cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chapter 11 Does Learning to Add up Add up? The Returns to Schooling in Aggregate Data

Abstract The theoretical, conceptual, and practical difficulties with the use of cross-national data on schooling are so severe using aggregate data for any purpose for which individual level data would do should be avoided. There are, however, three questions for which the use of cross-national data on schooling could potentially help answer interesting questions for which individual data is insufficient. First, do differences in the evolution and dynamics of schooling help explain the big facts about the evolution and dynamics of output growth? Largely, no. Second, the existence and magnitude of output externalities to schooling is an important question with possible normative policy implications, and evidence for externalities requires at least some level of spatial aggregation. Does the cross-national data provide support for output externalities? Largely, no. Third, cross-national (or more broadly spatially aggregated) data allows the exploration of the impact on returns to schooling (or in the gap between private and social returns) of differences in economic environments. This last question seems a promising line for future research.
One step purification of alpha(1)-acid glycoprotein from human plasma. Fractionation of its polymorphic allele products.

Abstract Alpha1-acid glycoprotein is a plasma protein that exhibits both microheterogeneity and polymorphism. Its purification from human plasma is usually performed using a sequence of different fractionation steps. Here we report a one-step isolation technique of this protein based upon pseudo-ligand affinity chromatography on immobilized Cibacron Blue F3GA at acidic pH. In addition, the use of two narrow pH elution buffers allows us to separate the two genetic products of this protein, which differ from each other by 21 amino acid substitutions. This technique will facilitate the study of the structural, biological and pharmacokinetic properties of each individual allele product.
Locally Advanced Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Update and Progress

Pancreatic cancer, the 4th leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., remains a challenging disease for the oncology community. Less than 20% of all cases are potentially cured by surgical resection, while the large majority of cases are deemed either unresectable or metastatic upon diagnosis. Advances in treating locally advanced pancreatic cancer have been few and modest. In this year’s American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium, three abstracts (#252, #254, #313) were presented with novel approaches towards treating locally advanced pancreatic cancer. Surgery for recurrent disease, a promising new chemoradiation regimen, and the application of an exciting multi-agent regimen (FOLFIRINOX: oxaliplatin, irinotecan, leucovorin, 5-fluorouracil) in a non-clinical trial setting, highlight the novel approaches focused on the management of this difficult disease.
Augmented antenna arrays for CDMA cellular systems

In this paper, a CDMA cellular system with an adaptive minimum redundancy array (MRA) at base stations is proposed. This system is based on the high-resolution signal angle of arrival algorithm, ESPRIT, in conjunction with array augmentation techniques, and linear least squares adaptation. For the MRA, we propose to use virtual array elements at the locations where there is no sensor element. All real and virtual sensor outputs are weighted and combined to extract the desired signal components and suppress interference. We use the Gaussian approximation to model all interference. To simplify the evaluation of the interference from adjacent cells, the concentric circle cell geometry is employed in place of the common hexagonal cell geometry. The performance of the proposed system is quantified by comparison with the omnidirectional antenna, and the adaptive uniform linear array (ULA) with the same number of elements and same array aperture, using realistic simulations. It is shown that there is around 4 dB and 1 dB improvement in the despread output signal to interference plus noise ratio of the proposed system over the omnidirectional antenna and the conventional ULA, respectively.
Impact of implementation of free high-quality health care on health facility attendance by sick children in rural western Kenya.

OBJECTIVES: To explore whether implementation of free high-quality care as part of research programmes resulted in greater health facility attendance by sick children. METHODS: As part of the Intermittent Preventive Treatment for Malaria in Infants (IPTi) begun in 2004 and population-based infectious disease surveillance (PBIDS) begun in 2005 in Asembo rural western Kenya free high-quality care was offered to infants and persons of all ages respectively at one Asembo facility Lwak Hospital. We compared rates of sick-child visits by children <10 years to all seven Asembo clinics before and after implementation of free high-quality care in 10 intervention villages closest to Lwak Hospital and 8 nearby comparison villages not participating in the studies. Incidence rates and rate ratios for sick-child visits were compared between intervention and comparison villages by time period using Poisson regression. RESULTS: After IPTi began the rate of sick-child visits for infants the studys target group in intervention villages increased by 191% (95% CI 75-384) more than in comparison villages but did not increase significantly more in older children. After PBIDS began the rate of sick-child visits in intervention villages increased by 267% (95% CI 76-661) more than that in comparison villages for all children <10 years. The greatest increases in visit rates in intervention villages occurred 3-6 months after the intervention started. Visits for cough showed greater increases than visits for fever or diarrhoea. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of free high-quality care increased healthcare use by sick children. Cost and quality of care are potentially modifiable barriers to improving access to care in rural Africa. (c) 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Stationary microperfusion study of phosphate reabsorption in proximal and distal nephron segments

