cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of Cytophaga U67 gliding motility by inhibitors of polypeptide synthesis

Gliding motility of Cytophaga U67 and several other cytophagas was inhibited by a growth-permissive concentration of chloramphenicol (50 μg/ml). Several other inhibitors of polypeptide synthesis also demonstrated this effect. Short-term exposure to several of these inhibitors resulted in reversible inhibition of gliding by growing cells. In wet mounts chloramphenicol-grown cells demonstrated non-translocational tumbling. Electrophoretic patterns of polypeptides released by ethylenediaminetetraacetate treatment of control and chloramphenicol-grown cells were distinct. Gliding of a spontaneous mutant was resistant to chloramphenicol at 50 μg/ml; its motility was inhibited at the growth-permissive concentration of 400 μg/ml.
The information processing explanation of Gestalt phenomena

Abstract Gestalt psychology has shown the importance in human thinking and problem solving of the behavior that it labels “intuition,” “insight,” and “understanding.” This paper discusses computer programs, already described in the published literature, that stimulate exactly these kinds of behaviors. It is shown that much of what has been discussed under the heading of “insight” can be explained in terms of recognition processes that are readily simulated. Computer simulation has shown itself a powerful tool for interpreting and explaining a wide range of phenomena associated with the kinds of thinking and understanding that have been so usefully emphasized in the Gestalt literature.
Facilitation of plant phosphate acquisition by arbuscular mycotrhizas from enriched soil patches

summary Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizas (AM) on plant exploitation of soil nutrient heterogeneity were studied with non-mycorrhizal and mycorrhizal Agropyron desertorum (Fisch. ex Link) Schult. in two-compartment containers. A central cylindrical plant compartment was separated from an outer hyphal compartment by two layers of stainless-steel screen with a 2 mm air gap between the screen layers. Patchy or uniform nitrate (NO2−) and phosphate (P) distribution patterns were created in the outer compartment. Only AM hyphae could cross the double-screen barrier to access those nutrients. Mycorrhizal plants acquired significantly more labelled P in both the patchy- and the uniform-nutrient treatments than did non-mycorrhizal plants. Mycelia in root-free soil delivered similar amounts of P from the more distant rich patches to mycorrhizal plants as from the uniform and more proximate labelling. The uptake of a more mobile and abundant element, nitrate, was not affected significantly by either mycorrhizal infection or by nutrient distribution patterns in the root-free soil. Despite a lower root:shoot mass ratio, mycorrhizal plants had significantly greater shoot phosphorus concentration than did nonmycorrhizal plants. There was no significant difference in P uptake or phosphorus concentration between the two nutrient distribution patterns for mycorrhizal plants, indicating that AM hyphae can explore the root-free soil for available P and transport it to host plants equally well when P was distributed in either patchy or uniform patterns in the root-free soil.
Switching Requirements for Stacked Blumleins Commutated by Individual Switches

Stacked Blumlein lines with solid dielectric potentially offer a compact pulsed power system for a variety of applications by combining the energy storage, voltage scaling, and pulse forming functions into a single device. By stacking the lines physically, not simply electrically, the line is made more compact because adjacent lines share electrodes. This design does not lend itself to the use of a single switch to commutate the stacked line, and multiple switches are far simpler to implement. The switch jitter and electrical characteristics strongly influence the performance of the line and the stresses on the dielectric. This paper explores the effects of switch jitter, inductance, the resistive decay during closure, and the closed-state resistance on the output pulse and dielectric stresses for stacked Blumlein lines using SPICE simulations. The impact of switch operation on the necessary dielectric strength and the quality of pulse is presented. The suitability of various switch technologies to meet the performance requirements is also discussed.
Impact of podcasting on student motivation in the online learning environment

Researchers investigated the impact of podcasting on student motivation in the online environment during fall 2008 and spring 2009. Data were collected from students enrolled in fourteen online courses at a research university in the United States. One hundred and ninety-one students completed a modified version of the Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (Keller, 2006); it has four subscales: attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. Strong positive relationships between all subscales were detected. Results indicate students were moderately motivated by the use of podcasts in their online courses. Statistically significant differences in student motivation based on gender, class standing, and prior online learning experience were found. Benefits of using podcasts and recommendations for improvement of the multimedia files were offered by users.
Arterial stiffness and β-amyloid progression in nondemented elderly adults.

