cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biogas generation from bagasse‐based paper mills by anaerobic digestion

Bagasse-based paper mills in developing countries do not have sophisticated waste water treatment technology to combat water pollution released by these mills. This paper presents an overview of bagasse handling and sources of waste generation, the seriousness of pollution discharge, and treatment options available to tackle the waste water derived from bagasse-based paper mills. Extensive laboratory treatability studies indicate that anaerobic digestion for biogas generation is a viable method for handling bagasse-based paper mill wastes. The waste water was treated at an organic loading of 0.8 kg BOD m−3 day−1 and 1.6 kg COD m−3 day−1 and a detention time of 10 days, achieving 90% reduction in BOD and COD without supplementation of any nutrients. With a yield coefficient of 0.5, the average quantity of cells produced per day was calculated to be 1.683 kg day−1 or 0.25 kg cells produced kg−1 BOD removed. Intermittent checking on excess alkalinity in the anerobic system is necessary for achieving maximum treatment efficiency.
ENCEPNALOPATHY IN CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE

A distinct neurologic syndrome characterized by varying degrees of myoclonus, dysarthria, seizures, dementia, coma, and abnormal EEG occurred in 6 children with chronic renal failure. EEG findings were similar to those described in adults with dialysis dementia and consisted of diffuse slowing with bursts of 2-4 hz polyspike wave discharges. The children (4 male and 2 female) had congenital renal disorders. The encephalopathy could not be attributed to hypertension or known metabolic disturbances due to uremia. Encephalopathy occurred between the ages ot 26 months and 10 years, when renal failure was advanced (GFR 5-10 ml/min/ 1.73 m2). All had received high doses (340-800 mg/kg/day) of aluminum containing phosphate binding gels for periods of 9 months to 5 years prior to the onset of their encephalopathy. Dialysis and successful renal transplantation did not significantly alter the clinical course. The encephalopathy may be related to aluminum intoxication. However, these children differ from previously described adults with dialysis related encephalopathy attributed to aluminum toxicity in that they had not been dialyzed prior to the onset of neurologic signs. Perhaps the nervous system of growing children is more susceptible to trace metal intoxication. These observations suggest that the use of large quantities of aluminum containing gels needs reevaluation in children with renal failure. Supported by NIH grants KR-75 and RR 5624.
Matrix metalloproteinase 2-induced venous dilation via hyperpolarization and activation of K+ channels: relevance to varicose vein formation.

Background Varicose veins are a common disorder of extensive venous dilation and remodeling with an as-yet unclear mechanism. Studies have shown increased plasma and tissue levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in human varicose veins and animal models of venous hypertension. Although the effects of MMPs are generally attributed to extracellular matrix degradation, their effects on the mechanisms of venous contraction/relaxation are unclear. Our preliminary experiments have demonstrated that MMP-2 causes inhibition of phenylephrine-induced venous contraction. The purpose of this study was to determine whether MMP-induced inhibition of venous contraction involves an endothelium-dependent and/or -independent pathway. Methods Circular segments of the inferior vena cava (IVC) were isolated from male Sprague-Dawley rats and suspended between two wire hooks in a tissue bath, and the effects of MMP-2 on phenylephrine- and KCl-induced contraction were measured. To study the role of endothelium-derived vasodilators, experiments were performed in the presence and absence of endothelium; N G -l-nitro-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME), an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis; indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostacyclin synthesis; cromakalim, an activator of adenosine triphosphate–sensitive K + channels (K ATP ); and iberiotoxin, a blocker of large-conductance Ca 2+ -dependent K + channels (BK Ca ) and smooth muscle hyperpolarization. Results In endothelium-intact IVC segments, phenylephrine (10 −5 mol/L) caused significant contraction that slowly declined to 82.0% in 30 minutes. The addition of MMP-2 (1 μg/mL) caused a gradual decrease of phenylephrine contraction to 39.5% at 30 minutes. In endothelium-denuded IVC, MMP-2 induced a greater reduction of phenylephrine contraction, to 7.6%. In the presence of l-NAME (10 −4 mol/L), MMP-2 caused a marked decrease in phenylephrine contraction, to 4.4%. Large MMP-2–induced inhibition of phenylephrine contraction was also observed in IVC treated with l-NAME plus indomethacin. MMP-2 caused relaxation of phenylephrine contraction in IVC pretreated with cromakalim (10 −7 mol/L), an activator of K ATP channels. MMP-2–induced inhibition of phenylephrine contraction was abrogated in the presence of iberiotoxin (10 −8 mol/L), a blocker of BK Ca . MMP-2 did not inhibit venous contraction during membrane depolarization by 96 mmol/L KCl, a condition that prevents outward K + conductance and cell hyperpolarization. Conclusions MMP-2 causes significant IVC relaxation that is potentiated in the absence of endothelium or during blockade of endothelium-mediated nitric oxide and prostacyclin synthesis. The lack of effects of MMP-2 on KCl contraction and in iberiotoxin-treated veins suggests MMP-2–induced smooth muscle hyperpolarization and activation of BK Ca channels—a novel effect of MMP that may play a role in the early stages of venous dilation and varicose vein formation.
The regulatory activity of microRNA * species has substantial influence on microRNA and 3′ UTR evolution

During microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis, one strand of a ∼21–22-nucleotide RNA duplex is preferentially selected for entry into a silencing complex. The other strand, known as the miRNA* species, has typically been assumed to be a carrier strand. Here we show that, although Drosophila melanogaster miRNA* species are less abundant than their partners, they are often present at physiologically relevant levels and can associate with Argonaute proteins. Comparative genomic analyses revealed that >40% of miRNA* sequences resist nucleotide divergence across Drosophilid evolution, and at least half of these well-conserved miRNA* species select for conserved 3′ untranslated region seed matches well above background noise. Finally, we validated the inhibitory activity of miRNA* species in both cultured cells and transgenic animals. These data broaden the reach of the miRNA regulatory network and suggest an important mechanism that diversifies miRNA function during evolution.
Magnetization and Electrical Resistivity of Gadolinium Single Crystals

The magnetic moment of single-crystal Gd has been measured in fields from 0 to 18 kOe along the $〈0001〉$, $〈10\overline{1}0〉$, and $〈11\overline{2}0〉$ directions at temperatures from 1.4 to 900\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Small anisotropy was observed below the Curie temperature and the easy direction of magnetization was found to be a function of temperature. The absolute saturation magnetic moment was found to be 7.55 Bohr magnetons/atom. The saturation magnetization was observed to follow the ${T}^{\frac{3}{2}}$ law from 200 to 50\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K with a deviation from this law observed below 50\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. A ferromagnetic Curie temperature of 293.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K is reported. The effective Bohr magneton number in the paramagnetic region is 7.98 and the paramagnetic Curie temperature is 317\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Electrical resistivity measurements were made from 4.2 to 380\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K on the $b$-axis and $c$-axis crystals. For the $b$ axis, the resistivity changes slope at 293.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. The $c$ axis exhibits a small maximum at 292\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K and a shallow minimum at 340\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K.
A mega recognition memory study of 2897 disyllabic words.

Following the studies by Cortese, Khanna, and Hacker (2010) on recognition memory for monosyllabic words, recognition memory estimates (e.g., hits, false alarms, hits minus false alarms) for 3000 d...
Potential Tumor Suppressive Role of Monoglyceride Lipase in Human Colorectal Cancer

Human monoglyceride lipase (MGL) is a recently identified lipase and very little is known about its regulation and function in cellular regulatory processes, particularly in context to human malignancy. In this study, we investigated the regulation and function of MGL in human cancer(s) and report that MGL expression was either absent or reduced in the majority of primary colorectal cancers. Immunohistochemical studies showed that reduction of MGL expression in the colorectal tumor tissues predominantly occurred in the cancerous epithelial cells. MGL was found to reside in the core surface of a cellular organelle named 'lipid body'. Furthermore, it was found to interact selectively with a number of phospholipids, including phosphatidic acid and phosphoinositol(3,4,5)P3, phosphoinositol(3,5)P2, phosphoinositol(3,4)P2 and several other phosphoinositides, and among all phosphoinositides analyzed, its interaction with PI(3,4,5)P3 was found to be the strongest. In addition, overexpression of MGL suppressed colony formation in tumor cell lines and knockdown of MGL resulted in increased Akt phosphorylation. Taken together, our results suggest that MGL plays a negative regulatory role in phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/Akt signaling and tumor cell growth.
Photonic quasicrystals: Disorder-enhanced light transport

Photonic quasicrystals are specially designed aperiodic materials that possess long-range order and are capable of transmitting light. Contrary to intuition, introducing disorder can be used to enhance the propagation of light through such labyrinth structures.
Musical Instrument Engineering Program at Tufts University

At Tufts University, we have initiated an engineering minor and concentration certificate program in Musical Instrument Engineering (MIE) as an exciting way to introduce and teach principles of mechanical engineering to undergraduate students. The goal of this program is to teach the fundamentals of engineering through the manufacture of musical instruments. As musical instruments are both familiar and complex, they provide non-threatening and enjoyable focal points for engineering education. This interdisciplinary curriculum combines a variety of learning experiences, including lecturing, experimental analysis, and project development. In this paper we outline the minor and certificate programs, and assess the initial success of the Musical Instrument Engineering program through the response of faculty, administration, and students.
Early results of an in vivo trial of ESS in thyroid cancer

Introduction: Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy. The current gold standard for diagnosis, fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, yields 10-25% of indeterminate cytology results, leading to patients undergoing thyroidectomy for diagnosis. We assessed the technical potential of a miniaturized in vivo ESS (elastic light scattering spectroscopy) probe, built into an FNA needle assembly, to differentiate benign from malignant thyroid nodules. Methods: Under IRB approval, 15 patients in the endocrine clinic undergoing FNAB of a thyroid nodule had collection of ESS data using our novel miniaturized FNA probe. Using final surgical pathology as our gold standard, data post processing and visual inspection was completed. Results: 225 spectra were grouped and analyzed (120 benign, 30 malignant and 75 from indeterminate cytology). ESS probes demonstrated excellent reproducibility in use. Initial analysis of these preliminary data is promising, indicating distinction of spectral ESS features between malignant and benign conditions. Conclusion(s): An in vivo trial of an invasive miniaturized integrated ESS biopsy probe is acceptable to patients, and collection of ESS data is feasible and reliable. With development of a disease-specific algorithm, ESS could potentially be used as an in-situ real time intra-operative diagnostic tool or as a minimally invasive adjunct to conventional FNA cytology.
The pathogen protein EspF U hijacks actin polymerization using mimicry and multivalency

Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli attaches to the intestine through actin pedestals that are formed when the bacterium injects its protein EspFU (also known as TccP) into host cells1. EspFU potently activates the host WASP (Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein) family of actin-nucleating factors, which are normally activated by the GTPase CDC42, among other signalling molecules. Apart from its amino-terminal type III secretion signal, EspFU consists of five-and-a-half 47-amino-acid repeats. Here we show that a 17-residue motif within this EspFU repeat is sufficient for interaction with N-WASP (also known as WASL). Unlike most pathogen proteins that interface with the cytoskeletal machinery, this motif does not mimic natural upstream activators: instead of mimicking an activated state of CDC42, EspFU mimics an autoinhibitory element found within N-WASP. Thus, EspFU activates N-WASP by competitively disrupting the autoinhibited state. By mimicking an internal regulatory element and not the natural activator, EspFU selectively activates only a precise subset of CDC42-activated processes. Although one repeat is able to stimulate actin polymerization, we show that multiple-repeat fragments have notably increased potency. The activities of these EspFU fragments correlate with their ability to coordinate activation of at least two N-WASP proteins. Thus, this pathogen has used a simple autoinhibitory fragment as a component to build a highly effective actin polymerization machine.
Sorption of yttrium and rare earth elements by amorphous ferric hydroxide: Influence of solution complexation with carbonate

The influence of solution complexation on the sorption of yttrium and the rare earth elements (YREEs) by amorphous ferric hydroxide was investigated at 25 °C over a range of pH (4.0–7.1) and carbonate concentrations (0M⩽[CO32-]T⩽150μM). Distribution coefficients, defined as iKFeT=[MSi]T/(MT×[Si]), where [MSi]T is the total concentration of sorbed YREE, MT is the total YREE concentration in solution, and [Si] is the concentration of amorphous ferric hydroxide, initially increased in magnitude with increasing carbonate concentration, and then decreased. The initial increase of iKFeT is due to sorption of YREE carbonate complexes (MCO3+), in addition to sorption of free YREE ions (M3+). The subsequent decrease of iKFeT, which is more extensive for the heavy REEs, is due to the increasing intensity of YREE solution complexation by carbonate ions. The competition for YREEs between solution complexation and surface complexation was modeled via the equation: iKFeT=(Sβ1[H+]-1+Sβ2[H+]-2+β1SCO3×β1CO3H[HCO3-]T[H+]-2)(SK1[H+]+1)×(1+HCO3β1[HCO3-]T+β1CO3H[HCO3-]T[H+]-1+β2CO3H[HCO3-]T2[H+]-2) where Sβ1 and Sβ2 are equilibrium constants for free YREE surface species, β1SCO3 is the equilibrium constant for the YREE-carbonate surface species, SK1 is the surface protonation constant for amorphous ferric hydroxide, and HCO3β1HCO3β1, β1CO3H, and β2CO3H are YREE solution complexation constants expressed in terms of bicarbonate concentrations. The equation, which includes (i) a single new constant (β1SCO3) for each YREE, (ii) previously published sorption coefficients (Sβ1 and Sβ2) determined in the absence of carbonate, and (iii) previously published solution complexation constants, precisely predicts both the absolute magnitude of iKFeT and the pattern of iKFeT values over our range of experimental conditions. Experimentally observed iKFeT values, spanning more than five orders of magnitude, are accurately described by our surface/solution complexation model. The logβ1SCO3values determined for each YREE in this work are: Y(−1.30 ± 0.04), La(−0.39 ± 0.02), Ce(−0.21 ± 0.02), Pr(−0.22 ± 0.02), Nd(−0.20 ± 0.02), Sm(−0.20 ± 0.02), Eu(−0.26 ± 0.02), Gd(−0.38 ± 0.02), Tb(−0.40 ± 0.02), Dy(−0.51 ± 0.02), Ho(−0.57 ± 0.02), Er(−0.59 ± 0.02), Tm(−0.56 ± 0.02), Yb(−0.62 ± 0.02), and Lu(−0.59 ± 0.02).
High power laminate MEMS RF switch

An innovative high power radio frequency switch designed and manufactured using LMEMS (Laminate Micro Electro-Mechanical System) is reported. The LMEMS technology is developed by adopting current multi-layered printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing technology, and integrating it with laminated layers including moving parts and specialty materials. RF switch performance is achieved by optimizing device design and layout for improving offstate isolation and reducing on-state insertion loss. High power performance is realized by use of laminate PCB technology and special contact metallurgy suitable for reducing both hot switching and high current welting. A RF LMEMS switch design is demonstrated to function up to 10 GHz and 50 W power handling capability.
Can a "natural" three-generation neutrino mixing scheme satisfy everything?

