cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rhetoric as epistemic: A classroom‐centered view

Rhetoric's claim to an epistemological role depends first upon the primary role of language in knowing: the word of speech or thought has a prior claim to knowledge and is only subsequently joined by rhetoric. The functions of rhetoric in the classroom—synthesis, discovery, arrangement, persuasion, and memory—provide a starting point and a perspective from which to examine the epistemic claims of rhetoric.
A quantitative real-time RT-PCR assay for salmon IGF-I mRNA, and its application in the study of GH regulation of IGF-I gene expression in primary culture of salmon hepatocytes ☆

The hormone insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) regulates vertebrate growth. The liver produces most circulating IGF-I, under the control of pituitary growth hormone (GH) and nutritional status. To study the regulation of liver IGF-I production in salmon, we established a primary hepatocyte culture system and developed a TaqMan quantitative real-time RT-PCR assay for salmon IGF-I gene expression. A portion of the coho salmon acidic ribosomal phosphoprotein P0 (ARP) cDNA was sequenced for use as a reference gene. A systematic bias across the 96 well PCR plate was discovered in an initial IGF-I assay, which was corrected when the assay was redesigned. IGF-I mRNA levels measured with the validated assay correlated well with levels measured with an RNase protection assay, and were highest in liver compared with other tissues. We examined the time course of hepatocyte IGF-I gene expression over 48 h in culture, the response to a range of GH concentrations in hepatocytes from fed and fasted fish, and potential effects of variation in IGF-I in the medium. IGF-I gene expression decreased over time in culture in hepatocytes in plain medium, and in cells treated with 5 nM GH with or without a combination of metabolic hormones (1 microM insulin, 100 nM triiodothyronine, and 0.1 nM dexamethasone). GH stimulated IGF-I gene expression at all time points. In cells treated with GH plus metabolic hormones, IGF-I gene expression was intermediate between the controls and GH alone. Increasing concentrations of GH resulted in biphasic IGF-I gene expression response curves in cells from fed and fasted fish, with the threshold for stimulation from 0.5 to 2.5 nM GH, maximal response from 5 to 50 nM, and a reduced response at 500 nM. Medium IGF-I (5 nM) did not affect basal or GH stimulated IGF-I gene expression. This study shows that primary hepatocyte culture and the TaqMan IGF-I assay can be used to study the regulation of hepatic IGF-I gene expression in salmon, and provides the first evidence of a biphasic response to GH concentration in fish hepatocyte culture.
Identification of Two Novel Nuclear Import Sequences on the 5-Lipoxygenase Protein

The nuclear import of 5-lipoxygenase modulates its capacity to produce leukotrienes from arachidonic acid. However, the molecular determinants of its nuclear import are unknown. Recently, we used structural and functional criteria to identify a novel import sequence at Arg518 on human 5-lipoxygenase (Jones, S. M., Luo, M., Healy, A. M., Peters-Golden, M., and Brock, T. G. (2002) J. Biol. Chem. 277, 38550–38556). However, this analysis also indicated that other import sequences must exist. Here, we identify two additional sites, at Arg112 and Lys158, as nuclear import sequences. Both sites were found to be common to 5-lipoxygenases from different species but not found on other lipoxygenases. Both sites also appeared to be a part of structures that were predominantly random loops. Peptide sequences at these sites were sufficient to direct nuclear import of green fluorescent protein. Mutation of basic residues in these sites impaired nuclear import and combinations of mutations at different sites were additive in effect. Mutations in all three sites were required to disable nuclear accumulation of 5-lipoxygenase in all cells. Significantly, mutation in these sites did not inhibit catalytic function. Taken together, these results indicate that nuclear import of 5-lipoxygenase may reflect the combined functional effects of three discrete import sequences. Mutation of individual sites can, by itself, impair nuclear import, which in turn could impact arachidonic acid metabolism.
Behavior of a sodium-sulfur cell with a dynamic sulfur electrode

Abstract A sodium-sulfur cell was constructed with sodium polysulfide circulating in a narrow annulus around a β-alumina tube. The absence of carbon mat in the electrode reduced the current collector surface area appreciably, localized the electrochemical reactions, and ultimately led to film formation on the electrode. The results are consistent with existing models and interpretations of sulfur electrode behavior. Film formation on the electrode is responsible for the rather poor electrical characteristics of the cell.
The KL-ONE family

Abstract The knowledge representation system KL-ONE has been one of the most influential and imitated knowledge representation systems in the Artificial Intelligence community. Begun at Bolt Beranek and Newman in 1978, KL-ONE pioneered the development of taxonomic representations that can automatically classify and assimilate new concepts based on a criterion of terminological subsumption. This theme generated considerab interest in both the formal community and a large community of potential users. The KL-ONE community has since expanded to include many systems at many institutions and in many different countries. This paper introduces the KL-ONE family and discusses some of the main themes explored by KL-ONE and its successors. We give an overview of current research, describe some of the systems that have been developed, and outline some future research directions.
Application of poled electro-optic polymer films in a gap-free broadband terahertz system

