cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Autologous stem cell transplantation for acute myeloid leukemia in first remission.

Abstract We studied the feasibility, toxicity, and efficacy of a 2-step approach to autologous stem cell transplantation for patients with acute myeloid leukemia in first remission. Step 1 consisted of consolidation chemotherapy including cytarabine 2000 mg/m2 twice daily for 4 days concurrent with etoposide 40 mg/kg by continuous infusion over 4 days. During the recovery from this chemotherapy, peripheral blood stem cells were collected under granulocyte colony-stimulating factor stimulation. Step 2, autologous stem cell transplantation, involved the preparative regimen of busulfan 16 mg/kg followed by etoposide 60 mg/kg and reinfusion of unpurged peripheral blood stem cells. A total of 128 patients were treated. During step 1, there was 1 treatment-related death. A median CD34+ cell dose of 14 (x10(6)/kg) was collected in 3 aphereses. Ten patients suffered relapse before transplantation, and 117 patients (91%) proceeded to transplantation. During step 2, there were 2 treatment-related deaths, and 35 patients subsequently suffered relapse. With median follow-up of 30 months, 5-year disease-free survival for all patients entered in the study is projected to be 55%. By cytogenetic risk group, 5-year disease-free survival is 73% for favorable-risk patients, 51% for intermediate-risk patients, and 0% for poor-risk patients. We conclude that this 2-step approach to autologous transplantation produces excellent stem cell yields and allows a high percentage of patients to receive the intended therapy. Preliminary efficacy analysis is very encouraging, with outcomes that appear superior to those of conventional chemotherapy. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2000;6(1):50-7.
Sparing fertility in young patients with endometrial cancer

The objective of this review is to recognize the characteristics of endometrial adenocarcinoma in young patients and to evaluate the published experience with conservative approach in patients with endometrial adenocarcinoma. We searched MEDLINE articles describing patients with endometrial adenocarcinoma who were treated with hormonal therapy. The search included articles published between January 1966 and January 2007. Endometrial carcinoma in patients under 45 years of age is an unusual condition that shows a more favorable pattern than in older patients. One hundred thirty three patients were found in the search. The average duration of hormonal therapy was approximately 6 months. The average response time was 12 weeks. Seventy six percent of patients treated with hormonal therapy had a complete response and the other 24% never responded to treatment. Of those who initially responded, 66% didn't show recurrence of disease. The other 34% had a relapse. There have been published 4 deaths of patients conservatively managed. A conservative approach in these patients can offer reasonable oncological security and the opportunity of fulfilling their maternal desires in selected cases. However, consideration should be taken regarding the potential adverse outcomes that have been recently published in the literature.
Simulation Research on Evaluation of EIT Image Reconstructed by Different Algorithms

Reconstruction algorithm is always the important area of electrical impedance tomography (EIT). Aiming at target with different depths, using 3 algorithms, equipotential lines back projection algorithm (ELBP), conjugate gradient algorithm (CG) and Newton-Raphson algorithm (NR), simulation evaluation has been carried out. Reconstruction quality function D which reflects the error between imaging model and reconstructed image, and structure deviation degree function SSIM which reflects structure distortion of reconstructed image, are adopted for the quantitative evaluation of reconstructed image by 3 algorithms. The results of the simulation evaluation show that the reconstruction error of ELBP algorithm is the lowest among 3 algorithms, CG algorithm and NR algorithm have lower structure distortion and higher locating capability than that by ELBP. From the perspective of reconstruction error and structure distortion, D and SSIM commendably reflect the information of reconstructed image, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of 3 algorithms. The function D and SSIM provide impersonal, effective evaluation methods and adaptive for the image characteristic of EIT.
Near-decoupling of linear multivariable systems

Available exact-decoupling conditions by constant compensation do not address the important class of ‘nearly decouplable’ systems. For practical systems, parameter perturbations, measurement errors and system-modelling inaccuracies may conceal the system decouplability by constant- or low-order compensation, thus calling for unnecessarily high-order dynamics. In this paper, state-space decoupling conditions formulated as rank-degeneracy conditions are used to detect how close a system is to one that is exactly decouplable. The procedure simultaneously provides the compensators necessary to achieve the indicated level of decoupling. The conditions are extended to cases where it is required to use a fixed constant compensator for decoupling under different sets of perturbations
Even We Can’t Prevent Forests: The Chemical War in Vietnam and the Illusion of Control

By exploring tactical and strategic uses of chemical agents beyond Agent Orange and the other ‘Rainbow Herbicides’ used as part of Operation Ranch Hand during the Vietnam War, this essay seeks to fill a gap in our under- standing of the chemical war waged by the United States in South-east Asia, and to make a contribution to the growing body of literature devoted to the intersections of military and environmental history. Taking seriously the roles played by both human and non-human actors, it explores how the White House and Pentagon continually attempted, unsuccessfully, to impose more stringent forms of control over southern Vietnam. Herbicidal warfare and the use of forest fire as a military weapon were simply two more failed attempts among many to impose control on a nation, a people, and a landscape — indeed, on nature itself — all of which refused to accept the dictates of American power just as stubbornly as American policymakers refused to accept the limitations of that power.
Behavioral and metabolic interaction between gossypol and ethanol.

