cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inference on Haplotype Effects in Case-Control Studies Using Unphased Genotype Data

A variety of statistical methods exist for detecting haplotype-disease association through use of genetic data from a case-control study. Since such data often consist of unphased genotypes (resulting in haplotype ambiguity), such statistical methods typically apply the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm for inference. However, the majority of these methods fail to perform inference on the effect of particular haplotypes or haplotype features on disease risk. Since such inference is valuable, we develop a retrospective likelihood for estimating and testing the effects of specific features of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based haplotypes on disease risk using unphased genotype data from a case-control study. Our proposed method has a flexible structure that allows, among other choices, modeling of multiplicative, dominant, and recessive effects of specific haplotype features on disease risk. In addition, our method relaxes the requirement of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium of haplotype frequencies in case subjects, which is typically required of EM-based haplotype methods. Also, our method easily accommodates missing SNP information. Finally, our method allows for asymptotic, permutation-based, or bootstrap inference. We apply our method to case-control SNP genotype data from the Finland–United States Investigation of Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (FUSION) Genetics study and identify two haplotypes that appear to be significantly associated with type 2 diabetes. Using the FUSION data, we assess the accuracy of asymptotic P values by comparing them with P values obtained from a permutation procedure. We also assess the accuracy of asymptotic confidence intervals for relative-risk parameters for haplotype effects, by a simulation study based on the FUSION data.
Japanese Democracy and Political Culture: A Comparative Perspective

Japan is an excellent case for the comparative study of the connections between democracy and culture.—It is a country with a well established system of constitutional democracy with roots in the nineteenth century. Politically, the country has been constitutionally and electorally democratic for the entire period since the end of World War II.—Democracy in Japan also has strong social and cultural underpinnings. Despite a hierarchical Confucian tradition, the country is largely egalitarian in its educational, economic, and informational systems. The Japanese citizen enjoys a democratic day-to-day existence.—Because Japan's democracy, like that of all countries, is far from perfect, it is a good case study for examining ideal conceptions of democracy in contrast to practical democratic realities.
Gender and Ethnicity as Factors in the Development of Verbal Skills in Bilingual Mexican American Women.

This study describes and analyzes differences in student output across ethnicity and gender in a mixed monolingual English and bilingual Spanish/English class in order to understand how L2 oral language skills are developed in a mixed classroom. Primary participants in the study included approximately 30 basic writing students ranging in age from 18 to 60. Fifty-five percent of the students were bilingual Mexican American, and the remainder were monolingual Anglo Americans. Participant observation, informal interviews, and audio-tape classroom and tutorial interaction provide the data for this classroom ethnography. Data were analyzed to discover patterns of student output in various interfactional contexts and to discover how the structure and content of interaction influenced these patterns. The analysis revealed that bilingual Mexican American students spoke significantly less in whole class interaction than monolingual Anglo American students. Moreover, an analysis by gender revealed that Mexican American men contributed four times the amount expected, whereas Mexican American women spoke half as much as expected. In other interfactional contexts, however, the bilingual women were quite verbal. The social status of Mexican American women as “double minorities” and negative attitudes toward Spanish/English bilingual help explain why the Mexican American women alone responded to whole class interaction with silence.
Pharmacokinetic factors in the adverse cardiovascular effects of antipsychotic drugs.

Antipsychotics may cause serious adverse cardiovascular effects, including prolonged QT interval and sudden death. This review considers antipsychotic-induced cardiovascular events from three perspectives: high-risk drugs, high-risk individuals and high-risk drug interactions. Pharmacokinetic drug interactions involving the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymatic pathway and pharmacodynamic interactions leading to direct cardiotoxic effects are discussed. Original reports on antipsychotic-induced drug interactions are reviewed, with consideration of management guidelines. The literature was reviewed from 1 January 1966 to 1 February 2002. The literature search revealed only 12 original articles published on antipsychotic drug interactions leading to cardiovascular adverse events. Only 4 of the 12 reports were prospective studies; the remainder were either retrospective or anecdotal. Although poor study designs preclude a definitive statement, it appears that pharmacokinetic interactions primarily involved the CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymatic pathways. Those involving the CYP2D6 isozyme included interactions with tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonergic reuptake inhibitors and β-blockers. Among these drug interactions, tricyclic antidepressants were most likely to reach clinical significance because of their limited therapeutic index. Drug interactions related to the CYP3A4 pathway were generally less severe, and involved high-potency antipsychotics coadministered with inhibitors such as clarithromycin. Strategies are discussed for the management of adverse cardiovascular events related to antipsychotic drug interactions, including the use of an algorithm. Large, randomised, placebo-controlled studies with strict inclusion criteria are needed to determine the role that antipsychotics play in QT prolongation and sudden death.
The sub-implicit method: New multiprocessor algorithms for old implicit codes

