cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Texton-based segmentation and classification of human embryonic stem cell colonies using multi-stage Bayesian level sets

We present a texton-based, multi-stage Bayesian level set algorithm which we use to segment colony images of hESC and their derivatives. We extend our previous research segmenting stem cells according to multiresolution texture methods to accommodate colonies and tissues with diffuse and varied textures via a filter bank approach similar to the MR8. Texture features computed for test images are classified via comparison with learned sets of class-specific textural primitives, known as textons. Encompassing this texture model is the new Bayesian level set algorithm, which smoothes and regularizes classification similar to level sets but is simpler in its probabilistic implementation. The resulting algorithm accurately and automatically classifies images of pluripotent hESC and trophectoderm colonies for high-content screening applications.
The Relative Permeability Function for Two-Phase Flow in Porous Media: Effect of Capillary Number

Expressions for both drainage and imbibition relative permeabilities for wetting and nonwetting phases have been derived using the cut and random rejoin approach. The pore structure is modeled by using information about the pore size distribution that determines capillary pressure. The nonwetting phase is considered to be present as both connected and disconnected fluid. The appropriate permeability equations are then obtained by considering laminar flow equations for the randomly formed pore throat constrictions. Based on the classical percolation theory for mobilization of disconnected nonwetting phase and data on entrapment of connected nonwetting phase, the relative permeability equations are presented for varying capillary numbers. The theoretical results of relative permeability for both natural and synthetic porous media agree with the available experimental data for drainage as well as imbibition. Moreover, the limited experimental data for high capillary numbers corroborate the basic considerations of the model. The injection or in situ generation of surface active agents alters the fractional flow of oil in a reservoir due to an increase in the (local) capillary number. This change in the fractional flow is also dependent upon the initial connected and disconnected nonwetting phase saturations. The present approach takes both of these factors into accountmore » and therefore can be put to direct use in modeling surfactant and caustic flooding processes.« less
QM/MM investigation of structure and spectroscopic properties of a vanadium-containing peroxidase.

Abstract We present a comprehensive analysis of the most likely ground state configuration of the resting state of vanadium dependent chloroperoxidase (VCPO) based on quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) evaluations of ground state properties, UV–vis spectra and NMR chemical shifts. Within the QM/MM framework, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to characterize the resting state of VCPO via time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) calculations of electronic excitation energies and NMR chemical shifts. Comparison with available experimental data allows us to determine the most likely protonation state of VCPO, a state which results in a doubly protonated axial oxygen, a site largely stabilized by hydrogen bonds. We found that the bulk of the protein that is beyond the immediate layer surrounding the cofactor, has an important electrostatic effect on the absorption maximum. Through examination of frontier orbitals, we analyze the nature of two bound water molecules and the extent to which relevant residues in the active site influence the spectroscopy calculations.
In vitro mitogenic effect of Zn2+ on peripheral blood lymphocytes in patients with cancer

The methodology for evaluating the mitogenic effect of Zn2+ on human PBL was standardized in a microtiter system. In normal subjects the maximal PBL transformation response occurred in 6–7 day cultures at a Zn2+ concentration of 0.1–0.5 mM. Utilizing PHA as a reference cell activator, the in vitro PBL response to Zn2+ was evaluated in a heterogeneous population of patients with adenocarcinoma of the breast, epidermoid carcinoma of the head and neck, and lymphoma. In all cases the PBL responses to Zn2+ were depressed in a fashion similar to PHA. Zn2+ appears to be a sensitive activator of PBL and may prove of value in the in vitro immunologic evaluation of patients with cancer.
Internal displacement of a gastrostomy button: An unusual case of gastric outlet obstruction

Gastric outlet obstruction caused by gastrostomy tube migration should not occur in patients who have gastrostomy buttons. This is the first reported case of gastric outlet obstruction caused by internal displacement of a gastrostomy button.
Field-induced Bragg diffraction in polymer stabilized cholesteric liquid crystal bubbles

Cholesteric liquid crystals (CLC) with a specific confinement conditions are known to form bubble domain (BD) texture. We have developed the CLC BD texture stabilized with a small amount of polymer. CLC bubbles of a BD texture self-assemble into domains with a hexagonal ordering and optically perform as a diffraction grating. By stabilization of the BD texture with a polymer we have improved optical quality of the diffractive CLC layer and have increased its mechanical stability. We discuss details about samples preparation, Bragg diffraction, electro-optical performance and present results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphological study of the polymer network formed in the bulk of the diffractive liquid crystal layer.
MR and CT image fusion of the cervical spine: a noninvasive alternative to CT-myelography