The effects of gossypol on ethanol-elicited responses pertaining to liver ethanol, acetaldehyde-metabolizing enzymes and alcohol preference were studied in rodents. Intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of gossypol, 100 mg/kg, inhibited hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase for 50 h in mice from both sexes. The acute gossypol treatment produced earlier inhibition of mouse liver cytoplasmic aldehyde dehydrogenase in male than female mice. Acute gossypol administration initially inhibited mouse liver subcellular mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase in both sexes which was not evident 50 h later. Administration of gossypol, 10 mg/kg i.p., to male rats with preference for ethanol caused aversion for ethanol drinking. The enzymatic determinations indicate gender sensitivity of subcellular mouse liver aldehyde dehydrogenase to gossypol. The behavioral study suggests adverse metabolic interaction between gossypol and alcohol which may underlie the rat aversion to voluntary ethanol drinking.
Assessment of eating disorders: interview versus questionnaire.

Objective This study assessed the validity of the Eating Disorder Examination—Questionnaire (EDE-Q) in identifying eating disorder symptoms in female substance abusers. Method: Subjects were assessed for the presence of eating disorder behaviors and attitudes using the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE), a semistructured interview, and the EDE-Q. The results of the two measures were then compared. Results: Results showed that the EDE-Q does identify eating disorders in this population. It is more accurate in assessing purging than the more complex features of binge eating and dietary restraint. Discussion: Eating disorders and substance abuse co-occur at a higher rate than expected by chance, and recent findings indicate that eating disorders often go undetected among patients with substance abuse. The EDE-Q appears to be an effective screening instrument for detecting the presence of eating disorder symptoms in this population. © 1996 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Olivine electrode engineering impact on the electrochemical performance of lithium-ion batteries

High energy and power density lithium iron phosphate was studied for hybrid electric vehicle applications. This work addresses the effects of porosity in a composite electrode using a four-point probe resistivity analyzer, galvanostatic cycling, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The four-point probe result indicates that the porosity of composite electrode affects the electronic conductivity significantly. This effect is also observed from the cell's pulse current discharge performance. Compared to the direct current (dc) methods used, the EIS data are more sensitive to electrode porosity, especially for electrodes with low porosity values.
Role of the Veins in Venous Return

The major vessel occlusion method applied to the supine, anesthetized dog with an open chest has proven useful in elucidating the role of the venous system in the complex phenomenon of venous return. This method momentarily isolates a large part of the venous system from the arterial system and from the action of the heart and the respiratory and muscle pumps. Simultaneous occlusion of the thoracic inferior vena cava and the descending aorta (MVO) divides the dog9s circulation into a cephalad zone and a caudad zone. Experimentally induced changes in the status of the cephalad circulation during MVO can affect the caudad zone only through neuronal pathways. Therefore, MVO makes it possible to investigate the responses of the venous system to vascular reflex activity as well as direct and indirect actions of drugs. During the "resting" state, blood returns to the heart because of the existence of a venous pressure gradient of 3 to 4 mm. Hg, operant between the reactive venous reservoir and the central venous conduit ("intra-venous" gradient). Augmentation of sympathetic tone produces an increase in venous return, of venous origin, due to an increase in the effective "intra-venous" pressure gradient from 3 to 4 mm. Hg to 5 to 10 mm. Hg. The ability of the venous system to increase venous return independently, has been shown to be a significant factor in the arterial hypertensive response to carotid occlusion. The venous system can serve as a buffer against the effects of sudden, momentary changes in arterial flow by maintaining, reducing, or augmenting venous return.
Dynamics of electron-trapping materials under blue light and near-infrared exposure: an improved model

Dynamics of electron-trapping materials (ETMs) is investigated. Based on experimental observations, evolution of the ETM's luminescence is mathematically modeled by a nonlinear differential equation. This improved model can predict dynamics of ETM under blue light and near-infrared (NIR) exposures during charging, discharging, simultaneous illumination, and in the equilibrium state. The equilibrium-state luminescence of ETM is used to realize a highly nonlinear optical device with potential applications in nonlinear optical signal processing.
Electron scattering by N2 at 5 and 10 eV: Rotational–vibrational close‐coupling calculations and crossed beam studies of vibrational excitation

The ratios of differential cross sections for excitation of the first excited vibrational state to differential cross sections for elastic scattering of N2 have been measured at scattering angles ranging from 20° to 135° at 5 and 10 eV impact energies. Using previously measured and normalized elastic differential cross sections for N2, the ratios have been converted to inelastic cross sections. Laboratory‐frame close‐coupling calculations using a four‐state vibrational–rotational basis set and an effective interaction potential developed previously are reported at both energies. It is shown that the four‐state treatment of this potential scattering model can account for the approximate magnitude and the qualitative behavior of the cross sections, but there are some significant quantitative differences between theory and experiment.
Wagon Loads of Sand Blows in White County, Illinois