Importance Recent studies show that cerebral β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition is associated with blood pressure and measures of arterial stiffness in nondemented individuals. Objective To examine the association between measures of arterial stiffness and change in Aβ deposition over time. Design, Setting, and Participants Deposition of Aβ was determined in a longitudinal observational study of aging by positron emission tomography using the Pittsburgh compound B twice 2 years apart in 81 nondemented individuals 83 years and older. Arterial stiffness was measured with a noninvasive and automated waveform analyzer at the time closest to the second positron emission tomography scan. All measures were performed under standardized conditions. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured in the central (carotid-femoral and heart-femoral PWV), peripheral (femoral-ankle PWV), and mixed (brachial-ankle PWV) vascular beds. Main Outcomes and Measures The change in Aβ deposition over 2 years was calculated from the 81 individuals with repeat Aβ–positron emission tomography. Results The proportion of Aβ-positive individuals increased from 48% at baseline to 75% at follow-up. Brachial-ankle PWV was significantly higher among Aβ-positive participants at baseline and follow-up. Femoral-ankle PWV was only higher among Aβ-positive participants at follow-up. Measures of central stiffness and blood pressure were not associated with Aβ status at baseline or follow-up, but central stiffness was associated with a change in Aβ deposition over time. Each standard deviation increase in central stiffness (carotid-femoral PWV, P = .001; heart-femoral PWV, P = .004) was linked with increases in Aβ deposition over 2 years. Conclusions and Relevance This study showed that Aβ deposition increases with age in nondemented individuals and that arterial stiffness is strongly associated with the progressive deposition of Aβ in the brain, especially in this age group. The association between Aβ deposition changes over time and generalized arterial stiffness indicated a relationship between the severity of subclinical vascular disease and progressive cerebral Aβ deposition.
Fluidization by lift of 300 circular particles in plane Poiseuille flow by direct numerical simulation

We study the transport of a slurry of heavier-than-liquid circular particles in a plane pressure-driven flow in a direct simulation. The flow is calculated in a periodic domain containing 300 circular particles. The study leads to the concept of fluidization by lift in which all the particles are suspended by lift forces against gravity perpendicular to the flow. The study is framed as an initial-value problem in which a closely packed cubic array of particles resting on the bottom of the channel is lifted into suspension. All the details of the flow are resolved numerically without model assumptions. The fluidization of circular particles first involves bed inflation in which liquid is driven into the bed by high pressure at the front and low pressure at the back of each circle in the top row. This kind of bed inflation occurs even at very low Reynolds numbers but it takes more time for the bed to inflate as the Reynolds number is reduced. It appears that the bed will not inflate if the shear Reynolds number is below the critical value for single particle lift-off. The flows with a single particle are completely determined by a shear Reynolds number and a gravity parameter when the density ratio and aspect ratio parameters are specified. In the multi-particle case, the volume fraction and distribution also matters. The transition to a fully fluidized slurry by waves is discussed. An analytical model of the steady motion of a single particle dragged forward in a Poiseuille flow is derived and compared with a simulation. The undisturbed fluid velocity is always larger than the particle velocity, producing a fluid hold-up. The effect of the hold-up in the many particle case is to greatly reduce the velocity of the mixture which may be described by a two-fluid model in which the solid laden mixture is regarded as a second fluid with effective properties.
Embolic Myocardial Infarction in a Patient With a Fontan Circulation

Coronary artery embolism is an uncommon cause of acute myocardial infarction (MI). We present a patient with pulmonary atresia and severe right heart hypoplasia who underwent a lateral tunnel Fontan procedure in childhood and presented with an acute ST-segment elevation MI at 19 years of age. In addition to the known risk of thrombotic complications associated with a Fontan circulation, potential predisposing factors to thromboembolism in this patient included a right ventricle to left anterior descending coronary connection and a Fontan baffle leak. The patient was treated with device closure of the baffle leak and anticoagulation. This is one of the first reports of an embolic MI in a patient with a Fontan circulation. The optimal method of reducing thromboembolic risk in this patient, and those with a Fontan circulation in general, is complicated and no consensus exists.
Let Jasmine Rain Down: Song and Remembrance among Syrian Jews

Let Jasmine Rain Down: Song and Remembrance among Syrian Jews. Kay Shelemay. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1998. xvii. 289 pp., glossary, index, discography, compact disc.
Aerodynamic Design of an Aircraft-Mounted Pod for Improved Aero-Optic Performance

A new approach for the shaping of pods and fairings for optical systems is presented in which the objective of the approach is to prevent or mitigate aero-optic effects. Basic streamlined shapes are developed which prevent supersonic flow and shock formation around the optical aperture. Furthermore, an innovative design for the shaping of cutouts that extend the maximum aft lookback angle of the optical system is described. The design approach is supported by computational fluid dynamic analyses, and the design of planned wind-tunnel tests is presented.
Can Tourism Providers Buy their Customers’ Loyalty? Examining the Influence of Customer-Provider Investments on Loyalty

As many segments of the tourism industry reach the maturation stage, marketers have turned their attention to building long-term relationships with their best customers. Despite the importance of customer loyalty for understanding these relationships, there is no consensus as to how loyalty develops. Most loyalty programs currently being used promote repeated purchases but are ineffective in enhancing customers’ psychological attachment. The purpose was to test a conceptual framework of the development of loyalty that is grounded in resource theory, reciprocity, and customer equity. The results indicated that if customers perceived that a provider was making an investment in them, they in turn made a similar investment in the provider, and those investments led to loyalty. The findings revealed that investments of love, status, and information were more closely associated with loyalty than investments of money. These findings support the proposed theoretical model and help explain how well-designed loyalt...
Regulation of β‐Adrenergic Receptor mRNA in Rat C6 Glioma Cells Is Sensitive to the State of Microtubule Assembly