Micropuncture studies demonstrate phosphate reabsorption in proximal tubules and between the late proximal and early distal convoluted tubule accessible to micropuncture. To further define the sites of phosphate reabsorption, the stationary microperfusion technique was applied to proximal and distal nephron segments. Phosphate reabsorption was evaluated in superficial loops of proximal tubules, descending segments beyound late proximal tubules accessible to micropuncture, ascending segments up to the point of micropuncture in the distal tubule, and superficial loops of distal tubules of thyroparathyroidectomized rats. Microperfusates of 1.3 or 2.6 nl (100 mmol/1 mannitol, 100 mmol/l NaCL, 32P-phosphate and 3H-inulin) were injected and then withdrawn after contact times of 2--108 s. Phosphate recovery relative to that of inulin was determined. A steep exponential decline of phosphate recovery (R) iwth increasing contact time (t) was observed in the superficial proximal tubule and descending segments. The slopes of the logarithmic regressions (10log R)/t, +/- SEM) were: -1.68 +/- 0.33 and -1.21 +/- 0.24min-1 in superficial proximal tubules and descending segments respectively. In contrast, no significant decline in phosphate recoveries (-0.02 +/- 0.04 and + 0.11 +/- 0.10 min-1) was apparent in the ascending segments and distal tubule. It is concluded that phosphate is reabsorbed in the proximal convoluted tubule and adjacent descending segments of the superficial nephron and that there is no significant phosphate reabsorption in distal convoluted tubules and adjacent ascending segments.
SPECTROELECTROCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SUBSTITUTED COBALT NITROSYL PORPHYRINS

Cobalt nitrosyl tetraphenylporphyrins CoT(p-X)PP(NO) (X = H, 1; OMe, 2; NO2, 3) substituted at the meso phenyl para position were prepared and the metal−NO interaction was probed using cyclic voltammetry and reflectance infrared spectroelectrochemistry. Electron-donating (OMe) and -withdrawing (NO2) groups were found to modulate the Co−NO interaction and to dramatically affect the first oxidation potential E1/2(0/+). Spectroelectrochemical experiments allowed, for the first time, the observation of ν(N⋮O) bands for both the first and second oxidation products, [CoT(p-X)PP(NO)]n+ (n = 1, 2).
Ethics and architecture: the case of Albert Speer

AbstractIt has been argued that there are obligations, or virtues and vices, that pertain uniquely to architectural practice. Thus Jack Sammons has argued that the moral failings of the Nazi architect Albert Speer were failings specific to him as an architect (qua architect). I argue that Sammons’ account misappropriates ideas about the virtues from Alasdair MacIntyre and for that and other reasons does not succeed. Nonetheless it may be possible to support the idea that there can be a specifically architectural ethics. I comment briefly on Heidegger's notion of ‘dwelling’ in trying to indicate what might be involved in such an ethics.
Federal regulatory assessment approach at the U.S. EPA

For this presentation the data package on acrylonitrile was used as an example of the processes by which risk assessment evaluations would be performed for chemicals regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Drinking Water. The discussion spans both regulatory and non-regulatory aspects of regulation. Developing risk assessments for EPA regulatory purposes is similar in all offices and in that context the considerations as well as the methods of assessing risks apply generally to regulatory considerations by other offices within the EPA.
Nitrogen fixation in root-colonized large woody residue of Oregon coastal forests

Abstract Coarse woody residues are conspicuous features of the forest floor in coastal Oregon forests. They provide habitats for plants, animals, and a diversity of microorganisms. Live plants are partially or completely rooted in the woody residues. This study provides baseline information on nitrogenase activities (nitrogen fixation) and populations of nitrogen-fixating organisms in root-colonized and noncolonized woody residues on forest and clearcut sites. Coarse woody residue of decay classes IV–V were sampled at three sites of Douglas-fir stands having varying amounts of understory vegetation. Nitrogen-fixation activity in woody residues was detected on all three sites. The woody residues at lower elevation sites near the coast had the least nitrogen-fixing activity and nitrogen-fixing bacterial populations. Plant colonized and noncolonized woody residues had significantly higher nitrogenase activity than the adjacent soils, but the activity between the colonized and noncolonized woody residues did not differ significantly.
Understanding Local Instructional Responses to Federal and State Accountability Mandates: A Typology of Extended Learning Time.