Several anecdotal accounts provide compelling evidence that liquefaction occurred at several sites in Illinois during the 1811‐1812 New Madrid sequence, as much as 250 km north of the New Madrid seismic zone (NMSZ). At one Wabash Valley location, sand blows are still evident near Big Prairie, Illinois, a location described in a particularly detailed and precise historic account. This account includes descriptions of substantial liquefaction (sand blows) as well as a two-milelong east-west-trending “crack” along which two feet of south-side-down displacement occurred. An offset can no longer be seen at this location, which has been extensively farmed and plowed for decades. Field reconnaissance verifies many of the details provided in the account, however. We conducted a seismic-reflection experiment at this location and observed a modest offset in the Paleozoic strata at this location. The offset is opposite to that described in the historic account, consistent with the hypothesis that large midcontinent earthquakes occur on faults reactivated in a Holocene stress regime different from the one in which they were formed. Only two explanations can account for these observations: Either large NMSZ events triggered substantial liquefaction at distances greater than hitherto realized, or at least one large “New Madrid” event occurred significantly north of the NMSZ. We explore these possibilities and conclude that, while neither one can be ruled out, several disparate lines of evidence suggest that the 23 January 1812 “New
Possible distinguishing characteristics of very deepwater explosive and effusive silicic volcanism

Recent seafloor exploration has shown that volcanic-hosted massive sulfides (VHMS) occur in modern silicic calderas formed by highly explosive eruptions at substantial water depths. Sampling of these has so far been restricted to surficial deposits. Ancient analogs provide a time-integrated view of the structure and fill of deepwater calderas, but constraints on paleo-water depths have previously been lacking. The Ordovician Bald Mountain VHMS (northern Maine, USA) is unique in its degree of preservation, not only permitting detailed textural and structural analysis of the enclosing volcanic rocks, but also allowing fluid inclusion analysis to determine a paleo-water depth of eruption of greater than 1.45 km. The deposits that result from very deepwater explosive eruptions have distinctive textural characteristics recognized in other ancient examples where paleo-water depths are less well constrained. I propose that hydrostatic pressure suppresses the explosivity of the eruption sufficiently to retard the formation of fine ash, producing ignimbrite composed largely of pumice lapilli. It also inhibits exsolution of dissolved water in the magma, producing fluidal rhyolite eruptions and intrusions. These include silicic fire fountaining to produce proximal cones of hyalotuff or spatter accumulations, and intrusions of globular peperite.
Nondestructive measurement of bulk lifetime and surface recombination velocities

Bulk lifetime and surface recombination velocities at both the front and the rear surfaces are important parameters that affect the performance of solar cells. In the author's earlier work (see J. Appl Phys., vol. 72, p.141 (1992)), they presented a detailed theoretical analysis for a contactless nondestructive technique to obtain these parameters. Here, they present the first experimentally measured data using this new approach. Moreover, the earlier analytical work has now been extended to also provide an estimate of the sensitivity of the extracted parameters to errors in experimental measurements. Results on measurements on single crystal silicon wafers are provided as an example. >
Structure–biodegradability study and computer‐automated prediction of aerobic biodegradation of chemicals

It is shown that a combination of two programs, MultiCASE and META, can help assess the biodegradability of industrial organic materials in the ecosystem. MultiCASE is an artificial intelligence computer program that had been trained to identify molecular substructures believed to cause or inhibit biodegradation and META is an expert system trained to predict the aerobic biodegradation products of organic molecules. These two programs can be used to help evaluate the fate of disposed chemicals by estimating their biodegradability and the nature of their biodegradation products under conditions that may model the environment.
A pilot study of electronic directly observed therapy to improve hydroxyurea adherence in pediatric patients with sickle‐cell disease

Background Poor hydroxyurea (HU) adherence limits effective HU use in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Electronic directly observed therapy (DOT) may limit costs and achieve high HU adherence in children with SCD. This study aimed to determine if electronic DOT was feasible, acceptable, and could achieve ≥90% HU adherence. Procedure Children with SCD were recruited for this single institution, 6-month pilot study if they had been prescribed HU for ≥6 months and had daily access to a smartphone or computer. Participants submitted HU administration videos daily and received electronic reminder alerts, personalized feedback, and incentives to encourage adherence as part of electronic DOT. Primary outcomes were feasibility, participant satisfaction with electronic DOT, and HU adherence. Secondary outcomes included mean corpuscular volume (MCV), hemoglobin F percentage (HbF), and overall participant satisfaction with HU therapy. Results Of 15 enrolled participants, 14 completed the study. Satisfaction surveys showed electronic DOT reminded participants to take HU and could be completed in fewer than 5 minutes daily. Participants' median medication possession ratio at study entry improved from 0.75 (0.59–0.82) to 0.91 (0.85–1.00) (P = 0.02) at the end of the study. Overall median observed HU adherence with electronic DOT was 93.3%. Median MCV and HbF increased from 96.0 to107.2 (P = 0.009) and 10.5 to 11.4 (P = 0.03), respectively. Conclusions This study demonstrates electronic DOT is feasible, acceptable, and can achieve high HU adherence. Further study is needed to confirm that electronic DOT can improve HU adherence and impact clinical outcomes in children with SCD. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1068–1073. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Rehearsal Instructions on the Primacy Effect in Free Recall