CT-Myelography (CTM) is routinely used for planning surgery for degenerative disease of the spine, but its invasive nature, significant potential morbidity, and high costs make a noninvasive substitute desirable. We report our work on evaluating CT and MR image fusion as an alternative to CTM. Because the spine is only piecewise rigid, a multi-rigid approach to the registration of spinal CT and MR images was developed (SPIE 2004), in which the spine on CT images is first segmented into separate vertebrae, each of which is then rigidly registered with the corresponding vertebra on MR images. The results are then blended to obtain fusion images. Since they contain information from both modalities, we hypothesized that fusion images would be equivalent to CTM. To test this we selected 34 patients who had undergone MRI and CTM for degenerative disease of the cervical spine, and used the multi-rigid approach to produce fused images. A clinical vignette for each patient was created and presented along with either CT/MR fusion images or CTM images. A group of spine surgeons are asked to formulate detailed surgical plans based on each set of images, and the surgical plans are compared. A similar study assessing diagnostic agreement is being performed with neuroradiologists, who also assess the accuracy of registration. Our work to date has demonstrated the feasibility of segmentation and multi-rigid fusion in clinical cases and the acceptability of the questionnaire to physicians. Preliminary analysis of one surgeon's and one neuroradiologist’s evaluation has been performed.
On weapons scores and force strengths

Quantitative comparisons of the combat forces on two opposing sides are virtually always formed as follows. First, all of the resources on each of the two sides are grouped into a set of categories. Each of the resources in each category is assigned a (nonnegative) value or score, where these scores are constant within categories, can vary across categories, and can be functions of the numbers and effectiveness parameters of the resources on both sides. These categories need not be the same for the two sides. Force strengths are then formed for each side by summing, over all of its categories, the product of the number of resources in each category times the score given to the resources in that category. Quantitative comparisons of the two forces are then calculated using (real-valued) functions of these strengths and, perhaps, of exogenous input parameters. Thus, such force comparisons depend on the number and effectiveness of the weapons in the forces only through these force strengths. Accordingly, if this type of quantitative comparison of the forces on two opposing sides is desired, then it is reasonable to consider the questions of how to calculate scores for the resources of each type, and of how to combine the resulting scores to form force strengths that can be used to calculate measures of the relative effectiveness of the forces involved. This article addresses these questions
The hot-loaded patient: review and analysis of 1 year's experience.

Introduction: Hot-loading is a common practice among rotor-wing air medical programs that respond to scene calls. Drawbacks include noise, flying debris, and risk of serious injury. The purpose of this study was to identify the frequency, ground time, and short-term outcomes of hot-loaded patients flown by the STAR Flight program. Methods: A 1-year retrospective records review identified all hot-loaded patients. Results were analyzed by call nature, number of patients, and type of aircraft. Results: In 1996 STAR Flight transported 1184 individuals from the scene of illness or injury; 269 (23%) were hot-loaded. Overall, hot-load ground times averaged 7.0 minutes. The shortest mean time, 6.6 minutes, was for single trauma patients. Medicine patients averaged 7.3 minutes, and multipatient transports required 10.3 minutes. Mean scene times for those flown in the Bell 412 and 206 were 6.9 and 7.4 minutes, respectively. Thirty percent of hot-loaded patients were considered critical. Conclusion: Hot-loading rarely was accomplished in less than the helicopter shutdown/startup time. Multipatient hot-loads always exceeded shutdown/restart intervals. Medicine and Bell 206 transports required the longest mean ground times. Most of STAR Flight's hot-loaded patients were not critically ill or injured.
Probing Chemical Space with Alkaloid-Inspired Libraries

Screening of small molecule libraries is an important aspect of probe and drug discovery science. Numerous authors have suggested that bioactive natural products are attractive starting points for such libraries, due to their structural complexity and sp3-rich character. Here, we describe the construction of a screening library based on representative members of four families of biologically active alkaloids (Stemonaceae, the structurally related cyclindricine and lepadiformine families, lupin, and Amaryllidaceae). In each case, scaffolds were based on structures of the naturally occurring compounds or a close derivative. Scaffold preparation was pursued following the development of appropriate enabling chemical methods. Diversification provided 686 new compounds suitable for screening. The libraries thus prepared had structural characteristics, including sp3 content, comparable to a basis set of representative natural products and were highly rule-of-five compliant.
Induction of hepatic mitochondrial ferrochelatase by phenobarbital.

Abstract Ferrochelatase, the catalyst for the last step in heme synthesis, is induced by chronic phenobarbital administration and this induction is prevented by the simultaneous administration of cycloheximide. This induction is revealed when the pyridine hemochrome was measured under anaerobic conditions but cobalt chelatase activity in hepatic mitochondria was not increased by phenobarbital. Furthermore, certain metals inhibited ferrochelatase activity but had no effect on cobalt chelatase. Although both delta aminolevulinic acid synthetase and ferrochelatase are located in a similar region in the mitochondria, the time course of induction for ferrochelatase is different than that observed for delta aminolevulinic acid synthetase.
The hermeneutics of branding