For the past dozen years, the federal government has held schools accountable for students’ achievement in reading and mathematics. Schools that have not demonstrated improved student scores have faced heavy sanctions, including reconstitution and closure. In response to this high-stakes environment, schools appear to have extended the time students spend in instruction in various ways. In this article, the authors develop a typology of the programs and reforms that extend instruction along three dimensions: time, target, and providers. On the time dimension, extended instruction can occur within a school day or outside of it. Along the target dimension, some types of extended instruction are delivered to all of a school's students while others target particular subpopulations, such as those who have failed to meet certain performance thresholds. Finally, extended instruction may be provided by a school's core instructional staff or by others, including specialized teachers, private providers, and peers. ...
Kinetic theory of density fluctuations in a classical liquid

The moment method is applied to calculate S(κ, ω), the double Fourier transform of the van Hove function, for a dense fluid described by the kinetic equation of Severne, Prigogine, Nicolis, Misguish and Davis. Special attention is devoted to the behaviour of this function at larger values of wave number κ than those associated with hydrodynamic behaviour. The interaction potential is separated into ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ parts in the spirit of Rice and Allnatt, following the prescription of Weeks, Chandler, and Anderson. Computations are done for a Lennard-Jones potential.
The Advancement of Science and Society

MEMBERS of the American Association for the Advancement of Science have read with much interest the comments on their resolution on international co-operation of scientists which appeared in NATURE of January 22, p. 150. As gratifying as these comments are, in one respect they differ somewhat from the spirit of the resolution.
Benefit cost analysis of environmental program alternatives: Economics, political philosophy and the policy process

Abstract A general conceptual model is presented for benefit cost analysis (BCA) of environmental programs. This model is entirely consistent with the potential Pareto-improvement (PPI) criterion, which provides direct links between BCA and (1) economics and (2) utilitarian political philosophy. I focus on the links between BCA and political philosophy, evaluate certain critiques of BCA in the contect of environmental policy, and propose a limited role for BCA as a system of information useful to the policy decision process.
The role of contact in the phonology of ASL

When Stokoe presented his original three aspect analysis of American Sign Language phonemic structure, he chose as his aspects 1) the place where the sign is made (TAB), 2) the distinctive configuration of the hand(s) (DEZ), and 3) the action of the hand(s) while making the sign (SIG) (Stokoe 1960; Stokoe, Casterline & Croneberg 1965/1976). Contact received both an implicit and an explicit treatment. Explicitly, Stokoe included a symbol for contactual action or touch as one of the possible values for movement. Implicitly, his analysis of place of formation separates the contact signs from the non-contact signs by the assignment of aspect values. There are 12 possible values for location: 6 for the face, head, and neck, 1 for the trunk, 2 for the arm, 2 for the hand, and 1 for “neutral space”. Any sign which makes contact with a body part is then assigned a location value for that body part, while signs that make no contact at all are assigned to neutral space.1 When subsequent analyses were proposed (Battison 1973; Battison, Markowicz & Woodward 1975), an additional major parameter, Orientation of the hands, was suggested.2 Contact did not receive much emphasis, in part because signs were seen only as either having contact or not having contact, and in part because even those signs that did have contact easily lost it in rapid signing, casual signing, and encumbered signing. Thus, the presence of contact was not considered to provide
Revisiting Reperfusion Therapy in Inferior Myocardial Infarction

Although thrombolytic therapy for acute myocardial infarction (MI) is recommended without regard for infarct location, treatment results are less impressive for inferior than for anterior MI because the amount of myocardium at risk is smaller and less strategically located, and the mortality risk is lower. Whereas the risks associated with anterior MI are relatively constant, high risk subsets of patients with an inferior MI can be identified by simple electrocardiographic criteria, including left precordial ST segment depression, complete atrioventricular heart block and right precordial ST segment elevation. Unfortunately, none of the placebo-controlled, randomized trials have analyzed the benefit of thrombolytic therapy for inferior MI in high risk versus low risk subsets. Thrombolytic therapy should be more successful in reducing infarct size and decreasing mortality in high risk patients with an inferior MI. Thrombolytic therapy may not decrease hospital mortality in low risk patients (baseline risk 2% to 4%) or those with symptom duration > 6 h. Whereas it is arguable whether coronary angioplasty is superior to thrombolytic therapy in anterior MI, there are no mortality data to support using angioplasty as a primary or rescue reperfusion strategy instead of thrombolytic therapy in inferior MI, unless thrombolytic contraindications are present or the patient is in cardiogenic shock.
Steinernema scarabaei for the control of white grubs

Abstract The efficacy of the new entomopathogenic nematode species, Steinernema scarabaei , isolated from white grubs in New Jersey for the control of economically important white grub species (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) was compared to that of two strains of Steinernema glaseri , four strains/isolates of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (including two fresh isolates from scarab larvae), and an undescribed Heterorhabditis species from Korea. The efficacy was tested against the oriental beetle, Exomala (= Anomala ) orientalis , the Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica , and the northern masked chafer, Cyclocephala borealis , under laboratory, greenhouse, and field conditions, and against the European chafer, Rhizotrogus majalis , in the laboratory. Under laboratory and greenhouse conditions, S. scarabaei was highly pathogenic to P. japonica , E. orientalis , and R. majalis , but was less effective against C. borealis . However, S. scarabaei provided excellent control of P. japonica , E. orientalis , and C. borealis under field conditions. P. japonica was the most nematode-susceptible white grub species. Against this species the superiority of S. scarabaei over the other nematodes tested became only apparent under field conditions and with very low nematode rates in the laboratory. C. borealis was less susceptible to all nematodes tested and only in a field experiment did S. scarabaei clearly outperform H. bacteriophora . Both E. orientalis and R. majalis were highly susceptible to S. scarabaei but showed moderate to low susceptibility to all other nematodes tested. In a field experiment, S. scarabaei also controlled P. japonica and E. orientalis larvae more quickly than H. bacteriophora . There was weak synergism between S. scarabaei and the neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid against E. orientalis larvae but not against P. japonica and C. borealis larvae. Overall, S. scarabaei shows exceptional potential for the biological control of white grubs.
Photoelectrochemical properties of ion-implanted hafnium dioxide films