Microtubule disrupter, colchicine, and microtubule stabilizer, taxol, were used to determine whether microtubules play a role in beta-adrenergic receptor mRNA homeostasis and agonist-induced down-regulation in C6 glioma cells. Colchicine treatment had significant, differential, time-dependent effects on constitutive beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptor mRNA levels. These effects stemmed from the action of colchicine on microtubules, because beta-lumicolchicine, an inactive isomer, had no effect, and nocodazole, a structurally unrelated microtubule disrupter, had similar effects. Colchicine treatment had little effect on the total number of beta-adrenergic receptor binding sites as measured by (-)-[125I]iodopindolol binding, but did alter the relative proportion of beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptor subtypes. Colchicine also had no effect on basal cyclic AMP levels. In contrast to colchicine, taxol treatment had little long-term effect on either beta 1- or beta 2-adrenergic receptor mRNA levels. Taxol antagonized the effects of colchicine on total binding and mRNA levels. Taxol treatment increased basal cyclic AMP levels fourfold and potentiated (-)-isoproterenol-induced cyclic AMP production. Colchicine pretreatment completely inhibited (-)-isoproterenol-induced down-regulation of beta 1-adrenergic receptor mRNA, but not that of beta 2-adrenergic receptor mRNA. Taxol pretreatment had little effect on isoproterenol-induced beta-adrenergic receptor mRNA down-regulation. Colchicine pretreatment also attenuated isoproterenol-induced receptor down-regulation and inhibited agonist-stimulated cyclic AMP production. These effects of colchicine were antagonized by taxol. Whereas the effects of taxol and colchicine on isoproterenol-induced down-regulation of beta-adrenergic receptor mRNA are consistent with their effects on cyclic AMP production, those of colchicine in the absence of stimulation must involve other mechanisms. The data demonstrate that the state of microtubule assembly can affect cyclic AMP levels, beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptor mRNA, and binding site levels in C6 glioma cells.
Daptomycin dose-effect relationship against resistant gram-positive organisms.

Daptomycin exhibits in vitro bactericidal activity against clinically significant gram-positive bacteria. We employed pharmacodynamic modeling to determine a once-daily dosing regimen of daptomycin that correlates to pharmacodynamic endpoints for different resistant gram-positive clinical strains. An in vitro pharmacodynamic model with an initial inoculum of 6 log10 CFU/ml was used to simulate daptomycin regimens ranging in dose from 0 to 9 mg/kg of body weight/day, with corresponding exposures reflecting free-daptomycin concentrations in serum. Bacterial density was profiled over 48 h for two methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA-67 and -R515), two glycopeptide intermediate-resistant S. aureus (GISA-992 and -147398), and two vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREF-12366 and -SF12047) strains. A sigmoid dose-response model was used to estimate the effective dose required to achieve 50% (ED50) and 80% (ED80) bacterial density reduction at 48 h. Daptomycin MICs for study isolates ranged from 0.125 to 4 μg/ml. Model fitting resulted in an r2 of >0.80 for all tested isolates. Control growths at 48 h ranged from 7.3 to 8.5 log10 CFU/ml. Sigmoid relationships were not superimposable between categorical resistant species: ED50 and ED80 values were 1.9 and 3.1, 4.2 and 5.6, and 5.4 and 6.8 mg/kg for MRSA, GISA, and VREF isolates, respectively. Doses required to achieve ED50 and ED80 values correlated with MIC differences between tested organisms. Corresponding area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h/MIC exposure ratios demonstrated a wide range of ED80 values among the tested isolates. Doses ranging between 3 and 7 mg/kg produced significant bactericidal activity (ED80) against these multidrug-resistant S. aureus and E. faecium isolates.
The Future of Afghan Democracy

The 2014 Afghan presidential and provincial council elections will have a critical effect on the future of Afghan democracy. At a minimum, they must be sufficiently credible to prevent severe division among elite political actors and ensure the survival of the current constitutional order. Yet there are growing expectations that the election might not merely be an elite pact between powerful figures from Afghanistan’s recent past, but more fully represent popular aspirations, particularly those of the growing urban and youth population. In order for this to happen, they must also be held in accordance with the legal rules that guide them, rather than be characterized by manipulation of these rules and government interference. Despite the problems of fraud in the 2009 election, where government figures and the electoral institutions themselves were partly responsible for the significant fraud that took place, there are a number of reasons to expect that the 2014 election will be an improvement on 2009, both in terms of participation and organization. If the elections held in Afghanistan since 2001 have diminished hopes for Afghan democracy, it is partly because an electoral formalism was introduced in Afghanistan before other elements crucial to a functioning democracy—the rule of law, political parties, institutionalized governance—really existed. The 2014 elections may reveal the boundaries of an emerging democratic space in which these features are beginning to emerge and, more importantly, where their value is increasingly recognized by Afghans. If, in every political transition, the future grapples with the past, the 2014 elections in Afghanistan may be a decisive arena of that struggle.
The analysis of new short-period circadian rhythm mutants suggests features of D. melanogaster period gene function.

