cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Second-line mitoxantrone, etoposide, and cytarabine for acute myeloid leukemia: A single-center experience

The majority of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) will require second-line chemotherapy for either relapsed or refractory disease. Currently, only allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) offers a curative option in this setting and no preferred regimen has been established. The reported efficacy of second-line regimens is widely disparate, thus limiting informed clinical decision making. A retrospective review of 77 patients receiving therapy between 2001 and 2008 with relapsed, 42, and refractory, 35, AML was performed to determine overall response rate and survival following mitoxantrone (8 mg/m(2)/day), etoposide (100 mg/m(2)/day), and cytarabine (1,000 mg/m(2)/day) chemotherapy administered over 5 days. Among 77 patients (median age of 54 years and 64% intermediate risk karyotype) with median follow-up of 153 days, 18% achieved a complete response and 8% a morphologic leukemia-free state. Fifty-seven (74%) experienced treatment failure, 10 of whom achieved a remission after additional therapy. Median overall survival (OS) was 6.8 months. Among patients achieving a response, 50% received consolidation with allogeneic HCT, autologous HCT (5%), or consolidation chemotherapy alone (45%). A nonsignificant trend in overall response (50%, 27%, and 23.8%) and median OS (8.3, 6.8, and 4.7 months) was observed by cytogenetic stratification into favorable, intermediate, and unfavorable risk. Patients with refractory versus relapsed disease had similar overall responses (20% and 31%, P = 0.41) and median OS (5.3 and 7.6 months, P = 0.36). Despite risk stratification by the European Prognostic Index, our series demonstrates inferior rates of response and survival, illustrating the limited activity of this regimen in our cohort.
Atria are more susceptible to electroporation than ventricles: Implications for atrial stunning, shock-induced arrhythmia and defibrillation failure

Background Defibrillation shock is known to induce atrial stunning, which is electrical and mechanical dysfunction. Objective We hypothesized that atrial stunning is caused by higher atrial susceptibility to electroporation vs ventricles. We also hypothesize that electroporation may be responsible for early recurrence of atrial fibrillation. Methods We investigated electroporation induced by 10-ms epicardial high-intensity shocks applied locally in atria and ventricles of Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts (n = 12) using optical mapping. Results Electroporation was centered at the electrode and was evident from transient diastolic depolarization and reduction of action potential amplitude and maximum upstroke derivative. Electroporation was voltage-dependent and polarity-dependent and was significantly more pronounced in the atria vs ventricles ( P Conclusion We showed that the atria are more vulnerable to electroporation and resulting block and arrhythmia than the ventricles.
Renoprotection and blood pressure

demonstrated that in rats with 5/6 renal ablation block- In response to Dr. Porush’s criticisms of the conclu-ade of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by either an sions of our study [1], we submit the following facts forangiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or by his consideration. Several lines of evidence indicate thatan angiotensin receptor antagonist provides renoprotec- an exaggerated glomerular transmission of hypertensiontion, proportionate to the degree of blood pressure (BP) plays a major role in the pathogenesis of the progressivelowering, which was dose dependent [1]. The authors glomerulosclerosis (GS) observed in the 5/6 ablationinterpret the data to suggest that the renoprotection is model. Moreover, there is an excellent direct correlationonlythroughBP-dependentmechanisms.Infact,thetitle between precisely quantitated BP (continuous radiote-of the article suggests that there was a lack of evidence lemetry) and GS indicating that 60 to 80% of the differ-of BP-independent protection by RAS blockade after ences in GS between individual untreated animals canrenal ablation in this study. They appear to justify these be accounted for by BP differences (
Preference-directed graph coloring

This paper describes a new framework of register allocation based on Chaitin-style coloring. Our focus is on maximizing the chances for live ranges to be allocated to the most preferred registers while not destroying the colorability obtained by graph simplification. Our coloring algorithm uses a graph representation of preferences called a Register Preference Graph, which helps find a good register selection. We then try to relax the register selection order created by the graph simplification. The relaxed order is defined as a partial order, represented using a graph called a Coloring Precedence Graph. Our algorithm utilizes such a partial order for the register selection instead of using the traditional simplification-driven order so that the chances of honoring the preferences are effectively increased. Experimental results show that our coloring algorithm is powerful to simultaneously handle spill decisions, register coalescing, and preference resolutions.
Glutathione transferase gene family from the housefly Musca domestica

Three new glutathione transferase (GST) genes from the housefly Musca domestica are described. These genes, identified as MdGST-2, -3, and -4, were from cDNA clones obtained from a cDNA bank in phage λ. The bank was prepared using poly(A)+ RNA from a housefly that is highly resistant to organophosphate insecticides because of enhanced expression of multiple members of the glutathione transferase gene family. The DNA sequence of each is reported and has a complete open reading frame that specified an amino acid sequence similar to other dipteran glutathione transferases. Based on phylogenetic analysis, we can conclude that the insect glutathione transferase gene family falls into two groups, each of which evolves at a different rate, presumably due to differences in functional constraints. We show that MdGST-1 (and their homologues from Drosophila and Lucilia) evolve at a significantly slower rate than the other members of the gene family. Each housefly GST cDNA was inserted into a bacterial plasmid expression system and a glutathione transferase activity was expressed in Escherichia coli. The transcription pattern of each of these glutathione transferases was examined in a variety of different housefly strains that are known to differ in their resistance to organophosphate insecticides due to different patterns of glutathione transferase expression. We found that the level of transcription for two of our clones was positively correlated with the level of organophosphate resistance.
The effects of information and magnitude of initial offer on interpersonal negotiation