Abstract Hafnium dioxide films implanted with varying concentrations of Xe have been investigated using photoelectrochemical techniques. Photocurrent spectra exhibited pronounced sub-band gap photo-responses and the dependence of the photocurrent on the potential was found to follow Poole-Frenkel behavior for the most heavily implanted film. Cathodic photocurrents were observed for all of the films at potentials above the flatband potential, which can be explained by a tunnelling mechanism of the electron against the field. Annealing of the films created a partial reordering.
Image quality optimization and evaluation of linearly mixed images in dual-source, dual-energy CT

In dual-source dual-energy CT, the images reconstructed from the low- and high-energy scans (typically at 80 and 140 kV, respectively) can be mixed together to provide a single set of non-material-specific images for the purpose of routine diagnostic interpretation. Different from the material-specific information that may be obtained from the dual-energy scan data, the mixed images are created with the purpose of providing the interpreting physician a single set of images that have an appearance similar to that in single-energy images acquired at the same total radiation dose. In this work, the authors used a phantom study to evaluate the image quality of linearly mixed images in comparison to single-energy CT images, assuming the same total radiation dose and taking into account the effect of patient size and the dose partitioning between the low-and high-energy scans. The authors first developed a method to optimize the quality of the linearly mixed images such that the single-energy image quality was compared to the best-case image quality of the dual-energy mixed images. Compared to 80 kV single-energy images for the same radiation dose, the iodine CNR in dual-energy mixed images was worse for smaller phantom sizes. However, similar noise and similar or improved iodine CNR relative to 120 kV images could be achieved for dual-energy mixed images using the same total radiation dose over a wide range of patient sizes (up to 45 cm lateral thorax dimension). Thus, for adult CT practices, which primarily use 120 kV scanning, the use of dual-energy CT for the purpose of material-specific imaging can also produce a set of non-material-specific images for routine diagnostic interpretation that are of similar or improved quality relative to single-energy 120 kV scans.
In Vitro Production of the Pheromone Intermediates Ipsdienone and Ipsenone by the Bark Beetles Ips pini (Say) and I. paraconfusus Lanier (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)

bees. The capacity of the follower bees to form averages of the distances and directions indicated in the individual wagging runs is not well understood. In this connection it is important whether the total scatter in the pooled data is caused by different bees indicating different average directions, or whether a similar amount of scatter is present in the consecutive wagging runs of a single dance. The latter appears to be true. In Fig. 3, an example is given of the directions indicated by 11 consecutive wagging runs in a single dance announcing food 1 m from the hive. This is the message received by the follower bees that stay with a single dancer for some time. In conclusion, an observation of the directions of individual wagging runs in a reasonable number of dances does not result in any significant directional indication at the distances below 15 m, where typical round dances occur in Apis mellifera carnica. Fairly similar data have been obtained in the Italian race (Apis mellifera ligustica), which has sickleshaped transition dances rather than the direct transition dances used by carnica. Our results thus support the interpretations offered by von Frisch (1967). The significant indication of direction already at a distance of 1 m reported by Kirchner et al. (1988) was obtained by a two-step averaging of at least 60 dances. We do not believe this to be a likely strategy for follower bees, but we are aware that only little is known about the number of round dances actually followed and about the capacity of bees to make averages. Studies on such behavioral aspects are in progress. The Center for Sound Communication is financed by the Danish National Research Foundation.
Convective flow dominates aerosol delivery to the lung segments

Most previous computational studies on aerosol transport in models of the central airways of the human lung have focused on deposition, rather than transport of particles through these airways to t...
The ACVD task force on canine atopic dermatitis (VII): mediators of cutaneous inflammation

Controversy still exists on the role of various inflammatory mediators in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis. The objective of this article is to review the most recent information available on the inflammatory mediators that have been implicated in the pathogenesis of this disease. Studies on the role of histamine, serotonin, leukotrienes and various cytokines are presented in a comparative manner reviewing the experimental evidence for a role in the pathogenesis and the arguments against it.
Ferroelectric coatings by the sol-gel method