The effects of rehearsal on the primacy effect in the serial position curve were investigated. Subjects were instructed to either rehearse or not rehearse previous list items presented at the rate of 1 word/0.5 sec., 1 word/sec., and 1 word/2 sec. The differential rehearsal hypothesis predicted that primacy effects would be observed only in the rehearsal condition. An alternative explanation of the primacy effect in terms of the 1933 von Restorff effect and rehearsal predicted a primacy effect in both the rehearsal and nonrehearsal conditions, with a larger primacy effect in the former. Primacy effects were observed in all conditions but were not significantly larger in the rehearsal condition. The results supported the explanation which included the von Restorff effect.
Unified Cross-Layer Framework: A Generic Platform for Cross-Layer Design Experimentation

Cross-layer designs in wireless network systems have been an active research area. Numerous cross-layer schemes are proposed to increase overall system performance by allowing information to be shared and controlled across protocol layers. However, the majority of the previous research work in this area is theoretic. The main obstacle which hinders researchers to real implementation is the complexity involved in lower-level driver modification and kernel programming. Moreover, common pitfalls of cross-layer scheme implementation can lead to unexpected system performance degradation. In this paper we propose unified cross-layer framework (UCF), a generic mechanism for OS to support cross-layer schemes. Through this mechanism protocol components export protocol-specific information through parameters and events to protocol components at other layers. Cross-layer extensions are activated only at necessary times according to their assigned priorities so that they can react to events and make decisions at different time scales with minimal overhead. We implement and evaluate UCF on embedded systems running NetBSD to demonstrate the modularity, ease of programming, and utility of UCF.
Calcite Rims, Little Falls Formation, Upper Cambrian, New York: A Dedolomitization Fabric?: ABSTRACT

Calcite rims on dolomite crystals have been observed in the Little Falls Formation of east-central New York. Most rims are even, syntaxial, and 5 to 25µ thick. Some, however, are irregular, apparently resembling the "calcite envelopes" of Goldman. Electron probe microanalysis verifies the dolomitic center and the calcitic border, the latter commonly being very slightly ferroan. Dolomite preceded development of quartz overgrowths, as determined by spatial relations (e.g., enfacial junctions). The rims seem to be along crystal faces of dolomite rather than along compromise boundaries or against detrital quartz cores. Calcite beyond the rims exists as poikilotopic, centimicron-sized, void-filling spar, some of which is optically continuous with adjacent rims and dolomit crystals. Common enfacial junctions of calcite crystals against secondary quartz faces suggest a later development of the calcite. The rims are the same age as the remainder of the calcite. Such syntaxial rims could result either from marginal dedolomitization (calcitization) or from passive precipitation on a nucleus of dolomite. Optical continuity of the rim and nucleus and the presumed post-secondary quartz age of the calcite strongly suggest dedolomitization. Solutions with high Ca++/Mg++ ratios provided by meteoric water passing through overlying Ordovician limestones may have been the dedolomitizing agent. This unusual fabric may constitute another piece of evidence for dedolomitization. End_of_Article - Last_Page 664------------
Automatic script identification from images using cluster-based templates

We describe a system that automatically identifies the script used in documents stored electronically in image form. The system can learn to distinguish any number of scripts. It develops a set of representative symbols (templates) for each script by clustering textual symbols from a set of training documents and representing each cluster by its centroid. "Textual symbols" include discrete characters in scripts such as Cyrillic, as well as adjoined characters, character fragments, and whole words in connected scripts such as Arabic. To identify a new document's script, the system compares a subset of symbols from the document to each script's templates, screening out rare or unreliable templates, and choosing the script whose templates provide the best match. Our current system, trained on thirteen scripts, correctly identifies all test documents except those printed in fonts that differ markedly from fonts in the training set.
Unbonded Post-Tensioned Precast Concrete Coupling Beams: An Experimental Evaluation

This paper describes the observed nonlinear reversed cyclic behavior of a half-scale precast concrete coupling beam subassembly for seismic regions. In this new system, coupling of concrete walls is achieved using unbonded post-tensioning. The test specimen includes a coupling beam and the adjacent concrete wall regions at a floor level. Under lateral loads, the nonlinear deformations of the coupling beam occur primarily due to the opening of gaps at the beam-to-wall interfaces. Steel top and seat angles are used at the beam ends to yield and provide energy dissipation. Prior to the testing of the specimen, the concrete at one end of the beam had to be patched due to poor consolidation during casting. The beam was able to sustain three cycles of displacement at 6.4% chord rotation and failed during the second cycle to 8% rotation due to the low cycle fatigue fracture of one of the top and seat angles. Most of the damage in the beam was concentrated in the angles (which can be replaced after an earthquake) and the patched concrete. The unpatched end of the beam received almost no damage other than a small amount of cover concrete crushing at the corners. The mild steel reinforcement in the beam performed well throughout the entire displacement history; however, premature fractures of post-tensioning strand wires occurred inside the anchors.
Novel Cofactors and TFIIA Mediate Functional Core Promoter Selectivity by the Human TAFII150-Containing TFIID Complex