Abstract Forty subjects in an automobile-trading game bargained with a programmed opponent. Half the subjects knew the possible range of profits for both themselves and the opponent (completely informed), while half knew only their own possible profits (incompletely informed). Within each of these information conditions, half the subjects received a first bid favorable to themselves from the opponent, while the other half received an unfavorable first bid. Favorable bids led to higher demands, both in counterbids and in contract accepted, among incompletely informed subjects, while unfavorable bids led to somewhat higher bids among completely informed subjects, though value of contract accepted was not affected. Results support the hypotheses that uninformed bargainers use opponents' bids to set their own goals, while informed bargainers use them to assess the reasonableness of the opponent's goals.
Buffering of diurnal temperature variations on Venus

Abstract Previous calculations of the role of degassing of CO2 from calcite in buffering the surface temperature of Venus ignored the efficacy with which energy could be conducted into the subsurface. Consuction into the subsurface plays a minor role in the energy balance, however, such that less than 10% of the insolation will conduct into the subsurface and go into degassing CO2, with the remainder heating up the surface and atmosphere; negligible buffering of the surface temperature will occur.
Adipose tissue-specific PPARγ deficiency increases resistance to oxidative stress

The nuclear hormone receptor peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) critically regulates adipogenesis and lipogenesis. Obesity is closely associated with increased oxidative stress, and pharmacological activation of PPARgamma by its ligands significantly suppresses oxidative stress in cultured adipocytes. On the other hand, a PPARgamma2(Pro12Ala) polymorphism, which decreases receptor transcription activity, is associated with lower body mass index and increased insulin sensitivity in humans. This mutation is also found to be positively associated with increased human lifespan. Here we show that adipose tissue-specific PPARgamma heterozygous mice, which exhibit significant improvement in insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle, show increased resistance to paraquat-induced oxidative stress. The enhanced oxidative stress tolerance is associated with significant upregulation of antioxidant genes in white adipose tissue and skeletal muscle whereas prooxidant genes are not changed. This is also associated with a significant increase in adipose tissue of Foxo3a, a transcription factor that is known to regulate clearance of reactive oxygen species. Consistently, Foxo3a dependent genes are significantly upregulated in adipose tissue. These data implicate adipose tissue PPARgamma in the regulation of oxidative stress, which may underlie extended lifespan in humans bearing PPARgamma2(Pro12Ala) mutation.
CHLORINATION CHEMISTRY. 1. RATE COEFFICIENTS, REACTION MECHANISMS, AND SPECTRA OF THE CHLORINE AND BROMINE ADDUCTS OF PROPARGYL HALIDES

Cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS), end-product analysis, and ab initio calculations have determined absorption cross sections, rate coefficients, reaction mechanisms, and thermochemistry relevant to the addition of halogen atoms to propargyl chloride and propargyl bromide. Halogen atoms were produced by laser photolysis, and the addition reaction products were probed at a variable delay by CRDS using a second laser pulse. We report the continuum spectra of C3H3Cl2 (1,2-dichloroallyl), C3H3ClBr (1-chloro-2-bromoallyl), and C3H3Br2 (1,2-dibromoallyl) radicals between 238 and 252 nm and the absorption cross sections, σ240(C3H3Cl2) = (4.20 ± 1.05) × 10-17 cm2 molecule-1 and σ242(C3H3Br2) = (1.04 ± 0.31) × 10-17 cm2 molecule-1. When the observed data are fit to complex reaction schemes, the 298 K rate coefficients for formation of 1,2-dihaloallyl radicals at 665 Pa were found to be k(Cl + C3H3Cl) = (1.2 ± 0.2) × 10-10 cm3 molecule-1 s-1 and k(Br + C3H3Br) = (2 ± 1) × 10-12 cm3 molecule-1 s-1. At 298 K and 6...
Antagonism of a PCP Drug Discrimination by Hallucinogens and Related Drugs