We examine the potential for a {open_quote}{open_quote}natural{close_quote}{close_quote} three-neutrino mixing scheme to satisfy available data and astrophysical arguments. By {open_quote}{open_quote}natural{close_quote}{close_quote} we mean no sterile neutrinos, and a neutrino mass hierarchy similar to that of the charged leptons. We seek to satisfy (or solve) (1) accelerator and reactor neutrino oscillation constraints, including LSND, (2) the atmospheric muon neutrino deficit problem, (3) the solar neutrino problem, (4) {ital r}-process nucleosynthesis in neutrino-heated supernova ejecta, and (5) cold+hot dark matter models. We argue that putative supernova {ital r}-process nucleosynthesis bounds on two-neutrino flavor mixing can be applied directly to three-neutrino mixing in the case where one vacuum neutrino mass eigenvalue difference is dominated by the others. We show that in this {open_quote}{open_quote}one mass scale dominance{close_quote}{close_quote} limit, a natural three-neutrino oscillation solution meeting all the above constraints exists only if the atmospheric neutrino data {ital and} the LSND data can be explained with one neutrino mass difference. In this model, an explanation for the solar neutrino data can be effected by employing the {ital other} independent neutrino mass difference. Such a solution is only marginally allowed by the current data, and proposed long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiments can definitively rule it out. If it were ruledmore » out, the simultaneous solution of the above constraints by neutrino oscillations would then require sterile neutrinos and/or a neutrino mass hierarchy of a different nature than that of the charged leptons. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}« less
Analysis of steroid and vitamin D glucuronides and sulfates by fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry

The direct analysis of underivatized steroid and vitamin D glucuronide and sulfate conjugates by positive and negative ion fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry has been demonstrated. The technique allows unambiguous molecular weight determination of these conjugates and provides useful fragmentation information in many cases. Analysis of low microgram amounts of such conjugates purified from biological sources has been carried out.
Nanocoating of Particulate Surface in Colloidal Processing for Piezoelectric Sensors Applications

Colloidal processing offers the advantage of controlling the interactions between particles. Nanometer is the critical length scale for interparticle interactions. Modification of interparticle separation in the nanometer range plays a critical role in the properties of particulate suspensions. We have developed a nanocoating method that modifies the surface chemistry of ceramic powders. The nanocoating serves multiple purposes. It enhances the chemical and thermal stability of the powders, improves the consolidation and rheological properties of slurries, increases the homogeneous distribution of processing additives, and lowers the sintering temperatures of the green compacts. for example, we showed that boehmite (AlOOH)-coated silicon nitride and silicon carbide powders have a significantly higher solids loading than the uncoated powders in water. Coated suspensions have lower viscosity and wider linear viscoelastic region, and lower shear modulus than that of uncoated suspensions. With an increasing coating thickness, the shear modulus of coated suspensions decreases indicating the coating prevents close contact of core particles thereby reducing the van der Waals attraction interaction between the core particles. Boehmite coating is shown to enhance the thermal stability of catalytic oxide ZrO2. Coating of Mg(OH)2 layer on Nb2O5 particles facilitates the synthesis of pyrochlore-free perovskite lead manganese niobate (PMN) powders by a single heat-treatment step. Normally this must be done in two heat-treatment steps as in the columbite process. More recently, the coating technique has been used to fabricate piezoelectric PMN-PT thick-film sensors. Piezoelectric-metal bimorphs have been fabricated to detect yeast cells and biotinylated polystyrene spheres with a sensitivity of 10−9 g/Hz.
Electronic messaging and communication effectiveness in an ongoing work group

Abstract Computer-mediated communication (CMC) technologies are transforming the way work is performed within groups. Exploratory research on managers' use of CMC in natural settings suggests that shared cognitive and social context may be the most important factors influencing the communication. The research reported here examined the use of electronic messaging (EM) vs traditional modes of communication (i.e., face-to-face (FTF), telephone, and written memo) in an ongoing work group performing a cooperative task. By means of an in-depth multi-method field study, the research explored the context surrounding when and why a particular communication mode was chosen, and how those choices related to communication effectiveness. Communication was more effective when FTF was used to build or share interpretive context where deficient, when leaner EM was used to communicate within an existing shared interpretive context, and when communicators complied with communication procedure by choosing the expected mode of communication.
The missing dimension in developmental biology education.