TATA-binding protein-associated factors (TAFIIs) within TFIID control differential gene transcription through interactions with both activators and core promoter elements. In particular, TAFII150 contributes to initiator-dependent transcription through an unknown mechanism. Here, we address whether TAFIIs within TFIID are sufficient, in conjunction with highly purified general transcription factors (GTFs), for differential core promoter-dependent transcription by RNA polymerase II and whether additional cofactors are required. We identify the human homologue of Drosophila TAFII150 through cognate cDNA cloning and show that it is a tightly associated component of human TFIID. More importantly, we demonstrate that the human TAFII150-containing TFIID complex is not sufficient, in the context of all purified GTFs and RNA polymerase II, to mediate transcription synergism between TATA and initiator elements and initiator-directed transcription from a TAFII-dependent TATA-less promoter. Therefore, TAFII-promoter interactions are not sufficient for the productive core promoter-selective functions of TFIID. Consistent with this finding, we have partially purified novel cofactor activities (TICs) that potentiate the TAFII-mediated synergism between TATA and initiator elements (TIC-1) and TAFII-dependent transcription from TATA-less promoters (TIC-2 and -3). Furthermore, we demonstrate an essential function for TFIIA in TIC- and TAFII-dependent basal transcription from a TATA-less promoter. Our results reveal a parallel between the basal transcription activity of TAFIIs through core promoter elements and TAFII-dependent activator function.
SYNTH: A new tool for estimating interferences in instrumental neutron activation analysis

SYNTH, a WindowsTM based software package developed for generating synthetic gamma-ray spectra, has been updated and extended to include the ability to generate gamma-ray spectra resulting from neutron activation. Along with a new gamma-ray library (based on the NNDC PCNuDat compilation), and the best available neutron cross-sections, it is now possible to simply, and quickly predict the interference effects of different bulk and trace element compositions by generating a synthetic gamma-ray spectrum that will be representative of a specific set of input parameters. The parameters include, but are not limited to: elemental composition (bulk, and trace) of the sample; irradiation, decay, and count times; thermal, and resonance neutron flux; sample to detector distance; detector specifications; and electronics configuration. Using existing data reduction codes, it is then possible to generate Minimum Detectable Activities (MDA's) for other trace elements that you may wish to detect in this type of matrix.
Susceptibility of Microtheca ochroloma (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) to Botanical and Microbial Insecticide Formulations

ABSTRACT The yellowmargined leaf beetle, Microtheca ochroloma Stal (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), is a key pest of organic crucifer production in the southern United States. The susceptibility of larvae and adults of M. ochroloma to some botanical and microbial insecticide formulations was evaluated using laboratory leaf-dip bioassays. Insecticides evaluated included OMRI (Organic Material Review Institute) approved formulations of PyGanic® (pyrethrum), Entrust® (spinosad), Mycotrol O® (Beauveria bassiana strain GHA), and NOFLY® (Isaria fumosoroseus strain FE 9901). Others were MBI-203 (experimental organic formulation of Chromobacterium subtsugae) and BotaniGard® 22WP (conventional formulation of Beauveria bassiana strain GHA). The insecticides were first evaluated at the field recommended rate against M. ochroloma larvae and adults, followed by multiple-concentration assays to determine the LC50 and LT50 for promising formulations. At the field recommended rates, all tested formulations were toxic to the ...
Secretion in the male accessory glands of Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera : Culicidae)☆

Abstract The objective of this work is to determine the nature, the mode of synthesis, and release of the secretion of accessory glands of the male mosquito, Aedes aegypti (Diptera : Culicidae). Cytological studies revealed that each of the 2 glands has 2 morphological types of regionally specialized secretory cells, each type differing in the nature, and the release of its products. The anterior region (AR) cells secrete small (0.3–1.3 μm) electron-lucent granules, which during the peak period of synthesis seemed to transport the flocculent and fibrous granular substance to the apical cytoplasm of the cell by means of binary fusions. This cytoplasm, when filled with secretory granules, pinches off and falls freely into the lumen of the gland, thus, exhibiting a macroapocrine mode of secretion. The posterior region (PR) cells, however, elaborate large (mean diameter 2 μm) electron-dense granules, which are released into the lumen essentially by rupture of the cell membrane at the apical end. In males mated to depletion, the volume of the gland is reduced by 67%; there is no subsequent recovery of secretory capacity.
Mechanical property testing of irradiated Zircaloy cladding under reactor transient conditions

