cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Future of the Doctrine of Necessity and Critical-Vendor Payments in Chapter 11 Cases

This Article explores the history and justification for the doctrine of necessity in Chapter 11 cases. It discusses the doctrine's gradual narrowing, due to appellate courts' reluctance to permit payment of prepetition debts or recognize courts' authority to authorize such payments. The Article analyzes the effect of recent amendments to the Bankruptcy Code on the doctrine and confirms that there is uncertainty regarding the propriety of payment of certain prebankruptcy debts. The Article proposes that the Code be amended to clarify the extent to which the doctrine of necessity applies in Chapter 11 cases and asserts that courts should recognize different standards depending on the type of debt being repaid. Finally, this Article argues that courts should have discretion to authorize payments in extraordinary circumstances when they follow procedural safeguards.
Bradykinin potentiating peptide PCA-Lys-Trp-Ala-Pro. An inhibitor of the pulmonary inactivation of bradykinin and conversion of angiotensin I to II.

Abstract The synthesis of a bradykinin potentiating peptide isolated from Bothrops jararaca venom [ S. H. Ferreira , D. C. Bartelt and L. J. Greene , Biochemistry 9, 2583 (1970)] is described. The synthetic pentapeptide BPP5a, PCA-Lys-Trp-Ala-Pro, had the same spectrum of pharmacological properties as previously reported for Bradykinin Potentiating Factor [ S. H. Ferreira , Br. J. Pharmac. Chemother. 24, 163 (1965)] and had the same specific activity as the natural pentapeptide in the guinea-pig ileum assay. The peptide potentiated the depressor effect of bradykinin on blood pressure and also potentiated the effect of bradykinin on capillary permeability. Intravenous infusion of the peptide into the rat substantially reduced the pulmonary inactivation of bradykinin and inhibited the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
Pivotal Role of the CC Chemokine, Macrophage-Derived Chemokine, in the Innate Immune Response

Macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), a recently identified CC chemokine, has been regarded to be involved in chronic inflammation and dendritic cell and lymphocyte homing. In this study, we demonstrate a pivotal role for MDC during experimental sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Intraperitoneal administration of MDC (1 μg/mouse) protected mice from CLP-induced lethality. The survival was accompanied by increased number of peritoneal macrophages and decreased recovery of viable bacteria from the peritoneum and peripheral blood. In addition, mice treated with an i.p. injection of MDC cleared bacteria more effectively than those in the control when 3 × 10 8 CFU live Escherichia coli was i.p. inoculated. Endogenous MDC was detected in the peritoneum after CLP, and neutralization of the MDC with anti-MDC Abs decreased CLP-induced recruitment of peritoneal macrophages and increased the recovery of viable bacteria from the peritoneum and peripheral blood. MDC blockade was deleterious in the survival of mice after CLP. In vitro, MDC enhanced the phagocytic and killing activities of peritoneal macrophages to E. coli and induced both a respiratory burst and the release of lysozomal enzyme from macrophages. Furthermore, MDC dramatically ameliorated CLP-induced systemic tissue inflammation as well as tissue dysfunction, which were associated in part with decreased levels of TNF-α, macrophage inflammatory proteins-1α and -2, and KC in specific tissues. Collectively, these results indicate novel regulatory activities of MDC in innate immunity during sepsis and suggest that MDC may aid in an adjunct therapy in sepsis.
Recombinant G-protein βγ-subunits activate the muscarinic-gated atrial potassium channel

Acetylcholine activates inwardly rectifying potassium channels (IK.ACh) in the heart through muscarinic receptor binding and activation of pertussis-toxin-sensitive G proteins. Experiments showing that only the beta gamma-subunit (G beta gamma) activates IK.ACh (ref. 4) were challenged by reports that only the activated alpha-subunit (G alpha) was effective. Here we examine IK.ACh regulation using purified brain and recombinant G-protein subunits. Six recombinant G beta gamma-subunits activated IK.ACh with apparent half-maximal activation concentrations of 3-30 nM. Activation of IK.ACh by recombinant G alpha-GTP gamma S was observed, but this was probably due to release of GTP gamma S from the protein. Importantly, IK.ACh activity elicited by GTP gamma S was inhibited by purified brain and recombinant G alpha-GDP, suggesting that native G beta gamma plays a major role in this pathway. We conclude that G beta gamma is a primary regulator of IK.ACh activity.
The Existential Vacuum and Ethan Allen Hawley: John Steinbeck's Moral Philosophy

without much pleasure or satisfaction and that with other women exactly like themselves. Dorothy Parker wrote a play about them a heartbreaking play. I see them in New York, in the delicatessens buying a quarter of a pound of sausage, a small dab of cheese, a minuscule plate of potato salad for their suppers. But luncheon seems to be a widow's meal, and they congregate in restaurants . . . where they talk together and look around brightly for acquaintances and for something to do [emphasis added].2
TaqMan real time-polymerase chain reaction methods for determination of nucleotide polymorphisms in human N-acetyltransferase-1 (NAT1) and -2 (NAT2).

