cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Building a More Effective, Equitable, and Compassionate Educational System: The Role of Direct Instruction

In a recent book, Anthony Biglan describes how strong social research can be used to build a compassionate and more caring society that promotes the well-being of all. This article asserts that a strong educational system needs to be part of this transformation and that widespread use of Direct Instruction (DI) could be key in the process. Analysis of the underlying theory, development, and use of DI describes the way it is based on careful developmental research. It promotes effective and efficient learning while embodying respect for students and teachers. The results of a recent large meta-analysis of research on DI’s effectiveness show it is more effective than other educational approaches, with effect sizes that surpass the effect associated with the difference in achievement of students from lower income and other homes. Alternative approaches to educational change are reviewed and it is suggested that DI is a more effective and efficient method of improving student success. Powerful actors within the educational establishment have expressed opposition to DI and have worked to hide evidence of its effectiveness. This paper identifies other social actors who could work together to counter the resistance to DI and build an educational system that promotes the well-being of all.
Misuse of the term ‘trans-ethnic’ in genomics research

A concerning trend in genetics is the common use of the term ‘trans-ethnic’ to describe analyses that combine or compare several ancestrally diverse populations. In this commentary, we discuss how this term is inaccurate and alienating. We propose that geneticists avoid using the term trans-ethnic entirely and that researchers across disciplines reach a new consensus about the best terms to use to describe the populations we study.
Temporal relations of the complex spike activity of Purkinje cell pairs in the vestibulocerebellum of rabbits.

Parasagittal zones in the vestibulocerebellum contain Purkinje cells whose complex spike (CS) activity is modulated in response to rotational optokinetic stimulation (OKS) about either the vertical axis (VA) or a horizontal axis (HA) that is approximately perpendicular to the ipsilateral anterior canal. In rabbits, there are two VA zones in both the ventral nodulus and flocculus, two HA zones in the flocculus, and one HA zone in the ventral nodulus. We investigated the temporal relationship of the CS activity of Purkinje cell pairs in the same or different zones of the vestibulocerebellum in ketamine-anesthetized pigmented rabbits. A synchronous temporal relationship was defined as the tendency of the CS of each Purkinje cell to fire within, at most, 2 msec of one another. Generally, neurons in the same zone showed a tendency to exhibit CS synchrony. Of 82 pairs consisting of two Purkinje cells in the same zone (e.g., two nodulus HA cells), 33 were synchronous. In contrast, none of 26 pairs consisting of two neurons in functionally different zones (e.g., a VA cell paired with an HA cell), showed CS synchrony. Pairs consisting of neurons in spatially separated VA zones in the ventral nodulus also showed a tendency to be synchronously related (6/16), as did pairs consisting of a nodulus VA cell and a flocculus VA cell (3/14). The CS synchrony was higher during OKS in the preferred direction than during spontaneous activity. This is the first demonstration that CS synchrony in the vestibulocerebellum can be manipulated with a natural sensory stimulus.
Statistical Issues and Analyses of in vivo and in vitro Genomic Data in order to Identify Clinically Relevant Profiles

In vitro experimentation provides a convenient controlled environment for testing biological hypotheses of functional genomics in cancer induction and progression. However, it is necessary to validate resulting gene signatures from these in vitro experiments in human tumor samples (i.e. in vivo). We discuss the several methods for integrating data from these two sources paying particular attention to formulating statistical tests and corresponding null hypotheses. We propose a classification null hypothesis that can be simply modeled via permutation testing. A classification method is proposed based upon the Tissue Similarity Index of Sandberg and Ernberg (PNAS, 2005) that uses the classification null hypothesis. This method is demonstrated using the in vitro signature of Core Serum Response developed by Chang et al. (PLoS Biology, 2004).
System Issues in Supporting Active Real-Time Databases

Over the past several years, there has been a significant growth of interest in the areas of active and real-time databases. Although the semantics and techniques of active database systems could match real-time transaction processing needs, there has not been much work in supporting both activeness and timeliness in database systems. In a number of time-critical embedded applications such as network management, traffic control, and factory automation, the functionality supported by active database systems and real-time databases would be required to meet the requirements imposed by the applications. Satisfying the timing requirements demands the scheduling of system resources according to well-understood algorithms so that the timing behavior of the system is understandable and predictable. A number of open issues need to be addressed to support both active and real-time features in database systems. For example, while using event-based rules and triggers is necessary to support activeness, it would bring complexity in transaction scheduling and may result in reduced timeliness/predictability of the database.
Stability of nonfouling electroless nickel-polytetrafluoroethylene coatings after exposure to commercial dairy equipment sanitizers