Drugs such as PCP and MK-801 can cause psychotic reactions in humans by antagonizing NMDA receptors. This action is ultimately toxic to certain cortical neurons and may be one mechanism underlying neurodegenerative diseases, including schizophrenia. It has been reported that hallucinogens such as LSD, DOM, and DOI can block the neurotoxic effects of NMDA antagonists, possibly by activating inhibitory 5-HT2A receptors on GABAergic interneurons that normally inhibit glutamatergic projections to the retrosplenial and cingulate cortexes. The purpose of this experiment was to determine the extent to which similar drugs might also alter the behavioral effects of one NMDA antagonist, PCP. Rats were trained to discriminate this compound (2.5 mg/kg) from saline and were then given a series of antagonist tests. It was found that LSD (0.32 mg/kg) and DOM (4.0 mg/kg) blocked the PCP cue completely; DMT (8.0 mg/kg) and a structural congener of LSD, lisuride (LHM; 0.4 mg/kg), blocked the effects of PCP partially. The 5-HT/DA antagonists spiperone and ritanserin had no effect on the PCP cue. These data suggest that LSD, DOM, and, less effectively, DMT and LHM can block the behavioral as well as the neurotoxic effects of NMDA antagonists most likely through agonist actions at 5-HT2 receptors.
Crystal growth and textured microstructures of 1,6-di(N-carbazolyl)-2,4 hexadiyne diacetylene

We are developing techniques to isolate and characterize grain boundary defects with controlled geometries in 1,6-di(N-carbazolyl)-2,4 hexadiyne (DCHD) diacetylene polymer bicrystals. To be successful in this endeavor, it is important to determine the influence of processing variables such as evaporation rate, solution concentration, and environment on DCHD diacetylene crystal morphology. We have found that large, high quality DCHD diacetylene single crystals can be grown from solution under a controlled atmosphere. The quality of the DCHD crystals can be evaluated by optical microscopy and quantitative digital image analysis. Defect structures in DCHD diacetylene crystals have been studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Two single-crystal textured structures have been found in porous DCHD crystals precipitated from solution: (1) a microfibrillar structure and (2) a “cross-hatched” structure. The porous DCHD crystals show localized shear deformation zones (twins and kinks), but only in those regions where the density is greater than 95% that of the perfect crystal. Lateral chain invariant (LCI) small-angle grain boundaries have been identified in DCHD by HREM.
Heat shock protein 27 stimulates recovery of RNA and protein synthesis following a heat shock

Constitutive expression of human hsp27 resulted in a 100-fold increase in survival to a single lethal heat shock in CHO cells without effecting the development of thermotolerance. A possible mechanism for the thermoprotective function of hsp27 may be increased recovery of protein synthesis and RNA synthesis following a heat shock. A lethal heat shock (44°C, 30 min) results in a 90% reduction in the rate of protein synthesis in non-tolerant cells. Control transfected cells recovered protein synthesis to a pre-heat shock rate 10 h after the heat shock; while cell lines that constitutively express human hsp27 recovered 6 h after the heat shock. Thermotolerant cells had a 50% reduction in protein synthesis, which recovered within 7 h following the heat shock. The same lethal heat shock (44°C, 30 min) reduced RNA synthesis by 60% in the transfected cell lines, with the controls recovering in 7 h; while the hsp27 expressing cell lines recovered within 5 h. Thermotolerant cells had a 40% reduction in RNA synthesis and were able to recover within 4 h. The enhanced ability of hsp27 to facilitate recovery of protein synthesis and RNA synthesis following a heat shock may provide the cell with a survival advantage. J. Cell. Biochem. 66:153–164, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss Inc.
N.M.R. studies of electrolytes in binary solvent mixtures I. 10:1 aqueous mixtures of acetone, N,N-dimethylformamide, dimethylsulphoxide, dioxane, ethanol, and N-methylformamide

A N.M.R. study of diamagnetic salts and CoCl2 in pure water and in 10 : 1 mole ratio aqueous mixtures of acetone, N,N-dimethylformamide, dimethylsulphoxide, dioxane, ethanol, methanol and N-methylformamide, has been carried out. Water chemical shift displacements indicate that this component extensively solvates most cations. These displacements are correlated with ion charge, entropy, size, and with the water concentration. Evidence for solvation by the organic component was provided by the water results, AlCl3 solution studies, and paramagnetic studies. In the AlCl3 solutions, in the DMF, DMSO, and NMF-H2O solvent mixtures, separate N.M.R. signals were observed for bulk and complexed organic solvent.
Photoinitiated cationic copolymerizations: Effects of the oligomer structure and composition

Abstract Cationic photopolymerizations of multifunctional epoxides cure efficiently at room temperature. However, slow reactions relative to acrylates and brittleness associated with highly crosslinked networks limit applications. Here, photoinitiated cationic copolymerizations were investigated for systems containing terminal hydroxyl groups and two types of epoxides, namely cycloaliphatic diepoxide (EEC) and epoxidized elastomeric oligomers (EPOH). When the predicted bulk mixture viscosity increased five-fold over neat EEC due to added EPOH content, the initial EEC reactivity began to decrease. Overall enhancement in EEC polymerization rates and ultimate conversion were attributed to activated monomer mechanism associated with EPOH terminal hydroxyl groups. Real-time consumption of EPOH internal epoxides was successfully obtained from Raman spectra. Initial reactivity and ultimate conversion of the internal epoxides decreased with increasing EEC content, especially at low internal epoxide contents. These results indicate that reactivity of EPOH hydroxyl groups is higher toward EEC cationic active centers than those of EPOH during cationic photopolymerizations.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI) during orgasm in women