N-acetyltransferase 1 (NAT1) and N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) exhibit allelic variation and genetic polymorphism associated with increased susceptibility towards drug toxicity and environmental disease. TaqMan allelic discrimination methods are described to rapidly determine NAT1 and NAT2 genotypes. The SNPs selected for NAT1 genotype determinations are: C97T (R33Stop), C190T (R64W), G445A (V149I), C559T (R187Stop), G560A (R187Q), A752T (D251V), T1088A (3′UTR), and C1095A (3′UTR). The SNPs selected for NAT2 genotyping determinations are: G191A (R64Q), C282T (silent), T341C (I114T), C481T (silent), G590A (R197Q), A803G (K268R), and G857A (G286T). All NAT2 and NAT1 alleles, except very rare ones, are detected with these assays. Major advantages of the methods described in this unit are that they do not require post-PCR processing (such as enzyme digestion) or the use of radioactivity. Since the methods amplify relatively small segments of NAT1 or NAT2, they are effective for human DNA samples derived from buccal cells or paraffin-embedded tissues. Keywords: NAT1; NAT2; N-acetyltransferase; acetylator genotype; allele discrimination
Calculations for cosmic axion detection.

Calculations are presented, using properly nomalized couplings and masses for Dine-Fischler-Srednicki axions, of power rates and signal temperatures for axion-photon conversion in microwave cavities. The importance of the galactic-halo axion line shape is emphasized. Spin-coupled detection as an alternative to magnetic-field-coupled detection is mentioned.
Marked response to preoperative high-dose cis-platinum in children with unresectable hepatoblastoma

Abstract Chemotherapy is the only effective method of treating unresectable hepatoblastoma. Most protocols require the administration of multiple highly toxic agents. We evaluated the ability of single-agent high-dose cis -platinum (HD-CDDP) to shrink unresectable primary hepatoblastoma to allow resection. Seven children aged 11 to 72 months had unresectable hepatoblastoma based on size and location. Initial α-fetoprotein (AFP) levels were between 4,900 and 1,840,000 ng/mL (mean, 555,900 ng/mL). Chest computed tomography (CT) scans obtained before beginning HD-CDDP therapy showed multiple or bilateral lung masses in 3 patients. Chemotherapy for each of the 7 children consisted of only HD-CDDP, 150 mg/m 2 , at 3-week intervals. HD-CDDP was stopped and prompt resection performed when AFP levels ceased to decline significantly (n = 4; mean nadir, 18,600); the corrected creatinine clearance decreased below 60 mL/min (n = 2); or, in one case, significant hemorrhage occurred within the tumor. Therefore, the number of HD-CDDP doses given preoperatively varied between 1 and 7 (mean, 3). No children required dialysis. Tumor cells in the bone marrow of one child disappeared completely after one dose of HD-CDDP. Follow-up CT scans showed complete resolution of the pulmonary metastases in 2 children, a partial response in the third, and a marked reduction of primary tumors to resectable sizes. Six children underwent tumor excision with adequate margins; parents of the seventh child refused permission for surgery. There were 2 operative deaths, 3 deaths due to local or distant disease, and 2 patients survived (postoperative follow-up, 22 and 14 months). Histological examination showed no viable tumor in 1 specimen, > 95% necrosis in 3, > 75% necrosis in 1, and 20% necrosis in 1. Single-agent preoperative chemotherapy using HD-CDDP may be a safe and effective method of shrinking an unresectable primary tumor of hepatoblastoma to a resectable size. It may also be effective in shrinking or, accasionally, eradicating metastases. Impaired renal function is the most serious potential side effect of HD-CDDP, but it is easily monitored and generally reversible.
Dynamic responses of prestressed bridge and vehicle through bridge–vehicle interaction analysis

Abstract Existence of prestress in bridges affects the dynamic responses of both bridges and vehicles traveling over them. In this paper, the bridge is modeled as a continuous beam with eccentric prestress, and a half-vehicle model with 4 degrees of freedom is used to represent the vehicle passing the bridge. A new bridge–vehicle model with consideration of prestress effect is created through the principle of virtual works to investigate the continuous prestressed bridges and vehicle interaction responses. The correctness and accuracy of the model are validated with literature results and Abaqus model. Based on the created model, numerical simulations have been conducted using the Newmark integration method to perform a parametric study on effects of number of bridge span, span length, eccentricity and amplitude of prestress. It is shown that prestress has a significant effect on the maximum vertical acceleration of vehicles, which may provide a good index for detecting the change of prestress.
PROLIFERATION OF THE TURKEY MYOGENIC SATELLITE CELL IN A SERUM-FREE MEDIUM

Abstract 1. In order to determine factors involved in avian skeletal muscle development, a serum-free medium (TSFM) which supports clonal growth of the turkey myogenic satellite cell has been developed. 2. The formulation consists of McCoy's 5A medium with added insulin, fibroblast growth factor, Deutsch fetuin, bovine serum albumin, dexamethasone, supplemental minerals and additional organic nutrients. 3. The development of TSFM was made possible by the use of clonal-derived turkey satellite cells. These cells allowed direct assessment of proliferation responses without the confounding effects of nonmyogenic cells in culture.
Efficiency of Financial Institutions : International Survey and Directions for Future Research