Abstract Application of nonfouling coatings on thermal processing equipment can improve operational efficiency. However, to enable effective commercial translation, a need exists for more comprehensive studies on the stability of nonfouling coatings after exposure to different sanitizers. In the current study, the influence of different commercial dairy equipment sanitizers on the nonfouling properties of stainless steel modified with electroless Ni-polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coatings was determined. Surface properties, such as dynamic contact angle, surface energy, surface morphology, and elemental composition, were measured before and after the coupons were exposed to the sanitizers for 168 cleaning cycles. The fouling behavior of Ni-PTFE-modified stainless steel coupons after exposure was also evaluated by processing raw milk on a self-fabricated benchtop-scale plate heat exchanger. The results indicated that peroxide sanitizer had only minor effect on the Ni-PTFE-modified stainless steel surface, whereas chlorine- and iodine-based sanitizers influenced the surface properties drastically. The coupons after 168 cycles of exposure to peroxide sanitizer accumulated the least amount of fouling material (4.44±0.24mg/cm 2 ) compared with the coupons exposed to the other 3 sanitizers. These observations indicated that the Ni-PTFE nonfouling coating retained antifouling properties after 168 cycles of exposure to peroxide-based sanitizer, supporting their potential application as nonfouling coatings for stainless steel dairy processing equipment.
Effect of block-copolymer dispersants on properties of carbon nanotube/epoxy systems

Abstract The effects of the addition of eight different block copolymers on the dispersion stability of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are reported. Suspensions of CNTs in different components of an epoxy system have been prepared using a tip sonicator and different amounts of block copolymers. The resistance to sedimentation of MWCNTs in various media was systematically investigated by using a centrifugation technique. Block copolymers that result in dispersions of MWCNTs in epoxy and hardener stable for more than 1 week have been obtained. Dispersions using a single or a combination of two different dispersing agents have been used for the fabrication of MWCNT nanocomposites. The effect of different preparation routes and use of block copolymers on the tensile properties and surface resistivity of the composites have been evaluated. The results obtained have been related with the dispersion stability of the MWCNTs in the epoxy components.
Hybrid slicing: integrating dynamic information with static analysis

Program slicing is an effective techniqe for narrowing the focus of attention to the relevant parts of a program during the debugging process. However, imprecision is a problem in static slices, since they are based on all possible executions that reach a given program point rather than the specific execution under which the program is being debugged. Dynamic slices, based on the specific execution being debugged, are precise but incur high run-time overhead due to the tracing information that is collected during the program's execution. We present a hybrid slicing technique that integrates dynamic information from a specific execution into a static slice analysis. The hybrid sliceproduced is more precise that the static slice and less costly that the dynamic slice. The technique exploits dynamic information that is readily available during debugging—namely, breakpoint information and the dynamic call graph. This information is integrated into a static slicing analysis to more accurately estimate the potential paths taken by the program. The breakpoints and call/return points, used as reference points, divide the execution path into intervals. By associating each statement in the slice with an execution interval, hybrid slicing provides information as to when a statement was encountered during execution. Another attractive feature of our approach is that it allows the user to control the cost of hybrid slicing by limiting the amount of dynamic information used in computing the slice. We implemented the hybrid slicing technique to demonstrate the feasibility of our approach.
Accumulation and transport of amino acids by the frog choroid plexus.

Abstract (1) The role of the choroidal epithelium in the transport of amino acids from the CSF to blood has been studied directly by using an in vitro preparation of the frog posterior choroid plexus. (2) Neutral amino acids were found to be selectively accumulated within the plexus by a temperature dependent sodium sensitive process located at the CSF side of the epithelium. There was no selective uptake from the serosal side of the tissue. (3) In plexuses preloaded with 14 C labeled amino acids efflux experiments showed that most of the isotope washed out to the ventricular solution. This is interpreted as showing that the apical surface of the epithelium is more permeable to amino acids than the basal surface. (4) Unidirectional flux measurements showed that the following amino acids, l -alanine, glycine, α-AIB, l -proline, and l -glutamic acid, were not actively transported across the choroid plexus. (5) These results suggest that at least in the frog, the choroid plexuses are not involved in the clearance of amino acids from the CSF.
Genetic diversity in peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] at the University of Florida: past, present and future

The University of Florida (UF) stone fruit breeding and genetics program was created in 1952 to develop early ripening stone fruit cultivars with high quality, adaptation to summer rainfall, low chilling requirements, and the ability to withstand high disease pressure. Diverse germplasm sources were used to introduce desirable traits in UF breeding pool. The main objective of this research was to determine the genetic diversity and population structure of the breeding germplasm, and to search for loci under selection. A total of 195 peach genotypes were used: UF cultivars and advanced selections (n = 168), cultivars and selections from the UF-UGA-USDA joint breeding effort (n = 13), landrace cultivars (n = 4), high-chilling cultivars released by NCSU (n = 5), and related Prunus (n = 5) species. A total of 36 SSR markers distributed across the peach genome amplified 423 alleles. An average of 18 genotypes were detected per marker: A (number of observed alleles) of 11.43, Ae (effective number of alleles) of 2.58, Ho (observed heterozygosity) of 0.4, He (expected heterozygosity) of 0.52, F (Wright’s fixation index) of 0.25, and PIC (polymorphism information content) of 0.48. UPGMA cluster analysis based on Nei’s genetic distance represented best the known pedigree information for the germplasm pools. Two major groups were observed across the germplasm corresponding to melting and non-melting flesh cultivars/selections. Population structure results supported these two major groups. Several loci closely located to genome regions where different phenotypic traits have been previously mapped were detected to be under selection.
SWIR nonlinear radiometric response due to errors in relative spectral response