Note from the EditorPoints of View (POV) address issues faced by many people within the life science education community. CBE—Life Sciences Education (CBE-LSE) publishes the POV Feature to present ...
Arabidopsis TEOSINTE BRANCHED1-LIKE 1 Regulates Axillary Bud Outgrowth and is Homologous to Monocot TEOSINTE BRANCHED1

Axillary bud outgrowth is controlled by developmental and environmental signals through the integrated action of hormones and other factors that probably regulate the cell cycle in the buds. While hormonal regulators have been studied extensively, less is known about downstream mechanisms regulating bud outgrowth. The TCP domain protein TEOSINTE BRANCHED1 (TB1) is a putative transcriptional regulator that represses bud outgrowth in grasses. Phylogenetic analyses have indicated that three hypothetical Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) proteins, TCP1, TCP12 and TCP18 [TEOSINTE BRANCHED1-LIKE 1 (TBL1)], are closely related to monocot TB1 proteins. A reverse genetics approach was used to identify TBL1 and TCP12 mutants to assess the function of the hypothetical proteins. No obvious phenotype was observed in tcp12 mutants. tbl1 null mutants exhibited a non-pleiotropic hyperbranching phenotype that was due to enhanced outgrowth of primary and secondary buds. The role of TBL1 as a repressor of bud outgrowth was supported by TBL1 mRNA accumulation: abundance was high in unelongated buds, and decreased to low levels in buds that were elongating. Analyses of TBL1 expression in hormone signaling mutants with aberrant branching suggest that TBL1 acts downstream of auxin and the MAX-related hormone to coordinate bud outgrowth. The data are consistent with Arabidopsis TBL1 providing functionality similar to monocot TB1, and highlight the conservation of mechanisms regulating branching across large evolutionary distances.
A mixed-valence compound with one unpaired electron delocalized over four molybdenum atoms in a cyclic tetranuclear ion.

The first oxidation of a species derived from a compound having two linked, quadruply-bonded Mo2 units has been performed and [[cis-Mo2(DAniF)2]2(μ-Cl)4]PF6, 2, has been isolated and characterized in many ways; it has one unpaired electron and a fully delocalized structure where the Mo–Mo distances increase from 2.1191(4) A in the reduced species to 2.1453(3) A in 2 and the Kc of 1.3 × 109 is three orders of magnitude larger than that of the Creutz–Taube ion.
Meeting the Challenges of Reducing Earthquake Losses: Engineering Accomplishments and Frontiers

Abstract Accomplishments in earthquake engineering under the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) have been numerous since the inception of the federal program in 1977 and are noted herein with a series of examples of former and present work done by NSF, FEMA, NIST and their investigators. These examples illustrate the implementation of research and development towards reducing earthquake losses, and include projects done to (a) better understand response of constructed facilities to earthquakes, (b) develop improved national standards and practices for planning, design and construction of earthquake resistant facilities, (c) develop methods for assessment of vulnerability of existing facilities to earthquake effects, and (d) develop methods for strengthening or repair of vulnerable facilities. Future frontiers in earthquake engineering research are also discussed including cross‐disciplinary approaches of newly established national earthquake engineering research centers that are directe...
Assessment and Treatment of Correctional Inmates With ADHD

Mr. A is a 32-year-old inmate in a medium-security prison who is being treated by the facility psychiatrist for recently diagnosed attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). His school records are not available, but Mr. A's parents report that they always struggled to get him to do his homework and that he had academic difficulties from the third or fourth grade. They recall his teachers reporting that he easily became bored in class, often fidgeted, could not sit still, had problems focusing on schoolwork, and generally did not perform up to his potential. He did not complete high school. While in prison, he enrolled in GED courses, and the instructors confirm that despite his apparent motivation, he still has difficulty concentrating, organizing his work, and finishing projects. He also has a job in the prison kitchen, and his supervisor reports that Mr. A often forgets to complete assigned tasks and makes mistakes with tasks that involve multiple steps. He has received a warning that he could lose his job if his performance does not improve. Officers on his cellblock report that he seems restless during times of high activity or noise on the unit. Mr. A never had a clinical assessment for his problems prior to his incarceration. Not long after his arrival, the prison psychologist administered an ADHD symptom questionnaire and tested for problems with attention. Interview and test results were consistent with a diagnosis of ADHD. The prison psychiatrist prescribed a 2-month course of 400 mg/day of bupropion, which brought no noticeable improvement. Mr. A has also enrolled in an ADHD educational group at the prison that includes a focus on organizational skills and impulse control. Mr. B is a 29-year-old inmate in a maximum-security prison who presents with the complaint "I need something to help me concentrate and keep me out of trouble." He reports that he was always a "lousy student" and is a high school dropout. He also states that he was diagnosed with ADHD as a child and took methylphenidate prior to incarceration. He complains that it now takes him a long time to read a book or to complete a letter, and he has received several disciplinary reports for fighting, for disobeying correctional officers, and for positive urine drug screens for benzodiazepines and opiates. He endorses multiple ADHD symptoms on a self-report checklist. Since his incarceration, he has not tried to enroll in educational, work, or other prison programming because he believes that he would not be able to focus on any of these tasks. Mr. B will not consent to contact with his family or sign a release for past treatment records and states that "none of that matters" to what he needs now. He refuses additional psychological testing, and he believes that group treatment is "just a lot of talk and a waste of time." He knows that other inmates receive stimulant medications for their ADHD, and he has no interest in trying any medication other than a stimulant.
High-Permeability Criterion for BCS Classification: Segmental/pH Dependent Permeability Considerations