Specimen geometries have been developed to determine the mechanical properties of irradiated Zircaloy cladding subjected to the mechanical conditions and temperatures associated with reactivity-initiated accidents (RIA) and loss-of-coolant accidents (LOCA). Miniature ring-stretch specimens were designed to induce both uniaxial and plane-strain states of stress in the transverse (hoop) direction of the cladding. Also, longitudinal tube specimens were also designed to determine the constitutive properties in the axial direction. Finite-element analysis (FEA) and experimental parameters and results were closely coupled to optimize an accurate determination of the stress-strain response and to induce fracture behavior representative of accident conditions. To determine the constitutive properties, a procedure was utilized to transform measured values of load and displacement to a stress-strain response under complex loading states. Additionally, methods have been developed to measure true plastic strains in the gauge section and the initiation of failure using real-time data analysis software. Strain rates and heating conditions have been selected based on their relevance to the mechanical response and temperatures of the cladding during the accidents.
A distal activation domain is critical in the regulation of the rat androgen receptor gene promoter

The far upstream region of the rat androgen receptor (AR) gene has been cloned, and the nucleotide sequence up to -2656 bp established. Nested deletion mutants of rat AR 5' flanking sequences were ligated to the luciferase reporter gene, and their promoter activities were examined in transfected COS1 cells. Results show a critical cis-acting domain located between positions -960 and -940. Deletion of this cis element resulted in a greater than 90% decrease in the promoter activity. A nuclear protein that specifically binds to this 21-nucleotide sequence was identified by gel mobility shift analysis. The -960/-940 cis element has no identify to the binding sequence of any known transcription factor. Furthermore, the cognate binding protein is present in both rat and human (HeLa) cell nuclear extracts. We conclude that a novel trans-activator interacting at the -960/-940 region plays a critical role in the regulation of AR gene expression.
Inverted schneiderian papillomas (ISP) of the nose in childhood. A report of two cases and review of the literature

ISP of the nose and paranasal sinuses are rare, ectodermally-derived lesions that account for Case 1: A 9 y.o. female with two polyps measuring 20 mm and 10 mm in maximum dimensions attached to the right inferior turbinate. A recurrent lesion with similar histology was removed 8 months later. There were no further recurrences in the ensuing four years. Case 2: A 12 y.o. female with multiple small polyps measuring in toto 25 mm in maximum dimensions in the left middle meatus. An initial recurrence 3 months later was treated by local removal but a second recurrence 9 months after initial presentation was treated by complete left ethmoidectomy and partial medial left maxillectomy. Microscopy revealed papillary fronds with delicate fibrovascular cores and a covering of thick transitional-type epithelium with focal areas of mucinous microcyst formation and squamous metaplasia typical of exophytic ISP. While inflammatory polyps are the most common nasal lesion in children, ISP should also be considered in the differential diagnosis. Although malignant transformation in childhood has not been described, careful follow-up is still warranted, particularly as there is a significant risk of recurrence.
A Wald test for zero inflation and deflation for correlated count data from dental caries research

Tests of homogeneity in zero-inflated models for count data have been well discussed in the literature, but the existing methodologies have relied primarily on score statistics. An often cited just...
Ceftaroline-Induced Agranulocytosis

Ceftaroline fosamil is a new fifth generation cephalosporin with broad-spectrum bacteriocidal activity. It is currently approved for acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP). We report a case of agranulocytosis as a side effect of ceftaroline use, of which the internist needs to be aware. J Med Cases. 2016;7(6):197-201 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jmc2489w
Diagnostic aspects of peptic ulcer. 1. Gastric analysis.

In view of the information that can be obtained by a gastric-analysis procedure as described above, it is justifiable to conclude that a formalized analysis is of practical value as a laboratory study in the management of gastroenterologic problems.
‘Selling Our Own Skin:’ Social dispossession through microcredit in rural Bangladesh

In this paper, I articulate a notion of ‘social dispossession,’ an optic that extends current theorizing on agrarian dispossession into the realm of social reproduction, by examining the testimonies of microcredit borrowers in rural Bangladesh. In recent years, research on microcredit has highlighted new forms of subject-making employed by microcredit and other NGO entrepreneurship development programs. These developments have received insufficient attention in scholarship on agrarian change, both globally and in specific places. I correct this by arguing that microcredit drives social dispossession through three specific mechanisms: the confiscation of assets necessary to social reproduction (as well as to production); the construction of debt relations within a community which reshape what reproduction can look like; and the re-configuration of women’s social status and subjectivities in relation to their communities.
Knots in knots: A study of classical knot diagrams

The structure of classical minimal prime knot presentations suggests that there are often, perhaps always, subsegments that present either the trefoil or the figure-eight knot. A comprehensive study of the subknots of the minimal prime knot presentations through 15 crossings shows that this is always the case for these knot presentations. Among this set of 313, 258 prime knot presentation, there are only 547, or 0.17%, that do not contain a trefoil subknot. Thus, 99.83% of minimal prime knot presentations through 15 crossings contain trefoil subknots. We identify several infinite minimal alternating prime knot families that do not contain trefoil subknots but always contain figure-eight knots. We discuss the statistics of subknots of prime knots and, using knot presentation fingerprints, illustrate the complex character of the subknots of these classic minimal prime knot presentations. We conclude with a discussion the conjectures and open questions that have grown out of our research.
Measurement of mean inner potential and inelastic mean free path of ZnO nanowires and nanosheet

