cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Balancing power in communities of practice: An examination of increasing student voice through school-based youth–adult partnerships

This article examines how power imbalances influence the formation of student voice initiatives, which are defined as school-based youth–adult partnerships that consist of youth and adults contributing to decision making processes, learning from one another, and promoting change. Using the concept of community of practice as a lens, the paper examines the ways in which power influences the mutual engagement, shared repertoire, and joint enterprise of youth–adult partnerships. Specifically, the study finds that the following strategies can strengthen student voice initiatives: building meaningful roles based upon mutual responsibility and respect among all members; developing shared language and norms, and developing joint enterprises aimed at fostering voices that have previously been silenced from decision making and knowledge-building processes.
Clinical performance of a handheld digital infrared monocular pupillometer for measurement of the dark-adapted pupil diameter

Purpose To compare the accuracy of a handheld infrared digital pupillometer and digital infrared photography for measurement of the dark-adapted pupil diameter. Setting Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA. Methods The right horizontal pupil diameter in healthy volunteers was measured using a NeurOptics PLR-200 pupillometer and then videographed using the infrared function of a CyberShot video camera after 2 minutes and 5 minutes dark adaptation at 1 lux ambient illumination. The best still image was extracted from the video file, and the horizontal pupil diameter was determined by comparison against an internal photographic length standard using digital image software. Accommodation and alertness were controlled during testing. Results The mean horizontal pupil diameter by infrared photography after 2 minutes of dark adaptation by subject age was 7.71 mm for ages 20 to 29 years, 6.80 mm for ages 30 to 39 years, 6.53 mm for ages 40 to 49 years, 5.94 mm for ages 50 to 59 years, and 6.01 mm for ages 60 to 69 years. The mean difference (infrared photography minus pupillometer) was +0.09 mm (range +0.30 to −0.14 mm) at 2 minutes of adaptation and +0.07 mm (range +0.25 to −0.13 mm) at 5 minutes. Conclusions The pupillometer accurately measured the horizontal pupil diameter at 1 lux, with no measurement more than 0.3 mm different from infrared photography measurements. The pupillometer had a slight negative bias that is unlikely to introduce an error greater than 0.5 mm in clinical measurements. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
On the distributed estimation of rank-deficient dynamical systems: A generic approach

In this paper, we consider distributed estimation when the communication time-scale is restricted to the time-scale of the dynamics. It can be shown that this restriction may not guarantee a stable estimation error when the data fusion is implemented only in the observation-space. To address this issue, one has to rely on fusion in the predictor-space, which alone may lead to a stable error only when the system matrix is full S-rank (maximal rank of the zero/non-zero structure). In this paper, we show that when the system matrix is S-rank deficient, predictor-space fusion is insufficient, i.e., the distributed estimator is not observable. In order to recover distributed observability, we provide a novel measurement-based agent classification, and subsequently, define inter-agent communication derived from this classification. The results are based on structured systems theory and the notion of generic observability. Finally, we provide an illustrative example to show the applicability of the proposed schemes using an iterative Linear Matrix Inequality (LMI) approach.
Medication and medical service utilization for acne 1995-1998.

Abstract Background: Acne occurs in most persons sometime during adolescence or early adulthood and is a frequent reason for visits to dermatologists and for prescription drug therapy. Objective: The purpose of this study was to analyze changes in the utilization of physician services and medications for the treatment of acne. Methods: An analysis was performed of data from two US federal surveys of outpatient physician services and prescribing for the years 1980 to 1997 and two commercial sources of drug prescription data for 1996 to 1998. From these data, I estimated visits for acne and drugs prescribed during these visits. Results: Visits for women principally for acne are about 80% more frequent than those for men. Each year 5 million prescriptions for oral antibiotics and 1.4 million prescriptions for isotretinoin are dispensed for the treatment of acne. Conclusion: Substantial health care resources are devoted to the treatment of acne, with women particularly likely to continue to frequently utilize these services after 19 years of age. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2000;43:1042-8.)
Asymmetric Synthesis of Ring Functionalized trans-2,6- Disubstituted Piperidines from N-Sulfinyl δ-Amino β-Keto Phosphonates. Total Synthesis of (−)-Myrtine

Sulfinimine-derived N-sulfinyl δ-amino β-ketophosphonates are transformed via the enaminones to the phosphoryl dihydropyridones that selectively give trans-2,6-disubstituted 1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridines on organocuprate addition and dephosphorylation.
Computer Animation Using Parametric Models

Computer animation can be implemented using parametric polygonal models. A parametric model consists of a set of polygons, a set of functions and a set of parameters. The position of each polygon vertex is determined as a function of one or more of the para-meters. With parametric models, animation is reduced to specifying the parameter values for each frame of a sequence. Two models are used to illustrate this concept.© (1975) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Luring anglers to enhance fisheries