An increasing body of scholarship, particularly in marketing, has drawn on a wide variety of theoretical traditions to address the implications of brands as social texts. Taken together this research proposes that: brands exist as symbols in popular culture with their meanings contingent on particular cultural contexts; that consumers may resist meanings originally conceived by managers or agencies; that brands embody stories constructed both by the companies that produce them and by their consumers; that brands have histories. In this paper, we engage these topics from the perspective of hermeneutical inquiry. The linguistic, historical tradition in hermeneutics — which continues to play a role in contemporary theory through, for example, reader response and reception theory — offers a rich interpretive tradition and method that contributes to our developing understanding of brands. Following from recent research in marketing, we regard brands to be one of the most text-like artifacts of contemporary business culture and therefore appropriate for a demonstration of the potential contribution of hermeneutics. To this end, we emphasise three hermeneutic concepts: intention, the horizon of expectations and reception. From these categories, we derive the more pragmatic terms of trace, arc and collective interpretation to move towards a hermeneutical theory of branding. This approach allows us to explain the ways in which the meaning of a brand changes over time (giving branding a historical dimension) and how managerial intention intersects interpretations made by multiple constituencies. We contend that a deeper understanding of brands in terms of their past and present meaning increases the opportunities to realise a brand's potential.
Cancer chemoprevention by traditional chinese herbal medicine and dietary phytochemicals: targeting nrf2-mediated oxidative stress/anti-inflammatory responses, epigenetics, and cancer stem cells.

ABSTRACT Excessive oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and reactive metabolites of carcinogens alters cellular homeostasis, leading to genetic/epigenetic changes, genomic instability, neoplastic transformation, and cancer initiation/progression. As a protective mechanism against oxidative stress, antioxidant/detoxifying enzymes reduce these reactive species and protect normal cells from endo-/exogenous oxidative damage. The transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a master regulator of the antioxidative stress response, plays a critical role in the expression of many cytoprotective enzymes, including NAD(P)H:quinine oxidoreductase (NQO1), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT), and glutathione S -transferase (GST). Recent studies demonstrated that many dietary phytochemicals derived from various vegetables, fruits, spices, and herbal medicines induce Nrf2-mediated antioxidant/detoxifying enzymes, restore aberrant epigenetic alterations, and eliminate cancer stem cells (CSCs). The Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response prevents many age-related diseases, including cancer. Owing to their fundamental contribution to carcinogenesis, epigenetic modifications and CSCs are novel targets of dietary phytochemicals and traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCHM). In this review, we summarize cancer chemoprevention by dietary phytochemicals, including TCHM, which have great potential as a safer and more effective strategy for preventing cancer.
Productivity and efficiency in human service organizations as related to structure, size, and age.

A study of the relationship of productivity and efficiency to the organization's structure, size, and age (or “time”) indicated that a highly centralized authority structure is the most powerful di...
Home-Care Nurses as Strangers in the Family

As nurses move from the hospital into the home setting, they are challenged to examine boundaries of practice and family-nurse relationships. This phenomenological study was undertaken to explore the experiences of nurses working with families of technology-dependent children in the home. The main theme emerging from the data was the nurse's presence as "a stranger in the family." Additional themes focused on the nurse's advocacy for the child and family, boundary setting, collaboration, and occupational demands.
Nonprofit Marketing Course: Current Perceptions and Acceptance in the Undergraduate Marketing Curriculum

Nonprofit organizations increasingly are accepting and applying marketing concepts. This research investigates the acceptance and incorporation of nonprofit marketing into the marketing curriculum. It was found that although nonprofit marketing is important in the curriculum, only 10 percent of schools have a separate nonprofit marketing course.
Clinical Pharmacology of Intravenously Administered Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole

Pharmacokinetic studies of intravenously administered trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) were conducted in 11 patients with cancer while they received therapy with this drug combination for infection. Each patient received 160 mg of TMP and 800 mg of SMX every 8 h. The highest plasma concentrations of both agents were attained at the end of a 1-h infusion period, and the levels were maintained above 38 μg of free SMX and 2 μg of TMP per ml for 2 to 4 h on day 1. On day 4, these concentrations were exceeded at all time intervals of blood sampling. High concentrations of TMP and free SMX were recovered in the urine during the 8-h period. The plasma half-lives of TMP and free SMX, as determined during the first 8-h period, were 7.6 and 8.6 h, respectively. Compared with SMX, TMP had an approximately 2.5 times higher volume of distribution. This drug combination was well tolerated by the patients and unaccompanied by drug-related toxicity.
The Religious Underpinnings of Early Prussian Liberalism: The Case of Wilhelm Grävell

Writing in 1957, Leonard Krieger famously argued that Lutheranism was “not itself central” to what he called the “problem of political liberty” in the German lands during the nineteenth century. By downplaying the influence of Luther's teachings on German political thought, Krieger tacitly aimed to refute the controversial “from Luther to Hitler thesis” proposed by some historians in an effort to identify the ideological roots of National Socialism. Contrary to these scholars, Krieger blamed the emergence of Germany's “peculiar 19th century version of political freedom” not on religious doctrine, but on a complex of political and socioeconomic circumstances that, he argued, were unique to central Europe. Scholars have almost universally followed Krieger's line of interpretation. Recent debate focuses not on whether he was correct to argue that political and socioeconomic factors were primarily responsible for engendering a distinctively German species of liberalism, but rather on the question of which of these factors was paramount. As a consequence, religion's role in the making of early German liberalism seldom receives serious consideration today.
“Where are Your Women?” The Challenge to Care in the Future of Sport