This paper surveys 130 studies that apply frontier efficiency analysis to financial institutions in 21 countries. The primary goals are to summarize and critically review empirical estimates of financial institution efficiency and to attempt to arrive at a consensus view. We find that the various efficiency methods do not necessarily yield consistent results and suggest some ways that these methods might be improved to bring about findings that are more consistent, accurate and useful. Secondary goals are to address the implications of efficiency results for financial institutions in the areas of government policy, research and managerial performance. Areas needing additional research are also outlined.
Long-term impacts of genome-enabled selection

The objective was to evaluate the effects of directional selection based on estimated genomic breeding values (GEBVs) for a quantitative trait. Selection affects GEBV prediction accuracy as well as genetic architecture via changes in allelic frequencies and linkage disequilibrium (LD), and the resulting changes are different from those in the absence of selection. How marker density affects long-term GEBV accuracy and selection response needs to be understood as well. Simulations were used to characterize the impact of selection based on GEBVs over generations. Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) marker effects were estimated with the Bayesian Lasso method in the base generation, and these estimates were used to calculate the GEBVs in subsequent generations. GEBV accuracy decreased over generations of selection, and it was lower than under random selection, where a decay took place as well. In the long term, selection response tended to reach a plateau, but, at higher marker density, both the magnitude and duration of the response were larger. Selection changed quantitative trait loci (QTL) allele frequencies and generated new but unfavorable LD for prediction. Family effects had a considerable contribution to GEBV accuracy in early generations of selection.
Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with mitral stenosis undergoing percutaneous mitral balloon valvotomy.

Abstract Objective To investigate the effect of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction on outcome in patients with mitral stenosis undergoing percutaneous mitral balloon valvotomy (PMBV). Patients and Methods We evaluated consecutive patients with mitral stenosis who underwent PMBV from November 1, 2002, through October 30, 2011, at our institution. Results Of 107 total patients, 35 (32.7%) had diastolic dysfunction, defined as a preprocedural elevation in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) (>15 mm Hg). The LVEDP was normal in the remaining 72 patients (≤15 mm Hg). Clinical factors associated with diastolic dysfunction were body mass index (32±7 vs 28±5; P=.004) and diabetes mellitus (29% vs 6%; P=.002), but no differences were found in severity of pulmonary hypertension or degree of improvement in mitral valve hemodynamics after PMBV between the 2 groups. Survival free of recurrent severe symptoms, repeated PMBV, or mitral valve replacement was worse in patients with elevated LVEDP vs normal LVEDP (1-year estimate, 42% vs 81%; hazard ratio, 2.83; 95% CI, 1.62-4.96). Conclusion In patients referred for treatment of symptomatic mitral stenosis, left ventricular diastolic dysfunction may contribute to elevated left atrial pressure, and its presence is associated with a greater risk of failure of PMBV to improve symptoms. These data have implications for counseling and patient selection for PMBV.
A Stochastic Form of a Human Driver Steering Dynamics Model

This work develops a stochastic form of a human driver model which can be used for simulating vehicle guidance and control. The human motor-control function is complex and can be affected by factors such as driver's training and experience, fatigue, road conditions, and attention. The variations in these effects become more pronounced in hazardous driving conditions such as in snow and ice. One example of such driving conditions is snow removal operation in highway maintenance, where the use of a stochastic driver model seems to be more desirable. This work evaluates and extends existing models of a human driver including stochastic or statistical considerations related to differences in drivers' experiences and their conditions as well as variations in the effect of disturbances such as plowing forces. The aim is to develop a simulation environment that can be used in design and evaluation of driver assistance systems for snow removal operation in an Intelligent Transportation System environment.
IR and UV Photodissociation as Analytical Tools for Characterizing Lipid A Structures

The utility of 193-nm ultraviolet photodissociation (UVPD) and 10.6-μm infrared multiphoton dissociation (IRMPD) for the characterization of lipid A structures was assessed in an ion trap mass spectrometer. The fragmentation behavior of lipid A species was also evaluated by activated-electron photodetachment (a-EPD), which uses 193-nm photons to create charge reduced radicals that are subsequently dissociated by collisional activation. In contrast to collision-induced dissociation (CID), IRMPD offered the ability to selectively differentiate product ions with varying degrees of phosphorylation because of the increased photoabsorption cross sections and thus dissociation of phosphate-containing species. Both 193-nm UVPD and a-EPD yielded higher abundances and a larger array of product ions arising from C–C cleavages, as well as cross-ring and inter-ring glucosamine cleavages, compared to CID and IRMPD, because of high energy, single-photon absorption, and/or radical-directed dissociation. UVPD at 193 nm al...
Domain pinning and electric fatigue of ferroelectric ceramics