ZnO nanowires (NWs) and ZnO nano-sheets were grown using the chemical vapor deposition method. The NW structure was characterized using transmission electron microscopy, while the mean inner potential and inelastic mean free path for 200 keV electrons were measured using off-axis electron holography to be 15.3 ± 0.2 V and 55 ± 3 nm, respectively. These values were then used to characterize the thickness of a ZnO nano-sheet, and gave consistent results. This study demonstrates that electron holography can provide useful information about nanostructured ZnO materials and devices.
Abstract 3234: Genetic deletion of macrophage migration inhibitory factor reduces oral carcinogenesis

Oral cancer kills about 1 person every hour, each day in the United States and is the 6th most prevalent cancer worldwide. The pro-inflammatory cytokine ‘macrophage migration inhibitory factor’ (MIF) has been shown to be expressed in oral cancer patients, yet its precise role in oral carcinogenesis is not clear. In this study, we examined the impact of global Mif deletion on the cellular and molecular process occurring during oral carcinogenesis using a well-established mouse model of oral cancer with the carcinogen 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO). C57BL/6 Wild-type (WT) and Mif knock-out mice were administered with 4NQO in drinking water for 16 weeks, then regular drinking water for 8 weeks. Mif knock-out mice displayed fewer oral tumor incidence and multiplicity, accompanied by a significant reduction in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines Il-1β, Tnf-α, chemokines Cxcl1, Cxcl6, Cxcl8 and Ccl3 and other molecular biomarkers of oral carcinogenesis Mmp1 and Ptgs2. Further, recruitment of myeloid-derived tumor promoting immune cells was inhibited in Mif knock-out mice. Our results demonstrate that genetic Mif deletion reduces the incidence and severity of oral carcinogenesis, by inhibiting the expression inflammatory cytokines and infiltration of tumor promoting immune cells. Thus, targeting MIF is a promising strategy for the prevention or therapy of oral cancer. Citation Format: Steve Oghumu, Thomas Knobloch, Cesar Terrazas, Sanjay Varikuti, Claire Bollinger, Hans Iwenofu, Christopher Weghorst, Abhay Satoskar. Genetic deletion of macrophage migration inhibitory factor reduces oral carcinogenesis. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 3234.
We Hate What We Fear: Interpersonal Hate from a Clinical Perspective

Despite its common expression and close connection to love in interpersonal relationships, hate is a remarkably understudied phenomenon. This chapter explores a heuristic therapeutic approach to hate in individual and couple therapy. Employing research from divergent sources, interpersonal hate is related to real or imagined betrayal, the discrepancy between what is expected and what is experienced and anger over hurt and loss. Hate is primarily defined as a secondary emotion that arises from fear, including fears of rejection, abandonment, suffocation, and mortality. Clinicians may approach the experience of hate in terms of its interpersonal function, rather than a problem to be reduced or eliminated. Support is provided from extant literature and case examples.
Using Text Analytics of AJPE Article Titles to Reveal Trends In Pharmacy Education Over the Past Two Decades.

Objective. To identify trends in pharmacy education during last two decades using text mining.Methods. Articles published in the American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education (AJPE) in the past two decades were compiled in a database. Custom text analytics software was written using Visual Basic programming language in the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) editor of Excel 2007. Frequency of words appearing in article titles was calculated using the custom VBA software. Data were analyzed to identify the emerging trends in pharmacy education.Results. Three educational trends emerged: active learning, interprofessional, and cultural competency.Conclusion. The text analytics program successfully identified trends in article topics and may be a useful compass to predict the future course of pharmacy education.
Recombinant Human Activated Protein C Suppresses Endotoxin Induced Hypotension in Mice Deficient of the Endothelial Protein C Receptor (EPCR).