Recent research on ferroelectric films via the sol-gel method is discussed, with emphases on preparative problems, electrical and optical properties, and applications in devices. Ferroelectric thin films, including LiNbO3, BaTiO3, KNbO3, Pb(ZrTii)O3, and (SrBai..)Nb2O6, were investigated. The structures of these ferroelectric materials are primary made up of networks of oxygen octahedras. They crystallized at relatively low temperature (< 0.5 Tm ), where Tm is liquidus temperature. Typical applications of ferroelectrics considered here include holographic memory and non-volatile semiconductor memory devices.
End-labeled amino terminated monotelechelic glycopolymers generated by ROMP and Cu(I)-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition

Functionalizable monotelechelic polymers are useful materials for chemical biology and materials science. We report here the synthesis of a capping agent that can be used to terminate polymers prepared by ring-opening metathesis polymerization of norbornenes bearing an activated ester. The terminating agent is a cis-butene derivative bearing a Teoc (2-trimethylsilylethyl carbamate) protected primary amine. Post-polymerization modification of the polymer was accomplished by amidation with an azido-amine linker followed by Cu(I)-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition with propargyl sugars. Subsequent Teoc deprotection and conjugation with pyrenyl isothiocyanates afforded well-defined end-labeled glycopolymers.
Use of Rehabilitated Habitat by Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout in an Ozark Tailwater River

Abstract We evaluated instream and riparian habitat rehabilitation that was completed following catastrophic flooding in the White River, below Beaver Dam, Arkansas. Most rehabilitation structures were designed to stabilize the river banks and increase cover for trout (Salmonidae) during high flows associated with hydroelectric power generation. We quantified trout response to rehabilitation at two spatial scales—microhabitat and river reach. At the microhabitat scale, brown trout Salmo trutta and rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss occupied the deepest habitats available and were randomly associated with cover at low flow (about 1 m3/s). Principal-component scores describing physical characteristics of brown trout and rainbow trout microhabitats were significantly different from available-habitat scores at high flow (about 215 m3/s), when trout were strongly associated with velocity refugia near the river margins—habitats similar to those created by rehabilitation structures. At the reach scale, trout popu...
Scrutinizing the relationship between shyness and social phobia.

Abstract The nature of the relationship between shyness and social phobia can be clarified by assessing rates of social phobia in highly shy and normative samples. In the present study, 2202 participants were screened and categorized on a shyness scale as highly shy (90th percentile) or “normatively” shy (40–60th percentile). The Composite International Diagnostic Interview and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis II Personality Disorders (SCID-II; Avoidant Personality Disorder module) were used to assign clinical diagnoses. Approximately 49% of individuals in the highly shy group had a social phobia diagnosis compared to 18% in the normatively shy group. Significantly more generalized social phobia (36% vs. 4%) and avoidant personality disorder (14% vs. 4%) diagnoses were present in the highly shy group compared to the normatively shy group. Equal rates of nongeneralized social phobia (i.e., 14% vs. 14%) were present in the highly shy and the normatively shy comparison group. Findings suggest that shyness and social phobia (especially the generalized type) are related constructs but not completely synonymous; an individual can be extremely shy yet not have a social phobia diagnosis.
Anisotropy of water cloud reflectance: A comparison of measurements and 1D theory

Bi-directional reflectances of marine liquid water clouds, as measured by the Multiangle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR), are compared with plane-parallel radiative transfer model calculations.
Infrared and Raman spectral studies of meso‐ 1, 2, 3, 4‐tetrabromobutane and meso‐ 1, 2, 3, 4 ‐ tetrachlorobutane

Infrared and Raman spectra were obtained for meso - 1, 2, 3, 4-tetrabromobutane and meso-1, 2, 3, 4-tetrachlorobutane. The spectra of both compounds were interpreted in terms of a centrosymmetrical conformation that has all carbons and primary halogens coplanar, with the secondary halogens being on opposite sides of that plane. Additional conformations are present in solution. Vibrational assignments are proposed, based on approximate normal coordinate calculations.
Freezing in the Presence of Rotation

Etude experimentale de la congelation d'un milieu a changement de phase dans une capsule cylindrique scellee en rotation. Etude de l'effet de la rotation en fonction du taux de remplissage de la capsule et de l'axe de rotation (colineaire a l'axe de la capsule ou perpendiculaire). Etude de l'effet d'une surchauffe prealable
The kinetics of oxyluminescence of selected polymers

The oxyluminescence (OL) curves of polyethylene, poly(vinyl stearate), and Nylon 69, obtained at various heating rates, were used to evaluate E and A of the light emission process. The Kissinger and Murray-White equations were used to evaluate the OL curves and thus obtain the kinetic parameters. A graphical method was used to calculate the theoretical E and A values for these three polymers using Tmax experimental data. Good agreement was found between the experimental and theoretical E and A values.
Clinical Utility of TSH Receptor Antibodies