ABSTRACT Experimental observations indicate that electric fatigue of polycrystalline ferroelectric ceramics ispartially recoverable through thermal treatments at temperatures that are too low to heal microcracking which is considered to be the primary cause of electric fatigue. It has been conjectured that this thermally-recoverable fatigue is due to domain pinning. This paper presents a theoretical model for the domain pinning effect on macroscopic properties of polycrystafline ferroelectric ceramics. The numerical results suggest that domain pinning can indeed lead to the type of fatigue behavior as observed.Key Words: Electric Fatigue, Domain Pinning 1. INTRODUCTION Owing to their strong electromechanical coupling effect and the prompt response to applied elec-tric fields"2, the polycrystalline ceramics of barium titanate (BaTiO3), PZT(Pb{ZrTii_]Qs) and have been increasingly used in designing smart actuatorsfor active control applications, such as large flexible space trusses3, structure acoustics4, fixed wingand helicopter rotary blades5'6'7'8 and automotive suspensions9.
Serial interferon-γ release assay in children with latent tuberculosis infection and children with tuberculosis

Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) release assay (IGRA) is used for diagnosis of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), and for serial testing of active tuberculosis (TB). The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of IGRA for diagnosis and treatment monitoring of children with LTBI and children with TB. IGRA was performed in BCG vaccinated children before and six months after the beginning of treatment. A total of 59 BCG vaccinated children aged 4-18 years were investigated due to exposure to active TB. The participants were divided into two groups: Group 1, children with LTBI (N = 41), and Group 2, children with TB (N = 18). IGRA (QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube) was performed twice, i.e., before treatment and at the end of prophylaxis and therapy. There was no significant difference in IFN-γ concentrations between Group 1 and Group 2 subjects either before or after the treatment. Difference between pre-treatment and post-treatment IFN-γ concentrations compared in either Group 1 or Group 2 was not statistically significant. During follow-up, children with LTBI did not develop active TB. In addition, in children with TB, signs and symptoms of TB improved with anti-TB therapy. This study showed that the concentrations of IFN-γ did not differ in children with LTBI and TB either before or at the end of treatment. IGRA may remain positive over a long period of time. It seems that IGRA is not useful for monitoring treatment of children with LTBI and children with TB. Pediatr Pulmonol.
Pressure sensitivity and strength-differential effect of fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites

Abstract Based on an energy approach, a simple nonlinear theory for the fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composite is developed. The yield stress and elastic moduli of the polymer matrix are taken to be pressure-dependent, and the ensuring pressure sensitivity and the strength-differential effect of the overall nonlinear response are then investigated. The stress-strain curves of the transversely isotropic composite are calculated at several levels of superimposed hydrostatic pressure, and it is found that the flow stress, except for a pure tension or compression along the fiber direction, can increase markedly under a high pressure. The strength-differential effect, which characterizes the different responses of the material between tension and compression, also exhibits a strong dependence on the loading mode and the applied pressure. The simple theory is shown to be accurate enough to compare favorably with an exact solution; it also yields results which are in close agreement with the experimental data of a grap hite/epoxy system at several selected pressures.
Electronic transition dipole moment functions for transitions among the twenty-six lowest-lying states of Li2

Abstract Ab initio electronic transition dipole moment functions are calculated for all dipole-allowed transitions among the 26 states of Li 2 treated by D. D. Konowalow and J. L. Fish ( Chem. Phys. 77 , 435–448 (1983); Chem. Phys. 84 , 463–475 (1984)). Many of the moments exhibit interesting behavior due to charge transfer or ion pair character. Comparisons are made with existing empirical and theoretical determinations of the 1 1 Σ u + -1 1 Σ g + and 1 1 Π u -1 1 Σ g + transition moments. The positions of a number of satellite bands are predicted from the potential energy difference curves.
Efficacy of venous reconstruction in patients with adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is often avoided in patients with portal or superior mesenteric venous involvement due to the perception that venous resection is complex, morbid, and carries a poor long-term survival. Our recent experience using state-of-the-art imaging and strict resection criteria show that venous reconstruction increases operative time, transfusion requirements, intensive care unit stay, and total hospital length of stay, but has no significant impact on operative morbidity rates, mortality rates, or the incidence of positive histologic margins. Kalpan-Meier life table analysis shows similar survival curves when compared to a contemporary cohort of patients who do not undergo venous reconstruction.
Well-Defined Fullerene-Containing Homopolymers and Diblock Copolymers with High Fullerene Content and Their Use for Solution-Phase and Bulk Organization

A fullerene-containing norbornene derivative is used for ring-opening metathesis polymerization to synthesize living polymers with high fullerene content. Incorporation of fullerene at every repeat of a small monomer allows high fullerene content and short inter-fullerene distances in a soluble polymer. The living nature of the polymerization also allows the synthesis of diblock copolymers, which exhibit micellar aggregation in solution and phase separation with interpenetrating C60-domains in a thin film upon TEM imaging.
A Short Method for Evaluating Determinants and Solving Systems of Linear Equations With Real or Complex Coefficients

THE purpose of this paper is to describe a short method for solving arbitrary systems of linear algebraic equations, and evaluating determinants, the quantities involved being either real or complex. For proofs and for treatment of complex systems whose symmetrical coefficients are conjugate, see appendix. The cases considered are: 1. Arbitrary systems with real coefficients, which occur in obtaining stresses in structures, in solving systems of linear differential equations with constant coefficients (transient problems), etc. 2. Symmetrical systems with real coefficients, which occur with d-c networks, undamped vibration, deflections in structures, least square processes, Ritz's method, etc. 3. Symmetrical systems with complex coefficients, which occur with a-c networks, and forced vibration with dissipation. 4. Arbitrary systems with complex coefficients, which occur in certain vibration problems involving gyroscopic action. 5. Systems involving two sets of variables, which occur when the currents in a network are to be found for a variety of impressed voltages, also in the approximate solution of integral equations arising in electric field problems.
Unified theory of fermion pair to boson mappings in full and truncated spaces.