Abstract This paper presents a new approach to the parallel solution of an implicit system of difference equations. The sub-implicit method operates on sub-regions of the data which are evaluated at spatial points and synchronous times. Each sub-region has a border node which is shared with an adjacent sub-region (in one dimension). Values for this shared node are computed independently by the two solution processes for two adjacent sub-regions. Nodes outside the sub-region are treated as having fixed values during the solution. At the finish of the two sub-region solutions, the two sub-regions are blocked against further changes (a pairwise synchronization) and the two different values for the shared node are reconciled. This can be done in such a way that energy conservation is exact. Results for test problems for heat diffusion in one dimension are given and compared against standard methods and analytic results. Implementation of the method into a demonstration two-dimensional hydrodynamics code SIMPLE is described. The best speedups observed for parallel execution of this version of SIMPLE on a twelve CPU Sequent multiprocessor were 9.6 for 50 by 50 grid and 10.4 for a 95 by 95 grid. Some generalization of this approach are discussed.
HEAD-SCRATCHING AMONG NORTH AMERICAN WOOD-WARBLERS (PARULIDAE)

SUMMARY A survey of 40 species of 14 genera of North American wood-warblers (Parulidae) reveals that the head-scratching method employed is surprisingly stable within species. The experiments by Nice & Schantz (1959a, b) induced some normally overwing head-scratchers to scratch the head under the wing. It is suggested that this was because their leg rings became caught in secondaries, making normal overwing head-scratching impossible. A few exceptional head-scratching patterns under different conditions invariably involved normally overwing head-scratchers employing the underwing method, and a few species head-scratch under the wing as nestlings but change to overwing before fledging. In all, 31 species appear to be normally overwing head-scratchers, seven are underwing head-scratchers, one species uses both methods and one remains uncertain. There is no evidence for lateral preference in either head-scratching method, and head-scratching is only loosely linked sequentially to preening. The functional significance of head-scratching may be related to blockage of the eustachian tube, or to cleaning and oiling the feathers. Avian head-scratching is more difficult to homologize with mammalian head-scratching than others have considered it to be, but all evidence suggests that within birds underwing head-scratching is phylogenetically primitive. In wood-warblers, the head-scratching method does not correlate with taxonomy. However, ground-dwelling wood-warblers tend to scratch the head under the wing and arboreal wood-warblers over the wing. This correlation provides the first strong clue to the functional significance of the difference between methods in passerine birds.
Effect of cell-free murine liver extract on lymphocyte blastogenesis in vitro.

Abstract The effect of cell-free liver extract (LE) on the proliferation of spleen cells in vitro was examined using [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation. LE inhibited the blastogenic response of murine lymphocytes stimulated with plant mitogens, phytohemagglutinin, and concanavalin A and in the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). Suppression of cell proliferation occurred whether the LE was syngeneic or allogeneic to the responding cells. This effect was observed only when LE was present in cultures, as preincubation of cells with LE did not impair their capacity to respond to stimulation. Profound suppression of proliferation was achieved with the addition of LE to the culture up to 48 hr after the onset of stimulation. However, the inhibitory effect was readily reversible upon removal of LE from the culture. Furthermore, although LE was capable of suppressing the generation of cytotoxic lymphocytes, LE did not interfere with their capacity for cytolysis. These findings indicate the presence of a potent inhibitor of lymphocyte proliferation in a cell-free extract of murine liver.
Create, then innovate