Introduction Women report pleasurable responses, peak sexual experiences, and orgasm from a variety of stimuli. Physiological studies from our laboratory have validated the reports of women that they do not fit into a linear pattern of only one way to respond sexually. Methods Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), activity in the brain was recorded during vaginocervical self-stimulation in women with complete spinal cord injury (SCI) at or above T 10 and in women without spinal cord injury in addition to women who experienced orgasm from imagery alone. Results Activation of the region of Nucleus Tractus Solitarii (NTS) the sensory nucleus of the vagus nerve was observed, supporting our hypothesis that the vagus nerve provides a spinal cord bypass pathway for vaginocervical sensation. During orgasm, compared to pre-orgasm, high levels of activity were observed in the regions of the following: hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), midbrain central gray, amygdala, hippocampus, anterior cingulate, frontal, parietal, temporal and insular cortices, anterior basal ganglia, and cerebellum. fMRI data from imagery-induced orgasm showed activation of the same brain areas but no activation of the amygdala. Conclusions Application of these data to therapy will be suggested. Use of fMRI images as a biofeedback to the women to voluntarily intensify or decrease the activity, the latter in women with Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PSAD), will be discussed.
Thrombomodulin RNA Is Destabilized Through Its 3′-Untranslated Element in Cells Exposed to IFN-γ

Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) is a potent activator of mononuclear phagocytes, allowing them to play a prominent role in acute and chronic inflammatory responses. IFN-γ binding to its cell surface receptor initiates changes in the steady-state levels of cellular RNAs, permitting the proteins encoded by these RNAs to exert its biologic actions. Hundreds of cellular RNAs have been identified whose rates of transcription are altered by incubation of cells with IFNs. The rates of transcription of many of the genes encoding these RNAs are enhanced by IFN-γ-mediated activation of the Stat1 transcription factor that is tyrosine phosphorylated and translocates to the nucleus, where it binds enhancers present in IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). IFN-γ can also modify the concentrations of some RNAs by posttranscriptional mechanisms. However, very little is understood about the molecular mechanisms regulating this phenomenon. We have identified the RNA encoding thrombomodulin (TM), a physiologic receptor for thrombin, that is do...
Effects of oblique-angle deposition on intrinsic stress evolution during polycrystalline film growth

Abstract Precise control of the residual stress in polycrystalline films, which remains a central but difficult task in a variety of emerging technologies, requires synergistic manipulation of multiple processing parameters. In addition to the substrate temperature and the rate of deposition, the angle of incidence of the deposition flux is known to affect structure evolution processes during film formation. However, its role in influencing the evolution of the intrinsic stress has not been determined. In this work, we investigate the effects of oblique-angle deposition on intrinsic stress evolution in polycrystalline gold and nickel films, using in situ stress measurements as well as ex situ surface and microstructure characterization. We find that as the angle between the surface normal and the direction of the deposition flux increases, the thickness at which film coalescence occurs increases and the post-coalescence stress shifts toward the tensile direction. We suggest that the first trend is associated with the effects of shadowing on the nucleation density in the pre-coalescence regime, and we attribute the second trend to an increase in surface roughness and shadowing effects associated with the dome-shaped surfaces of individual grains. According to this view, oblique-angle deposition on a mesoscopically rough surface eliminates or reduces condensation at and near grain boundaries, and therefore lowers the rate of adatom–grain boundary attachment, resulting in reduction in the compressive component of the intrinsic stress. The stress evolution map built from this work suggests routes to achieve specific stress levels in polycrystalline films.
The effect of different alkalinity levels on Litopenaeus vannamei reared with biofloc technology (BFT)

The initial stages of rearing marine shrimp using biofloc technology (BFT) involve the biofloc formation process. At the same time, there is an increase in the levels of total suspended solids and a decrease in alkalinity and pH. This reduction of alkalinity and pH occurs due to the consumption of inorganic carbon by the autotrophic bacteria present in the bioflocs and biofilms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different alkalinities on water quality and the zootechnical performance of the marine shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei in a BFT system. The experiment consisted of four treatments, with three replicates each: 75, 150, 225 and 300 mg CaCO3/L. To maintain the alkalinity at the established level, sodium bicarbonate was applied. For the experiments, twelve experimental units (area = 0.20 m2) with an effective volume of 50 L were stocked with 30 juvenile L. vannamei (0.20 ± 0.07 g), to achieve a stocking density of 150 shrimps/m2 and were maintained for an experimental period of 49 days. The 75 treatment presented the highest levels of ammonia and nitrite throughout the study, compared to the 150 and 300 treatments. The results showed that higher alkalinity favors biofloc formation and the establishment of nitrifying bacteria.
Phonon linewidths and electron-phonon interaction in Nb