We report on the application of poled electro-optic (EO) polymer films in a gap-free, broadband terahertz (THz) system. Using polymer films consisting of 40% Lemke/60% APC (LAPC) as an emitter-sensor pair and a Ti:sapphire regenerative laser pulse amplifier operated at 800-nm-wavelength, we generated and detected transient THz waves, via the optical rectification and EO effect, respectively. We obtained ~12-THz bandwidth from this system with no absorption gaps. The absence of resonant absorption gaps normally seen in THz systems based on crystalline EO materials is attributed to the amorphous form of the polymer films, making our EO polymer emitter-sensor pair advantageous over EO crystals in a gap-free, broadband THz time-domain-spectroscopy (THz-TDS) system. A model has been developed to simulate the spectrum from THz systems and the simulation results were compared with the experimental results. We also report our experiments and simulations for the pulsed THz waves generated by a EO polymer film consisting of 40% DCDHF-6-V/60% APC (DAPC) and detected either by an 80-μm ZnCdTe or a 2-mm ZnTe sensor, with 1300-nm-wavelength pulses from an optical parametric amplifier (OPA). In addition, with the help of our model, we propose employing a wavelength tuning technique to achieve good phase-matching for polymer emitter/sensor pairs, which should lead to very broad bandwidth.
Targeting the Notch Pathway: Twists and Turns on the Road to Rational Therapeutics

The road leading to new therapeutics is often bumpy and occasionally treacherous. Attempts to target Notch in cancer exemplify the challenges associated with such ventures. Notch is an increasingly attractive cancer target: It has direct oncogenic roles in multiple hematologic malignancies (as reviewed); it is essential for tumor angiogenesis; it has important roles in innate and adaptive immune cell function; and it is needed to establish and maintain certain stemcell populations, suggesting a role in maintenance of tumor-initiating cells. However, Notch is also tumor suppressive in squamous epithelia and may have antioncogenic effects in blood vessels and myeloid cells as well. In addition, Notch inhibitors have problematic on-target gut toxicity. These concerns are mitigated by the results of Tolcher et al reported in Journal of Clinical Oncology. Using several dosing schedules, Tolcher et al show that RO4929097, a -secretase inhibitor (GSI), has a tolerable safety profile and a hint of antitumor activity in patients with refractory metastatic or locally advanced solid tumors. Pharmacodynamic studies have shown modest but significant evidence of Notch inhibition. These findings are in line with prior experience and constitute a modest step forward toward realizing Notch-directed therapies in cancer. Here, we review the Notch pathway and some of the challenges and opportunities it presents to clinical investigators.
Dose-Time-Response Cumulative Multinomial Generalized Linear Model

In toxicological and pharmaceutical experiments, a type of quantal bioassay experiment is designed in which a response, such as mortality, in a group of animals is recorded over time points under different dose levels in the course of the experiment. The application of the typical logit and probit analyses is no longer valid in this situation because it neglects the dependency on time and also the possible interaction of time and dose concentration on the response in the experiment. In this paper, a dose–time-response model is proposed for this type of experiment and a cumulative multinomial generalized linear model that incorporates time and the other experimental conditions as covariates is developed by the theory of maximum likelihood estimation. Both the point estimator and confidence bands for ED50 (t), the concentration of a toxicant that will kill 50% of the animals by a specific time, t; as well as LT50 (d), the time to 50% mortalities for a specific concentration, d, is then formulated in closed ...
Estimation of the Shape and Scale Parameters of the Weibull Distribution

Estimates ĉ and are proposed for the shape parameter c and the scale parameter b of the Weibull distribution on the assumption that the location parameter is known: ĉ obtained by first finding an estimate of 1/c, and then setting ĉ = 1/. When b is unknown, is a consistent and non-negative estimate of d, with a bias which tends to vanish as the sample size increases and with an asymptotic efficiency of about 55%. When b is known, is an unbiased, non-negative and consistent estimate of d, and its efficiency is approximately 84%. An estimate In∧b of In b is found. Its asymptotic efficiency is 95%. It is proposed that exp(In∧b) be used to estimate b.
Ground-state rotational coherence spectroscopy of jet-cooled molecules by stimulated Raman-induced fluorescence depletion

Abstract We report the demonstration of a new technique of rotational coherence spectroscopy that applies to the time-domain measurement of ground-state rotational constants. The technique, stimulated Raman-induced fluorescence depletion, is a picosecond pump-probe scheme in which ground-state rotational coherences prepared via stimulated Raman scattering by the pump pulse are probed via fluorescence induced by the vibronically resonant, variably delayed probe pulse. The scheme is demonstrated with experiments on jet-cooled t -stilbene. The potential of the method and its relation to other techniques are discussed.
Building a Harmonious Society and Achieving Individual Harmony