Pre-launch instrument calibration testing of the current series of GOES Imagers and Sounders has shown a systematic non-linearity in the radiometric response of the SWIR channels of approximately 0.2 percent. Possible mechanisms for the observed non-linearity include; inherent InSb detector non-linearity, non-constant temperature error on the blackbody calibration target, relative spectral response error, and electronics non-linearity. A calibration model common to the GOES and POES radiometers is presented. The sensitivity of the SWIR channels' non-linear response to errors in spectral response is derived. Systematic shift of spectral response center wavenumber of approximately 10 cm-1 are found to induce a 0.1 percent non-linearity in response. Pre-launch calibration coefficients from recent NOAA radiometers are analyzed. Operational calibration errors caused by incorrect quadratic coefficients are found to be as large as 0.15K for warm scenes.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The effects of repeated corticosterone exposure on the interoceptive effects of alcohol in rats

Rationale and objective Repeated and/or heightened elevations in glucocorticoids (e.g., repeated stress) can promote escalated drug-taking behaviors and induce compromised HPA axis function. Given that interoceptive/subjective drug cues are a fundamental factor in drug-taking behavior, we sought to determine the effects of exposure to repeated elevations in the glucocorticoid corticosterone (CORT) on the interoceptive effects of alcohol in rats using drug discrimination techniques.
Why orthodontists get sued

Abstract The question, Why do orthodontists get sued?, is a vexing one for mostorthodontists. The circumstances that evolve to make one person challenge, verbally attack, or sue another is a very individual issue that involves multiple aspects of the interpersonal relationship. Doctor-patient relationships are not infallible. They involve the personalities of each of the participants, the activity on which the relationship is founded, the relative success or failure of the treatment, communication or the lack thereof, and possibly psychological issues. The bottom line is that orthodontic lawsuits can and do happen. This article describes a number of orthodontic lawsuits, the basis for each suit, and the risk management lessons that one should take home today and put into use tomorrow.
Cardioprotective role of ischemic postconditioning in acute myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Evidence suggests that ischemic postconditioning (IPoC) may reduce the extent of reperfusion injury. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, which compared the role of IPoC during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to PCI alone (control group) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Methods Several databases were searched, which yielded 19 studies. The outcomes of interest were measures of myocardial damage (serum cardiac enzymes and infarct size by imaging) and left ventricular function (left ventricular ejection fraction and wall motion score index). Mean difference (MD) and standardized mean difference (SMD) were used to assess the treatment effect. An inverse variance method was used to pool data into a random-effects model. Results Ischemic postconditioning demonstrated a decrease in serum cardiac enzymes (SMD −0.48, 95% CI −0.92 to −0.05, I 2 = 92%), reduction in infarct size by imaging (SMD −0.30, 95% CI −0.58 to −0.01, I 2 = 80%), wall motion score index (MD −0.19, 95% CI −0.29 to −0.09, I 2 = 44%), and showed improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (IPoC 52 ± 0.4, control 49.7 ± 0.4) (MD 2.78, 95% CI 0.66-4.91, I 2 = 69%). All included studies were limited by high risk of performance and publication bias. Conclusions Ischemic postconditioning during PCI in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction appears to be superior to PCI alone in reduction of both myocardial injury or damage and improvement in global and regional left ventricular function. The effect seems to be more pronounced when a greater myocardial area is at risk. Given the limitations of the current available evidence, additional data from large randomized controlled trials are warranted.
Asymptotic Efficiency of the Two Sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test

Abstract A simple derivation of asymptotic efficiency for the two sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov statistic is given and evaluated for normal location and normal scale alternatives. Using equal samples to simplify the derivation, the limiting efficiency is obtained by letting the type I error α go to zero while the type II error goes to β, 0 < β < 1. For unimodal symmetric location alternatives, the efficiency is the same as that obtained for the Mood and Brown median test. Limits of relative efficiencies for alternatives which approach the null hypothesis are 2/π for normal location alternatives and (πe)−1 for normal scale alternatives.
The Roots of the Backlash Theory in Mental Health