Innovation seems to be a measure of success for most technologists. We are proud of our innovations which have significantly contributed to society. But we seem not to speak much about creativity and how it relates to innovation. Is creativity part of the innovation process? Or is the innovation process the result of creativity? This talk will suggest an interesting set of definitions that put these two concepts into perspective. Examples will be shown that will support this proposed definitions.
Epistemological frames of graduate teaching assistants and instructors in studio-based engineering classes

Many engineering programs have recently seen a significant increase in enrollment and educators have turned to alternative teaching strategies to help cope with this increase. One such approach is to incorporate Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) led studios to complement lectures. We studied a chemical engineering department that has implemented a studio approach that provides students an interactive learning environment. In this exploratory qualitative study we interview Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) and instructors to investigate their perceptions of the implementation of studios relative to the designers objective and their teaching experiences. From the latter, we infer epistemological frames based on their responses to: how they prepare for class as a student, how they prepare for class as a teacher, and how they deliver the studio content.
Real-time vergence control for binocular robots

In binocular systems,vergence is the process of adjusting the angle between the eyes (or cameras) so that both eyes are directed at the same world point. Its utility is most obvious for foveate systems such as the human visual system, but it is a useful strategy for nonfoveate binocular robots as well. Here, we discuss the vergence problem and outline a general approach to vergence control, consisting of a control loop driven by an algorithm that estimates the vergence error. As a case study, this approach is used to verge the eyes of the Rochester Robot in real time. Vergence error is estimated with the cepstral disparity filter. The cepstral filter is analyzed, and it is shown in this application to be equivalent to correlation with an adaptive prefilter; carrying this idea to its logical conclusion converts the cepstral filter into phase correlation. The demonstration system uses a PD controller in cascade with the error estimator. An efficient real-time implementation of the error estimator is discussed, and empirical measures of the performance of both the disparity estimator and the overall system are presented.
Survival and recovery of cryopreserved rat platelets.

Freezing studies were conducted using rat platelets to determine if electromagnetic thawing could be used to improve the survival time and recovery of platelets over that obtainable with conventional techniques. A total of 130 experiments were conducted. Seventy-four control experiments not involving freezing and 56 experimental freezings of rat platelets were performed. In most freezing experiments, 51Cr-labeled platelets were maintained in a mixture of RCD-20% plasma-6% Me2SO. In this medium, the mean survival and recovery of unfrozen control platelets were 3.50 days and 67%, respectively. The results for frozen-thawed platelets were not encouraging. Using the same incubation mixture, the mean survival time was 1.18 days and the mean recovery was 7%, yielding a platelet viability index of 3.5%. Changing the thawing method (electromagnetic or waterbath), Me2SO concentration (6 or 10%), buffer medium (RCD-20% plasma or plasma), or freezing or thawing rate did not improve the results. When these same methods were applied in humans, platelets could be successfully frozen and thawed. It would therefore appear that the rat model is an inappropriate one in which to develop improved techniques for freezing and thawing human platelets.
How oxygen makes its presence felt

The emergence of complex multicellular organisms during evolution required systems for ensuring adequate cellular oxygenation. Any reader doubting the veracity of this statement is invited to hold his or her breath while reading the remainder of this article. For this reason, considerable effort has been devoted to understanding how cells in higher eukaryotes sense and respond to changes in oxygen availability. Over the years a number of models were put forth to explain how cells sense oxygen. Unfortunately, these models were complex and, at times, contradictory. For example, some models suggested that a decrease in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) gave rise to a low oxygen (hypoxia) signal whereas other models suggested the opposite (Semenza 1999). Likewise, some models suggested that mitochondria were categorically required for delivery of a hypoxic signal whereas others did not (Chandel et al. 1998; Srinivas et al. 2001; Vaux et al. 2001). Approximately one year ago, however, a surprisingly simple and conceptually attractive picture of oxygen sensing began to emerge. At the heart of this model is a posttranslational modification, hydroxylation, that is inherently oxygen-dependent, and a transcription factor called HIF (hypoxia-inducible factor). It has been known for some time that HIF is a master regulator of genes that are activated by low oxygen levels (Semenza 2001). These genes encode proteins that play roles in the acute and chronic adaptation to oxygen deficiency. The former include proteins involved in regulating glucose uptake, glucose metabolism, and extracellular pH, which allow for continued energy generation in a hypoxic environment. The latter include proteins involved in angiogenesis and erythropoiesis, which increase blood vessel density and blood oxygen-carrying capacity, respectively. HIF is a heterodimer consisting of one of three alpha subunits (HIF-1 , HIF-2 , or HIF-3 ) and a beta subunit (HIF-1 , also called Aryl Hydrocarbon Nuclear Translocator, or ARNT). As its name suggests, HIF is only active under hypoxic conditions. This is because the alpha subunits are rapidly degraded in the presence of oxygen due to polyubiquitination by an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that contains the von HippelLindau tumor suppressor protein (pVHL), elongin B, elongin C, Cul2, and Rbx1 (also called ROC1 or Hrt1) (Semenza 2001; Yang and Kaelin 2001). The best studied of the alpha subunits is the ubiquitous HIF-1 . pVHL binds directly to a peptidic determinant located within a region of HIF-1 called the oxygen-dependent degradation domain (ODD), which overlaps with the HIF-1 Nterminal transactivation domain (NTAD) and is sufficient to render heterologous proteins unstable in the presence of oxygen.
Social support and prognosis in patients at increased psychosocial risk recovering from myocardial infarction.