Rapid economic growth in China is accompanied by economic disparity, corruption, crime, and a great deal of frustration among China’s citizens. These social problems threaten the country’s further development, social stability, and harmony. This study discusses the recent campaign in China for a harmonious society. Many Chinese scholars, officials, and citizens seem to believe that more effective and efficient social structures will result in social harmony. However, social harmony is a more complex social psychological phenomenon which is determined by the interactions among social values, people, and society. People achieve social harmony when they feel their values and desires are attainable in society. They have to make strong social and psychological effort if they want to successfully achieve harmony with nature, society, and themselves.
Cell-cycle phenotyping with conditional random fields: A case study in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

High-resolution, multimodal microscopy grants an intimate view of the inner workings of cells. Complex processes like cell division can be monitored with microscope images, assuming identification of cells and their cell-cycle markers: cellular structures indicative of cell-cycle progress. Here, we explore how spatial relationships between these markers can facilitate their identification. We grew and synchronized Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell cultures and then acquired multimodal image data as the cells proceeded through the cell cycle. We trained a conditional random field model to capture pixel-level spatial relationships among three different cell-cycle markers observable in our images. We observed good predictive performance of this pixel-level model on three held-out test images, and performance improved when we used marker-level information from our training data to prune model predictions. Our results support the use of conditional random fields in bioimage labeling and encourage the use of as much multiscale information as available in training data when identifying cell-cycle markers.
Impact of Polysomy 17 on HER-2/neu Immunohistochemistry in Breast Carcinomas without HER-2/neu Gene Amplification

Her-2/neu, a proto-oncogene located on chromosome 17, is an important biomarker in breast carcinoma. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is currently the most widely used method for assessing Her-2/neu status. Some IHC-positive cases do not show Her-2/neu gene amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). It has been suggested that some of these IHC "false positive" results may in part be due to increased copy number of chromosome 17 resulting in increased Her-2/neu protein expression. We analyzed IHC and FISH data from 561 cases of invasive breast carcinoma to test this hypothesis. IHC and FISH for Her-2/neu were performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of 561 invasive breast carcinomas. The IHC results were interpreted as 0, 1+, 2+, or 3+ according to the manufacturer's recommended criteria. The FISH results were expressed as a ratio of Her-2/neu/chromosome 17 and were interpreted as positive (> = 2.0) or negative (
Design of a Novel Semiconductor Laser-Based Chemical Sensor

We present concept and design considerations of a novel optical sensor based on the distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) laser. The operation of this sensor relies on the shift of the lasing wavelength upon exposure of the chemically sensitive element to the gas species to be detected. We discuss physics of the proposed device, show the compromises in its design, and estimate potential sensitivity. Compactness and simplicity of this DBR laser-based optical sensor may play a crucial role in its mass production for various applications.
Ecological Correlates of Depression and Self-Esteem in Rural Youth

The current study examines individual-, social-, and school-level characteristics influencing symptoms of depression and self-esteem among a large sample (N = 4,321) of U.S. youth living in two rural counties in the South. Survey data for this sample of middle-school students (Grade 6 to Grade 8) were part of the Rural Adaptation Project. Data were analyzed using ordered logistic regression. Results show that being female, having a low income, and having negative relationships with parents and peers are risk factors that increase the probability of reporting high levels of depressive symptoms and low levels of self-esteem. In contrast, supportive relationships with parents and peers, high religious orientation, ethnic identity, and school satisfaction increased the probability of reporting low levels of depressive symptoms and high levels of self-esteem. There were few school-level characteristics associated with levels of depressive symptoms and self-esteem. Implications are discussed.
Neurotrophins reduce degeneration of injured ascending sensory and corticospinal motor axons in adult rat spinal cord.

Spinal cord regeneration in adult mammals is limited by neurite outgrowth inhibitors and insufficient availability of outgrowth-promoting agents. Formation of degenerative swellings at the proximal ends of severed axons (terminal clubs), which starts early after injury, also may hinder recovery and their rupture may contribute to secondary spinal cord damage. We investigated whether neurotrophins would reduce these degenerative processes. Adult rats received a transection of the dorsal column sensory and corticospinal motor tracts at T9 and anterograde tracing of the axons from the sciatic nerve and motor cortex, respectively. The highest number of terminal clubs was found at 1 day and approximately half remained present until at least 28 days. A single injection immediately after injury of a mixture of nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and neurotrophin-3 into the lesion site, reduced the number of terminal clubs in the sensory system by approximately half at 1 and 7 days (but not 14) after the lesion. Individual or combinations of two neurotrophins were as effective, suggesting that the neurotrophins protected similar axonal populations. The injected neurotrophins did not affect degeneration of corticospinal motor axons. A 7-day continuous intrathecal infusion of neurotrophin-3 was more effective and also reduced terminal club formation of corticospinal axons by ∼60%. Spinal tissue loss was not affected by the neurotrophin treatments, suggesting that terminal clubs are not major contributors to the pathogenesis of secondary spinal degeneration during the first two weeks. Thus, neurotrophins can reduce axonal degeneration in the spinal cord after traumatic axonal injury.
Meningitis and legal liability: An otolaryngology perspective