After a brief review of various mappings of fermion pairs to bosons, we rigorously derive a general approach. Following the methods of Marumori and Otsuka, Arima, and Iachello, our approach begins with mapping states and constructs boson representations that preserve fermion matrix elements. In several cases these representations factor into finite, Hermitian boson images times a projection or norm operator that embodies the Pauli principle. We pay particular attention to truncated boson spaces, and describe general methods for constructing Hermitian and approximately finite boson image Hamiltonians. This method is akin to that of Otsuka, Arima, and Iachello introduced in connection with the interacting boson model, but is more rigorous, general, and systematic.
OS052. Preeclampsia candidate genes differentially methylated in maternal leukocyte DNA.

Introduction Altered gene expression in biomarkers associated with preeclampsia/ eclampsia (PE) could be explained in part by epigenetic phenomena such as variable methylation Objectives We sought to characterize the methylation profiles of candidate genes known to be associated with the preeclampsia phenotype in maternal leukocyte DNA in preeclamptic cases and normotensive controls at the time of delivery. Methods Methylation profiles of maternal leukocyte DNA were evaluated in 14 PE cases and 14 normotensive controls. Subjects were nulliparous, non-smokers, age and BMI matched. Genomic DNA was run on a commercially available beadchip human methylation assay. Mean methylation at sites in genes from a well-defined preeclampsia gene set present on our platform were compared using a t -test. Results QC confirmed high correlation of replicates and detection p values >95%. Of the 39 genes in the "preeclampsia gene set", 34 were present on our platform with 73 CpG sites. Seven out of 34 tested in this gene set had differential methylation with p value p = 0.027), angiotensin, is a potent vasoconstrictor with exaggerated effect in PE. DDAH1 (−6%; p =0.031) is involved in nitric oxide generation, via asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), levels of which are known to be altered in PE. Five genes were more methylated and therefore may correlate with reduced transcription. CALCA (+4%; p =0.001) forms calcitonin-gene related peptide, a potent vasodilator decreased in the PE . F5 (+1%; p =0.016), coagulation Factor V, is a target of activated protein C, and increased resistance related to genetic variants (Factor V Leiden) or pregnancy have been associated with PE. MTHFR (+3%; p =0.041) regulates homocysteine; high levels are associated with a 20X increase in risk for PE. POMC (+4%; p =0.014) produces beta endorphin and through ACTH stimulates aldosterone, both decreased in PE. PTGS2 (+3%; p =0.03) is part of the COX 2 prostaglandin pathway involved in inflammation. Conclusion Differential methylation of these 7 genes may affect transcription and explain known alterations in gene product associated with PE.
Simultaneous reptation and constraint release in polymer melts

A numerical solution to the parallel processes model for combined reptation and constraint release in polymer melts is presented. The discrete chain solution to the problem exhibits an exponent of 3 in the molecular weight dependence of the viscosity, just as in the strict reptation case; the magnitude of the viscosity is overestimated and no crossover to reptation is observed, as in Graessley's independent processes model. It is shown that linear combinations of reptation and constraint release, as modeled here, cannot describe the viscosity results observed experimentally.
Alternations in the maternal behavior of rats rearing malnourished offspring

Investigations of maternal behavior of mothers fed a low-protein diet indicated deficits in retrieval and in the rate of nest-building. In addition, they indicated a concomitant increase in time spent with young when assessed during periods not associated with the retrieval/nest-building test session. The adrenalectomized mother, another case that produces growth-stunted progeny, was compared with both low-protein and control mothers for maternal behavior. Unlike the low-protein mother, the adrenalectomized mother did not exhibit retrieval or nest-building deficits; however, the adrenalectomized mother did display an increase in time spent with young. These data suggest that although deficits in retrieval and nest-building can be attributed to the nutritional condition of the mother, the stimulus characteristics of the malnourished pup are important in eliciting the increased time spent with the litter.
Physical Layer Adaptation for Packet Radio Systems with Higher Layer Fountain Coding

We present low-complexity adaptive transmission protocols for use in tactical packet radio systems that employ higher layer fountain coding. Our protocols respond to fading and other time-varying propagation losses by adapting the modulation and channel coding used to transmit packets over the wireless channel. The operation of our protocols is controlled by simple receiver statistics that can be obtained during the demodulation of received packets. No pilot symbols, training, channel measurements, or channel estimation techniques are required by our protocols.
Rethinking Electronic Portfolios to Promote Sustainability among Teachers