Current fisheries management is, unfortunately, reactive rather than proactive to changes in fishery characteristics. Furthermore, anglers do not act independently on waterbodies, and thus, fisheries are complex socio-ecological systems. Proactive management of these complex systems necessitates an approachdadaptive fisheries managementdthat allows learning to occur simultaneously with management. A promising area for implementation of adaptive fisheries management is the study of luring anglers to or from specific waterbodies to meet management goals. Purposeful manipulation of anglers, and its associated field of study, is nonexistent in past management. Evaluation of different management practices (i.e., hypotheses) through an iterative adaptive management process should include both a biological and sociological survey to address changes in fish populations and changes in angler satisfaction related to changes in management. We believe adaptive management is ideal for development and assessment of management strategies targeted at angler participation. Moreover these concepts and understandings should be applicable to other natural resource users such as hunters and hikers.
Validation of a Point Mutation of Acetylcholinesterase in Colorado Potato Beetle by Polymerase Chain Reaction Coupled to Enzyme Inhibition Assay

Abstract A serine to glycine point mutation of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE, EC 3.1.1.7) gene was identified previously in an azinphos-methyl-resistant (AZ-R) strain of the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say). To validate this mutation, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of specific alleles (PASA) was coupled to a functional assay for AChE in individual insects. The remaining activities of AChE after inhibition by 50 μ M azinphos-methyl-oxon was 22.3% ± 6.5 and 48.0% ± 3.9 (mean ± SD, n = 13) for the beetles from the azinphos-methyl-susceptible (SS) and AZ-R strains, respectively. This pattern of AChE inhibition established that AChE from the AZ-R beetles were significantly less sensitive to azinphos-methyl-oxon inhibition than that from the SS beetles. Using a competitive PASA technique to diagnose the azinphos-methyl-resistance allele of the AChE gene in these insects, the resistance allele was found in all AZ-R beetles but was never found in the SS beetles. These results agree well with the level of susceptibility of the AChE in individual insects and support the contension that the serine to glycine mutation is responsible for the reduced sensitivity of the AChE to inhibition by azinphos-methyl-oxon in the AZ-R strain of beetles. The utilization of the PASA technique for resistance monitoring in Colorado potato beetle is also discussed.
On the Rhyme Scheme of Robert Herrick's TO DAFFODILS

Robert Herrick's poignant lyric poem, “To Daffodils,” has an unusual rhyme scheme. A perusal of the critical tradition does not yield an explanation of how that scheme suits the poem's meaning. I a...
Relative impact of earlier diagnosis and improved treatment on survival for colorectal cancer: A US database study among elderly patients

Abstract Purposes To estimate what proportion of improvement in relative survival was attributable to smaller stage/size due to early detection and what proportion was attributable to cancer chemotherapy in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Methods We studied 69,718 patients with CRC aged ≥66 years in 1992–2009 from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registries. Study periods were categorized into three periods according to the major changes or advances in screening and chemotherapy regimens: (1) Period-1 (1992–1995), during which there was no evidence-based recommendation for routine CRC screening and 5-fluorouracil was the mainstay for chemotherapy; (2) Period-2 (1996–2000), during which evidences and guidelines supported the use of fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and sigmoidoscopy for routine CRC screening; and (3) Period-3 (2001–2009), during which Medicare Program added the full coverage for colonoscopy screening to average-risk individuals, and several newly developed chemotherapy regimens were approved. Outcome variables included the likelihood of being diagnosed at an early stage or with a small tumor size, and improvement in relative survival. Results Compared to period-1, likelihood of being diagnosed with early stage CRC increased by 20% in period-2 (odds ratio=1.2, 95%CI: 1.1–1.2) and 30% in period-3 (1.3, 1.2–1.4); and likelihood of being diagnosed with small-size CRC increased by 60% in period-2 and 110% in period-3. Similarly, 5-year overall relative survival increased from 51% in period-1 to 56% in period-2 and 60% in period-3. Increase in survival attributable to migration in stage/size was 9% in period-2 and 20% in period-3, while the remaining survival improvement during period-2 and period-3 were largely attributable to more effective chemotherapy regimens (≥71.6%) and other treatment factors (≤25%). Conclusions Improvements in CRC screening resulted in a migration of CRC toward earlier tumor stage and smaller size, which contributed to ≤20% of survival increase. Survival improvement over the past 2 decades was largely explained by more effective chemotherapy regimens (≥71.6%).
In the footsteps of George Orwell: Patrick McCarthy as Italian correspondent for Tribune, 1978–1980

Abstract Patrick McCarthy identified himself with George Orwell, from whom he took his notion of ‘political language’ and was loosely inspired by Orwell when he was Tribune correspondent in Italy during the late 1970s. McCarthy's dispatches from Italy contain four ‘Orwellian’ elements: a spare and vivid language, a uniformly critical treatment of the holders of power, sympathy for the marginal classes of society and support for the PCI (Partito dei Comunsti Italiani) as a party of resistance and opposition.
Human societies as corporate entities

M. G. Smith. Corporations and Society: The Social Anthropology of Collective Action. Chicago: Aldine Publishing Co., 1975. 383 pp. Tables, bibliography and index. $17.50.
Seizures in rural Zambia.