Abstract Purpose Meningitis is a potential complication in otolaryngologic procedures and conditions. Severe sequelae make understanding factors involved in relevant malpractice litigation critical. We analyze pertinent litigation for awards, outcomes, patient demographic factors, and other alleged causes of malpractice. Methods Pertinent jury verdict and settlement reports were examined using the Westlaw legal database (Thomson Reuters, New York, NY). Results Twenty-three cases (60.5%) involved non-iatrogenic injuries, including inadequate treatment or failure to diagnose sinusitis or otitis media, while 15 (39.5%) involved iatrogenic cases, mostly rhinologic procedures. 36.8% of cases were resolved for the defendant, 28.9% with juries awarding damages, and 34.2% with settlements. Although not statistically significant, mean damages awarded were higher than settlements ($2.1 vs. 1.5M, p = 0.056), and cases involving pediatric patients were more likely to be resolved with payment than those with adult litigants (80.0% vs. 52.2%, p = 0.08 respectively). Other frequent alleged factors included permanent deficits (63.2%), requiring additional surgery (41.1%), death (34.2%), cognitive deficits (21.2%), deafness (15.8%), and inadequate informed consent (33.0% of iatrogenic cases). Conclusions Practitioners facing litigation related to meningitis may wish to consider these findings, notably for cases involving death or permanent functional deficits, as cases with out of court settlements tended to be resolved with lower payments. Cases involving misdiagnosis may be more likely to be resolved with payment compared with iatrogenic cases. By understanding the issues detailed in this analysis and including them in the informed consent process for patients undergoing rhinologic and otologic procedures, otolaryngologists may potentially improve patient safety and decrease liability.
Testing the taxonomic integrity of Paranthropus boisei sensu stricto.

The craniodental hypodigm of Paranthro- pus boisei sensu stricto is morphologically distinctive, but it has been suggested that the substantial variation in mandibular and dental size in that hypodigm may exceed that which is reasonable to subsume within a single homi- nin species. In this study, Fligner and Killeen, coefficient of variation (CV)-based and average taxonomic distance (ATD)-based bootstrap tests, were used to compare varia- tion in size and shape of the mandibular corpus remains attributed to P. boisei s.s. with the variation observed in samples of great apes and modern humans. The degree of size variation in the P. boisei s.s. mandibular hypodigm is never observed in human and chimpanzee samples, is rare in gorillas, but is not uncommon in orangutans. However, the shape variation in the fossil group is comparable to the variation in the extant reference groups. Although the size variation in P. boisei s.s. is substantial, it is exaggerated by the effects of taphonomy. The small mandibles are more often abraded, whereas the large mandibles are more likely to have been infiltrated with matrix. On the basis of the results of this investigation of the mandibular corpus, there are no grounds for rejecting the "single- species" hypothesis for P. boisei s.s. When Sokal and Brau- mann's adjusted CV values were used to predict the index of sexual dimorphism (ISD) for the P. boisei s.s., despite the substantial geological time embraced by the mandib- ular corpus hypodigm, the predicted value of lnISD, when corrected for taphonomic factors, is comparable to the sexual dimorphism observed within Gorilla. Am J Phys Anthropol 115:167-178, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Abstract A234: Identification and characterization of inhibitor-resistant mutants of the protein-tyrosine kinase c-Fes.

Lack of target selectivity is a well-known limitation to the use of chemical inhibitors to pinpoint individual kinase functions in the intricate network of cellular signaling pathways that often involve closely related kinases or unrelated off-target effects. A possible solution to this problem involves the use of inhibitor-resistant mutants of the targeted kinase. Such mutants can be employed in rescue experiments, in which introduction of the mutant kinase reverses the phenotype resulting from chemical inhibition of the endogenous kinase. This chemical genetics approach has been successfully used by our group to dissect roles for individual members of the Src kinase family in embryonic stem cell differentiation and chronic myelogenous leukemia, despite close structural homology within this kinase family. In the present study, we used this approach to validate the specificity of a series of potent inhibitors of the c-Fes kinase that we recently identified in a kinase-biased chemical library screen. The c-Fes protein-tyrosine kinase is involved in multiple cellular signaling pathways that modulate differentiation, the innate immune response, vasculogenesis and tumorigenesis. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we systematically altered residues around the inhibitor-binding pocket defined in a recent crystal structure of the c-Fes SH2-kinase region bound to the diaminopyrimidine inhibitor, TAE684. We first mutated the gatekeeper methionine (Met636) of Fes, which helps mediate TAE684 binding in the crystal, but found that substitutions at this position inactivated kinase function. Additional point mutations that retained kinase activity were then tested against TAE684 and other potent small molecule inhibitors of c-Fes. This screen identified a leucine residue near the gatekeeper position (Leu638) to be critical in conferring sensitivity to both TAE864 and the more Fes-selective pyrazolopyrimidine, WZ-4-49-8. Replacement of this Leu638 with a bulkier tyrosine or phenylalanine rendered c-Fes very resistant to WZ-4-49-8, with IC50 values increasing from the low nanomolar range for wild-type Fes to the micromolar range for the mutants in an in vitro kinase assay. These data implicate Leu638 as an important specificity determinant for future design of more potent and selective inhibitors of c-Fes. Ongoing studies are using this resistant mutant to validate novel roles for Fes in biological systems impacted by TAE684 and WZ-4-49-8 treatment, including differentiation of macrophages (a major site of c-Fes expression) to osteoclasts. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2011 Nov 12-16; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2011;10(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A234.
Correlation function bootstrapping in quantum chaotic systems.