A primary objective of this paper is to give more con ceptual substance to the legitimacy of an African cultural referent in the field of mental health. It has been reported, for example, that the omission of such a referent has resulted in intragroup conflicts among Afro-American professionals. Similarly, the lack of a consideration of the African roots to many of the at titudes and behaviors of Afro-Americans has been shown to thwart comprehensive assistance to the Afro- American community and its individuals. Carried a step farther, this paper will provide a framework for understanding the relationship between contemporary conflicts between Afro- and Euro-Americans and their antecedent cultures. This objective is crystallized in the backlash theory in mental health, and this theory is dis cussed in terms of its cultural antecedents and contem porary applications to mental health research and con cepts.
Residues Putatively Involved in Binding of ATP and Glucose 6-Phosphate to a Mammalian Hexokinase: Site-Directed Mutation at Analogous Positions in the N- and C-Terminal Halves of the Type I Isozyme

Despite extensive sequence similarity between the N- and C-terminal halves of the Type I isozyme of mammalian hexokinase (ATP:D-hexose 6-phosphotransferase; EC 2.7.1.1), they are functionally distinct, the C-terminal half being responsible for catalysis and the N-terminal half thought to play a regulatory role. We have examined the effects of several site-directed mutations on kinetic and regulatory properties of the rat Type I isozyme. Mutation of the C-terminal residues, Asp 532 to Asn, Arg 539 to Met, and Gly 896 or Gly 898 to Val, resulted in drastic loss of catalytic activity ( 50% of wild type), but significant, effects on activity which are presumed to result from subtle effects on conformation of the enzyme. Mutation of Lys 899 to Met resulted in an approximately 50% decrease in specific activity and an approximately fivefold increase in the Km for ATP, consistent with the view that Lys 899 participates in binding of ATP through electrostatic interactions with the phosphate sidechain. Cys residues corresponding to Cys 158 and Cys 606 of Type I hexokinase are found in other hexokinases that exhibit marked sensitivity to inhibition by the product, glucose 6-phosphate (Glc-6-P), but analogous residues are not found in hexokinases insensitive to Glc-6-P. However, this correlation appears to be coincidental since neither the mutation of Cys 158 or Cys 606 to Ala nor any of the other mutations examined abolished sensitivity of Type I hexokinase to inhibition by the Glc-6-P analog 1,5-anhydroglucitol-6-P or to antagonism of this inhibition by P(i).
Dielectric Properties of Commercial Cooking Oils

SUMMARY— The finished drying of potato chips represents the first large-scale use of microwaves in the food industry on a continuous basis. Hence it was deemed desirable to study the dielectric properties of various types of commercial cooking oils. The dielectric constant (ɛ), and loss tangent (tans) of 11 commercial fats and oils have been determined at three different temperatures and at three different frequencies in the microwave range. The differences in dielectric properties among these fats and oils appear to be attributable to the phase (solid vs. liquid) of the material and generally correspond to the degree of unsaturation as evidenced by iodine values. The differences in loss factors among these fats and oils at any given temperature and frequency (within the range at which the measurements were made) are too small to be of any practical importance in selecting any one of them for use in heating processes using microwaves or in choosing an optimal frequency (300, 1000 or 3000 megahertz, MHz). Data for one of the oils (number 9) were obtained over a wider range of frequencies and indicate that the loss factor peak(s) is/are found in the frequency range of 100 to 1000 MHz. Furthermore, from the data obtained for the other oils, it should be safe to assume that this oil is representative of dielectric properties of the entire group. The dielectric properties of bacon fat rendered by microwaves are almost identical to those of bacon fat rendered by conventional means.
Heparin absorption during heparin-saline lung lavage in a patient with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis.

Lung lavage with heparin-saline solution in the treatment of a patient with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis was no better than lavage with saline alone. Sufficient heparin was absorbed from the lung so that the patient's clotting time was prolonged and he sustained a retroperitoneal bleed. We believe clinicians should be alert to the possibility of heparin absorption from the lung, especially when large doses are used during lung lavage.
Optimal conditioning and convergence in rank one quasi-Newton updates

We show that the optimally conditioned update proposed by Spedicato and Greenstadt for solving nonlinear equations is obtainable in closed form. However, unlike its rank two counterpart designed for minimization, conditioning in the rank one case is not necessarily a good measure of closeness. We propose updates that compromise the two properties. Local and superlinear convergence is proved for a class of updates.
The asymptotic behavior of bounded solutions of a nonconvolution volterra equation

Abstract This paper is concerned with the asymptotic behavior of solutions of the scalar equationx′(t) +∫0th(x(s))ds +∫0ta(t, s)g(x(s))ds = f(t), 0 ≤ t
History of the federal courts