Summary: Purpose: To describe the period prevalence of epilepsy and febrile seizures in a bush hospital and discuss the medical sequelae and social impact of seizures in this population. Methods: For 13 weeks, an evaluation of inpatients was made at Chikankata Hospital in rural Zambia. Inpatients identified as having seizures, “fits,”“spells,” or “fainting,” were evaluated by a medical records review, basic demographic data, a neurological history and physical examination, and a treatment history. A semistructured questionnaire was administered to evaluate the social impact of seizures and assess factors associated with delayed care seeking. Results: Seizures composed 44% of all inpatient neurologic disease and resulted in 84 admissions. Epilepsy patients received treatment primarily from traditional healers; only 31% reported ever receiving antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Among those who had received treatment, AEDs were frequently underdosed. Patients with epilepsy had significantly less education than their sex-matched siblings. Patients with untreated epilepsy for >2 years were more likely to have experienced serious burns or falls requiring hospitalization. Children with febrile seizures whose parents held supernatural beliefs regarding seizures were more likely to be treated with traditional medicines, had higher malarial parasite counts, and required longer hospitalizations than children with febrile seizures whose parents recognized the association between seizures and hyperthermia. Conclusions: Epilepsy and febrile seizures are responsible for a significant burden of disease in rural Zambia. Serious medical complications often result from seizures, especially if untreated for >2 years. Social stigma decreases educational opportunities and misperceptions regarding seizures may result in delayed care for children with febrile seizures. Some evidence suggests that epilepsy is underreported, underrecognized, and undertreated in this population.
L‐1: Late‐News Paper: Conformable‐Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystals (C‐PDLC) Displays With Indefinitely Captured Form

We have developed a conformable-polymer dispersed liquid crystal (C-PDLC) by processing a PDLC material between conducting indium-tin-oxide (ITO) coated polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates above the glass transition temperature of the PET. After first fabricating a PDLC between ITO/PET substrates at room temperature, the display is then molded to conform to a particular template, heated above the glass transition temperature, and then allowed to cool back to room temperature where it is then released from its template. Using this process the PDLC display remains indefinitely conformed while retaining its optical functionality. We present a comprehensive study on the optical performance of these conformable displays, the processing steps necessary for fabrication, and the issues associated with the conducting substrate technology processed above the glass transition temperature.
On the dynamics of near-wall turbulence

A model of the dynamic physical processes that occur in the near-wall region of a turbulent flow at high Reynolds numbers is described. The hairpin vortex is postulated to be the basic flow structure of the turbulent boundary layer. It is argued that the central features of the near-wall flow can be explained in terms of how asymmetric hairpin vortices interact with the background shear flow, with each other, and with the surface layer near the wall. The physical process that leads to the regeneration of new hairpin vortices near the surface is described, as well as the processes of evolution of such vortices to larger-scale motions farther from the surface. The model is supported by recent important developments in the theory of unsteady surface-layer separation and a number of `kernel' experiments which serve to elucidate the basic fluid mechanics phenomena believed to be relevant to the turbulent boundary layer. Explanations for the kinematical behaviour observed in direct numerical simulations of low Reynolds number boundary-layer and channel flows are given. An important aspect of the model is that it has been formulated to be consistent with accepted rational mechanics concepts that are known to provide a proper mathematical description of high Reynolds number flow.
Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy with Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion

We examined three patients who had anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and ipsilateral internal carotid artery occlusion. Each patient had transient cerebral ischemic attacks associated with the occluded carotid artery. In two patients these attacks were in temporal proximity to the anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. Carotid angiography showed retrograde Riling of the ophthalmic artery through the external carotid artery demonstrating altered perfusion and, perhaps, hypoperfusion of the distal optic nerve head.
Some considerations of the origins of porosity in carbons from chemically activated wood

Abstract Investigations have been made of the conversion of white oak to activated carbons by reaction with phosphoric acid at temperatures up to 650°C. At low temperatures, reaction with the acid promotes dehydration reactions, and the redistribution of biopolymers. It is considered that the subsequent formation of crosslinks leads to an increase in carbon yield above about 300°C. Detailed observations by optical microscopy, and measurements of dimensional changes, have established for the first time a link between the origins of porosity and reaction mechanisms. Following an initial contraction, the structure undergoes considerable expansion between 250 and 450°C, which corresponds to the development of high surface area. Above 450°C, there is secondary contraction and an accompanying loss of accessible porosity. It is concluded that porosity development is directly related to the retention and dilation of cellular material, which creates an extensive surface accessible to adsorbent molecules. The results may be relevant to understanding equivalent processes with other biomass and coal precursors that contain biopolymers or altered biopolymers.
Metal evaporation shadowing: A computer simulation