In this paper, a vision for the future of U.S. NCAA Division I university sport is presented. It is argued that this context could serve as the place where performance “excellence” is rooted in caring. However, U.S. sport at this level must become purposefully structured to include educational components related to moral thinking, feeling, and behaving. Otherwise, it will continue to foster a type of disconnected or “game reasoning” mentality, building “characters” vs. character (Shields & Bredemeier, 1995). Using U.S.-focused feminism as the necessary first intervention, the paper is situated within a care moral orientation (e.g., Gilligan 1979, 1982) as well as sport psychology moral development scholarship (e.g., Bredemeier 1992; Fisher 1993; Kavussanu 2008; Oglesby 1990; Solomon 1993; Stephens 1993). A brief review of the current state of affairs in U.S. NCAA Division I university sport is presented first. Next, selected literature related to a care moral orientation and moral disconnection in U.S. psychology and sport psychology is highlighted. Finally, one vision of what a model of conscious, caring and connected U.S. NCAA Division I sport research and practice could look like is offered. Specifically, those who have the power to influence sport would develop character and the related skills of moral consciousness, caring, and connection, undergirded by feminist moral principles and reflective practice. Feminist (and all) sport psychology professionals are in a prime position to engage with sport constituents to enhance athletes’ overall experience, where character does matter, and, so, too, does performance.
Adapting Multisystemic Therapy to Serve Youth Presenting Psychiatric Emergencies: Two Case Studies

Multisystemic therapy (MST) is a highly individualised family- and home-based treatment that has successfully served as a clinically effective and cost-effective alternative to out-of-home placements (e.g., incarceration, psychiatric hospitalisation) for youth presenting serious clinical problems. MST clinical procedures are reviewed and two extensive case summaries are used to explicate the MST intervention process for treating serious antisocial behaviour and modifications in that process needed to safely and effectively serve youth presenting psychiatric emergencies. (Abstract Adapted from Source: Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 2000. Copyright © 2000 by The Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health; Blackwell Publishers, Inc.) For more information on Multisystemic Therapy, a Blueprints for Violence Prevention Model program, see VioPro record number 2261. Offender Treatment Offender Substance Use Alcohol Use Effects Alcohol Related Violence Alcohol Use Treatment Drug Use Treatment Drug Use Effects Drug Related Violence Substance Use Treatment Substance Use Effects Substance Use-Violence Co-Occurence Juvenile Offender Juvenile Violence Juvenile Treatment Violence Treatment Family Based Community Based Multisystemic Therapy Blueprints Model Reference Juvenile Behavior Juvenile Antisocial Behavior Juvenile Problem Behavior Behavior Treatment Multisystemic Therapy Treatment Program Intervention Program Behavior Intervention Case Studies 02-06
Modified Clinical Examination Of Hypoglossal Nerve (P4.170)

OBJECTIVE: The standard methods of motor tongue examination may result in an inadequate assessment of hypoglossal innervated tongue muscles. BACKGROUND: Tongue examination is performed, after visible inspection of any atrophy, fasciculation or tremor, by asking the patient to protrude the tongue forward and move it from side to side. This method checks only the posterior fibers of genioglossus and corresponds to Medical Research Council (MRC) 2/5(used better for limb muscles).Sometimes, a tongue push against closed cheek is done. This method, albeit giving better appreciation of the power of the tongue, involves opposing or neutralizing action of anterior and posterior genioglossus fibers and other extrinsic tongue muscles DESIGN/METHODS: 1.Complete tongue protrusion with an open mouth followed by lateral push of the tongue edge against examiner’s gloved index finger. This checks the relatively unopposed action of the posterior genioglossus( the most important fibers) . A rating of up to 5/5 is possible with this method as 4 and 5 ratings depend on force against resistance only whereas 2 or 3 includes gravity. 2. With an open mouth, pressing the center of lower lip with the tip of the tongue strong enough to produce a very transient blanching when the pressure is taken off. This blanching is seen irrespective of the patient’s ethnicity. This method checks almost the entire battalion of extrinsic muscles such as the anterior and posterior genioglossus, hyoglossus, chondroglossus and styloglossus while eliminating the action of the Vagus innervated palatoglossus. RESULTS: A more comprehensive tongue examination is possible. CONCLUSIONS: In situations of bilateral and subtle or early tongue muscle weakness such as in myasthenia gravis, myopathy and muscular dystrophies, ALS, cervical trauma or lymphadenopathy affecting hypoglossal nerve, a modified tongue examination may be more useful clinically. Study Supported by: None Disclosure: Dr. Bandyopadhyay has nothing to disclose.
Tyrosine-phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated isoforms of α-dystrobrevin roles in skeletal muscle and its neuromuscular and myotendinous junctions