Electronic portfolios (eportfolios) can increase reflection, develop content and pedagogy skills and facilitate communication between teachers and administrators. However, they have limitations. Despite resources that teacher institutions devote to eportfolios, research suggests that most implementations are of limited duration. In a climate where sustained professional development and lifelong learning are necessary to remain competitive, organizations should reevaluate how eportfolios are implemented to sustain use and maintain skills deemed important by teaching organizations. Using principles of change theory, this article identifies several eportfolio challenges and how they may be improved through principles of personal learning environments. Implementation procedures and limitations are also provided.
Incorporating predicted functions of nonsynonymous variants into gene-based analysis of exome sequencing data: a comparative study

Next-generation sequencing has opened up new avenues for the genetic study of complex traits. However, because of the small number of observations for any given rare allele and high sequencing error, it is a challenge to identify functional rare variants associated with the phenotype of interest. Recent research shows that grouping variants by gene and incorporating computationally predicted functions of variants may provide higher statistical power. On the other hand, many algorithms are available for predicting the damaging effects of nonsynonymous variants. Here, we use the simulated mini-exome data of Genetic Analysis Workshop 17 to study and compare the effects of incorporating the functional predictions of single-nucleotide polymorphisms using two popular algorithms, SIFT and PolyPhen-2, into a gene-based association test. We also propose a simple mixture model that can effectively combine test results based on different functional prediction algorithms.
SU‐FF‐T‐385: Tolerance Levels for Dosimetric IMRT QA Based On Radiobiological Parameters

Purpose: Tolerance levels for dosimetric verification of IMRT plans are usually set at constant values. This QA process is not patient specific. It ignores the potential role of fraction size and treatment site in determining the clinical consequences of an error in dose calculation and/or delivery. The objective of this work is to develop dose tolerance levels for IMRT based on radiobiological parameters. Method and Materials: The linear quadratic cell survival model which accounts for the effects of both total dose and fraction size was used. A technique was developed to convert dosimetric tolerance levels between treatment schedules while maintaining a constant uncertainty in a radiobiological parameter. Specifically, a constant tolerance level in a radiobiological parameter is set, rather than in calculated/delivered dose. Calculations were performed for different treatment fractionations and α/β ratios mimicking a wide range of clinical situations. Results: Tumors with low α/β ratio (melanoma, prostate) are more sensitive to errors in total dose. Dosimetric tolerance for such tumors should be approximately 65% of those of other tumors. For such malignances, if a 3% error in calculated/delivered dose is acceptable for treatment of most tumors, this should be reduced to 2% for treatment of these more radiosensitive tumors. In addition, results show that in field late and early responding normal tissues are more sensitive to errors in dose than out of field tissues. Conclusion: Invariant tolerance levels are appropriate for a wide range of clinical IMRT schemes, especially given current uncertainties in clinical α/β values. Assuming that current dosimetric levels are appropriate for some clinical applications, the appropriate values are for all other applications are between 0.5–2 times the currently used values for IMRT QA. In conclusion, tolerance levels for dosimetric QA based on radiobiological parameters provide useful information and may be more appropriate for verifying calculated/delivered dose.
Osteoblast-restricted Disruption of the Growth Hormone Receptor in Mice Results in Sexually Dimorphic Skeletal Phenotypes.

Growth hormone (GH) exerts profound anabolic actions during postnatal skeletal development, in part, through stimulating the production of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in liver and skeletal tissues. To examine the requirement for the GH receptor (GHR) in osteoblast function in bone, we used Cre-LoxP methods to disrupt the GHR from osteoblasts, both in vitro and in vivo. Disruption of GHR from primary calvarial osteoblasts in vitro abolished GH-induced signaling, as assessed by JAK2/STAT5 phosphorylation, and abrogated GH-induced proliferative and anti-apoptotic actions. Osteoblasts lacking GHR exhibited reduced IGF-1-induced Erk and Akt phosphorylation and attenuated IGF-1-induced proliferation and anti-apoptotic action. In addition, differentiation was modestly impaired in osteoblasts lacking GHR, as demonstrated by reduced alkaline phosphatase staining and calcium deposition. In order to determine the requirement for the GHR in bone in vivo, we generated mice lacking the GHR specifically in osteoblasts (ΔGHR), which were born at the expected Mendelian frequency, had a normal life span and were of normal size. Three week-old, female ΔGHR mice had significantly reduced osteoblast numbers, consistent with the in vitro data. By six weeks of age however, female ΔGHR mice demonstrated a marked increase in osteoblasts, although mineralization was impaired; a phenotype similar to that observed previously in mice lacking IGF-1R specifically in osteoblasts. The most striking phenotype occurred in male mice however, where disruption of the GHR from osteoblasts resulted in a “feminization” of bone geometry in 16 week-old mice, as observed by μCT. These results demonstrate that the GHR is required for normal postnatal bone development in both sexes. GH appears to serve a primary function in modulating local IGF-1 action. However, the changes in bone geometry observed in male ΔGHR mice suggest that, in addition to facilitating IGF-1 action, GH may function to a greater extent than previously appreciated in establishing the sexual dimorphism of the skeleton.
A method to the madness: The selection of student public relations groups