We present first-principles calculations of the electron-phonon contribution to the phonon linewidth in Nb. The calculations employ a realistic band structure and the rigid-muffin-tin approximation for the electron-phonon matrix elements. The calculations predict strong electron-phonon coupling for longitudinal phonons propagating in the [110] direction, and for longitudinal phonons of momentum $q=0.7(\frac{2\ensuremath{\pi}}{a})$ [100]. The origins of these peaks in the linewidth are discussed in terms of the joint Fermi-energy density of states and the symmetry properties of the electron-phonon matrix elements. Our results are in agreement with available experimental data concerning the mode and $q$ dependence of the phonon linewidth and with empirical values of the electron-phonon coupling constant $\ensuremath{\lambda}$.
Solution of a nonlinear Boltzmann equation for neutron transport in L1 space

The aim of this paper is to give a constructive method for the solution of the Boltzmann equation for neutron transport in a bounded space domain subject to typical boundary and initial conditions. Sufficient conditions are given to insure the existence of a unique solution. The method entails the use of a semiinner product in a Banach space together with successive approximations, and leads to a recursion formula for the calculation of approximate solutions and error estimates. The linearized Boltzmann equation for neutron transport is included as a special case.
A provably fast linear-expected-time maxima-finding algorithm

In a recent paper Bentleyet al. [1] presented some fast (low-multiplicative constants) linear-expected-time algorithms for finding the maxima ofN points chosen independently identically distributed (i.i.d.) from a Component Independent (CI) distribution. They also presented another algorithm, the Move-To-Front (MTF) algorithm, which empirical evidence suggests runs faster than the other algorithms. They conjectured that the MTF algorithm runs inN+o(N) expected time. In this paper we prove their conjecture forN points chosen i.i.d. from any two-dimensional distribution. The proof mixes probabilistic and amortized techniques.
Sequential F0 comparisons between resolved and unresolved harmonics: No evidence for translation noise between two pitch mechanisms

Carlyon and Shackleton [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 95, 3541–3554 (1994)] suggested that fundamental-frequency (F0) discrimination performance between resolved and unresolved harmonics is limited by an internal “translation” noise between the outputs of two distinct F0 encoding mechanisms, in addition to the encoding noise associated with each mechanism. To test this hypothesis further, F0 difference limens (DLF0s) were measured in six normal-hearing listeners using sequentially presented groups of harmonics. The two groups of harmonics presented on each trial were bandpass filtered into the same or different spectral regions, in such a way that both groups contained mainly resolved harmonics, both groups contained only unresolved harmonics, or one group contained mainly resolved and the other only unresolved harmonics. Three spectral regions (low: 600–1150 Hz, mid: 1400–2500 Hz, or high: 3000–5250 Hz) and two nominal F0s (100 and 200 Hz) were used. The DLF0s measured in across-region conditions were well account...
Surpassing the information theoretic bound with fusion trees

Abstract This paper introduces a new sublogarithmic data structure for searching, the fusion tree. These trees lead to improved worst-case algorithms for sorting and searching, surpassing the limitations of the information theoretic lower bound.
Direct electro-optic intermodulation in fibers

He-Ne laser lightwaves in an optical fiber are modulated when a section of the fiber is subjected directly to audio-frequency-modulating electric fields. The laser light emerging from the output endface is intensity modulated, phase shifted, or modulation frequency multiplied under special conditions. We present the correlation between this observed electro-optic effect of the fiber itself and the theoretical analysis of the phenomena.
Leaky enteric coating on ranitidine hydrochloride beads: Dissolution and prediction of plasma data

The present research is based on the hypothesis that leaky enteric-coated pellets formulations are able to provide sustained input for drugs that have an absorption window, such as ranitidine hydrochloride, without jeopardizing their bioavailability. Leaky enteric-coated pellets formulations are defined as enteric-coated pellets that allow some of the drug to be released from the formulation in gastric fluid. Different approaches to making leaky enteric-coated pellets were investigated using extrusion-spheronization followed by spray coating. Leaky enteric coats were formulated using a commonly used enteric polymer, Eudragit L 30 D-55, combined with soluble compounds including lactose, PEG 8000 and surfactants (Span 60 (hydrophobic) or Tween 80 (hydrophilic)). The rate of drug release from the formulations in simulated gastric fluid can be tailored by varying the additive's amount or type. All leaky enteric-coated formulations studied completely released the drugs within 30 min after changing dissolution medium to phosphate buffer, pH 6. Predictions of plasma concentration-time profiles of the model drug ranitidine hydrochloride from leaky enteric-coated pellets in fasted conditions and from immediate-release formulations were performed using computer simulations. Simulation results are consistent with a hypothesis that leaky enteric-coated pellets formulations provide sustained input for drugs shown to have an absorption window without decreasing bioavailability. The sustained input results from the combined effects of the formulation and GI transit effects on pellets. The present research demonstrates a new application of knowledge about gastrointestinal transit effects on drug formulations. It also shows that enteric-coating polymers have new applications in areas other than the usual enteric-coated formulations. The hypothesis that a leaky enteric-coated pellets formulation may maintain or increase the bioavailability of drugs that have a window of absorption is still to be confirmed by further in vivo studies.
Consistency, mechanicalness, and the logic of the mind