α-Dystrobrevin (DB), a cytoplasmic component of the dystrophin–glycoprotein complex, is found throughout the sarcolemma of muscle cells. Mice lacking αDB exhibit muscular dystrophy, defects in maturation of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) and, as shown here, abnormal myotendinous junctions (MTJs). In normal muscle, alternative splicing produces two main αDB isoforms, αDB1 and αDB2, with common NH2-terminal but distinct COOH-terminal domains. αDB1, whose COOH-terminal extension can be tyrosine phosphorylated, is concentrated at the NMJs and MTJs. αDB2, which is not tyrosine phosphorylated, is the predominant isoform in extrajunctional regions, and is also present at NMJs and MTJs. Transgenic expression of either isoform in αDB−/− mice prevented muscle fiber degeneration; however, only αDB1 completely corrected defects at the NMJs (abnormal acetylcholine receptor patterning, rapid turnover, and low density) and MTJs (shortened junctional folds). Site-directed mutagenesis revealed that the effectiveness of αDB1 in stabilizing the NMJ depends in part on its ability to serve as a tyrosine kinase substrate. Thus, αDB1 phosphorylation may be a key regulatory point for synaptic remodeling. More generally, αDB may play multiple roles in muscle by means of differential distribution of isoforms with distinct signaling or structural properties.
Progressive Cat Scratch Disease Despite Antimicrobial Therapy

Cat scratch disease (CSD) is a zoonosis with a worldwide distribution which is frequently encountered in children. It is caused by the fastidious gram-negative bacillus Bartonella henselae, whose natural reservoir is cats. It is typically transmitted by the scratch of a kitten. The predominant manifestation in immunocompetent patients is regional lymphadenopathy. Cat scratch disease is generally a benign self-limiting disease, with spontaneous resolution of symptoms within 2–4 months in the majority of children. Although antimicrobial therapy is frequently prescribed, there is currently very limited data on whether such treatment hastens resolution of symptoms or helps to prevent further progression of disease. We describe a case of CSD in a boy who had progressive disease despite treatment with several courses of antibiotics. His complications included osteomyelitis of his skull, giving an appearance suggestive of Pott Puffy Tumor, although without sinusitis. He ultimately required surgical debridement of his frontal bone, as well as repeated incision and drainage of infected nodes. This case illustrates how CSD can progress despite antimicrobial therapy. It highlightsthe importance of close follow-up and awareness of the rare manifestations of this normally benign disease.
Neonatal capsaicin treatment attenuates spinal Fos activation and dynorphin gene expression following peripheral tissue inflammation and hyperalgesia

An animal model of nociception involving unilateral hindpaw inflammation has been used to examine behavioral, molecular, and biochemical aspects of well-characterized spinal cord neural circuits involved in pain transmission. The neurotoxin capsaicin administered neonatally was used to modify this neuronal system by producing a selective destruction of most small, unmyelinated primary afferent axons. Capsaicin had minimal effects on the behavioral hyperalgesia and edema associated with the hindpaw inflammation and on the constitutive expression of preprodynorphin (PPD) mRNA and preproenkephalin mRNA in the spinal cord. However, the inflammation-induced increases in Fos- like immunoreactivity (Fos-LI) and in PPD mRNA were greatly attenuated by neonatal capsaicin treatment. The data indicate that input from small-diameter unmyelinated primary afferents is important for the stimulus-induced increase in Fos-LI and PPD mRNA. Our finding that neonatal capsaicin reduces the levels of Fos-LI and PPD mRNA in a related fashion in the spinal dorsal horn provides further evidence for a relationship between the protein product of the c-fos protooncogene and regulation of dynorphin gene transcription.
Application of data processors in production

The past year has seen the firm establishment of the large electronic computer in industry. With the delivery and use of eighteen IBM 700 series of Electronic Data Processing Machines, as well as the delivery of machines by other suppliers, the electronic data processor has found a large measure of acceptance among American business management.
MITRE Meteor: An Off-Road Autonomous Vehicle for DARPA’s Grand Challenge

The MITRE Meteor team fielded an autonomous vehicle that competed in DARPA’s 2005 Grand Challenge race. This paper describes the team’s approach to building its robotic vehicle, the vehicle and components that let the vehicle see and act, and the computer software that made the vehicle autonomous. It presents how the team prepared for the race and how their vehicle performed.
Choosing Children’s Environmental Risk

A model of endogenous risk provides a foundation to study a parent’s child care decisions when the child could be exposed to an environmental hazard (e.g., toxic substance, foodborne pathogen). The parent invests in childcare quality and quantity to reduce the likelihood of a hazard exposure occurring and to reduce its severity if the exposure is realized. We supply conditions to sign unambiguously the effects on a child’s hazard exposure of an increased probability a parent fails to access or have command over a technique of exposure prevention or that a technique is ineffective in preventing exposure. Also, we consider these effects when the parent is unsure what a technique can do to reduce the child’s probability of exposure. We conclude public policies designed to encourage use of a particular childcare technique, if childcare quality and quantity are stochastic substitutes, can reduce parental use of other techniques. The net impact of the policy could increase the chance the child suffers.
Free carrier reflectivity of gray tin single crystals