This pioneering text presents the history of the federal courts since their establishment in 1789 and the changes that have occurred in the 200+ years since. The author examines the historical context from which the federal court system grew and explores the expansion of the court system in response to procedural, conceptual, and historical influences. The evolution of the different types of federal courts through time is of particular focus, along with the growth of the jurisdiction of the federal courts and the changes to the procedure of the Supreme Court over time.
Ellipsometric characterization of the glassy layer at metal/semiconductor interfaces

Abstract The formation of a transition metal-rich, glassy Si layer, followed by nucleation of a metallic suicide has been postulated to account for Schottky barrier behavior, and observed through transport and transmission electron-diffraction (TED) measurement. We report here the results of a multiple-angle-of-incidence ellipsometry study of the Co/Si interface for varying Co deposit thickness. As the Co deposit thickness is increased, initially a layer forms at the surface of the Si, which has the increased refractive index and extinction coefficient (at 6328 A) characteristic of amorphous and ion-implanted Si. For deposit thicknesses larger than ~70 A, the refractive index drops sharply to values below that for the bulk Si, while absorption continues to increase. This transition thickness agrees quantitatively with the value at which the semiconducting-to-metallic transition has been observed in transport measurements, and the optical constants obtained here are believed to be characteristic of that transition.
Successful sequential liver and stem cell transplantation for hepatic failure due to primary AL amyloidosis

We report on a patient with primary AL amyloidosis who presented with progressive liver failure secondary to hepatic infiltration in the absence of significant extrahepatic involvement. Orthotopic liver transplantation was performed successfully. After an uneventful postoperative course, the patient developed evidence of significant recurrent amyloidosis requiring treatment. He then underwent stem cell transplantation 10 and 14 months after liver transplantation. After 28 months of follow-up posttransplantation, the patient continues to do well, with no clinical evidence of recurrent disease. This is the first reported patient with primary amyloidosis to undergo sequential liver and stem cell transplantation leading to resolution of the disease and only the second to undergo successful liver transplantation for this disorder.
What Will the Top Quark Tell us about the Higgs Boson Mass

If the Tevatron discovers the top (t) quark and determines its mass with reasonable precision during the next few years, our knowledge of the radiative corrections in the standard model can be combined with other existing data to constrain the mass of the Higgs boson (mH) from above. To demonstrate this, we show that if mt = 100(120,150) ± 10 GeV, one finds that mH ≤ 225 (270, 473) GeV at the 95% C. L. from existing data. For heavy top-quark masses, lower bounds on mH are also obtained. The importance of including two-loop electroweak corrections and Consoli–Hollik–Jegerlehner resummation in obtaining these bounds on mH is emphasized. The present analysis incorporates these leading two-loop electroweak corrections for the first time, includes the three-loop QCD contributions to the partial widths of the Z, and uses the latest available set of input data.
Two stories from the ISACS 12 conference: solar-fuel devices and catalyst identification

The International Symposia for advancing the Chemical Sciences, a partner of the journal Chemical Science, held its 12th meeting (ISACS 12) at the University of Cambridge on September 3–6 2013. ISACS 12 focused on “Challenges in Chemical Renewable Energy”, with oral presentations organized along five themes: photovoltaics, solar fuels, molecular and bio-inspired catalysts, new materials for batteries, and fuel cells. ISACS 12 also included a presentation on the sugar cane-based energy industry in Brazil, a recording by the BBC World Service, and two poster sessions. This conference was an exciting, busy place to meet people, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration.
Uniqueness of motion by mean curvature perturbed by stochastic noise

Abstract We present some uniqueness (non-fattening) results for the motion by mean curvature perturbed by stochastic noise. It is well known that for special initial data, the deterministic motion has multiple solutions, i.e., it develops interior. Our result for a particular evolution of curves in R 2 illustrates that stochastic perturbations can select a unique solution in a natural way. The noise we use is white in time and constant in space. The results are formulated both almost surely and in probability law.
Depressed (Ca++)-transport ATPase in cystic fibrosis erythrocytes

Abstract (Ca ++ )-ATPase activity was studied in enzyme preparations isolated from erythrocytes of cystic fibrosis and control patients. At 3 × 10 −4 M Ca ++ , specific activity of (Ca ++ )-ATPase in cystic fibrosis was 0.60 μmoles Pi/mg protein/hour while in controls it was 0.87 μmoles Pi/mg protein/hour. No significant difference in Mg ++ -ATPase and (Na + + K + )-ATPase activities was found. The depression of (Ca ++ )-ATPase activity was closely related to the severity of the disease. This suggests that a major defect in cystic fibrosis may be in the (Ca ++ )-ATPase portion of membrane transport systems rather than in the (Na + + K + )-ATPase portion.
Acculturation and Familiarity With, Attitudes Towards and Beliefs about Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk Within Latinas in East Harlem, New York City