The FDA classifies a drug substance as high-permeability when the fraction of dose absorbed (Fabs) in humans is 90% or higher. This direct correlation between human permeability and Fabs has been recently controversial, since the β-blocker sotalol showed high Fabs (90%) and low Caco-2 permeability. The purpose of this study was to investigate the scientific basis for this disparity between permeability and Fabs. The effective permeabilities (Peff) of sotalol and metoprolol, a FDA standard for the low/high Peff class boundary, were investigated in the rat perfusion model, in three different intestinal segments with pHs corresponding to the physiological pH in each region: (1) proximal jejunum, pH 6.5; (2) mid small intestine, pH 7.0; and (3) distal ileum, pH 7.5. Both metoprolol and sotalol showed pH-dependent permeability, with higher Peff at higher pH. At any given pH, sotalol showed lower permeability than metoprolol; however, the permeability of sotalol determined at pH 7.5 exceeded/matched metoprolol’...
The Lex Dei and the Latin Bible

Two striking developments in late antiquity are the growing influence of Christianity and the codification of Roman law. The first attempt to harmonize these two developments lies in the late antique Latin work known by scholars as the Lex Dei (“Law of God”) or Collatio Legum Mosaicarum et Romanarum (“Collation of the Laws of Moses and of the Romans”). The anonymous collator of this short legal compendium organized his work following a fairly regular plan, dividing it into sixteen topics (traditionally called titles). Each title begins with a quotation from the Hebrew Bible (in Latin), followed by quotations of passages from Roman jurists and, occasionally, from Roman law. His apparent motive was to demonstrate the similarity between Roman law and the law of God. Scholars have differed over where the collator obtained his Latin translations of passages from the Hebrew Bible. Did he make his own translation from the Greek Septuagint or directly from the Hebrew Scriptures themselves? Did he use the famous Latin translation of Jerome or an older, pre-Jerome, Latin translation of the Bible, known by scholars as the Vetus Latina or Old Latin Bible? Re-examination of the evolution of texts of the Latin Bible and close comparison of biblical passages from the Lex Dei with other surviving Latin versions will confirm that the collator used one of the several versions of the Old Latin Bible that were in circulation in late antiquity. Such a conclusion supports the argument that the religious identity of the collator was Christian (a subject of scholarly controversy for almost a century). Moreover, analysis of the collator's use of the Bible can also shed light on his methodology in compiling his collection.
Markers of Gluten Sensitivity and Celiac Disease in Recent-Onset Psychosis and Multi-Episode Schizophrenia

Background Increased immune sensitivity to gluten has been reported in schizophrenia. However, studies are inconsistent about this association. Methods The sample of 471 individuals included 129 with recent-onset psychosis, 191 with multi-episode schizophrenia, and 151 controls. Immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgA antibodies to gliadin and to tissue transglutaminase, and IgG antibodies to deamidated gliadin were measured. Quantitative levels of antibodies in the psychiatric groups were compared with controls. All participants were categorized as to whether their levels of antibodies met standardized cutoffs for celiac disease. HLA DQ2 and HLA DQ8 alleles were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results Individuals with recent-onset psychosis had increased levels of IgG (odds ratio [OR] 5.50; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.65–11.42) and IgA (OR 2.75; 95% CI 1.31–5.75) antibodies to gliadin compared with control subjects. Individuals with multi-episode schizophrenia also had significantly increased levels of IgG antibodies to gliadin (OR 6.19; 95% CI 2.70–14.16). IgG antibodies to deamidated gliadin and IgA antibodies to tissue transglutaminase were not elevated in either psychiatric group, and fewer than 1% of individuals in each of the groups had levels of these antibodies predictive of celiac disease. There were no significant differences in the distribution of the HLA DQ2/8 alleles among the groups. Conclusions Individuals with recent-onset psychosis and with multi-episode schizophrenia who have increased antibodies to gliadin may share some immunologic features of celiac disease, but their immune response to gliadin differs from that of celiac disease.
Generation and Evaluation of a Manipulator Workspace Based on Optimum Path Search

This paper presents an algorithm using an optimization technique to outline the boundary profile of a manipulator workspace and perform quantitative evaluation of the workspace volume. The algorithm is applicable to general N -link manipulators with not only the revolute joints, but also joints of other types, such as, the prismatic and cylindrical joints. It is a partial-scanning technique which offers significant reduction on the number of scanning points to generate the workspace and the method is particularly efficient in dealing with complicated manipulator geometry. The [3 × 3] dual-number matrix method is used as the basis for analytical formulations, and consequently, computational advantage is gained. A comparative study is given with a previously used algorithm. Several specific examples involving industrial robots of various kinds are given to demonstrate the capability of the algorithm.
Mitogenic and Antioxidant Mechanisms of Estradiol Action in Preovulatory Ovine Follicles: Relevance to Luteal Function

The objectives of this investigation were to determine the intrafollicular mechanisms and physiological consequences of estradiol actions in preovulatory ovine follicles. Acute suppression of estradiol production in proestrous ewes by an aromatase inhibitor (Arimidex) was associated with follicular lipid peroxidation, testosterone accumulation, and a granulosa cell deficiency (decreased proliferation/increased apoptosis). Estradiol-17beta stimulated granulosa proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and protected cells from oxidative (H(2)O(2)) stress-induced apoptosis in vitro; the PCNA, but not the antiapoptotic response, was negated by the transcriptional inhibitor actinomycin D. Thus, it appears that genomic/mitotic and cytoprotective (oxygen-scavenging) modes of estradiol action operate in preovulatory follicles. Luteal (large steroidogenic cell) function was diminished following ovulation induction of estradiol-deficient follicles. It is suggested that inadequate exposure of the preovulatory follicle to estradiol caused the granulosa lutein insufficiency.
Standard intelligence tests are valid instruments for measuring the intellectual potential of urban children: comments on pitfalls in the measurement of intelligence.