A number of new period gene (per) mutants were generated by in vitro mutagenesis and germ line transformation. Missense mutations were made at amino acid 589, which is altered in the 19 h short-period (peras) mutant, and insertion mutations were generated with peptides commonly used for epitope tagging. Most of these new per mutants had short behavioral rhythms. Flies with heteroallelic combinations of these new mutant per genes were found to have “hybrid” periods, i.e., they had values that were usually in between those of the individual alleles. These findings suggest that short-period per mutants are not unusual gain-of-function mutants but rather more traditional loss-of-function mutants that are unable to influence the circadian pacemaker in a proper manner. The data also suggest that the per protein may engage in important intermolecular interactions.
Micros through mainframes: A successful implementation

Historically universities took their early steps in computing through the acquisition of mainframe computer systems. These early machines were used primarily for academic and research purposes. During the last decade we saw an increased demand for computing services for student applications, research, and administrative purposes. To meet this demand and to bring the systems closer to the users, many of us expanded capacities through the introduction of decentralized facilities. These took the form of mini and supermini computers to be used as dedicated systems, located in academic and administrative departments. While these decentralized systems were most effective, we found that we still could not keep up with the demand for computing facilities. The next natural step was to further decentralize through the introduction of microcomputer systems.While our growth has been predominately in a decentralized manner, the need for a strong mainframe has been ever present. This has been mainly to support large applications and to be a host on a computing network. Specialized hardware and software need only be supported on a single host system that can be accessed by users via a campus-wide network. This has proven to be cost effective as it has resulted in less duplication of specialized equipment, packages, and support services for decentralized system while still meeting the needs of the users.Our experiences at Stevens Institute of Technology have followed this pattern of expansion from mainframe to micro with the concept of a campus-wide network as an integral factor. Our recent experiences with the requirement of the acquisition of a specified microcomputer system by our incoming students has been widely publicized. Through this paper I hope to share our experiences including the formulation and evolution of the planning process, its implementation, and some of our future plans based on the success of the project. Specifically, we now have an Ethernet implementation to support networking of our users with various decentralized systems and mainframes. Also, we have implemented elementary networking functions between various kinds of microcomputers and our DECsystem-10 and VAX-11/780. We are into the next phase of the plan which will allow a massive number of microcomputers onto the Ethernet.The results of our plan have been most favorable. They include a familiarization of freshman students with computing tools and techniques on a professional basis, the facilitation of computer access for research, an updating of administrative processing, and the communication of the parts in an economical manner. This paper will present a description of our experiences with the intent that they may be used as a model for other institutions looking in the same direction. We believe that Stevens has been the vanguard of colleges that have been successful in arranging a “marriage of convenience” between our micros and mainframes while welcoming our new offspring through the delivery of an Ethernet.
Ethanol Alters the Subcellular Localization of δ- and ε Protein Kinase C in NG108–15 Cells

Protein kinase C (PKC) has been shown to regulate the ethanol sensitivity of membrane-bound receptors and transporters, but little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying this regulation. PKC is a family of isozymes that translocate to new intracellular sites on activation. Here we present immunochemical data showing that ethanol causes translocation of δ- and e-PKC to new intracellular sites. Ethanol causes translocation of δ-PKC from the Golgi to the perinucleus; this translocation is similar to that induced by activation of PKC with phorbol esters. In contrast, e-PKC translocation caused by ethanol is different from that induced by phorbol esters; ethanol causes translocation of e-PKC from the perinucleus to the cytoplasm, whereas phorbol ester activation causes translocation of e-PKC to the nucleus. Because the substrate specificity of these kinases is determined by their site of localization, ethanol-induced translocation of δ- and e-PKC to new intracellular sites may explain some of the pleiotropic effects of ethanol on cellular functions.
Geometric expansion of helping services

Abstract Thsi study reports three-year, service-utilization patterns of the Primary Mental Health Project (PMHP)—an innovative school mental health program that uses nonprofessional child-aides as help-agents with maladapting primary graders. PMHP brought intensive help to 11% of the primary graders in participating schools—a substantial proportion of those estimated to have school adaptation problems. Program effectiveness data were also cited. The PMHP model delivers, with relatively small cost increments, approximately 10 times more service than traditional delivery systems. Careful system description, as in this study, leads directly to studies evaluating the effectiveness of specific program practices.
Staff Development: A Key Issue in Meeting the Needs of Young Handicapped Children in Day Care Settings