This paper addresses the question of what is the very best deposition that can be achieved by metal evaporation shadowing. It deals, therefore, with the resolution attainable in metal shadowed specimens. The analysis disregards interatomic attractions (nucleation, crystallite formation, decoration) and generates depositions solely on the basis of probabilities of vacant, single, and multiple atom landings at different points on a substrate. The treatment starts by showing that random number generation can be used to simulate reasonably the evaporation of metal atoms from a shadowing source and their deposit on a substrate. A Fortran program tabulates and displays these simulated atom landings. The analysis shows that one can never expect to obtain a perfectly uniform deposit; some areas will always be heavily filled while others will be lightly filled or vacant. Resolution is thereby limited. The analysis shows how a deposit becomes more uniform as the number of atoms deposited increases. It predicts optimal amounts of deposition for various shadowing angles. The analysis also provides a rationale for the way in which deposition grain coarsens and resolution worsens as the angle of shadow is made more steep. Computer-generated “ideal” depositions are compared with real shadow grains achieved under equivalent experimental conditions. The simulations are also compared with deposits achieved by novel shadowing methods. Ways to improved metal evaporation technique are suggested by the analysis and these are discussed.
Reciprocal Fusions of Two Genes in the Formaldehyde Detoxification Pathway in Ciliates and Diatoms

During the course of a pilot genome project for the ciliate Oxytricha trifallax, we discovered a fusion gene never before described in any taxa. This gene, FSF1, encodes a putative fusion protein comprising an entire formaldehyde dehydrogenase (FALDH) homolog at one end and an S-formylglutathione hydrolase (SFGH) homolog at the other, two proteins that catalyze serial steps in the formaldehyde detoxification pathway. We confirmed the presence of the Oxytricha fusion gene in vivo and detected transcripts of the full-length fusion gene. A survey of other large-scale sequencing projects revealed a similar fusion protein in a distantly related ciliate, Tetrahymena thermophila, and a possible fusion of these two genes in the diatoms Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Thalassiosira pseudonana, but in the reverse order, with the SFGH domain encoded upstream of the FALDH domain. Orthologs of these fusion proteins may be widespread within the ciliates and diatoms.
Probabilistic accuracy bounds for perforated programs: a new foundation for program analysis and transformation

Traditional program transformations operate under the onerous constraint that they must preserve the exact behavior of the transformed program. But many programs are designed to produce approximate results. Lossy video encoders, for example, are designed to give up perfect fidelity in return for faster encoding and smaller encoded videos [10]. Machine learning algorithms usually work with probabilistic models that capture some, but not all, aspects of phenomena that are difficult (if not impossible) to model with complete accuracy [2]. Monte-Carlo computations use random simulation to deliver inherently approximate solutions to complex systems of equations that are, in many cases, computationally infeasible to solve exactly [5]. For programs that perform such computations, preserving the exact semantics simply misses the point. The underlying problems that these computations solve typically exhibit an inherent performance versus accuracy trade-off — the more computational resources (such as time or energy) one is willing to spend, the more accurate the result one may be able to obtain. Conversely, the less accurate a result one is willing to accept, the less resources one may need to expend to obtain that result. Any specific program occupies but a single point in this rich trade-off space. Preserving the exact semantics of this program abandons the other points, many of which may be, depending on the context, more desirable than the original point that the program happens to implement.
A framework for ecological risk assessment at the EPA

Ecological risk assessments evaluate the likelihood of adverse ecological effects caused by stressors related to human activities such as draining of wetlands or release of chemicals. The term stressor is used to describe any chemical, physical, or biological entity that can induce adverse effects on ecological components (i.e., individuals, populations, communities, or ecosystems). In this review article, a historical perspective on ecological risk assessment activities at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is followed by a discussion of the EPA's “Framework Report,” which describes the basic elements for conducting an ecological risk assessment. The “Framework Report” is neither a procedural guide nor a regulatory requirement within the EPA. Rather, it is intended to foster a consistent approach to ecological risk assessments within the Agency, identify key issues, and define terminology.
Computers, paradoxes and the foundations of mathematics: Some great thinkers of the 20th century have shown that even in the austere world of mathematics, incompleteness and randomness are rife