We discuss a general and efficient approach for ``bootstrapping'' short-time correlation data in chaotic or complex quantum systems to obtain information about long-time dynamics and stationary properties, such as the local density of states. When the short-time data are sufficient to identify an individual quantum system, we obtain a systematic approximation for the spectrum and wave functions. Otherwise, we obtain statistical properties, including wave function intensity distributions, for an ensemble of all quantum systems sharing the given short-time correlations. The results are valid for open or closed systems, and are stable under perturbation of the short-time input data. Numerical examples include quantum maps and two-dimensional anharmonic oscillators.
Bluegills continuously update patch giving-up times based on foraging experience

Abstract Abstract. The data from a series of patch-choice experiments with bluegill sunfish, Lepomis macrochirus , were analysed within feeding periods to describe the proximal leaving strategy bluegills use when choosing between food patches. The following hypotheses regarding strategies by which these choices are made are considered: (1) a fixed giving-up time; (2) a fixed residence time; (3) a linearly increasing giving-up time; and (4) a linearly increasing residence time. Five experiments, in which the difference in food availability between patches (tank sides) decreased from experiment to experiment, were run with eight different bluegills in each experiment. The bluegills tested did not use the fixed giving-up time rule or the fixed residence time rule to decide when to leave a patch, but did have both a longer average residence time and a longer average giving-up time in poorer environments. Within an environment, both patch residence times and giving-up times increased linearly with increasing prey encounter; the linear giving-up time rule better described bluegill behaviour than the linear residence time rule, however. This giving-up time strategy varies among individuals and yet is still robust enough to allow each individual to effectively sample and use variable food resources.
Involvement of receptor tyrosine phosphatase DEP-1 mediated PI3K-cofilin signaling pathway in Sorafenib-induced cytoskeletal rearrangement in hepatoma cells

Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor that has been reported to induce cell growth inhibition through the Raf-MAPK signaling pathway. We now report that Sorafenib treatment of Hep3B and PLC/PRF/5 human hepatoma cells also results in morphological changes and cell detachment in culture. Actin cytoskeletal analysis of Sorafenib-exposed Hep3B cells showed a loss of polymerized F-actin and a concomitant increase in unpolymerized G-actin, implying that Sorafenib-induced cell shape changes may be related to actin cytoskeletal rearrangement by inhibiting actin polymerization. Cofilin, an actin depolymerization factor, was found to be dephosphorylated and thus activated by Sorafenib, consistent with the observed increase in unpolymerized G-actin. In examining likely mechanisms, we found that Sorafenib induced activation of the cofilin phosphatase Slingshot 1 (SSH-1), since endogenous SSH-1 from Sorafenib-treated Hep3B cells was able to dephosphorylate cofilin in a concentration dependent manner. The activation of SSH-1 by Sorafenib is probably regulated by the PI3K pathway, since Sorafenib can induce PI3K and its substrate Akt phosphorylation, and both PI3K inhibitors Ly294002 and wortmannin antagonized Sorafenib-mediated cofilin dephosphorylation. Furthermore, we found that Sorafenib induced c-Met phosphorylation at Tyr-1349 but not Tyr-1234, which is probably mediated by inhibition of receptor tyrosine phosphatase density enhanced phosphatase-1 (DEP-1). Our data provide evidence that besides inhibition of the Raf-MAPK pathway, Sorafenib might also regulate hepatoma cell growth via alteration of receptor-mediated cytoskeletal rearrangement.
Effect of polyamide functionality on the morphology and toughness of blends with a functionalized block copolymer

Abstract Previous work has shown that blends of a maleic anhydride functionalized triblock copolymer (with an ethylene/butene mid-block and styrene end-blocks, or SEBS- g -MA) with nylon-6,6 gives super-tough materials with complex-shaped rubber particles that are just below the upper critical particle size for toughening. Similar blends of SEBS- g -MA with nylon-6 are not toughened because the rubber particles are evidently too small, i.e. below a proposed lower critical size for toughening. It was further proposed that this difference in morphology stems from the difunctional (nylon-6,6) versus monofunctional (nylon-6) character of these polyamides for reaction with anhydrides. This proposal is supported here by the observation that blends of SEBS- g -MA with nylon-12,12 give large complex rubber particles like those in nylon-6,6 while nylon-11 and nylon-12 give smaller particles like nylon-6. Further support of this notion is provided by blending nylon-6 with other polyamides in an attempt to produce a chemically modified matrix. Addition of 10% nylon-6,6, poly( m -xyle adipamide) (MXD6) and nylon-12,12 to the nylon-6 matrix (under conditions that cause phase homogenization by interchange reactions) leads to rubber particle enlargement and toughening, while addition of nylon-11 or nylon-12 does not lead to either particle enlargement or toughening. Possible effects of rheological factors, extent of interchange reactions, interfacial tension and end-group contents are discussed.
Renal candidiasis in the rat: effects of ureteral obstruction and diabetes.

