortenhaus' in 1929.
Identification of [2Fe-2S] Clusters in Microbial Ferrochelatases

The terminal enzyme of heme biosynthesis, ferrochelatase (EC 4.99.1.1), catalyzes the insertion of ferrous iron into protoporphyrin IX to form protoheme. Prior to the present work, [2Fe-2S] clusters have been identified and characterized in animal ferrochelatases but not in plant or prokaryotic ferrochelatases. Herein we present evidence that ferrochelatases from the bacteria Caulobacter crescentus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis possess [2Fe-2S] clusters. The enzyme from C. crescentus is a homodimeric, membrane-associated protein while the enzyme from M. tuberculosis is monomeric and soluble. The clusters of the C. crescentus and M. tuberculosis ferrochelatases are ligated by four cysteines but possess ligand spacings that are unlike those of any previously characterized [2Fe-2S] cluster-containing protein, including the ferrochelatase of the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Thus, the microbial ferrochelatases represent a new group of [2Fe-2S] cluster-containing proteins.
Diseases of Cucurbits and their Management

Managing diseases is a very important component of production for melons, cucumbers, squashes, pumpkins, and other cucurbit crops. The already extensive list of more than 200 cucurbit diseases has expanded recently to include cucurbit yellow vine disease, Acremonium collapse, Rhizopycnis root rot, bacterial blight, cucumber root mat, Cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus, Cucurbit leaf crumple virus, and Cucurbit leaf curl virus. Additionally, diseases that have recently increased in importance include the vine declines, bacterial wilt, powdery mildew on watermelon, Phytophthora blight, diseases caused by Fusarium species, and several diseases caused by viruses, including Melon necrotic spot carmovirus and several members of the crinivirus genus. Management practices effective for various diseases include rotation, deep plowing, fumigation, solarization, pathogen-free seed, treated seed, host plant resistance, fungicides, sanitation, manipulating the greenhouse environment, improving soil drainage, adjusting soil pH, drip irrigation, plastic mulch or other soil barrier, planting when soil is not too cold, controlling weeds and insects, avoiding moving pathogens on equipment or hands, roguing infected plants, minimizing injury during harvest, chlorine spray or hot water treatment after harvest, culling symptomatic fruit before storage, and providing proper storage conditions including refrigeration. Forecasting systems have been developed for diseases and insect vectors. Managing some diseases with fungicides has been challenged by development of resistance, which continues to be difficult to predict. Biocompatible materials such as bicarbonates, milk, oil, silicon, phosphate salts, plant extracts, and biological control agents are being developed as alternatives to conventional fungicides predominantly for powdery mildew. Some of these induce systemic resistance.
The convergence of behavioral biology and operant psychology: Toward an interlevel and interfield science

Behavioral biology and operant psychology have developed in parallel but separate paths since their origins in the 1930s. In the first three decades, both fields dealt with microscopic (or molecular) controlling variables and qualitative data. Since about 1960, both have primarily focused on macroscopic (or molar) controlling variables. Their shared interest in foraging in the 1980s suggests a limited convergence beween biologists and psychologists in data, methods, and theories. We draw on accounts of intertheoretic relations from the philosophy of science, including both interlevel theory and interfield theory, to understand this convergence. However, our greater emphasis on methods of data collection and analysis leads us to characterize the convergence as not only one of interfield theory but one of interfield science.
The Shape of Lloydminster Oil and Gas Deposit Attribute Data

A method for fitting distributional shape proposed by Tukey is applied to a unique set of oil and gas field data: oil in place, volume and area of Lloydminster deposits in Alberta. This data is unique because it is composed of more than 2500 genetically similar deposits in the same geographical area and because a common protocol was used to measure field attributes. The shape of the bulk of the data is approximately lognormal; only the very largest and very smallest observations (one well fields) do not fit the pattern of the remainder of the data. (The large sample size allows study of a fractile range from .00024 to .99976).
Diagnosis and management of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome following lung or hematopoietic cell transplantation.

Both allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and lung transplantation (LTX) can rescue patients from disorders with poor prognoses and allow improved quality of life and prolonged survi...
Benton Judgment of Line Orientation (JoLO) Test: A Brief and Useful Measure for Assessing Visuospatial Abilities in Manifest, but not Premanifest, Huntington's Disease.

BACKGROUND Visuospatial deficits have been described in Huntington's disease (HD); however, the extent of these deficits remains unclear. The Benton Judgment of Line Orientation (JoLO) Test, commonly used to assess visuospatial ability, requires minimal motor involvement. It has demonstrated sensitivity to visuospatial deficits in Parkinson's disease; however, few studies have examined performance on this test in HD. OBJECTIVE The objective of the current study was to assess visuospatial ability in premanifest and manifest HD using the JoLO. METHODS A global cognitive measure, the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (DRS), was used to stratify manifest HD patients as mild (DRS ≥129) vs. moderate-severe (DRS ≤128). Fifty mild, 42 moderate-severe, and 30 premanifest HD subjects, as well as 35 matched controls, were administered the JoLO. HD Burden of Pathology (BOP) scores were used as a measure of disease severity. RESULTS Results revealed that the total manifest HD sample (p < 0.001), in addition to the mild (p = 0.028), and moderate-severe (p < 0.001), but not premanifest, HD subjects scored significantly lower on the JoLO compared to normal controls. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the JoLO is useful for detecting visuospatial deficits across various stages of manifest HD. However, any visuospatial impairment that might be present during the premanifest stage of HD was not detected using the JoLO in the present sample.