Everyone knows that the computer is a very practical thing. In fact, computers have be come indispensable to mrvning a modern soci ety. But what even computer experts don't re member is that?I exaggerate only slightly?the computer was invented in order to help to clar ify a philosophical question about the founda tions of mathematics. Surprising? Yes indeed. This amazing story begins with David Hilbert, a well-known German mathematician who at the start of the 20th century proposed formalizing completely all of mathematical reasoning. It turned out that you can't formal ize mathematical reasoning, so in one sense his idea was a tremendous failure. Yet in another way, Hilbert's idea was a success, because for malism has been one of the biggest boons of the 20th century?not for mathematical rea soning or deduction, but for programming, for calculating, for computing. This is a forgotten piece of intellectual history. I will relate that history here without delving into mathematical details. So it will be impos sible to fully explain the work of the relevant
Quadratic inequalities deduced from the theory of reproducing kernels

Abstract A typical result given in this paper is as follows: For an N X N positive definite Hermitian matrix A and for any vector x ϵ C , we obtain the inequality (expx) ∗ ( exp A -1 ) -1 (expx) ⩽ exp (x ∗ Ax) , where, for x = ( x 1 , x 2 ,…, x N ) T , expx = (exp x 1 , exp x 2 ,…,exp x N ) T and for A =‖ a νμ ‖, exp A =‖(exp a νμ )‖.We deal with inequalities of this type in a more general situation by using the theory of reproducing kernels.
Comorbidity and Primary Treatment for Localized Prostate Cancer: Data From CaPSURE™

Purpose: The optimal approach for treating localized prostate cancer remains controversial, leading to a multifactorial decision making process. We characterized the extent to which the presence and number of comorbidities affects treatment for localized prostate cancer.Materials and Methods: Data were abstracted from a longitudinal observational database of men with prostate cancer. A total of 5,149 men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer between 1995 and 2001 were included in this analysis if they had been treated with RP, external beam radiation, brachytherapy, hormonal therapy or surveillance. Comorbidity was assessed through a patient reported checklist of conditions. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the OR of the likelihood of receiving each type of therapy. The number of comorbidities and specific comorbidities in patients receiving RP were compared with comorbidities in patients receiving other treatment.Results: The adjusted OR showed a dose response between the number o...
Per capita income is related to suicide rates in men but not in women

Abstract Background: Suicide is an important medical and social problem. It has been suggested that socioeconomic factors play a more important role in suicide for men than for women. This study examined the relation between per capita income and suicide rates in men and women in European countries. Methods: Correlations were computed to examine relations between per capita income and suicide rates in men and women in 34 European countries. Using median split, countries were divided into two groups according to per capita income. Suicide rates in countries with higher per capita income were compared with suicide rates in countries with lower per capita income. Results: There was a trend towards a negative correlation between per capita income and suicide rates in men. Men in countries with lower per capita income commit suicide more frequently than men in countries with higher per capita income. Conclusion: Socioeconomic improvements are needed to reduce suicide rates.
New York Restaurant Industry: Strategic Responses to September 11, 2001

Abstract This research profiles the New York City restaurant industry response to a dramatic drop in business volume following the September 11th terrorist attack. Limited accessibility to the neighborhoods around the site of the World Trade Center challenged restaurants and other businesses to respond and survive the crisis. Through in-depth personal interviews with 14 restaurateurs, we compare the New York City response to the responses of other international tourism destinations in times of great personal and property losses. We examine the restaurateurs' first response following the terrorist attack followed by their responses to employees, customers, and changes in business volume and management.
Type‐Curve Solution to Aquifer Tests under Water‐Table Conditions

Graphical methods are outlined for determining the coefficients of transmissibility, storage, and delay index of an infinite aquifer under water-table conditions. The procedure is based on the theory, developed by N. S. Boulton (1963), of the nonsteady flow toward a steadily discharging well from an infinite water-table aquifer allowing for delayed yield from storage. An application of these methods is illustrated by treating actual field data collected from a pumping test near Lawrenceville, Illinois. The results of 18 selected pumping tests are summarized. A relationship between the delay index and the materials through which gravity drainage takes place is given.
Accelerated Endothelialization Model for the Study of Dacron Graft Healing

< 0.05). The neointima, which contained smooth muscle cells, was formed as early as 2 weeks in the vein-wrapped grafts. There were no differences in the speed of healing or in healing patterns according to whether the intimal or the adventitial side of the inferior vena cava was placed against the graft. Histologic findings did not support the hypothesis that accelerated flow surface endothelialization results in direct migration of endothelial cells from the intima of the vein wrap, and there was no clear correlation between the surface endothelial-like cell coverage and microostia. To gain further insight into why accelerated healing occurs in this model, earlier observations accompanied by molecular biology analysis are needed, and vein wrap studies provide a method of comparison for this work.
Proteomic-Based Biosignatures in Breast Cancer Classification and Prediction of Therapeutic Response