In Clinical sepsis and human endotoxin studies, administration of the recombinant human form of the anticoagulant activated protein C (rhaPC) demonstrates benefit in parameters of coagulation, inflammation, shock, and sepsis survival. Utilizing transgenic mice deficient in the endothelial protein C receptor, (EPCR), we investigated whether provision of rhaPC improved the hypotensive response and survival subsequent to administration of a lethal dose of endotoxin (LPS). A novel central venous infusion protocol for rhaPC was developed using low expressing EPCR mice (EPCR δ/δ surface expression F8) mice were used as controls. An aortic arch continuous blood pressure (B.P.) monitor and right internal jugular vein catheter were placed. The continuous infusion dosing of rhaPC (Eli Lilly) was approximately 1.8 μg/g/hr for 20 hr through the central venous catheter (N=3 per group). The control group received saline. Bolus LPS (10 μg/g i.p.) was administered concomitant to rhaPC. Continuous B.P. measurements were obtained until death or for up to 72 hr. RhaPC kinetic parameters (N=4 per group) collected from WT citrate-benzamidine plasma samples were determined by monoclonal antibody capture assays. In initial kinetic studies plasma levels of rhaPC in WT mice given LPS achieved steady state concentrations (90 ng/mL at 4 hr) similar to that found in human studies (45 ng/mL at 2hr). RhaPC dosing produced no allergic reaction or overt bleeding. The subsequent 72 hour B.P. study achieved the goal of suppressing endotoxin-induced hypotension in both WT and EPCR δ/δ mice. The two LPS/rhaPC-treated groups were able to overcome the hypotensive stress and survive longer than the two LPS-only treated groups. RhaPC treated EPCR δ/δ mice were able to recover blood pressure to the same or greater degree than the rhaPC treated WT mice, suggesting either enhanced cell signaling potential by less cell surface EPCR or an alternate aPC receptor. The administered volume of 30 μL/hr (0.6 mL over 20 hr) did not appear to counter the onset of hypotension in EPCR δ/δ mice, and the rhaPC B.P. effect persisted beyond the 20 hr infusion. The expected sequence of LPS-induced mortalitv, viz., EPCR δ/δ > WT > WT/rhaPC > EPCR δ/δ /rhaPC was demonstrated in this study. These transgenic murine studies implicate the protein C pathway as linking coagulation, inflammation and hypotension. By reducing the burden of hypotension in WT and EPCR deficient mice with rhaPC treatment in endotoxin-induced sepsis, this infusion model provides a valuable approach to study effects of aPC in vascular inflammation and hypotension.
Locating the Spirit in Meaningful Experience: Empirical Theology and Pentecostal Hermeneutics

Mark J. Cartledge articulates the hermeneutical approach to his “empirical theology” that integrates the social sciences and Pentecostal theology as it focuses on how Pentecostal theology is enacted on the ordinary, ecclesial, and academic levels. Cartledge demonstrates the potential of interdisciplinary endeavors between sociology and theology.
IL-17 Signaling: The Yin and the Yang

Interleukin (IL)-17 is the founding member of a novel family of inflammatory cytokines. While the proinflammatory properties of IL-17 are key to its host-protective capacity, unrestrained IL-17 signaling is associated with immunopathology, autoimmune disease, and cancer progression. In this review we discuss both the activators and the inhibitors of IL-17 signal transduction, and also the physiological implications of these events. We highlight the surprisingly diverse means by which these regulators control expression of IL-17-dependent inflammatory genes, as well as the major target cells that respond to IL-17 signaling.
Learning dis/Ability as the Intersection of Competing Discourses: Implications for Classrooms, Parents, and Research

Publisher Summary This chapter describes learning disability as the intersection of competing discourses, focusing on its implications for classrooms, parents, and research. To better understand the process of meaning-making within the learning disabilities field, it is useful for researchers to conceptualize the linguistic conventions that structure the meanings assigned to disability and the patterns of response to disability that emanate from, or are attendant upon, those meanings. The child becomes an object of intense observation and documentation, a process reserved only for children who perform outside of the specified range of response. To confirm or rule out the possibility of learning disabilities, a teacher makes a referral so that a psychologist can administer a battery of psycho-educational tests to the child to generate an individualized psycho-educational report based largely upon the results. As a profession, special education relies upon the assumption that it is both legitimate and possible to expose, measure, and categorize normal and abnormal cognitive, emotional, and behavioral phenomena within individuals.
Purchasing casualty insurance to avoid lifetime ruin

Abstract We determine the optimal strategies for purchasing deductible insurance and for investing in a risky financial market in order to minimize the probability of lifetime ruin when an individual is subject to an insurable loss that occurs at a Poisson rate. We specialize to the case for which the casualty loss is constant and insurance is priced actuarially fairly. We learn that the optimal deductible strategy is for the individual to purchase no insurance when her wealth is below a so-called buy level . However, when wealth is greater than the buy level, the individual optimally purchases full insurance coverage.
“To a Factor prés”: Cayley's Partial Anticipation of the Weierstrass γ-Function

(2010). “To a Factor pres”: Cayley's Partial Anticipation of the Weierstrass γ-Function. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 117, No. 4, pp. 291-302.
Global Synthesis 1

The goal of this chapter is to synthesize the carbon fluxes reported for each region in the preceding chapters into an integrated assessment of the role of ocean margins in global biogeochemical cycles. The diversity of continental margin geometries, primary transport processes, and timescales of variability fill this task with significant challenges and large uncertainties, ensuring that this effort can only be achieved at a generalized level at present. Critical to the synthesis is the definition of the margin region itself. Numerous previous authors have employed depth isobaths to define coastal or margin dimensions (e.g., distance from the shoreline to the 130m isobath; Wollast 1998; Mackenzie et al. 2004). However, many important transport processes that are directly associated with the margin often extend across these depth boundaries and the resulting budgets may not fully represent the role of margins in biogeochemical cycles.