The effect of ureteral obstruction on the course of renal candidiasis in a rat model was studied, using both normal and diabetic Sprague-Dawley rats, and a clinical isolate of Candida albicans. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection 1 week prior to inoculation and transabdominal ligation of the left ureter. On day 9 post inoculation, mean titers of Candida were similar in right and left kidneys of obstructed rats. Mean left renal titers for obstructed and control rats were similar (log10 2.68 CFU/g±0.73 (SE) vs. log10 2.21±0.09, P>0.01). Diabetes produced higher renal titers of Candida, regardless of the presence of ureteral obstruction (log10 5.74 CFU/g±0.57 (SE) vs. log10 2.21±0.09, P<0.01). Animals treated for one week with amphotericin B showed a marked difference in Candida titers between obstructed and control animals (log10 4.14 CFU/g±0.45 (SE) vs. 1.57±0.38) for both kidneys, and between obstructed and nonobstructed kidneys in the same animals.
Novel Versatile Synthesis of Substituted Tetrabenzoporphyrins

A novel general synthetic route to tetraaryltetrabenzoporphyrins (Ar4TBP) with various peripheral functional groups is developed. The procedure includes (i) Barton−Zard condensation of 1-nitro- or 1-phenylsulfonylcyclohexenes with isocyanoacetic acid esters, (ii) condensation of the resulting 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoindoles with aromatic aldehydes to give fused tetraaryltetracylohexenoporphyrins (Ar4TCHP), and (iii) aromatization of the metal complexes of Ar4TCHP's into the corresponding Ar4TBP's. Cu and Zn complexes of Ar4TBP's are further demetalated to give the corresponding Ar4TBP free bases. The overall yields for the sequence range from 15% to 40%, making the method suitable for the preparation of gram quantities of Ar4TBP's in a single run. The scope of the method, the selection of the peripheral substituents, the choice of the metal ions, and their influence on the yields of aromatization are discussed. The basic spectroscopic properties of newly synthesized Ar4TBP's and Ar4TCHP's are reported togeth...
Time-Trend Analysis of Plasma C-21 Steroids in Fetal and Maternal Sheep during the Last 18 Days of Gestation*

Daily fetal and maternal plasma samples collected from eight chronically catheterized pregnant ewes from day 130 of gestation through delivery were analyzed for progesterone (P), 20α-dihydroprogesterone [20α-hydroxy-4-pregnene- 3,20-dione (20P)], 17α-hydroxyprogesterone [17α-hydroxy-4- pregnene-3,20-dione (17P)], and 11-desoxycortisol [17α,21-dihydroxy- 4-pregnene-3,20-dione (Cp S)] by RIAs rigorously validated for specificity in this species. Fetal and maternal P and 20P concentrations fell with advancing gestational age and approaching parturition, while 17P and Cp S concentrations rose. Exponential type regressions for the logarithm of fetal and maternal concentrations of P, 20P, 17P, and Cp S for each animal were plotted as a function of days before parturition. Estimates were made from each fitted curve of the time (T*) for each animal at which changes in P and 20P concentrations began to occur. Mean T* ±SEM values for fetal and maternal P and 20P were: fetal P, -2.7 ± 0.5 days; fetal 20P, -3.0 ± 0.3...
Quality management integration in education: a model of practice for performance excellence in education

The increased concept of accountability in education often requires schools to set high standards of achievement to create a foundation of teaching methods that work; and to create a system to measure results. As a result, many schools are striving to meet these new standards without fully understanding how to achieve accountability, align their curricula with government requirements and assess their performance. Most educators would agree that we are long due for a comprehensive approach to change our traditional ways we approach teaching. Quality management, on the other hand, has been implemented and used in various educational settings within a broader perspective. However, no model for practice has been developed yet on quality management integration in education. This paper aims to develop a quality management model of practice for classroom teaching. Specifically, the paper explores how quality management integration in education in our classrooms can help enhance student learning and student achievement.
Role of nuclear-encoded subunit Vb in the assembly and stability of cytochrome c oxidase complex: implications in mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production