Protein-based markers that classify tumor subtypes and predict therapeutic response would be clinically useful in guiding patient treatment. We investigated the LC-MS/MS-identified protein biosignatures in 39 baseline breast cancer specimens including 28 HER2-positive and 11 triple-negative (TNBC) tumors. Twenty proteins were found to correctly classify all HER2 positive and 7 of the 11 TNBC tumors. Among them, galectin-3-binding protein and ALDH1A1 were found preferentially elevated in TNBC, whereas CK19, transferrin, transketolase, and thymosin β4 and β10 were elevated in HER2-positive cancers. In addition, several proteins such as enolase, vimentin, peroxiredoxin 5, Hsp 70, periostin precursor, RhoA, cathepsin D preproprotein, and annexin 1 were found to be associated with the tumor responses to treatment within each subtype. The MS-based proteomic findings appear promising in guiding tumor classification and predicting response. When sufficiently validated, some of these candidate protein markers could have great potential in improving breast cancer treatment.
Assays and Statistical Analyses for Antibiotic Standards

Some microbiological assays and statistical analyses of test results used by the National Center for Antibiotics Analysis are described for the establishment of official antibiotic reference standards. Examples are given of both cylinder plate agar diffusion assays and turbidimetric assays. Formulas providing simple and quick analyses of data are shown for calculating potency, determining limits for the potency, and performing validity tests on the results.
Computer-aided 3-D temporal bone anatomy for cochlear implant surgery†

To define anatomical relationships important in cochlear implantation, computer-aided three-dimensional reconstruction and measurement of middle and inner ear structures in six normal temporal bones were performed. Our findings were as follows: 1. When viewed from the posterior hypotympanotomy (facial recess) approach, the inferior 10% to 30% of the round window (RW) membrane was visible in only half the cases. 2. The most inferior portion of the basal turn of the scala tympani was not only inferior but also slightly anteriorly behind the RW membrane in more than half the cases. 3. The shortest distances from the aperture of the RW niche and from the margin of the RW to the stapes head were 2.38 +/- 0.33 and 2.15 +/- 0.22 mm, respectively. 4. The distance between the RW and the most inferior portion of the basal turn scala tympani was 5.15 +/- 0.34 mm. 5. The direction of the electrode advancement lay at a sharp angle to the inferior part of the RW (mean 31.9 +/- 3.6 degrees). 6. The direction from the RW to the most inferior portion of the basal turn scala tympani lay 16.0 +/- 5.3 degrees anteroinferior to the direction of the advancement of the electrode to the RW. 7. The distance between the margin of the RW and the basilar membrane of the cochlea was 0.58 +/- 0.10 mm at the superior aspect of the RW, and was 1.23 +/- 0.12 mm at the lateral aspect of the RW. 8. Dissecting away less than 1 mm (mean 0.7 +/- 0.27 mm) of the RW margin inferiorly or inferolaterally was enough to permit straight insertion of the electrode in most cases.
A 3-D bismuth–organic framework containing 1-D cationic inorganic [Bi2O2]2+ chains

Abstract A three-dimensional Bi(III) based metal–organic framework was synthesized under hydrothermal conditions using the multidentate organic linker 3,5-pyridinedicarboxylate. Bismuth oxide 3,5-pyridinedicarboxylate, Bi2O2[NC5H3(CO2)2], contains embedded 1-D cationic bismuth oxide chains that propagate along the crystallographic c-axis. The oxygens of the Bi2O2 core are three-coordinate and bond strongly to the Bi atoms. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the material possesses high thermal stability up ca. 400 °C before decomposing to phase-pure Bi2O3 at 800 °C. The structure, crystallinity, morphology and properties of the material are discussed.
Pleasure Beats: Rhythm and the Aesthetics of Current Electronic Music

The division between high-art electronic music and pop electronic music is best defined in terms of rhythmic content. Pop electronic music uses repetitive beats, primarily in 4/4 time, but a new generation of composers is working within that structure to create what is essentially the new art music. This phenomenon is an outgrowth of such historical currents as minimalism and postmodernism, along with the continuing development of a global technoculture; it is part of a larger cultural shift in which art is becoming more connected with society rather than being created by and for specialists. This positive development is being accelerated by the rapid evolution of new technologies for producing and reproducing music today, as well as by new possibilities for distribution and dissemination of music electronically.
A comparative study of poly(methyl methacrylate) and polystyrene/clay nanocomposites prepared in supercritical carbon dioxide