Abstract At one time or another virtually all public relations courses utilize the group project to facilitate “real world” learning for students. With such prominence in course work, it is necessary to, (1) examine how groups are designed and (2) to provide alternative and creative methods for this vital function. This paper provides such an alternative and points the way to increased awareness of the methods used to produce student groups for work in public relations.
Influence of structural order on the luminescence of oxide spinels: Manganese activated spinels

Phosphor performance is often limited by preparation conditions which determine the degree of crystallinity and structural order. The influence of vacancy disorder was investigated using magnesium aluminate and magnesium gallate spinels as test cases. Spinels of composition Mg1−xAl2O4−x:Mn2+ and Mg1−xGa2O4−x:Mn2+ where 0 < x < 0.2 form defect solid solutions in which the loss of the divalent cation is compensated by the formation of both anion and cation vacancies. Defect and normal/inverse disorder was probed by comparing the emission and excitation spectra of Mn2+. MgAl2O4:Mn2+ emits at 650 nm. When x = 0.05, emission bands appear at 517 and 744 nm. These increase intensity and the 650 nm band disappears as x increases. The emission of the magnesium gallate phosphors was a single band at 507 nm for all compositions. Overall, the emission spectra were determined more by the distribution of Mn2+ over the available sites than by either normal/inverse disorder or defect disorder.
Potentiation of methotrexate-induced gastrointestinal toxicity by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and vincristine.

Abstract Inhibition of intestinal nutrient absorption by the folate antagonist methotrexate (MTX) and the effects of several organic acid drugs and vincristine on MTX-induced gastrointestinal toxicity were investigated. Male Swiss-Webster mice received MTX, 25 mg/kg, i.p. once daily for 4 successive days. Using the everted sac technique, the rates of D-glucose and L-tyrosine transport were decreased by MTX to 10.9 and 6.3 μmol/g/h from control values of 35.0 and 10.0 μmol/g/h, respectively. Probenecid, sodium salicylate, phenylbutazone, or vincristine administered simultaneously with MTX, further decreased the rates of D-glucose transport to 3.6, 2.0, 0.8, and 2.6 μmol/g/h, respectively, and the rates of L-tyrosine transport to 1.2, 1.9, 0.6 and 0.9 μmol/g/h, respectively. When intestinal sacs from untreated animals were exposed to MTX (10 −3 M) on the serosal side only, the drug had no significant effect on the rate of transport of D-glucose or L-tyrosine. The rate of lactate production in everted intestinal sacs from MTX treated animals decreased to 11.8 from a control value of 30.3 μmol/g/h. Co-administration of phenylbutazone with MTX further decreased the rate of lactate production to 8.2 μmol/g/h. Body weight loss caused by MTX treatment (15.0%) was potentiated by the concurrent administration of probenecid (19.4%), salicylate (22.4%), phenylbutazone (23.0%) or vincristine (22.8%). These results demonstrate that vincristine and several commonly used organic acid drugs can potentiate the inhibitory effect of MTX on intestinal nutrient absorption. Thus, MTX dosage adjustment may be required in patients receiving such drugs.
Learning Bayesian classifiers using overlapping swarm intelligence

Bayesian networks are powerful probabilistic models that have been applied to a variety of tasks. When applied to classification problems, Bayesian networks have shown competitive performance when compared to other state-of-the-art classifiers. However, structure learning of Bayesian networks has been shown to be NP-Hard. In this paper, we propose a novel approximation algorithm for learning Bayesian network classifiers based on Overlapping Swarm Intelligence. In our approach a swarm is associated with each attribute in the data. Each swarm learns the edges for its associated attribute node and swarms that learn conflicting structures compete for inclusion in the final network structure. Our results indicate that, in many cases, Overlapping Swarm Intelligence significantly outperforms competing approaches, including traditional particle swarm optimization.
Entropies of Desorption from Temperature Programmed Desorption Data: Trends and Applications to Rate Constant Determinations

We show that entropies of desorption can be obtained from temperature programmed desorption (TPD) data. Corrected to the standard pressure of the thermodyanic reference state, these experimentally derived entropies are in general good agreement with Trouton's Rule for which there is theoretical evidence in the literature. Knowledge of these entropies allows the use of the large body of readily available gas-phase thermodynamic data in the determination of the rate constants for surface reactions and allows a more efficient determination of the Arrhenius preexponential factors for surface reactions.
Quality management in home care: Models for today's practice

In less than a decade, home care providers have been a part of two major transitions in health care delivery. First, because of the advent of managed care and a shift from inpatient to community-based services, home care service delivery systems have experienced tremendous growth. Second, the principles and practices of total quality management and continuous quality improvement have permeated the organization, administration, and practice of home health care. Based on the work of Deming, Juran, and Crosby, the basic tenets of the new quality management philosophy involve a focus on the following five key areas: (1) systems and processes rather than individual performance; (2) involvement, collaboration, and empowerment; (3) internal and external "customers"; (4) data and measurement; and (5) standards, guidelines, and outcomes of care. Home care providers are among those in the forefront who are developing and implementing programs that integrate these foci into the delivery of quality home care services. This article provides a summary of current home care programs that address these five key areas of quality management philosophy and provide models for innovative quality management practice in home care. For further information about each program, readers are referred to the original reports in the home care and quality management journal literature, as cited herein.
Gallbladder Cancer, Treatment Failure and Relapses: the Peritoneum in Gallbladder Cancer