Recent research underscores the need for increasing use of genetic testing for cancer risk in Latinos. This study examined the influence of acculturation on attitudes, beliefs about and familiarity with genetic testing for cancer risk in a community-based sample of Latinas in East Harlem, New York City (N = 103). Multivariate linear regression models analyzed the relationship of acculturation to: (1) familiarity (2) perceived benefits (3) perceived barriers and (4) concerns about abuses of genetic testing for cancer risk. Controlling for sociodemographic factors, results revealed that with increasing acculturation Latinas were more familiar with genetic testing (β = 1.62, SE = 0.72, p = 0.03), more likely to cite perceived benefits (β = 1.67, SE = 0.79, p = 0.04), and less likely to report perceived barriers related to genetic testing (β = −2.76, SE = 1.64, p = 0.10). Study results may help inform the development of culturally-appropriate health education outreach materials and programs targeted to increase awareness, knowledge and understanding about genetic testing for cancer risk within Latinas.
Expression of heparan sulfate proteoglycan (perlecan) in the mouse blastocyst is regulated during normal and delayed implantation.

Abstract Previous studies have shown that expression of the heparan sulfate proteoglycan, perlecan, on the external trophectodermal cell surfaces of mouse blastocysts increases during acquisition of attachment competence. However, it is not clear if this change in perlecan protein expression also is reflected at the level of perlecan mRNA expression. In the present investigation, the spatial and temporal patterns of perlecan mRNA expression in the mouse embryo during the periimplantation period were examined byin situhybridization and reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. In addition, a delayed implantation model was used to determine the expression of perlecan mRNA and protein in dormant and estrogen-activated hatched blastocysts. The results demonstrate that perlecan mRNA expression is low in morulae, but increases in Day 4 blastocysts, attaining maximal expression in Day 4.5 attachment-competent blastocysts. In contrast, perlecan mRNA is detected in both the dormant and estrogen-activated delayed blastocysts; however, within 12 hr of blastocyst activation by estrogen, both perlecan protein and heparan sulfate chain expression markedly increase. Taken together, these results suggest that during normal development perlecan mRNA expression increases with the acquisition of attachment competence. Moreover, perlecan protein expression also is attenuated during delayed implantation and appears to increase in response to nidatory estrogen, perhaps via the increased translation of preexisting perlecan mRNA.
SOLUTION ALGORITHM FOR COMBINED INTERREGIONAL COMMODITY FLOW AND TRANSPORTATION NETWORK MODEL WITH LINK CAPACITY CONSTRAINTS

A solution algorithm for the multicommodity combined freight distribution and assignment problem that computes the system optimum link flow pattern is introduced here. The distribution component of the model is based on an input-output materials balance formulation that satisfies each region's intermediate and final demands for each commodity. An entropy term is included to capture cross-hauling and dispersion effects. The network links are assumed to be capacitated. This problem is formulated as a nonlinear program, with the nonlinear entropy term appearing in the objective function. This problem tends to be intractable even for small networks, so a Dantzig-Wolfe decomposition approach is introduced to make the problem computationally feasible. Wilson's balancing technique is used to solve the nonlinear distribution subproblem. Test results demonstrate that realistic networks can be solved in a reasonable amount of time. The model is used to obtain insights into the trade-offs between dispersion coeffici...
Focal Therapy of Prostate Cancer: Evidence-based Analysis for Modern Selection Criteria

Focal therapy for prostate cancer has been increasingly utilized with the goal of effective disease control while maximizing patient functional outcomes. The optimal patient selection criteria are not known and therefore are not standardized. This review compares the available expert panel consensus guidelines with the selection criteria utilized in recently published focal therapy trials. Because the data from focal trials are still maturing, the currently enrolling clinical trials are reviewed as well. In addition, the recent literature regarding technological advances in prostate biopsy and imaging strategies are added to the current guidelines to recommend a rationale for patient selection.
Severe inhibition of maize wall degradation by synthetic lignins formed with coniferaldehyde

Although the enzymatic or ruminal degradability of plants de-cient in cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) is often greater than their normal counterparts, factors responsible for these degradability di†erences have not been identi-ed. Since lignins in CAD de-cient plants often contain elevated concentra- tions of aldehydes, we used a cell-wall model system to evaluate what e†ect aldehyde-containing lignins have on the hydrolysis of cell walls by fungal enzymes. Varying ratios of coniferaldehyde and coniferyl alcohol were poly- merised into non-ligni-ed primary walls of maize (Zea mays L) by wall-bound peroxidase and exogenously supplied Coniferaldehyde lignins formed H 2 O 2 . fewer cross-linked structures with other wall components, but they were much more inhibitory to cell wall degradation than lignins formed with coniferyl alcohol. This suggests that the improved degradability of CAD de-cient plants is not related to the incorporation of p-hydroxycinnamaldehyde units into lignin. Degradability di†erences were diminished if enzyme loadings were increased and if hydrophobic aldehyde groups in lignins were reduced to their corresponding alcohols by ethanolic sodium borohydride. 1998 Society of Chemical ( Industry. J Sci Food Agric 78 ,8 1 E87 (1998)
Functionalization of polyethylene using borane reagents and metallocene catalysts