Context: TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb) cause Graves' disease (GD) hyperthyroidism. Widely available TRAb measurement methods have been significantly improved recently. However, the role of TRAb measurement in the differential diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, the prediction of remission of GD hyperthyroidism, the prediction of fetal/neonatal thyrotoxicosis, and the clinical assessment of Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) are controversial. Evidence Acquisition: We reviewed and analyzed the literature reporting primary data on the clinical use of TRAb. We focused our analyses on clinical studies analyzing third-generation TRAb assays. Evidence Synthesis: The performance of TRAb in the differential diagnosis of overt hyperthyroidism is excellent, with sensitivity and specificity in the upper 90%. TRAb can accurately predict short-term relapses of hyperthyroidism after a course of antithyroid drugs but are less effective in predicting long-term relapses or remissions. Pregnancies in women with GD with negative TRAb a...
Microinfusion of antineuronal antibodies into rodent striatum: Failure to differentiate between elevated and low titers

Abstract An autoimmune-mediated mechanism has been proposed for several pediatric movement disorders. In a three-center (Brown, Yale, and Johns Hopkins) collaborative effort, serum antineuronal antibodies (ANAb) were measured by use of ELISA or immunohistochemical techniques on 35 children (mean age 11.4 years) with Tourette syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and/or obsessive compulsive disorder. Eight sera, 4 containing the highest and 4 the lowest levels of ANAb, were identified at each institution. Selected sera (total of 9 with elevated and 7 with low ANAb) were re-encoded and sent to each center for infusion into the ventrolateral striatum of 16 male Sprague–Dawley rats. Animals were observed for behavioral abnormalities for 3 days before the start of infusion, during infusion on days 2–4, and for 2 days after infusion. Combined stereotypy scores increased after antibody infusion, but there was no significant effect based on serum titer ( p = 0.85). Scores differed among centers, but analyses based on individual institutional data again failed to show an effect based on elevated or low ANAb values (Brown, p = 0.95; Yale and Johns Hopkins, p = 0.81). Post hoc studies with sham surgery and infusion of phosphate-buffered saline support suggestions of nonspecific behavioral effects unrelated to antibody titer. This report emphasizes that any conclusions about antibody-mediated movement disorders that are based upon results from the rodent infusion model must be considered with caution.
Incorporation of Metal Nanoparticles in Photopolymerized Organic Conducting Polymers: A Mechanistic Insight

Electrically conducting polymers were prepared through a systematic photopolymerization of polypyrrole with the incorporation of Group 1B metal particles. The structural and morphological propertie...
Do HMO penetration and hospital competition impact quality of hospital care

This study examines the impact of HMO penetration and competition on hospital markets. A modified structure-conduct-performance paradigm was applied to the health care industry in order to investigate the impact of HMO penetration and competition on risk-adjusted hospital mortality rates (i.e. quality of hospital care). Secondary data for 1957 acute care hospitals in the USA from the 1991 American Hospital Association's Annual Survey of Hospitals were used. The outcome variables were risk-adjusted mortality rates in 1991. Predictor variables were market characteristics (i.e. managed care penetration and hospital competition). Control variables were environmental, patient, and institutional characteristics. Associations between predictor and outcome variables were investigated using statistical regression techniques. Hospital competition had a negative relationship with risk-adjusted mortality rates (a negative indicator of quality of care). HMO penetration, hospital competition, and an interaction effect ...
Cloning and Characterization of a Functional Promoter of the Rat pp120 Gene, Encoding a Substrate of the Insulin Receptor Tyrosine Kinase

Cloning of the 5 -flanking region of the rat pp120 gene has indicated that it is a housekeeping gene: it lacks a functional TATA box and contains several Sp1 binding sites and multiple transcription initiation sites at nucleotides -101, -71, -41, and -27 spread over a GC-rich area. A fragment between nucleotides -21 and -1609 exhibited promoter activity when ligated in a sense orientation into a promoterless luciferase reporter plasmid and transiently transfected into rat H4-II-E hepatoma cells. 5' progressive deletion and block substitution analyses revealed that the three proximal Sp1 boxes (boxes 3, 5, and 6) are required for basal transcription of the pp120 gene. Promoter activity was stimulated 2-3-fold in response to insulin, dexamethasone, insulin plus dexamethasone, and cAMP. Although unaltered by phorbol esters alone, promoter activity was stimulated 4-5-fold in response to phorbol esters plus cAMP. Several motifs resembling response elements for insulin (in the rat phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase gene), glucocorticoids, cAMP, and phorbol esters as well as a number of putative binding sites for activating proteins-1 (Jun/Fos) and -2, and liver-specific factors were detected. The role of these sites in tissue-specific expression of pp120 remains to be investigated.
The mechanical response of aluminum implanted with oxygen ions