Abstract The reflectivity at the plasma edge of both n- and p- type α-Sn single crystals was measured. This information was combined with Hall and conductivity data to extract the carrier effective masses. The Γ8+ electron effective mass agrees well with the Shubnikov-de Haas value. The Γ8+ hole mass was found to be 0·2 me. The study of the temperature dependence of the free carrier reflectivity yielded a good estimate of the energy separation of the L6+ and Γ8+ bands. The latter experiment and the electron effective mass measurement both suggest the presence of a wavelength-dependent dielectric constant in the far i.r.
Mass Systematics Involving Low-Lying Excited States

For the evaluation of the nuclear binding energy surface it is helpful to consider the excited states together with the ground states1, 2. The (positive) total nuclear binding energy for any state isB = B g. s. —E x where “g. s.” refers to the ground state and E x is the excitation energy.
The evidence-based pharmacological treatment of paediatric ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common in children, adolescents, and adults, with extensive research establishing it as a valid neurobiological disorder. Without intervention, ADHD can result in significant impairment throughout the lifespan for the individuals it afflicts. Fortunately, multiple evidence-based options are available for the treatment of ADHD, including several efficacious pharmacotherapies. The role of medication, including stimulants as well as non-stimulants, is well-documented by an extensive body of literature. Although there may be less enthusiasm for behavioural and other psychosocial interventions as stand-alone treatments for moderate to severe ADHD, they are recommended as first-line treatment for ADHD management in preschool-aged children, for those patients with mild symptoms, and as an adjunct to medication in patients with comorbid disorders or suboptimal responses to pharmacotherapy. When planning treatment for individuals with ADHD, the potential risks associated with the available interventions must be carefully balanced against the risks of not treating, or not treating adequately. The treatment plan must also include ongoing re-assessment of the effectiveness of and the need for continued therapy. Recent practice parameters provide further specific guidance for the evidence-based assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD.
Malakula: A Photographic Collection

During the year, the Museum has received from Dr. Haddon a gift of the first importance in the shape of his collection of several thousands of anthropological photographs, accumulated by him over a very long period and from every part of the world. In honour of Dr. Haddon's eightieth birthday these photographs had been put in order, prints made from the negatives, and the whole collection catalogued, uniformly mounted, and arranged in a cabinet specially made for them... The large number of photographs already in the Museum have now been incorporated in the collection, many hundreds have been added, chiefly by friends of Dr. Haddon, and it is hoped that the collection, which will be called the Haddon Photographic Collection, will steadily increase. It is already one of the most comprehensive in existence. © 2006 Society for Comparative Study of Society and History.
ONTOGENESIS OF CONTRACTILE PROPERTIES OF SKELETAL MUSCLE AND SPRINT PERFORMANCE IN THE LIZARD DIPSOSAURUS DORSALIS

Ontogenetic allometries of running performance in 3- to 4-m burst runs (sprints) and of the contractile properties of the fast-twitch, glycolytic region of the iliofibularis muscle (FG-IF) were measured in Dipsosaurus dorsalis. This iguanid lizard hatches at a body mass of about 4 g and reaches adult masses of 40-70 g. Running velocity was little influenced by changes in body mass during development. Stride frequency (f) declines ontogenetically and was proportional to body mass (Mb) to approximately the -0.2 power (determined by regression analysis). Stride length (Ls) appeared to be related to the allometry of hindlimb length (LHL); both Ls and LHL were proportional to about Mb0.28. Intrinsic shortening velocity of the FG-IF decreased only slightly with increasing body mass, and was consequently not proportional to f as has been assumed by various models of running dynamics. In contrast, twitch time lengthened markedly with increasing body mass, and the ratio of twitch time to stride time remained approximately constant. These results suggest that the intrinsic velocity of the muscles does not directly or solely determine maximal f, but instead limb kinematics are determined in part by other biomechanical constraints related to body dimensions. Further, the allometry of twitch kinetics supports the idea that the properties of the muscles are adjusted to allow ample time for full activation and deactivation within the biomechanically determined stride time.
In-vitro activity of trovafloxacin against clinical bacterial isolates from patients with cancer

The antibacterial activity of trovafloxacin was compared with that of ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, ofloxacin, sparfloxacin and norfloxacin against bacterial isolates from patients with cancer. In general, the activity of trovafloxacin was comparable to that of ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and sparfloxacin against most Gram-negative isolates tested (minor differences in the activity of each agent against individual species were seen) and it was the most active agent tested against Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, inhibiting 80% of these isolates at ≤2.0 mg/L. Trovafloxacin was also the most active agent tested against Gram-positive organisms, including ciprofloxacin-susceptible strains and most ciprofloxacin- and methicillin-resistant staphylococci and enterococci. It was much more active than ciprofloxacin against streptococci, including Streptococcus pneumoniae and the viridans streptococci, and was also active against Bacillus cereus and Listeria monocytogenes, inhibiting all isolates at a concentration of ≤0.5 mg/L.
Melanin as a Target for Melanoma Chemotherapy: Pro-oxidant Effect of Oxygen and Metals on Melanoma Viability