Summary Hardy, Welcher, Mellits, and Kagan altered standard WISC administrative and scoring procedures and, from the resulting higher subtest scores, concluded that IQs based on standardized tests are inappropriate measures for inner-city children. Careful examination of their study reveals many methodological inadequacies and problematic interpretations. Three of these are as follows: (a) failure to use any external criterion to evaluate the validity of their testing-of-limits procedures; (b) the possibility of examiner and investigator bias; and (c) lack of any comparison group that might demonstrate that poor children would be helped more than others by the probes recommended. Their report creates misleading doubts about existing intelligence tests and does a disservice to inner-city children who need the benefits of the judicious use of diagnostic procedures, which include standardized intelligence tests. Consequently, their assertion concerning the inappropriateness of standardized test results for i...
Prothrombin Levels and Synthetic Vitamin K in Obstructive Jaundice of Rats.

SummaryRats maintained on a diet low in vitamin K, and having obstructive jaundice, were used to indicate the vitamin K potency of phthiocol and of 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone. Data also are given to indicate the approximate maintenance requirement of this animal. Evidence at hand indicates that considerable amounts of vitamin K can be stored, provided the deficient animal is given large doses of vitamin K, or perhaps with smaller doses over a long period of time. The clinical implications of this are pointed out.
Stress functions for nonlinear dimension reduction, proximity analysis, and graph drawing

Multidimensional scaling (MDS) is the art of reconstructing pointsets (embeddings) from pairwise distance data, and as such it is at the basis of several approaches to nonlinear dimension reduction and manifold learning. At present, MDS lacks a unifying methodology as it consists of a discrete collection of proposals that differ in their optimization criteria, called "stress functions". To correct this situation we propose (1) to embed many of the extant stress functions in a parametric family of stress functions, and (2) to replace the ad hoc choice among discrete proposals with a principled parameter selection method. This methodology yields the following benefits and problem solutions: (a) It provides guidance in tailoring stress functions to a given data situation, responding to the fact that no single stress function dominates all others across all data situations; (b) the methodology enriches the supply of available stress functions; (c) it helps our understanding of stress functions by replacing the comparison of discrete proposals with a characterization of the effect of parameters on embeddings; (d) it builds a bridge to graph drawing, which is the related but not identical art of constructing embeddings from graphs.
Cognitive Interface Design

In this chapter we introduce the methodology we follow as we design the user interface of the deductive spreadsheet. Because meeting the cognitive requirements of the user is paramount, we combine two recent proposals from cognitive science: the attention investment model takes an abstract view of the problem solving task by framing it in economic terms; in contrast, the cognitive dimension of notations proposes a number of criteria on which to evaluate individual design choices.
Altruism from an Evolutionary Perspective

A primer on altruism through evolutionary perspectives. Section headings for the book chapter are: Multilevel selection theory; Naive group selection and the rejection of group selection in the 1960s; Selfish genes and extended phenotypes; Inclusive fitness theory; Reciprocal altruism and evolutionary game theory; and, The importance of culture in the evolution of altruism.
Effect of castration in male mice on Schistosoma mansoni.

SummaryA group of castrated male albino mice and an uncastrated control group were equally infected with Schistosoma mansoni. Nine weeks later the animals were sacrificed and the adult parasites collected, separated according to sex and counted. The mean adult parasite count per mouse, for each group, showed a significant reduction in the male schistosomes of the castrated animals. This difference indicates a relationship between male sex hormones and the male parasite.
An Analysis of Specialty Provision of Vocational Education in Ethnic Regions

Specialty provision is the core element in vocational education.It will directly influence the market of training and employment.Specialty provision of vocational education in ethnic regions is stagnant.We should first understand the basic principles of specialty provision,and then make and adjust specialties according to the need of regional,economic and social development and the need of techniques and vocational posts,so as to make talents training match social demand.
Measuring co-alignment

Traditionally, understanding how firms can outperform their competitors was the focus of researchers in the field of strategic management (Barney, 1991; Porter, 1980, 1985. Conversely, in today’s dynamic and uncertain environment, strategy is about achieving sustainable competitive advantage (Olsen et al., 1998). Moreover, what the literature does not offer is a comprehensive business model, developed empirically, that offers managers a blueprint to accomplishing sustainable competitive advantage. Instead, the literature offers a number of schools of thought about strategy, but little in the way of a comprehensive model (Mintzberg et al., 1998). This paper attempts to address this situation using the co-alignment theory of strategy as the underpinning to this effort.
Studying Vaccinia Virus RNA Processing In Vitro