The dramatic increase in the number of mothers of young children currently in the work force has resulted in an increased demand for child care outside the home, including care for handicapped children. To meet this need, we propose the integration of handicapped children into community child care centers as adjunct services to specialized early intervention programs.The successful integration of handicapped children into day care settings requires a planned program of staff development. Several models of staff development are presented that have been found effective for teachers of school-age children in mainstreamed settings. Several features of these models are incorporated in the special education consultation model described here. This model provides on-site consultation to day care providers as they acquire the skills to adapt and modify activities to facilitate the social integration of handicapped children in all activities of the center. And, finally, case studies are presented that document the ...
Drug- and chemical-induced cholestasis.

Cholestasis resulting from medicinal and chemical agents is an increasingly well-recognized cause of liver disease. Although the consequences of cholestatic injury are generally regarded as being far less serious than those of acute parenchymal injury with a risk of fulminant hepatitis, the significance of drug-induced cholestasis is revealed by the broad spectrum of acute and chronic clinical syndromes producing jaundice and bile duct injury that can mimic extrahepatic biliary obstruction, primary biliary cirrhosis, and sclerosing cholangitis. In the more than 10 years since the authors last reviewed drug-induced cholestasis, 153 several agents have been added to the list of cholestatic hepatotoxins, and significant advances have been made in the understanding of the pathophysiology of cholestasis. This article reviews the various forms of drug-induced cholestasis, focusing on the clinicopathologic features of this form of hepatic injury and on the known or putative mechanisms by which drugs and chemicals lead to cholestasis. Current concepts concerning the pathogenesis and molecular biology of cholestasis have been recently reviewed by others 133 and will not be included here.
Metrology for the Space Interferometry Mission

The Space Interferometry Mission, SIM PlanetQuest, is a mission to use the tool of astrometry to investigate a broad range of topics in astronomy and astrophysics. The astronomy science plan includes the search for earth-like planets around the nearest ∼ 100 stars, enumeration of the planets in multi-planet systems, and the unambiguous determination of the masses of planets. SIM is also designed to make significant contributions to the field of astrophysics, including the mass distribution of the Milky Way, including its dark matter, the search for supermassive black holes in the cores of galaxies, and precise distances to standard candles and, for the first time, a 1% extragalactic distance scale.
Racial Differences in Resolving Conflicts: A Comparison between Black and White Police Officers:

This study examined the behavioral differences between Black and White police officers in handling interpersonal conflicts. Observational and survey data from the Project on Policing Neighborhoods and the 1990 census data were used. Actions taken by officers are examined along two behavioral dimensions: coercion and support. Findings show that Black officers are more coercive than their White counterparts in responding to conflicts. Black officers are also more likely than White officers to conduct supportive activities in predominantly Black neighborhoods, whereas they do not differ in initiating supportive actions in racially diverse communities. Situational characteristics play a strong role in determining police actions during conflict resolution. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.
The increasing significance of international trade in equids and its influence on the spread of infectious diseases.

: Expansion in international trade in equids and equine semen has been especially notable over the past 10-15 years among those countries historically identified as having significant breeding and performance horse industries. the continuing trend towards globalization of the horse industry received additional impetus in january, 1995, following establishment of the World Trade Organization (WTO), whose primary goal is to promote freer economic exchange between member countries through the reduction or elimination of protectionist barriers to trade. Continued growth in international trade, closely related to changing trends in the horse industry, has greatly increased the risk of spread of a wide range of equine infectious diseases between countries. in consequence, the global distribution of certain of these diseases is likely to change in the future. Within the past 30-40 years, there have been numerous confirmed instances of the spread of specific diseases through the international movement of equids or shipment of semen, some of which have resulted in epidemics of major economic importance. Under the Sanitary-Phytosanitary Agreement of the WTO, national agencies have had to rethink their traditional “zero-risk” approach in regulating the importation of equids or equine semen from other countries. Mindful of the risks of disease spread inherent in such transactions, authorities must now accept that primary emphasis in today's global economic climate must be on greater facilitation of trade, rather than attempting to provide absolute disease preventive safeguards.
Emerging Dental Applications of Raman Spectroscopy

Until recently, the application of Raman spectroscopy to investigate dental tissues has primarily focused on using microspectroscopy to characterize dentin and enamel structures as well as to understand the adhesive interface of various resin and bonding agents used in restorative procedures. With the advent of improved laser, imaging/mapping and fibre optic technologies, the applications have expanded to investigate various biomedical problems ranging from oral cancer, bacterial identification and early dental caries detection. The overall aim of these applications is to develop Raman spectroscopy into a tool for use in the dental clinic. This chapter presents the recent dental applications of Raman spectroscopy as well as discusses the potential, strengths and limitations of the technology in comparison with alternative techniques. In addition, a discussion and rationale about combining Raman spectroscopy with other optical techniques will be included.
Azithromycin-Induced, Biopsy-Proven Acute Interstitial Nephritis in an Adult Successfully Treated with Low-Dose Corticosteroids

Acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) is a form of acute kidney injury (AKI) characterized by a rapid deterioration of renal function, inflammatory infiltration of interstitial tissues, and renal edema. Drug-induced AIN is the most common etiology of AIN, but AIN can also have infectious, autoimmune, or idiopathic causes. β-Lactam antibacterials, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, and proton pump inhibitors are recognized as leading causes of AIN; however, many other drugs have been identified as causes. We describe the case of a 59-year-old white male who developed AIN that required hemodialysis following azithromycin treatment. He presented to the hospital with complaints of nausea, vomiting, malaise, and fever over the past 3 days, along with no urine output in the preceding 24 hours. Two weeks earlier, he had completed a 5-day course of azithromycin 500 mg on day 1 followed by 250 mg/day on days 2-5 (total dose 1.5 g) for an upper respiratory tract infection. On admission, the patient's serum creatinine (S(cr)) concentration was 7.4 mg/dl (baseline = 1.3 mg/dl). He reported a similar episode of kidney failure 2 years earlier after taking azithromycin; however, at that time it was believed the AKI was likely due to benazepril use in the setting of acute infection, and a kidney biopsy was not performed. His S(cr) concentration peaked at 11.4 mg/dl, and three sessions of hemodialysis were required. A kidney biopsy was performed that revealed AIN. Low-dose prednisone 0.3 mg/kg (30 mg)/day, tapered over the next 3 months, was administered, and his renal function improved to near baseline prior to discharge; 6 months later, his Scr concentration was 1.4 mg/dl. Despite lower than recommended dosing, this patient responded well to prednisone and did not experience long-term sequelae from renal injury. Use of the Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale indicated a definite relationship (score of 10) between azithromycin exposure and the manifestation of AIN. To our knowledge, this is the first report of azithromycin-induced acute interstitial nephritis with near-complete resolution of renal injury in an adult. This case report illustrates the importance of rapid recognition of drug-induced renal injuries and discontinuation of the offending agent. Select use of corticosteroids may improve both time to and extent of renal function recovery.
Psychosocial Predictors of Weight Loss among American Indian and Alaska Native Participants in a Diabetes Prevention Translational Project

The association of psychosocial factors (psychological distress, coping skills, family support, trauma exposure, and spirituality) with initial weight and weight loss among American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) in a diabetes prevention translational project was investigated. Participants (n = 3,135) were confirmed as prediabetic and subsequently enrolled in the Special Diabetes Program for Indians Diabetes Prevention (SDPI-DP) demonstration project implemented at 36 Indian health care programs. Measures were obtained at baseline and after completing a 16-session educational curriculum focusing on weight loss through behavioral changes. At baseline, psychological distress and negative family support were linked to greater weight, whereas cultural spirituality was correlated with lower weight. Furthermore, psychological distress and negative family support predicted less weight loss, and positive family support predicted greater weight loss, over the course of the intervention. These bivariate relationships between psychosocial factors and weight remained statistically significant within a multivariate model, after controlling for sociodemographic characteristics. Conversely, coping skills and trauma exposure were not significantly associated with baseline weight or change in weight. These findings demonstrate the influence of psychosocial factors on weight loss in AI/AN communities and have substantial implications for incorporating adjunctive intervention components.
Dignity at the limit: Jean-Luc Nancy on the possibility of incommensurable worth

Dignity, according to some recent arguments, is a useless concept, giving vague expression to moral intuitions that are better captured by other, better defined concepts. In this paper, I defend the concept of dignity against such skeptical arguments. I begin with a description of the defining features of the Kantian conception of dignity. I then examine one of the strongest arguments against that conception, advanced by Arthur Schopenhauer in On the Basis of Morality. After considering some standard accounts of dignity, showing how they fail adequately to address Schopenhauer’s concern, I propose and defend a new account of dignity, drawing on the ontology of Jean-Luc Nancy.
Hamiltonian Type Properties in Claw-Free $$P_5$$P5-Free Graphs

A graph G on n vertices is said to be (k, m)-pancyclic if every set of k vertices in G is contained in a cycle of length r for each integer r in the set $$\{ m, m + 1, \ldots , n \}$${m,m+1,ź,n}. This property, which generalizes the notion of a vertex pancyclic graph, was defined by Faudree et al. in (Graphs Combin 20:291---310, 2004). The notion of (k, m)-pancyclicity provides one way to measure the prevalence of cycles in a graph. Broersma and Veldman showed in (Contemporary methods in graph theory, BI-Wiss.-Verlag, Mannheim, Wien, Zurich, pp 181---194, 1990) that any 2-connected claw-free $$P_5$$P5-free graph must be hamiltonian. In fact, every non-hamiltonian cycle in such a graph is either extendable or very dense. We show that any 2-connected claw-free $$P_5$$P5-free graph is (k, 3k)-pancyclic for each integer $$k \ge 2$$kź2. We also show that such a graph is (1, 5)-pancyclic. Examples are provided which show that these results are best possible. Each example we provide represents an infinite family of graphs.
Early prediction of clinical benefit of treating ovarian cancer using quantitative CT image feature analysis.