Abstract The microstructure and mechanical properties of high purity aluminum implanted to varying levels of oxygen and subjected to various thermal histories have been examined. Transmission electron microscopy and Rutherford-backscattering spectrometry were used to characterize the depth and nature of the implanted zone: a homogeneous distribution of γ-alumina precipitates with sizes of 5 nm or less extended to a depth of 500 nm below the surface, and the average oxygen concentration ranged up to 20 at.% Ultralow load indentation hardness testing was used to probe the mechanical response of the surface-modified material. The data from the hardness tests were interpreted through the use of a finite-element model; the results indicate the flow stresses of an implanted layer are as high as 1600 MPa. The degree of strengthening expected on the basis of the microstructure was estimated using several micromechanical models, and the results conform semiquantitatively to the findings from indentation testing.
Characteristics of Cast Stone cementitious waste form for immobilization of secondary wastes from vitrification process

Abstract The high-temperature in vitrification process of radioactive wastes could cause radioactive technetium (99Tc) in secondary liquid wastes to become volatile. Solidified cementitious waste forms at low temperature were developed to immobilize radioactive secondary waste. This research focuses on the characterization of a cementitious waste form called Cast Stone. Properties including compressive strength, surface area, phase composition, and technetium leaching were measured. The results indicate that technetium diffusivity is affected by simulant type. Additionally, ettringite and AFm (Al2O3–Fe2O3–mono) main crystalline phases were formed during hydration. The Cast Stone waste form passed the qualification requirements for a secondary waste form, which are compressive strength of 3.45 MPa and technetium diffusivity of 10−9 cm2/s. Cast Stone was found to be a good candidate for immobilizing secondary waste streams.
Intraindividual Variability in Psychometrically Defined Mild Cognitive Impairment Status in Older African Americans

The current study examines day to day variability in psychometrically defined MCI status and potential predictors of changes in MCI status in an independent-living sample of urban dwelling older adults in Baltimore, Maryland. The participant sample consisted of 50 older adults ranging in age from 50 to 80 years. Participants completed health and cognitive measures (i.e. executive function, language, memory, and global cognition) over 8 occasions within a 2–3 week period. After each testing occasion, a post-hoc classification of MCI status was determined using psychometrically defined criteria based upon cognitive performance. Participants who classified as MCI after one assessment often did not meet MCI criteria at subsequent occasions. Daily fluctuations in sleep duration were associated with an increased risk for MCI classification. These results demonstrate that changes in sleep may explain changes in MCI status, particularly for African Americans.
Generation of paraphrases from ambiguous logical forms

This paper presents a method for generating multiple paraphrases from ambiguous logical forms. The method is based on a chart structure with edges indexed on semantic information and annotations that relate edges to the semantic facts they express. These annotations consist of logical expressions that identify particular realizations encoded in the chart. The method allows simultaneous generation from multiple interpretations, without hindering the generation process or causing any work to be superfluously duplicated.
Faster intubation with direct laryngoscopy vs handheld videoscope in uncomplicated manikin airways.

Abstract Objective To compare average time to successful intubation and success rates using direct laryngoscopy (DL) with those using a battery-operated videoscope (VS) in uncomplicated manikin intubations. Methods Forty-four paramedics and emergency medicine faculty and residents received training with DL and VS. Participants performed 3 timed trials using each device. A single group repeated-measures analysis of variance for average time measurements was performed. Results Grouping physicians and paramedics, mean time to successful intubation for DL was 14.6 seconds (SD, 4.3 seconds) and for VS was 25.9 seconds (SD, 9.2 seconds; P P > .43). For VS, mean time for physicians was 26.0 seconds (SD, 10.0 seconds) and for paramedics, 25.7 seconds (SD, 8.6 seconds; P > .43). Conclusions Intubation with DL in uncomplicated manikin airways was faster than with VS ( P
Reactivity of superoxide anion radical with a perchlorotriphenylmethyl (trityl) radical

The reaction of superoxide radical with a tricarboxylate derivative of perchlorotriphenylmethyl radical (PTM-TC) is studied. PTM-TC is a stable ("inert") free radical, which gives a single sharp electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) peak in aqueous solutions. PTM-TC also gives a characteristic optical absorption at 380 nm. Superoxide, on reaction with PTM-TC, induced a decrease in the intensity of the EPR signal and optical absorption of PTM-TC at 380 nm. The signal loss was specific to superoxide and linearly dependent on the superoxide flux in the system. Competitive kinetics experiments revealed that PTM-TC reacts with superoxide with an apparent second-order rate constant of 8.3x10(8) M(-1) s(-1). Electrochemical and mass spectrometric analyses of the reaction suggested the formation of perchlorotriphenylmethane and molecular oxygen as products. The high sensitivity of detection of PTM-TC combined with the high rate constant of the reaction of superoxide with PTM-TC may offer a potential opportunity for measurement of superoxide in biological systems. In conclusion, the PTM-TC molecule has high sensitivity and specificity for superoxide radicals and thus may enable quantitative detection of superoxide generation in biological systems using EPR and/or spectrophotometric methods.
Bacteroides fragilis enterotoxin induces c-Myc expression and cellular proliferation