The study and use of vaccinia virus-derived RNA-modifying proteins has made a significant contribution to molecular biology. Here, the purification and assay of two such proteins, comprising the vaccinia poly(A) polymerase/cap-specific mRNA 2'-O-methyltransferase, is described.
Testing the assumption of normality in body sway area calculations during unipedal stance tests with an inertial sensor

The quantification of postural sway during the unipedal stance test is one of the essentials of posturography. A shift of center of pressure (CoP) is an indirect measure of postural sway and also a measure of a person's ability to maintain balance. A widely used method in laboratory settings to calculate the sway of body center of mass (CoM) is through an ellipse that encloses 95% of CoP trajectory. The 95% ellipse can be computed under the assumption that the spatial distribution of the CoP points recorded from force platforms is normal. However, to date, this assumption of normality has not been demonstrated for sway measurements recorded from a sacral inertial measurement unit (IMU). This work provides evidence for non-normality of sway trajectories calculated at a sacral IMU with injured subjects as well as healthy subjects.
Evaluating upper-extremity (dys)function using measurement unit technology and its applications to resource-constrained settings

The rural population of the world has grown slowly since 1950 and is expected to reach 3.1 billion by 2050. Individuals who reside in rural areas experience more functional limitations caused by chronic conditions (e.g., stroke, cerebral palsy) and have reduced access to healthcare services than do urban residents with similar conditions. Applications of robotics along with information and communications technology (ICT) have been proposed as a cost-effective solution to increase access and quality of care in rural areas. In this paper, I introduce the use of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) for the assessment of upper-extremity impairments, and present data demonstrating the reliability and validity of this device to capture the kinematics during activities of daily living (ADL) in 50 physically and neurologically healthy adults. This innovation solution integrates multiple technologies to provide rehabilitation services without in-person clinician-to-patient encounters, and could support care services for individuals who reside in geographically remote areas.
Sustainable tourism in the global south: communities, environments and management

Sustainable Tourism in the Global South (2016) edited by Aslam, Cooper, Othman and Lew is an interesting collection of research papers from 7th Tourism Outlook Conference and the 3rd Tropical Touri...
Tachycardia and Myocarditis

Tachyarrhythmias are defined as rhythms with a heart rate >100 beats/min. Sinus tachycardia is a fast but regular rhythm.
Improving Effectiveness of CS Teacher Professional Development (Abstract Only)

Recent studies on the impact of CS teacher professional development (PD) opportunities have highlighted areas of improvement to effectively grow the number of well-prepared CS teachers. In this BoF Google will share data from CS4HS, an annual program that awards funding to research institutions and education nonprofits globally for the purpose of developing innovative and scalable CS PD that maps to local standards and demands. These data will serve as a starting point to engage the attendees in a wide-ranging and action-oriented discussion on ways the CS education community can improve our PD processes and results.
Provenance and Al/Si Order-Disorder of Detrital Alkali Feldspars

The principle that detailed characterization of minerals enhances petrogenetic interpretation is extended to sedimentary petrology by estimating the Al/Si order-disorder of detrital alkali feldspars from Holocene fluvial sands derived from granite plutons. A weathering-independent characterization of the influence of source rocks on daughter sands is based on structural state determination of 42 detrital alkali feldspars. Structural states were estimated from refined unit cell parameters derived from slow oscillatory difractograms. . None of the studied feldspars show anomalous cell dimensions as inferred from b-c plots. In addition, estimates of Or content from refined cell volumes correspond very well with microprobe measurements of the Or contents of the same grains. In crystalline rocks, however, many alkali feldspars have anomalous cell dimensions; their estimated and measured Or contents are also often widely different. This suggests that detrital alkali feldspars may be amenable to rapid x-ray methods of structural state determination. Detrital alkali feldspars in sands derived from pre-Mesozoic plutons are triclinic with a relatively low structural state (average Δ bc=0.975; t 1 (o)=0.479). The age of the parent pluton may be a factor in controlling the relative structural states of detrital feldspars derived from the pluton. Alternatively, the difference in ordering between the two groups of feldspars might reflect the differences in the thermal history of the different zones of the parent batholith supplying feldspars. It is possible that the rapidly cooled outer shells of plutons are quenched at higher temperatures than their relatively slowly cooled cores. Thus the outer shells would tend to produce alkali feldspars with relatively higher structural states than those coming from the core. If so, a vertical sequence of sediments derived from systematic unroofing of a batholith should reflect this change in feldspar structural state.
Bringing It All Together: Critical Take(s) on Systemic Functional Linguistics

This chapter discusses the strengths and challenges of implementing the critical takes on SFL articulated in this volume. The major strengths across the studies relate to their shared focus on a systematic SFL metalanguage, critical orientation to teaching and researching and use of a robust pedagogical design that supports multilingual students and teachers in investigating and critiquing how semiotic choices realize knowledge for specific audiences, purposes and contexts. A common and significant challenge is the lack of institutional and systematic support for longitudinal implementations of SFL-based instruction and research. Implications include the need for administrators and policy makers to be invited into the discussion about critical SFL-informed disciplinary approaches; and for more studies to be conducted on dialogic SFL-informed classroom instruction across the curriculum and across institutions.