BackgroundIn current clinical trials of treating ovarian cancer patients, how to accurately predict patients’ response to the chemotherapy at an early stage remains an important and unsolved challenge.PurposeTo investigate feasibility of applying a new quantitative image analysis method for predicting early response of ovarian cancer patients to chemotherapy in clinical trials.Material and MethodsA dataset of 30 patients was retrospectively selected in this study, among which 12 were responders with 6-month progression-free survival (PFS) and 18 were non-responders. A computer-aided detection scheme was developed to segment tumors depicted on two sets of CT images acquired pre-treatment and 4–6 weeks post treatment. The scheme computed changes of three image features related to the tumor volume, density, and density variance. We analyzed performance of using each image feature and applying a decision tree to predict patients’ 6-month PFS. The prediction accuracy of using quantitative image features was al...
Investigation of Primary Reactions and Secondary Effects from the Pyrolysis of Different Celluloses

The primary reactions and secondary effects resulting from cellulose fast pyrolysis were investigated using a micropyrolyzer system by changing sample weight and length scale. To exclude the catalytic effects from metal ions, all cellulose samples were demineralized prior to pyrolysis. Heat transfer calculations estimated the characteristic time scale for heat transfer to be 1 order of magnitude smaller than the pyrolysis reaction time when the sample weight was less than 800 μg. It was found that mass transfer limitations existed when the sample weight of the powder cellulose was larger than 800 μg or when the cellulose particles were pyrolyzed at a larger characteristic length scale. The mass transfer limited system led to secondary reactions including secondary char and gas formation from volatile products and decomposition/dehydration of levoglucosan into low molecular weight products, furans, and dehydrated pyranose. The secondary reactions were found to be catalyzed by the char from cellulose pyroly...
CO2 capture from the atmosphere and simultaneous concentration using zeolites and amine-grafted SBA-15.

CO2 capture from the atmosphere and concentration by cyclic adsorption–desorption processes are studied for the first time. New high microporosity materials, zeolite types Li-LSX and K-LSX, are com...
Beyond Traditional Tenure: Extended Probationary Periods and Suspension of “Up-or-Out” Rule

(1982). Beyond Traditional Tenure: Extended Probationary Periods and Suspension of “Up-or-Out” Rule. Change: The Magazine of Higher Learning: Vol. 14, No. 5, pp. 44-54.
Evaluation of Eyelid Function and Aesthetics

The eyes and periocular area are the central aesthetic unit of the face. Facial aging is a dynamic process that involves skin, subcutaneous soft tissues, and bony structures. An understanding of what is perceived as youthful and beautiful is critical for success. Knowledge of the functional aspects of the eyelid and periocular area can identify pre-preoperative red flags.
Analysis of Implementation Effect of Thirteen Years' Tuberculosis Control Project in Lijin County

Objective To understand the status of registration and treatment of tuberculosis(TB)cases,assess the effect of control TB,and to provide the scientific basis in formulating measurements of sustainable development of TB control in Lijin County.Method Data of TB cases obtained from Lijin County registration and statistics reporting tables and annual summary report from 1994 to 2006 were used for descriptive statistical analysis.Results Totally 14,260 suspected tuberculosis cases were detected from 1994 to 2006 and 1,273 active tuberculosis cases were identified.The registration rate for smear positive TB case was 33.94/100,000,and the registration rate increased year by year,from 11.77/100,000 in 1994 to 41.55/100,000.The curative rate of active tuberculosis case was 96.94%(1,234/1,273).Conclusion The effect of TB control project in Lijin County is significant.
Treatment of social phobias.

Social phobia, despite a prevalence in the general population of 1.5% denoting a common disorder, has been relatively neglected from the viewpoints of psychopathology and of treatment. Two subtypes of social phobia have been differentiated: specific (characterized by anxiety in one situation, e.g., public speaking) and generalized (characterized by anxiety in several social situations). The syndrome is frequently complicated by alcohol abuse or dependence. Among the treatment targets are symptoms of anxiety, avoidance behavior, negative cognitions concerning the reactions of others, and, less frequently, social skills deficits. Both pharmacologic and cognitive-behavioral treatments have been found effective in this disorder, and it seems likely that the two treatments will complement each other. The treatment literature is reviewed, and recommendations concerning a state-of-the-art treatment approach to both specific and generalized social phobia are made. Potential complications and limitations are discussed.
Economic empowerment or cash-dependency for orphans and vulnerable children in Kenya: Evidence from an alternative to cash-only models