This study aims to review gallbladder cancer (GBC) and present current management strategies, factors influencing prognosis, recurrence and areas of consideration. Literature search in PubMed was made and restricted to articles published from 2002 to 2013 using the following keywords: (GBC + peritoneum and GBC + surgery + metastasis/recurrence); abstract evaluation narrowed results to 53 articles. Twenty-six single-institution reports with 2,097 patients among 36 large-scale retrospective studies were obtained and focused on surgical outcomes. GBC presents late and recurs early with a poor prognosis. There is no definitive time for curative re-resection following incidental diagnosis. Effective surgical strategies for each disease stage remain unclear. Management guidelines are not universally standardised, most institutions utilise protocols based on individual experiences and limitations. Early-stage GBC is curable with complete resection but invisible metastases at unobvious sites remain problematic. In this study, at least 450 patients relapsed, most had peritoneal metastasis. The peritoneum is a common metastatic site, its microenvironment is intrinsically hypoxic, well vascularized and lined with mesothelium overlaying immune aggregates, which express pro-angiogenic and adhesion molecules that are highly selective for tumour growth and evolution. There are no medical/molecular antagonists to inhibit peritoneal carcinomatosis. Peritonectomies have been successfully undertaken; furthermore, GBC responds to some chemotherapy combinations. This review focused on GBC surgery. Peritoneal carcinomatosis is common. In carefully selected patients, the incorporation of peritoneal disease in cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy will inhibit a vehicle for dissemination, eliminate future relapse sites and improve survival. Areas for consideration include universally standardised protocols, clear management guidelines for each stage, effective re-resection timings with guidance on where or how to identify additional disease.
Endoplasmic reticulum calcium storage and release in cells expressing misfolded growth hormone

Abstract Aim : Deletion of amino acids 32–71 in human growth hormone (Δ32–71-GH) causes severe autosomal dominant GH deficiency. These experiments test whether retention of Δ32–71-GH in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen leads to aberrant Ca 2+ regulation. Design : COS cells were transfected with Δ32–71-GH, wild-type-GH or empty plasmid, and the ability of the cells to release Ca 2+ from the ER and transmit a Ca 2+ signal to the cytoplasm was investigated using cytoplasmic Ca 2+ dyes and ER-targeted cameleon Ca 2+ reporters. Results : Resting free Ca 2+ , the rate of Ca 2+ release from the ER and the size of the ionophore-releasable ER Ca 2+ pool were not altered by Δ32–71-GH. Stimulation of endogenous Ca 2+ -mobilizing receptors for histamine and thrombin resulted in similar changes in cytoplasmic and ER Ca 2+ in cells expressing wild-type and Δ32–71-GH. Conclusion : Ca 2+ regulation is preserved despite retention of misfolded GH in the ER.
Simulated fissioning of uranium and testing of the fission-track dating method

Abstract A computer program (FTD-SIM) faithfully simulates the fissioning of 238U with time and 235U with neutron dose. The simulation is based on first principles of physics where the fissioning of 238U with the flux of time is described by N s = λ f 238 U t and the fissioning of 235U with the fluence of neutrons is described by Ni = σ235Uφ. The Poisson law is used to set the stochastic variation of fissioning within the uranium population. The life history of a given crystal can thus be traced under an infinite variety of age and irradiation conditions. A single dating attempt or up to 500 dating attempts on a given crystal population can be simulated by specifying the age of the crystal population, the size and variation in the areas to be counted, the amount and distribution of uranium, the neutron dose to be used and its variation, and the desired ratio of 238U to 235U. A variety of probability distributions can be applied to uranium and counting-area. The Price and Walker age equation is used to estimate age. The output of FTD-SIM includes the tabulated results of each individual dating attempt (sample) on demand and/or the summary statistics and histograms for multiple dating attempts (samples) including the sampling age. An analysis of the results from FTD-SIM shows that: (1) The external detector method is intrinsically more precise than the population method. (2) For the external detector method a correlation between spontaneous track count, Ns, and induced track count, Ni, results when the population of grains has a stochastic uranium content and/or when the counting areas between grains are stochastic. For the population method no correlation can exist. (3) In the external detector method the sampling distribution of age is independent of the number of grains counted. In the population method the sampling distribution of age is highly dependent on the number of grains counted. (4) Grains with zero-track counts, either in Ns or Ni, are in integral part of fissioning theory and under certain circumstances must be included in any estimate of age. (5) In estimating standard error of age the standard error of Ns and Ni and φ must be accurately estimated and propagated through the age equation. Several statistical models are presently available to do so.
Application of lateral shearing interferometry to stochastic inputs.

Lateral shearing interferometry is a simple and accurate method of measuring the shape of an optical wave front. However, the complex mathematics required in reduction of the interferograms has limited the adoption of this interferometric technique. A data reduction technique using Fourier analysis methods has been developed which makes lateral shearing interferogram reduction more flexible. This technique is hypothetically applied to the measurement of wave fronts propagating through a turbulent medium, and demonstrates the simplicity and accuracy of this data reduction method.