G. Priest's anti-consistency argument (Priest 1979, 1984, 1987) and J. R. Lucas's anti-mechanist argument (Lucas 1961, 1968, 1970, 1984) both appeal to Godel incompleteness. By way of refuting them, this paper defends the thesis of quartet compatibility, viz., that the logic of the mind can simultaneously be Godel incomplete, consistent, mechanical, and recursion complete (capable of all means of recursion). A representational approach is pursued, which owes its origin to works by, among others, J. Myhill (1964), P. Benacerraf (1967), J. Webb (1980, 1983) and M. Arbib (1987). It is shown that the fallacy shared by the two arguments under discussion lies in misidentifying two systems, the one for which the Godel sentence is constructable and to be proved, and the other in which the Godel sentence in question is indeed provable. It follows that the logic of the mind can surpass its own Godelian limitation not by being inconsistent or non-mechanistic, but by being capable of representing stronger systems in itself; and so can a proper machine. The concepts of representational provability, representational maximality, formal system capacity, etc., are discussed.
Situational Analyses: Grounded Theory Mapping After the Postmodern Turn

To better address differences and complexities of social life articulated through the postmodern turn, grounded theory is being regenerated and updated. Based on Strauss's ecological frameworks in his social worlds and arenas theory, I offer situational maps and analyses as innovative supplements to the basic social process analyses characteristic of traditional grounded theory. There are three kinds of analytic maps: maps of situations including all the key human and nonhuman elements, maps of social worlds and arenas, and maps of positionality along salient analytic axes. This article introduces all three kinds of maps and explicates one—situational maps—as a means of coherently elucidating and analyzing some of the complexities and instabilities of social life.
Small Reynolds Number Electro-Hydrodynamic Flow Around Drops and the Resulting Deformation

Low Reynolds number flow in and about a droplet is generated by an electric field. Because the creeping flow solution is a uniformly valid zeroth-order approximation, a regular perturbation in Reynolds number is used to account for the effects of convective acceleration. The flow field and resulting deformation are predicted.
The role of computer science minors in undergraduate and graduate curriculums

It has been estimated that over 200,000 computer related jobs went begging in the United States in 1974 because of lack of qualified college graduates. Both Industry and Government are concerned about the lack of practical knowledge of college graduates. A national survey estimated that 95 percent of all undergraduate business majors had to be re-educated to the tune of $8,000 each on the average before they could be considered productive workers.
Nonparametric density estimation from censored data

Nonparametric estimation of the probability density function f° of a lifetime distribution based on arbitrarily right-censor-ed observations from f° has been studied extensively in recent years. In this paper the density estimators from censored data that have been obtained to date are outlined. Histogram, kernel-type, maximum likelihood, series-type, and Bayesian nonparametric estimators are included. Since estimation of the hazard rate function can be considered as giving a density estimate, all known results concerning nonparametric hazard rate estimation from censored samples are also briefly mentioned.
Colostral immunoglobulin concentrations among breeds of dairy cattle

Colostral immunoglobulin concentrations were compared among five breeds of dairy cows. Colostrum samples (3 to 4 kg) were obtained immediately after parturition from 19 Ayrshire, 17 Brown Swiss, 12 Guernsey, 19 Holstein, and 5 Jersey cows. Average total colostral immunoglobulin was 8.1, 6.6, 6.3, 5.6, and 9.0% for them. Colostrum from Jerseys had the highest immunoglobulin G (6.65%), immunoglobulin A (1.86%), and immunoglobulin M (.53%) of all breeds. Colostrum from Holsteins was lowest in immunoglobulin G (4.12%) whereas that from Guernseys was lowest in immunoglobulin A (.90%) and immunoglobulin M (.39%). Breeds may differ, and the high calf mortality and health problems frequently reported for Guernseys may be related to the low immunoglobulins A and M in colostrum. Concentration of colostral immunoglobulin by calving number was examined over breeds for 23, 16, 17, and 14 cows by first, second, third, and fourth or later calvings. Colostral immunoglobulin was lower from first-calf heifers (5.68%) than from third (7.91%) and fourth (7.53%) parity cows. Colostral immunoglobulins A and G tended to be lower in first lactations.
Field-scale evaluation of CFDA/SE staining coupled with multiple detection methods for assessing the transport of bacteria in situ

This research was undertaken to evaluate staining with the fluorescent compound CFDA/SE (5-(and-6-)-carboxyfluorescein diacetate, succinimidyl ester) coupled with multiple cell detection methodologies as a means to monitor bacterial transport during field-scale experiments. Stained cells of Comamonas sp. strain DA001 were injected into a shallow, aerobic aquifer in Oyster, VA, USA. Groundwater samples analyzed in the laboratory using epifluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, ferrographic separation, and microplate spectrofluorometry yielded comparable concentrations of CFDA/SE-stained DA001 cells, although each method had a different effective lower limit of detection. Determination of cell concentrations in the field using microplate spectrofluorometry allowed the track of the bacterial plume to be monitored in near-real time, but produced results that were not as accurate as laboratory analyses. The CFDA/SE stain was well retained in the cells over a 5-month period. Normal handling of samples under fluorescent and incandescent lighting did not significantly affect sample integrity, but exposure to sunlight resulted in rapid loss of total and per cell fluorescence. The combination of CFDA/SE staining and multiple detection methods was demonstrated as an effective means to study bacterial transport in groundwater.
Optical gain assisted far-field sub-wavelength imaging