A new method to prepare functionalized polyethylene involving borane intermediates and transition metal catalysts is described. Two processes, direct and post polymerizations, were employed to prepare borane-containing polyethylene (PE-B), which can be transformed to functionalized polyethylene (LLDPE-f) with various functional groups, such as -BR 2 , -OH, -NH 2 , -OSi(CH 3 ) 3 . In the direct process, the PE-B copolymers were prepared in one step by copolymerization of ethylene with a borane monomer (ω-borane-α-olefin). The post polymerization process requires two steps : copolymerization of ethylene and 1,4-hexadiene, and subsequential hydroboration reaction of unsaturated PE. Three transition metal catalysts, including two homogeneous metallocene (Cp 2 ZrCl 2 [bis(cyclopentadienyl) zirconium dichloride] and Et(Ind) 2 ZrCl 2 [1,1'-ethylenedi-η 5 -indenyl-zirconium dichloride] with MAO (methylaluminoxane)) and one heterogeneous (TiCl 3 .AA/Et 2 AlCl) ones, were studied in the copolymerization reactions. The single site Et(Ind) 2 ZrCl 2 /MAO homogeneous catalyst, with a strained ligand geometry and opened active site, is by far the most effective system in the incorporation of high olefins into polyethylene structures.
Synthesis and Conformational Studies of a New Host System Based on Cholic Acid

New synthetic hosts have been designed incorporating two molecules of cholic acid linked by a rigid diamine. Proton NMR studies indicate that the compounds exist in a rigid conformation with the steroid hydroxyl groups intramolecularly hydrogen-bonded. heat or addition of methanol leads to conformational isomerism due to insertion of methanol into the cavity.
Increased Rate of Aspiration Pneumonia and Poor Discharge Outcome Among Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Following Intubation for Endovascular Treatment

Background An increased risk of aspiration pneumonia among acute ischemic stroke patients following intubation for endovascular treatment may explain the higher rates of poor outcomes among patients requiring general anesthesia compared with those performed under local sedation. Methods Rates of aspiration pneumonia and its contribution to poor outcome at discharge (modified Rankin score C3), and in-hospital mortality were analyzed among endovascularly treated acute ischemic stroke patients at two university-affiliated comprehensive stroke centers. Logistic regression model was used to assess the contribution of intubation and aspiration pneumonia on poor outcome after adjusting for potential confounders. Results There were 136 acute ischemic stroke patients who received endovascular treatment: 83 patients received local sedation without intubation and 53 patients were intubated. The rates of aspiration pneumonia were 12 (14%) in endovascularly treated patients not intubated, and 12 (23%) in endovascularly treated intubated patients. Rates of poor outcomes were 46 (55%) in the non-intubated endovascularly treated patients, and 44 (83%) in intubated endovascularly treated patients. After adjusting for age, gender, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score strata, poor outcome at discharge (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.2‐7.4) (P = 0.0243) and in-hospital mortality (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.5‐12.5) (P = 0. 0.0046) were significantly higher among intubated patients. After adjusting for pneumonia, the effect of intubation on poor
Chemotherapy-associated oral hemorrhages in adults with acute leukemia

Abstract The frequency, nature, and management of chemotherapy-associated oral hemorrhages were studied in 1,093 adult inpatients undergoing treatment for acute leukemia or the blastic phase of chronic leukemia. Of this number, 163 (14.9%) manifested gross bleeding from the mouth during the course of treatment. The most common oral bleeding sites were the lips, tongue, and gingiva. Thrombocytopenia was the underlying cause in 88% of the cases, disseminated intravascular coagulation in 6%, and combinations of thrombocytopenia and hypofibrinogenemia and of thrombocytopenia and vitamin K deficiency in 5.5% and 0.6%, respectively. The vast majority of the patients with mouth bleeding had platelet counts below 40,000 / mm3. Approximately 50% had indirect evidence of a coagulation factor deficiency in the blood. The oral hemorrhages were best managed by transfusions of HLA-compatible fresh platelets and fresh frozen plasma, together with topically applied clot-promoting agents, until hemostatic control was restored.
An RNA helicase, RHIV-1, induced by porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is mapped on porcine chromosome 10q13