CcO (cytochrome c oxidase) is a multisubunit bigenomic protein complex which catalyses the last step of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. The nuclear-encoded subunits are thought to have roles either in regulation or in the structural stability of the enzyme. Subunit Vb is a peripheral nuclear-encoded subunit of mammalian CcO that is dramatically reduced under hypoxia. Although it has been shown to contain different ligand-binding sites and undergo modifications, its precise function is not known. In the present study we generated a cell line from RAW 264.7 murine macrophages that has a more than 80% reduced level of Vb. Functional analysis of these cells showed a loss of CcO activity, membrane potential and less ability to generate ATP. Resolution of complexes on blue native gel and two-dimensional electrophoretic analysis showed an accumulation of subcomplexes of CcO and also reduced association with supercomplexes of the electron transfer chain. Furthermore, the mitochondria from CcO Vb knock-down cells generated increased ROS (reactive oxygen species), and the cells were unable to grow on galactose-containing medium. Pulse-chase experiments suggest the role of the CcO Vb subunit in the assembly of the complex. We show for the first time the role of a peripheral, non-transmembrane subunit in the formation as well as function of the terminal CcO complex.
Use of laparoscopically mobilized peritoneum in the creation of a neovagina

Abstract Objective: To present an alternative technique for the creation of a neovagina. Design: Case study. Setting: Academic university gynecology clinic. Patient(s): A patient diagnosed with mullerian agenesis. Intervention(s): Laparoscopically assisted creation of a neovagina by using peritoneum. Main Outcome Measure(s): Patient morbidity and satisfactory intercourse. Result(s): The patient underwent the procedure satisfactorily and was discharged within 24 hours. She had no perioperative or postoperative complications, and she became satisfactorily sexually active. Conclusion(s): The use of laparoscopically mobilized peritoneum in the creation of a neovagina provided the patient with a functional vagina, allowing satisfactory intercourse.
Generalization of von Neumann analysis for a model of two discrete half-spaces: The acoustic case

Evaluating the performance of finite-difference algorithms typically uses a technique known as von Neumann analysis. For a given algorithm, application of the technique yields both a dispersion relation valid for the discrete time-space grid and a mathematical condition for stability. In practice, a major shortcoming of conventional von Neumann analysis is that it can be applied only to an idealized numerical model — that of an infinite, homogeneous whole space. Experience has shown that numerical instabilities often arise in finite-difference simulations of wave propagation at interfaces with strong material contrasts. These interface instabilities occur even though the conventional von Neumann stability criterion may be satisfied at each point of the numerical model. To address this issue, I generalize von Neumann analysis for a model of two half-spaces. I perform the analysis for the case of acoustic wave propagation using a standard staggered-grid finite-difference numerical scheme. By deriving expres...
Modeling the correlation structure of data that have multiple levels of association

Some modem approaches for the analysis of non-normally distributed and correlated data, including Liang and Zeger's ( 1986 ) method of generalized estimating equations (GEE), model the pattern of association among outcomes by assuming a structure for their correlation matrix. A number of relatively simple patterned correlation matrices are available for measurements with one level of correlation. However, modeling the correlation structure of data with multiple levels, or causes, of association is not as straightforward; this note discusses some of the difficulties and discusses a simple class of correlation models that may prove useful in this endeavor.
On the noise power estimation in the presence of the signal for energy-based sensing

In Cognitive Radio, the key to overcome the spectrum scarcity is reliable spectrum sensing, which will allow efficient opportunistic spectral reuse with minimum interference to licensed users. We consider energy detection based sensing that requires efficient noise power estimation technique in order to reliably detect the primary transmissions. We consider three algorithms, viz. Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Minimum Description Length (MDL), and Rank Order Filtering (ROF), which estimate the noise power in the presence of the signal. The ROF key property is that it attempts to track the non-flat noise floor. Algorithm probability of missed detection is evaluated using data obtained from USRP2 devices. We illustrate that ROF may gain up to 6dB when signal to be detected is in the sub-band where the noise oor is not at (e.g., at the edges of the observed band).
Intraoperative lymphatic mapping in cervix cancer patients undergoing radical hysterectomy: A pilot study

Abstract Objective. Intraoperative lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymph node identification (SLN) have been increasingly evaluated in the treatment of a variety of solid tumors, particularly breast cancer and melanoma. We sought to evaluate the feasibility of these procedures in patients undergoing radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy for treatment of early cervical cancer. Methods. Twenty patients with normal-appearing lymph nodes underwent intracervical injection of isosulfan blue dye (lymphazurin 1%) at the time of planned radical hysterectomy and bilateral pelvic/low paraortic lymphadenectomy (40 nodal basins). Regional lymphatic tissue was inspected for dye uptake into lymphatic channels and lymph nodes. Tumor characteristics, surgical findings, and specific locations of lymphatic dye uptake were recorded and correlated with final pathology results. Results. Sentinel lymph nodes were identified in 12 of 20 (60%) patients. A total of 23 sentinel nodes were identified in 17 of 40 (43%) nodal basins dissected (range: 0–2 per basin). Successful SLN identification was less likely in patients with tumors >4 cm compared with those with tumors ≤4 cm ( P = 0.035). Of 4 patients with metastatic nodal disease, 3 had tumor involving a SLN; the fourth had no identifiable SLN (inadequate study). In all, 3 of 8 lymph nodes with confirmed metastatic disease were identified using this technique. Conclusion. SLN identification and intraoperative lymphatic mapping are feasible and safe. Lymphatic dye uptake appears to be less reliable in patients with larger tumors. Although sentinel node pathology was representative of the lymphatic basin sampled in all cases, the rate of SLN identification was low with this technique. Lymphatic mapping procedures should be further investigated in the treatment of early cervix cancer.
Frege and Object Dependent Propositions