Melanoma cells have a poor ability to mediate oxidative stress, which may be attributed to constitutive abnormalities in their melanosomes. We hypothesize that disorganization of the melanosomes will allow chemical targeting of the melanin within. Chemical studies show that under oxidative conditions, synthetic melanins demonstrate increased metal affinity and a susceptibility to redox cycling with oxygen to form reactive oxygen species. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR)-active 5,5'-dimethyl-pyrollidine N-oxide spin adduct was used to show that binding of divalent Zn or Cu to melanin induces a pro-oxidant response under oxygen, generating superoxide and hydroxyl radicals. A similar pro-oxidant behaviour is seen in melanoma cell lines under external peroxide stress. Melanoma cultures grown under 95% O2/5% CO2 atmospheres show markedly reduced viability as compared with normal melanocytes. Cu- and Zn-dithiocarbamate complexes, which induce passive uptake of the metal ions into cells, show significant antimelanoma activity. The antimelanoma effect of metal- and oxygen-induced stress appears additive rather than synergistic; both treatments are shown to be significantly less toxic to melanocytes.
Least-Cost Firing Sequence Estimation in Labeled Petri Nets with Unobservable Transitions

This paper develops a recursive algorithm for estimating the least-cost transition firing sequences that match the observation of a sequence of labels produced by transition activity in a given labeled Petri net. The Petri nets we consider have transitions that are observable (i.e., their firing produces a not necessarily unique label) or unobservable (i.e., their firing does not produce any label). We assume that each transition in the given net (including unobservable transitions) is associated with a nonnegative cost which captures its likelihood (e.g., the cost could be inversely proportional to the amount of workload or power required to execute the transition). Assuming full knowledge of the structure of a given labeled Petri net, we aim at finding the firing sequence(s) that has (have) the least total cost and is (are) consistent with the observed label sequence. The existence of unobservable transitions in the net makes this task extremely challenging since the number of firing sequences that is consistent with the label observations can potentially be infinite. Under some conditions on the unobservable transitions of the Petri net, we show that it is possible to use a recursive algorithm that finds the least-cost firing sequence(s) while reconstructing only a finite number of such firing sequences. In particular, if the unobservable transitions in the net are contact- free and have strictly positive costs, this algorithm has storage and computational complexity that is polynomial in the length of the observed sequence of labels.
Analysis of Complementarity Requirements for Plant MicroRNA Targeting Using a Nicotiana benthamiana Quantitative Transient Assay

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) guide RNA-induced silencing complexes to target RNAs based on miRNA-target complementarity. Using a dual-luciferase based sensor system in Nicotiana benthamiana, we quantitatively assessed the relationship between miRNAtarget complementarity and silencing efficacy measured at both the RNA and protein levels, using several conserved miRNAs and their known target sites from Arabidopsis thaliana. We found that naturally occurring sites have variable efficacies attributable to their complementarity patterns. We also observed that sites with a few mismatches to the miRNA 39 regions, which are common in plants, are often equally effective and sometimes more effective than perfectly matched sites. By contrast, mismatches to the miRNA 59 regions strongly reduce or eliminate repression efficacy but are nonetheless present in several natural sites, suggesting that in some cases, suboptimal miRNA efficacies are either tolerated or perhaps selected for. Central mismatches fully abolished repression efficacy in our system, but such sites then became effective miRNA target mimics. Complementarity patterns that are functional in animals (seed sites, 39-supplementary sites, and centered sites) did not reliably confer repression, regardless of context (39-untranslated region or open reading frame) or measurement type (RNA or protein levels). Overall, these data provide a robust and empirical foundation for understanding, predicting, and designing functional miRNA target sites in plants.
Characteristics of a High Density Population of Southern Fox Squirrels

ABSTRACT Fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) populations in the southeastern United States are declining, with fragmentation of large mature forests believed to be the primary cause. Historically, demographics of midwestern fox squirrel or gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) populations have been applied to management of southeastern fox squirrels. However, fox squirrels rarely become abundant in southeastern forests, despite variations in habitat quality. Previous research has reported on low density populations in the Southeast, but the effects of changing land use patterns on population demographics remain untested. We studied the demographics of a stable high density population of southern fox squirrels (S. n. niger) on Spring Island, South Carolina. Squirrel density (75.8 squirrels/km2), as estimated by the mark–resight method was the highest reported for fox squirrels in the Southeast. Mean annual survival rate was 62%, with automobiles causing 31% of squirrel deaths. Seasonal weights (992 g–1150 g), age ...
In-Situ Quantitative Analysis of Tumor Suppressor Protein (hDMP1) Using a Nanomechanical Cantilever Beam