We propose a far-field sub-wavelength imaging scheme, where evanescent waves from an object are converted to sustainable propagating waves by using optical gain. This approach does not rely on negative refraction, hyper-lenses, or plasmonic effects.
Fracture Treatment with Circular External Fixation

Circular external skeletal fixation (CEF) has been used in recent years to treat acute and chronic fractures and bone deformities, to stabilize joints while maintaining range of motion, and to perform arthrodeses and limb-sparing in dogs. Dr. llizarov defined the general principles and methods of CEF. This article reviews these principles. It also describes the indications, preoperative planning, surgical placement, postoperative management, clinical results, and complications of CEF used to treat fractures in dogs.
Phase II trial of 96-hour paclitaxel in previously treated patients with advanced esophageal cancer.

Background. A 96-hour infusion schedule of paclitaxel demonstrates tolerability and antitumor activity in lung cancer and breast cancer refractory to short-duration infusion paclitaxel. Given the activity of paclitaxel in esophageal cancer, a phase II trial of 96-hour infusion paclitaxel in esophageal cancer was undertaken. Methods. Both adenocarcinoma and squamous cell histology were included. Paclitaxel was administered at 140 mg/m2 over 96 hours every 21 days. Patients who had metastatic disease to the liver and transaminases greater than two times normal value received 120 mg/m2. Response to treatment was evaluated after the first two cycles and subsequently every third cycle. Results. Ten men and four women were entered. All were eligible for response and had stage IV disease. Thirteen patients were previously treated. All 13 received prior short-duration paclitaxel-containing chemotherapy regimens. Eleven patients had adenocarcinoma and three squamous cell cancer. Patients completed a mean of two cy...
Exposure to benzene, occupational stress, and reduced birth weight

OBJECTIVES The association between birth weight and exposure to benzene, work stress, and other occupational and environmental hazards was investigated. METHODS In a large petrochemical industry, 792 pregnant workers were enrolled and followed up through delivery between May 1996 and December 1998. Exposure to benzene and other solvents was assessed by an industrial hygienist based on each woman9s job title and workplace information. Other occupational and environmental exposures and personal information, including perceived work stress, exposure to noise, physical exertion at work, and passive smoking, were obtained by an interview questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate regression models were used to examine the individual and combined associations of occupational and environmental exposures with birth weight, with adjustment for major confounders including gestational age. RESULTS In the univariate model, birth weight was negatively associated with exposure to benzene (−58 g (95% confidence interval (95% CI), −115 to −2)) and with work stress (−84 g (95% CI, −158 to −10)). In the multivariate model, there was a significant interaction between exposure to benzene and work stress relative to reduced birth weight, after adjustment for other environmental and occupational exposures and personal variables. Adjusted mean birth weight was 3445 g (95% CI 3401 to 3489) among those with neither exposure, 3430 g for those with exposure to benzene only, 3426 g for those with work stress only, and 3262 g (95% CI 3156 to 3369) for those with both exposures. In other words, there was 183 g (95% CI 65 to 301) reduction in birth weight among those with both exposure to benzene and work stress compared with those with neither exposure. Other work or environmental factors could not explain these findings. CONCLUSIONS Low level exposure to benzene and work stress interact to reduce birth weight in this population.
The Effect of Parenting Stress on Child Behavior Problems in High-Risk Children with Prenatal Drug Exposure

Objective To examine the relationship between early parenting stress and later child behavior in a high-risk sample and measure the effect of drug exposure on the relationship between parenting stress and child behavior. Methods A subset of child-caregiver dyads (n = 607) were selected from the Maternal Lifestyle Study (MLS), which is a large sample of children (n = 1,388) with prenatal cocaine exposure and a comparison sample unexposed to cocaine. Of the 607 dyads, 221 were prenatally exposed to cocaine and 386 were unexposed to cocaine. Selection was based on the presence of a stable caregiver at 4 and 36 months with no evidence of change in caregiver between those time points. Results Parenting stress at 4 months significantly predicted child externalizing behavior at 36 months. These relations were unaffected by cocaine exposure suggesting the relationship between parenting stress and behavioral outcome exists for high-risk children regardless of drug exposure history. Conclusions These results extend the findings of the relationship between parenting stress and child behavior to a sample of high-risk children with prenatal drug exposure. Implications for outcome and treatment are discussed.
Inhibition of Prostate Cancer Cell Colony Formation by the Flavonoid Quercetin Correlates with Modulation of Specific Regulatory Genes