Abstract Background & Aims: Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis that secrete a zinc-dependent metalloprotease toxin termed the B. fragilis toxin (BFT) have been associated with acute diarrheal disease. BFT rapidly cleaves the extracellular domain of E-cadherin, leading to the complete degradation of the E-cadherin protein. E-cadherin is the primary intercellular adhesion protein of the zonula adherens, and its cytoplasmic domain associates with the nuclear signaling protein β-catenin. The goal of this study was to examine if BFT triggers β-catenin nuclear signaling in intestinal epithelial cells. Methods: Cell biologic and biochemical techniques were combined to address β-catenin nuclear signaling stimulated by BFT. Results: Loss of membrane-associated E-cadherin after BFT treatment of human colonic epithelial cells (HT29/C1 clone) triggers β-catenin nuclear localization within 3 hours. Subsequently, c- myc transcription and translation are induced and persistent cellular proliferation ensues, mediated in part by β-catenin/T-cell factor–dependent transcriptional activation. Cellular proliferation is stimulated by as little as 5 × 10 −10 mol/L BFT. Conclusions: To our knowledge, BFT is the first bacterial toxin reported to activate T-cell factor–dependent β-catenin nuclear signaling in intestinal epithelial cells. These results suggest that genetic evolution of this common colonic commensal has rendered an organism with the potential to contribute to oncogenic transformation in the colon.
Law enforcement officers' acceptance of advanced e-government technology: a survey study of COPLNK mobile

Timely information access and effective knowledge support is crucial to law enforcement officers' crime fighting and investigations. An expanding array of e-government initiatives target the development of advanced information technologies and their deployment in law enforcement agencies. Abase in point is COPLINK, an integrated system that provides law enforcement officers with timely data access, effective information support, integrated knowledge sharing, and improved collaboration within or beyond the agency boundaries. In this study, we examine law enforcement officers' acceptance of COPLONK Mobile by proposing and testing a factor model premised in established theoretical foundations. According to our results, the model is capable of explaining or predicting officers' intentions to use the technology. Our survey data support the proposed model and the hypotheses it suggests. Among the acceptance determinants we investigated, perceived usefulness appears to have the most significant influence on individual officers' intention to use COPLONK Mobile.
Developing standards for program inspections

Abstract There is an activity called program inspections in the Office of Inspector General (OIG) at the Department of Health and Human Services that has been growing and maturing for the past 10 years. This activity, which has utilized concepts and techniques from evaluation, auditing, policy analysis, management consulting, and public opinion research, provides objective information to top level policy makers in a timely fashion. It does this through short-term studies (3–5 months) that result in clear and concise reports (10–20 pages, with a 3-page executive summary), and an occasional stand-up briefing for the policy makers. Program Inspections went through various alterations until 1985, when its current function and attendant organizational alignment were firmly established. At that time, a committee was formed to develop standards for this multidisciplinary function. This paper will review the standard-setting process in the Office of Analysis and Inspections, the component in OIG that produces inspection reports; discuss the decisions that we made in formulating our standards; and provide some lessons that we learned from our experience.
Bacterial symbionts in agricultural systems provide a strategic source for antibiotic discovery

As increased antibiotic resistance erodes the efficacy of currently used drugs, the need for new candidates with therapeutic potential grows. Although the majority of antibiotics in clinical use originated from natural products, mostly from environmental actinomycetes, high rediscovery rates, among other factors, have diminished the enthusiasm for continued exploration of this historically important source. Several well-studied insect agricultural systems have bacterial symbionts that have evolved to produce small molecules that suppress environmental pathogens. These molecules represent an underexplored reservoir of potentially useful antibiotics. This report describes the multilateral symbioses common to insect agricultural systems, the general strategy used for antibiotic discovery and pertinent examples from three farming systems: fungus-farming ants, southern pine beetles (SPBs) and fungus-growing termites.
A smooth pursuit calibration technique

Many different eye-tracking calibration techniques have been developed [e.g. see Talmi and Liu 1999; Zhu and Ji 2007]. A community standard is a 9-point-sparse calibration that relies on sequential presentation of known scene targets. However, fixating different points has been described as tedious, dull and tiring for the eye [Bulling, Gellersen, Pfeuffer, Turner and Vidal 2013].
Total quality management and the Deming approach to quality management

This article discusses the total quality management (TQM) movement and then elaborates about W. Edwards Deming’s experiences and views. Finally, there is a comparison of total quality management and the Deming approach to quality management. The TQM movement was attractive to many organizations during the 1980s and the first half of the 1990s. To succeed, total quality management had many long‐term require‐ments. One of these was that top management must have a passion for the subject. Without this sustained passion top management’s attention and energy towards TQM would be diverted to other pressing needs. While Deming insisted that there was no “instant pudding”, many consultants in establishing themselves with a client suggested short‐term gains. Because of this search for short‐term gains, process improvement and reductions in cycle time became very popular and in some cases a final objective. Unfortunately, after they ran their short‐term course, many efforts collapsed and TQM was often declared a failure.