Abstract Poly(methyl methacrylate) and polystyrene/clay nanocomposites have been prepared via pseudo-dispersion polymerizations in the presence of a poly(dimethylsiloxane) surfactant-modified clay (PDMS-clay) in supercritical carbon dioxide. The effects of the PDMS-clay concentration on polymer conversion, molecular weight, and morphology have been investigated. The insoluble dispersion of PDMS-clay is shown to be an effective stabilizer for both MMA and styrene polymerization in scCO 2 . The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). While XRD shows featureless patterns for both nanocomposites, the actual distributions of clay are found to be quite different between PMMA and PS nanocomposites, presumably due to the different interaction mechanisms between the polymers and clay. Consequently, the different states of clay in the two nanocomposites play an important role in the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites, and a to a lesser degree in the thermal properties.
Real-time feedback on rater drift in constructed-response items: An example from the golden state examination

In this study, patterns of variation in severities of a group of raters over time or so-called “rater drift” was examined when raters scored an essay written under examination conditions. At the same time feedback was given to rater leaders (called “table leaders”) who then interpreted the feedback and reported to the raters. Rater severities in five successive periods were estimated using a modified linear logistic test model (LLTM, Fischer, 1973) approach. It was found that the raters did indeed drift towards the mean, but a planned comparision of the feedback with a control condition was not successful; it was believed that this was due to contamination at the table leader level. A series of models was also estimated designed to detect other types of rater effects beyond severity: a tendency to use extreme scores, and tendency to prefer certain categories. The models for these effects were found to be showing significant improvement in fit, implying that these effects were indeed present, although they were difficult to detect in relatively short time periods.
Imaging of human islet vascularization using a dorsal window model.

Abstract Background The islets of Langerhans are micro-organs rich in blood vessels. The process of islet isolation and culture disrupts the vasculature of the islets. The reestablishment of an appropriate microvascular supply is an essential prerequisite for long-term survival and function of islet grafts. In this study, we examined the effects on the process of neovascularization of coating the islets with fibrin. Methods Isolated human islets were stained using the dioctadecylindocarbocyanine (DII) dye. An aliquot of the human islets were embedded in 3-dimensional fibrin. Human islets (100 islets-equivalents) were transplanted into a mouse dorsal window model to evaluate angiogenesis over 17 days. Transplanted islets were divided into 2 groups: either free islets or islets coated with fibrin gel. Animals were imaged using intravital microscopy immediately and at 3, 4, 8, 11, and 17 days after surgery. The DII dye caused the islets to be fluorescent and visible using a rhodamine filter. Fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran was used to visualize vasculature structures surrounding the islets. Results Human islets coated with fibrin demonstrated an early appearance of a network of immature blood vessels that produced a significantly higher density/unit area for neovascularization by day 8 after transplantation. Conclusion Our preliminary data showed that fibrin played a role in early neovascularization and support to sustain development of new blood vessels. Fibrin formed a matrix that helped to maintain the 3-dimensional structure of, and therefore reducing the environmental stress on islets.
A systematic construction method for spatial-varying FIR filter banks with perfect reconstruction

Presents a systematic method to construct two dimensional spatial-varying filter banks that preserve the perfect reconstruction property. These filter banks are constructed from arbitrary two dimensional (separable or nonseparable) local perfect reconstruction FIR filter banks on different rectangular regions, where overlaps between neighboring regions are used to eliminate the blocking effects. A numerical example is given to illustrate the theory. >
Circularscan: a scan architecture for test cost reduction

Scan-based designs are widely used to decrease the complexity of the test generation process; nonetheless, they increase test time and volume. A new scan architecture is proposed to reduce test time and volume while retaining the original scan input count. The proposed architecture allows the use of the captured response as a template for the next pattern with only the necessary bits of the captured response being updated while observing the full captured response. The theoretical and experimental analysis promises a substantial reduction in test cost for large circuits.
GROWING SPORES OF P.A. 3679 IN FORMULATIONS OF BEEF HEART INFUSION BROTH

Spores of the putrefactive anaerobe (P.A.) 3679 are widely used in inoculated pack studies designed to evaluate the adequacy of heat processes for low acid foods. For this purpose, it is essential to have the ability to repeatedly grow large amounts (> 106) of test spores with comparable heat resistance. Beef heart infusion broth fortified with 1.0% tryptone, 1.0% gelatin, 0.05% glucose, 0.4% dibasic Potassium phosphate, 0.3% sodium citrate, and either 0.5% isoelectric casein or 1.5% skim milk powder, in the presence of beef heart particles was found to be dependable for producing > 109 heat resistant spores/liter medium when incubated 2 wk at 30°C followed by 1 wk at 20°C. With the beef heart debris either remaining or absent after two washing, the heat resistance of the spores did not change during 1 yr of storage at 4°C.
The functional effect of dilated cardiomyopathy mutation (R144W) in mouse cardiac troponin T is differently affected by α- and β-myosin heavy chain isoforms

Given the differential impact of α- and β-myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms on how troponin T (TnT) modulates contractile dynamics, we hypothesized that the effects of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) ...
A capstone design project for engineering technology students