The natural product quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables. Previous research has shown that quercetin has antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, and antiviral activities. In the present investigation we studied the effect of quercetin on the ability of prostate cancer cell lines with various degrees of aggressive potential to form colonies in vitro. Specifically, we examined the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect, including the expression of cell cycle and tumor suppressor genes as well as oncogenes. We observed that quercetin at concentrations of 25 and 50 μM significantly inhibited the growth of the highly aggressive PC-3 prostate cancer cell line and the moderately aggressive DU-145 prostate cancer cell line, whereas it did not affect colony formation by the poorly aggressive LNCaP prostate cancer cell line or the normal fibroblast cell line BG-9. Using the gene array methodology, we found that quercetin significantly inhibited the expression of specific oncogenes and genes controlling G1, S, G2, and M phases of the cell cycle. Moreover, quercetin reciprocally up-regulated the expression of several tumor suppressor genes. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the antitumor effects of quercetin directly correlate with the aggressive potential of prostate cancer cells and that the mechanism(s) of quercetin-mediated antitumor effects may involve up-regulation of tumor suppressor genes and reciprocal down-regulation of oncogenes and cell cycle genes. The results of these studies provide a scientific basis for the potential use of flavonoids as nutraceuticals in the chemoprevention of cancer.
Lightness, brightness, and brightness contrast: 2. Reflectance variation

Changes of annulus luminance in traditional disk-and-annulus patterns can be perceived to be either reflectance or illuminance changes. In the present experiments, we examined the effect of varying annulus reflectance. In Experiment 1, we placed test and standard patch-and-surround patterns in identical Mondrian patchworks. Only the luminance of the test surround changed from trial to triaL., appearing as reflectance variation under constant illumination. Lightness matches were identical to brightness matches, as expected. In Experiment 2, we used only the patch and surround (no Mondrian). Instructions said that the illumination would change from trial to trial. Lightness and brightness-contrast data were identical; illumination gradients were indistinguishable from reflectance gradients. In Experiment 3, the patterns were the same, but the instructions said that the shade of gray of the test surround would change from trial to trial. Lightness matches were identical to brightness matches, again confirming the ambiguity of disk-and-annulus patterns.
Release of heparan sulfate from endothelial cells: implications for pathogenesis of hyperacute rejection

Heparan sulfate proteoglycan associated with endothelial cells in normal blood vessels inhibits intravascular coagulation and egress of blood cells and plasma proteins, key features of hyperacute rejection. It was shown herein that exposure of cultured porcine endothelium to human serum as a source of natural antibodies and complement caused cleavage and release of 5% of endothelial cell proteoglycans within 4 min and greater than 50% within 1 h. Proteoglycan release depended on activation of the classical complement pathway and preceded irreversible cell injury. These findings suggest that loss of endothelial cell proteoglycan may be a critical step in the pathogenesis of hyperacute rejection and in diseases involving humoral injury to endothelial cells.
Performing mindblindness: Gertrude Stein's autistic ethos of modernism

Often regarded as a ‘loose cannon’ within the modernist canon, Gertrude Stein evolved a style of writing that resembles autistic speech patterns and conveys modes of perception which resemble autistic thinking. Through her literary experiments, Stein explores the relationship of modernist abstraction and hermeticism to cultural stereotypes regarding male and female intelligence, as well as their elitist connection to high cultural capital. When Stein exaggerates these hermetic writing techniques, she criticizes the high modernist tendency to glorify male genius and marginalize women artists and intellectuals. When Stein creates a literary style that deliberately problematizes the reader's process of interpretation, she performs as a mind that is oblivious to linguistic and social conventions. By energetically imposing this idiosyncratic use of language, Stein promotes what may, in effect, be termed an autistic ethos of modernism.
Role of Calcium-Phosphate Product and Bone-Associated Proteins on Vascular Calcification in Renal Failure

Cardiovascular events are the most frequent cause of death in patients with chronic renal failure ([1][1],[2][2]). Heterotopic calcification of blood vessel walls occurs frequently with advanced age, atherosclerosis, and diabetes mellitus ([3][3]). In chronic renal failure, autopsy ([4][4],[5][5])
A real-time monitor for token ring networks

The authors describe a real-time monitor for IEEE 802.5 token ring LANs (local-area networks). Unlike a protocol analyzer that first records network traffic and later disassembles packets and replays them, this monitor displays network traffic and statistics in real time. All user interaction with the monitor is controlled by pop-up menus, which select various modes. In graphic mode the monitor displays current network statistics, scroll graphs of network load, and a histogram of network packet lengths. In trace mode it displays the contents of packets in a format specified by the user. The monitor will report on all network traffic or, using user-specified pattern-matching filters, will select a subset of network traffic based on any combination of packet source address, destination address, or packet content. An alarm option provides notification when a specific event first occurs or when a repeated event deviates from a user-specified minimum or maximum frequency. >
Political Ideology and Political Action in the New Christian Right

In attempting to explain the recent prominence of politicized Evangelicalism, many researchers have used exposure to religious television as an important intervening variable between religious fundamentalism and the politicized attitudes of the New Christian Right. Using Tamney and Johnson's data (1983; 1984), we try to refine that model by distinguishing between televangelists with specifically political messages from those who emphasize a more traditional, salvation-oriented message. The resulting statistics, however, do not show any improvement in explanatory power. Some possible reasons for this, as well as an alternative conceptial scheme for studying American political ideology, are presented.