Gareth Evans and John McDowell have challenged the traditional reading of Frege according to which Frege accepted propositions that are not object dependent, i.e., propositions that can exist even though the proper names that occur in the sentences that express them do not refer. A consequence of the Evans-McDowell interpretation of Frege is that if someone hallucinates that there is an oasis in front of her, then there is no thought of an oasis but only an illusion of a thought. No reference entails no sense, and no sense entails no thought. This paper will focus on Frege's views on the issue and, in particular, whether there is any evidence that the mature Frege, i.e., after he introduced the sense/reference distinction, did not accept propositions that are not object dependent. It will also address one of the consequences of the Evans-McDowell reading of Frege, arguing that they have ignored one of his important insights into natural languages.
Rotation of polarized light reflected from T - and P -violating phases

Developpement de la discussion anterieure concernant la rotation du rayonnement polarise reflechi par les phases violant la temperature et de la pression des materiaux supraconducteurs a haute temperature. Proportion et utilisation d'un modele du sac de flux pour obtenir des resultats semi quantitatifs. On insiste sur le fait que la supraconductivite d'une part, et la violation de T et P d'autre part, sont a priori logiquement distinctes. La rotation du rayonnement polarise peut survenir dans la phase non supraconductrice
Dietary self-selection by pregnant and lactating rats.

Abstract Protein-carbohydrate choice was studied in female rats through the course of the estrus cycle and during pregnancy and lactation. Both selecting and control diet fed animals grew at the same rates. Food intake was reduced during the estrus phase, but there were no changes in the dietary selection pattern. During both pregnancy and lactation protein intake was increased while carbohydrate intake was maintained at a level equal to nonimpregnated controls. These data were interpreted as supporting other studies showing that dietary self-selection follows the varying nutritional requirements of the organism.
Demonology during the Late Pharaonic and Greco-Roman Periods in Egypt

[AbstractThis paper gives an overview of the beliefs in demons as perceived by the ancient Egyptians during the later phases of the Pharaonic period and under the Greco and Roman rule. It focuses in particular on the so-called “guardian demons” represented and named on the walls of the Ptolemaic temples such as the temple of Hathor at Dendera. These figures of protectors are in fact later reinterpretations of the demonic guardians of the doors and regions of the netherworld as described in the so-called Book of the Dead. Through this and other examples taken from iconographic and textual sources mentioning demons, it is discussed how the conception and ritual practices concerning “demons” changes significantly in Greco-Roman Egypt as compared to the earlier Pharaonic period., Abstract This paper gives an overview of the beliefs in demons as perceived by the ancient Egyptians during the later phases of the Pharaonic period and under the Greco and Roman rule. It focuses in particular on the so-called “guardian demons” represented and named on the walls of the Ptolemaic temples such as the temple of Hathor at Dendera. These figures of protectors are in fact later reinterpretations of the demonic guardians of the doors and regions of the netherworld as described in the so-called Book of the Dead. Through this and other examples taken from iconographic and textual sources mentioning demons, it is discussed how the conception and ritual practices concerning “demons” changes significantly in Greco-Roman Egypt as compared to the earlier Pharaonic period.]
Theophylline versus terbutaline in treating critically ill children with status asthmaticus: A prospective, randomized, controlled trial

Objective To compare the efficacy of theophylline, terbutaline, or theophylline combined with terbutaline treatment in critically ill children with status asthmaticus who are already receiving continuous nebulized albuterol and intravenous corticosteroids. Design Randomized, prospective, controlled, double-blind trial. Setting Pediatric intensive care unit of a tertiary-care children's medical center. Patients Forty critically ill children between the ages of 3 and 15 yrs with impending respiratory failure secondary to status asthmaticus. Interventions All patients received intravenous methylprednisolone and continuous nebulized albuterol. The three study groups received theophylline plus placebo (group 1), terbutaline plus placebo (group 2), or theophylline and terbutaline together (group 3). Measurements and main results Differences in baseline characteristics, change in clinical asthma score over time, length of pediatric intensive care unit stay, and incidence of adverse events were determined. The three study groups were similar in age, gender, race, asthma severity, and treatment. There were no differences in clinical asthma score over time, length of pediatric intensive care unit stay, or incidence of adverse events between the three groups, with the exception of a higher incidence of nausea in children in group 3. The median hospital cost of medication and theophylline blood levels was significantly lower in group 1 compared with groups 2 and 3 (280 US dollars vs. 3,908 US dollars vs. 4,045 US dollars, respectively, p Conclusions Theophylline, when added to continuous nebulized albuterol therapy and intravenous corticosteroids, is as effective as terbutaline in treating critically ill children with status asthmaticus. The addition of theophylline to baseline therapy is more cost-effective when compared with terbutaline alone or terbutaline and theophylline together. Theophylline should be considered for use early in the management of critically ill asthmatic children.