Orphan and vulnerable children (OVC) often have worse educational, developmental, nutritional, and behavioral outcomes than non-OVC. Much of these disparities come from reduced household earnings due to the loss of parental income. The present study used conditional process analysis to evaluate income and savings among OVC households, using cross-sectional data from 1,060 OVC in a 3-year Kenyan empowerment program that combined elements of cash transfer, psychosocial support, and small business entrepreneurship. Higher monthly earnings were significantly associated with program participation in a graded fashion. Approximately one-third of the association was mediated by material inputs, indicating that a substantial portion may be explained by other unobserved program elements. Eighty-five percent of increased rates of saving money in the past year were mediated by improved monthly income, cash transferred and improved food consumption. Data analysis highlights the need for multisectoral approaches and the need for more research to understand how to improve household economic stability among OVC. Key Practitioner Message: • Orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) are at risk of greater poverty, leading to multiple developmental and health challenges; • Current policy in Kenya to offset costs of caring for OVC utilizes monthly cash transfers to households providing care for OVC; • The present study found that increases in monthly income in an OVC multisectoral empowerment program were largely due to factors beyond the material inputs.
Effect of Body Doping on the Scaling of Ultrathin SOI MOSFETs

This paper presents a detailed simulation study on the body doping effect on scaling of ultrathin silicon-on-insulator (SOI) MOSFETs with standard thick buried oxide (BOX). By employing high-k dielectrics, it is demonstrated that the minimum scalable channel length Lmin for fully-depleted (FD) SOI MOSFETs can be significantly improved from Lmin ~5tSi for undoped case [1] to Lmin ~2tSi with doping. By scaling the gate insulator thickness toward its tunneling limit, it is possible to scale doped body FDSOI to ITRS 45nm technology node (TN). Quantum mechanical and threshold considerations will ultimately limit how high a body doping can be used.
Sensitivity of Convection-Allowing Forecasts to Land Surface Model Perturbations and Implications for Ensemble Design

AbstractIn this exploratory study, a series of perturbations to the land surface model (LSM) component of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model was developed to investigate the sensitivity of forecasts of severe thunderstorms and heavy precipitation at 4-km grid spacing and whether such perturbations could improve ensemble forecasts at this scale. The perturbations (generated using a combination of perturbing fixed parameters and using separate schemes, one of which—Noah-MP—is new among the WRF modeling community) were applied to a 10-member ensemble including other mixed physics parameterizations and compared against an identically configured ensemble that did not include the LSM perturbations to determine their impact on probabilistic forecasts. A third ensemble using only the LSM perturbations was also configured.The results from 14 (in total) 36-h ensemble forecasts suggested the LSM perturbations resulted in systematic improvement in ensemble dispersion and error characteristics. Lower-tro...
Sector-disk codes with three global parities

Codewords in array format find applications in disk storage where columns are stored on different disks in combination with row parity checks across disks that protect data against disk failures. The addition of global parities protects against sector failures on any of the disks while keeping storage overhead low. We construct sector-disk array codes that tolerate any combination of two disk failures and three sector failures with minimal overhead. The construction is the first for codes of this type that does not rely on exhaustive search.
Ultrasonic target echo detection using neural network

Ultrasonic Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and imaging systems has been widely used for industrial and medical applications. In NDT system, detection and characterization of target signal can be extremely challenging because of the complex echo scattering environment and the system noise. In this paper, an algorithm based on Neural Network (NN) is presented to explore the possible solutions for ultrasonic target detection. To reduce the computation load and increase the precision of the NN, signal processing algorithms such as Split-Spectrum Processing (SSP), FIR filtering etc. are applied to the signal. In this study, the algorithm is designed to perform target detection on an ultrasonic testing platform based on Zynq System-on-Chip (SoC) in real-time. The speed of computation is crucial for a real-time testing and signal processing, especially when sampling rate is high. The proposed system can generate, capture and process ultrasonic signals. In this design, the FPGA fabric on the Zynq SoC can be used to accelerate the algorithm and to enable real-time split-spectrum processing followed by neural networks.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis Clinical Manifestations and Differential Diagnosis

As a chronic inflammatory disease with eosinophilic infiltrate of the esophagus, eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) causes a variety of gastrointestinal (GI) clinical manifestations. None of the symptoms, endoscopic features, or biopsy findings is pathognomonic of the disease, even with high degrees of esophageal eosinophilia. The pathogenesis has been explored by several studies, yet it still far from being completely understood. Evidence supports a role of allergen-driven Th2 lymphocyte mechanism, though not in every patient. This article addresses the disease's clinical manifestations, endoscopic findings, diagnosis, and differential diagnoses. In addition to the current diagnostic criteria, we summarize some recently emerging procedures that promise of enhancing more precise diagnosis and institution of early appropriate management, with consequent better quality of life and reduction of complications.