The impact of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection on porcine alveolar macrophages (Mo) was examined by differential display reverse transcription PCR (DDRT-PCR). A PRRSV-induced expressed gene tag (EST) was used to isolate and identify a single cDNA clone from a library prepared from porcine peripheral blood. Rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) was employed to clone a 1.5 kb fragment at the 5' end of the mRNA. DNA sequencing identified an open reading frame (ORF) of 2820 bp. Deduced amino acid sequence revealed the eight conserved domains characteristic of the DEAD/H box protein superfamily. The putative porcine RNA helicase induced by virus (RHIV -1) showed 84% amino acid similarity to human retinoic acid-induced gene (RIG-I). Porcine RHIV -1 transcripts were ubiquitously expressed in various pig tissues, while in PRRSV-infected pigs, higher expression was observed in several tissues persistent for PRRSV. These data indicate the association of PRRSV genome replication with enhaced host cell RNA helicase gene expression. Finally, the RHIV -1 gene was localized on porcine chromosome 10q13 between markers SSC25A02 and SWR334 via somatic cell panel and radiation hybrid (RH) mapping strategies.
Management of fat reserves in tufted titmice Baelophus bicolor in relation to risk of predation.

Abstract Fat reserves are an important energy source for animals wintering in temperate zones. Long nights, low ambient temperature and often unpredictable food all increase the probability of death from starvation, and to survive, animals carry energy reserves as fat. Based on the assumption that extra weight makes birds more vulnerable to diurnal predators, it has been hypothesized that predation risk places an upper limit on avian fat reserves. The hypothesis leads to the prediction that birds should decrease their mass in response to increased risk of predation. We tested this prediction with a resident species, the tufted titmouse, Baelophus bicolor . During a 3-day period, we presented a taxidermic mount of a sharp-shinned hawk, Accipiter striatus (predator treatment) or a mourning dove, Zenaida macroura (control treatment) to seven titmice housed individually with food ad libitum. Even though vigilance and delay in time to resume foraging were significantly higher after exposure to the hawk model, the body mass of titmice after exposure to the hawk increased rather than decreased, a result opposite to that predicted. In particular, the birds significantly increased their evening body mass and mean daily mass gain during the treatment period. Our results suggest that risk-dependent foraging appears to regulate avian body fat reserves by limiting foraging time. When food is unlimited, as in our experiment, birds may be able to obtain high energy reserves even while maintaining intense vigilance for predators, and under such conditions, the energetic costs of flying may control upper level energy reserves.
Ovarian cancer complicated by cerebellar degeneration: A paraneoplastic syndrome

A patient with ovarian carcinoma who subsequently developed the paraneoplastic syndrome of cerebellar degeneration is presented. The literature is reviewed and possible explanations of the phenomenon are discussed.
Non-invasive characterization of a perimedullary dural arteriovenous fistula with dynamic 320-slice CT angiography

Abstract Spinal vascular malformations are rare but complex entities. Non-invasive assessment and screening can be effectively performed with MRI/MRA. More recently, use of spinal CTA for characterization of these lesions is being reported. We describe, to our knowledge, the first report of dynamic assessment of a spinal vascular malformation with CT angiography of the spine using 320 detector imaging technique.
Influence of sex and dietary ascorbic acid on nitrite-induced methemoglobinemia in Japanese quail.

SummaryJapanese quail fed diets containing 0.5% nitrite developed a methemoglobinemia together with reduced food consumption and depressed body weights. Nitrite also was deposited in eggs, and continued to be present for about 140 hr after nitrite feeding stopped. Female Japanese quail, either controls or nitrite treated, were observed to have less blood hemoglobin, with approximately a twofold increase in blood methemoglobin than males from the equivalent treatments. Ascorbic acid added at 0.5% to the diet had no effect on methemoglobinemia or egg nitrite deposition.
Apparent Paradoxical Patterns of Anaerobic Glycolysis and Hexokinase Activity in the Red Blood Cells of Acutely Bled Rats, with Evidence that the Responses were in Part Hormone-Dependent

Summary. Rats were bled of c 25% of their blood volume, and anaerobic glycolysis (AG) and hexokinase activity (HxK) were assayed in the red blood cells. After 2–14 days the animals were sacrificed and AG and HxK again assayed. Four different responses were observed: (1) both parameters were elevated following blood loss in only four out of 87 intact males, as expected if increased proportions of normal young red cells are present; (2) both parameters were decreased in six animals. In the majority, two paradoxical patterns were found; (3) increased AG with decreased HxK; and (4) decreased AG with increased HxK. Response 3 was found only in immature animals, and Response 4 in animals at or beyond the minimal breeding age of 12 weeks. Results in castrated males and adult females were indistinguishable from each other and from those in immature males. In testosterone-treated females the response was modified toward but not converted to Response 4. It is proposed that Response 3 was probably independent of sex hormones. but was converted to Response 4 when a full complement of male hormones was present. Whatever the underlying mechanism, the finding of four distinct respenses indicates that, in terms of the two parameters assayed in this investigation, there was no entity which could be termed a ‘stress reticulocyte’. There is a strong likelihood that factors not detectable by the methods used were responsible for the paradoxical findings.