This paper describes one of the capstone engineering design projects implemented by Penn State Altoona BSEMET (baccalaureate degree in electro-mechanical engineering technology) students during their senior year. This project is titled "Design and Implementation of a Vending Machine". At Penn State Altoona, the vending machine is designed and built by individual students in one semester. The paper begins with a description of the BSEMET program. Next, the paper describes the BSEMET capstone project design course (EMET 440). Finally, the paper provides a description of one of the EMET 440 capstone design projects recently completed by students. The project consists of design and implementation of a vending machine using a PLC. The paper presents the design specifications of this vending machine and provides details regarding its design and implementation. Recommendations for design improvement are presented.
Fast pulsed amperometric detection at noble metal electrodes: A study of oxide formation and dissolution kinetics at gold in 0.1 M NaOH

The anodic charge (qa) for oxide formation, obtained by potential-step chronocoulometry at a Au minidisk electrode, is nearly a linear function of log (t/ms) for t = ca. 3–30 ms with a slope proportional to the applied overpotential for oxide formation. It was demonstrated that, contrary to popular opinion based on voltammetric observation at slow scan rates (ϕ), the anodic current for oxide formation obtained using a linear potential-scan waveform is not a linear function of ϕ at large values of ϕ. It was also demonstrated that a reverse potential-step waveform can be used to interrupt the rapid oxide growth and, perhaps, inhibit the conversion of the hydrous oxide (AuOH) to the inert oxide (AuO). This result has probable significance for decreasing the background current during anodic pulsed amperometric detection of amines and sulfur compounds whose oxidation mechanisms are believed catalyzed by AuOH but not by AuO. The cathodic charge (qc) for oxide dissolution is approximately a linear function of t with a slope that is proportional to the applied potential.
Lung Cancer Outcomes in Women

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in men and women. Since the 1970s, there has been evidence for improved survival of women with lung cancer compared to men. Multiple analyses have demonstrated a survival advantage in women regardless of stage, histology, or treatment. The etiology for the improved prognosis is not yet fully elucidated, but is likely related to underlying biologic differences, including hormonal interactions. More recently, gender differences in response to newer agents such as epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors and anti-angiogenesis agents have been identified. Further exploration of tumor molecular, biologic, hormonal, and pharmacogenomic interactions may provide additional insight into the observed survival benefit for women and, ultimately, permit exploitation of these differences in our treatment selection for both women and men.
A derivative matching approach to moment closure for the stochastic logistic model.

Continuous-time birth-death Markov processes serve as useful models in population biology. When the birth-death rates are nonlinear, the time evolution of the first n order moments of the population is not closed, in the sense that it depends on moments of order higher than n. For analysis purposes, the time evolution of the first n order moments is often made to be closed by approximating these higher order moments as a nonlinear function of moments up to order n, which we refer to as the moment closure function.
Complicated urinary tract infections

No standard definition exists for the term, complicated urinary tract infection. The term is usually used to convey an infection that occurs in a host with altered defenses or in a patient with a structural or functional abnormality impeding urine flow. Therapy of complicated infections represents a greater challenge than treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Drug treatment of complicated urinary tract infections often must be complemented with radiological/surgical intervention. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and the newer quinolone compounds are currently the preferred agents for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections. There exists a dearth of well designed published studies to serve as a resource for treatment guidelines.
Detection of Bacillus anthracis spores: comparison of quantum dot and organic dye labeling agents

Organic dyes are routinely used in labeling assays and sensing of biological molecules. Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) have attractive features, particularly good resistance to photobleaching and narrow emission bands, which make them potential replacements for organic dyes. Using a previously identified synthetic peptide, a QD, and the R-phycoerythrin (RPE) dye, we have examined various labeling strategies for detecting Bacillus anthracis spores. The RPE dye performed well, but we were unable to demonstrate successful binding of the QD by flow cytometry or confocal microscopy. Using a related conjugation strategy, Jurkat T-cells were labeled via a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that binds to the CXC chemokine receptor, CXCR4. It was noted that both QD and RPE labeled the cells. Based on electron microscopy data, we propose that a dense network of fibers on the Bacillus anthracis spore surface prevented the QD, but not RPE, from binding. These results suggest that the nature of the biological surface must be considered when using QDs as replacements for organic dyes in biological sensing.
Repeat cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: review of indications and outcomes

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an established treatment option in selected patients with peritoneal dissemination from a variety of epithelial primaries. Even though a small proportion will be alive and potentially cured at 10 years, the majority will eventually develop recurrent disease. Repeat CRS/HIPEC is a valid consideration in a selected subpopulation of patients with isolated peritoneal recurrence. This review summarizes the data on patient selection, feasibility, limitations and outcomes of repeat CRS/HIPEC.