This study is focused on testing “immuno-sensors” of micro-cantilever beams for the purpose of future design of high-throughout bioassays. We currently study the aberrant expression, deletion and mutation of hDMP1 (Human DMP1) in human lung cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among men and women in North America. There are four major histological subtypes of human lung cancer: small-cell carcinoma (SCC), adenocarcinoma (AC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and large-cell carcinoma (LCC). The hDMP1 locus is localized on chromosome 7q21, a region frequently deleted as part of the 7q-minus and monosomy 7 abnormalities of acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. Recent data demonstrate the critical role of Dmp1 in Ras-Raf-Arf signaling and cellular senescence. In order to study the interactions of hDMP1 gene product and selected tumor markers with BioMEMS devices, protein coating (Antibody) conduct on cantilevers with silicon nitride (SiNx) surfaces. Silicon nitride surface has the potential to provide a good interface for BioMEMS devices, due to enhanced adherence of substances on this surface. The cantilever biosensors coated with hDMP1 antibody were used for the detection of hDMP1 antigen, which is known to be a tumor suppressor protein. Results revealed that the changes in nano-mechanical forces provided sufficient differential torque to bend the cantilever beam upon injection of the antigen. Theoretical models have been developed for the prediction of the vibrational responses of atomic force microscope (AFM) cantilevers before and after antigen/antibody interaction. Exposure of the proteins to micro-cantilever (MC) resulted in un-reversible large stress. Static deflection of micro-cantilever appeared as a result of the surface stresses that are induced by changes upon antibody-antigen interaction. This indicated that the micro-cantilever approach is useful for detecting proteins and tumor markers, and this system is applicable as a model to design miniaturized biosensor systems. We also applied gene micro-array to identify unknown targets for hDMP1 and extend our observation of the complicated process of carcinogenesis.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
A sucrose-binding site provides a lead towards an isoform-specific inhibitor of the cancer-associated enzyme carbonic anhydrase IX

Human carbonic anhydrase (CA; EC 4.2.1.1) isoform IX (CA IX) is an extracellular zinc metalloenzyme that catalyzes the reversible hydration of CO2 to HCO3−, thereby playing a role in pH regulation. The majority of normal functioning cells exhibit low-level expression of CA IX. However, in cancer cells CA IX is upregulated as a consequence of a metabolic transition known as the Warburg effect. The upregulation of CA IX for cancer progression has drawn interest in it being a potential therapeutic target. CA IX is a transmembrane protein, and its purification, yield and crystallization have proven challenging to structure-based drug design, whereas the closely related cytosolic soluble isoform CA II can be expressed and crystallized with ease. Therefore, we have utilized structural alignments and site-directed mutagenesis to engineer a CA II that mimics the active site of CA IX. In this paper, the X-ray crystal structure of this CA IX mimic in complex with sucrose is presented and has been refined to a resolution of 1.5 A, an Rcryst of 18.0% and an Rfree of 21.2%. The binding of sucrose at the entrance to the active site of the CA IX mimic, and not CA II, in a non-inhibitory mechanism provides a novel carbohydrate moiety binding site that could be further exploited to design isoform-specific inhibitors of CA IX.
Erik H. Erikson and the deep context of ministry

Erikson described how we adopt childhood moralities that we often carry into adulthood. He suggested a strong spiritual interconnection between what happens, or does not happen in this regard among...
Ca 48 ( p , d ) Ca 47 and Ca 48 ( p , t ) Ca 46 Reactions

This study of the ${\mathrm{Ca}}^{48}(p,d){\mathrm{Ca}}^{47}$ reaction at a bombarding energy of 18 MeV finds evidence for a small admixture of neutrons from the $2p$ orbitals in the ground state of ${\mathrm{Ca}}^{48}$. The summed spectroscopic factor for $2p$ pickup is 0.36. If the mixing is of zero-coupled pairs of $2{p}_{\frac{3}{2}}$ neutrons, the coefficient of this admixed term in the wave function is 0.42. The positions and spectroscopic factors for several states that appear to be due to $d$-wave or $f$-wave pickup are also given, and two apparent examples of $j$ dependence are used to make spin assignments of ${\frac{5}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ in ${\mathrm{Ca}}^{47}$. Angular distributions of tritons from the ${\mathrm{Ca}}^{48}(p,t){\mathrm{Ca}}^{46}$ reaction are shown for seven states of ${\mathrm{Ca}}^{46}$, but reliable spin determinations cannot be made, owing to the lack of structure in the observed distributions.
Reading Reinhold Niebuhr against Himself Again: On Theological Language and Divine Action

Since 1937, when Reinhold Niebuhr articulated his most developed understanding of the function of theological language, there has been debate about how his approach should be understood. Recent readings of Niebuhr have assumed that Niebuhr's account of theological language rests upon dualistic presuppositions. While acknowledging manifestations of post-Cartesian dualism in Niebuhr's thought, this article argues that Niebuhr's thought also reflects a more compelling strain of Augustinian/Kierkegaardian anti-dualism, and that reading Niebuhr through the lens of this anti-dualism allows for a fruitful account of his treatment of theological language.
Blind Side: Colorism Continues

In this article, newspaper reviews of the film, “The Blind Side,” are examined in the mainstream, African American, and alternative press. We select and code all comments in those reviews about the...