Objective To compare the impact of network support and different types of perceived functional support on all-cause mortality or nonfatal reinfarction for patients with a recent acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Design Participants were recruited from the Enhancing Recovery in Coronary Heart Disease (ENRICHD) trial; 2,481 AMI patients with depression or low social support were randomized to a cognitive-behavioral intervention or to a usual care control group. Data collection for certain measures of social support was limited: 2,466 participants completed the ENRICHD Social Support Inventory; 2,457 completed the Perceived Social Support Scale; 1,296 completed the Social Network Questionnaire; and 707 completed the Interpersonal Support and Evaluation List, Tangible Support subscale. Patients also completed the Beck Depression Inventory and were followed for up to 4.5 years. Main outcome measure Time to death or nonfatal reinfarction. Results Over the follow-up period, 599 patients (24%) died or had a nonfatal AMI. Survival models controlling age, sex, race, socioeconomic status, smoking, antidepressant use, and a composite measure of increased risk revealed that higher levels of perceived social support were associated with improved outcome for patients without elevated depression but not for patients with high levels of depression. Neither perceived tangible support nor network support were associated with more frequent adverse events. Conclusion AMI patients should be assessed for multiple dimensions of perceived functional support and depression to identify those at increased psychosocial risk who may benefit from treatment.
Incidentally discovered solid pancreatic masses: imaging and clinical observations

The purpose of this study was to review the CT findings and clinical outcome in patients with incidentally discovered solid pancreatic masses. Over an 8-year period, from 2001 to 2009, we identified 24 patients with solid pancreatic masses incidentally detected by CT. There were 13 females and 11 males, with a mean age of 67 years. We determined the indication for initial CT, analyzed the CT features, and ascertained the clinical follow-up in all the patients. All of the solid masses were malignant. There were 14 adenocarcinomas and 10 neuroendocrine tumors. The most common indications for the initial CT were surveillance of an extrapancreatic malignancy (n = 10) and evaluation for hematuria (n = 6). On the initial CT, 16 of the patients (67%) had a clearly visible pancreatic mass. In eight patients isoattenuating masses were identified, only recognized by subtle signs including unexplained dilatation of the pancreatic duct (n = 5) or minimal contour deformity or density of the pancreas (n = 3). The mean survival time for the patients with adenocarcinoma was 21.6 months, and 42 months for the patients with neuroendocrine tumors. Although uncommon, incidentally discovered solid pancreatic masses are malignant neoplasms, either ductal adenocarcinomas or neuroendocrine tumors. Unlike incidentally discovered small cystic lesions, solid pancreatic lesions are often biologically aggressive.
Aquaporin-4 deletion in mice reduces encephalopathy and brain edema in experimental acute liver failure

Brain edema and associated astrocyte swelling leading to increased intracranial pressure are hallmarks of acute liver failure (ALF). Elevated blood and brain levels of ammonia have been implicated in the development of brain edema in ALF. Cultured astrocytes treated with ammonia have been shown to undergo cell swelling and such swelling was associated with an increase in the plasma membrane expression of aquaporin-4 (AQP4) protein. Further, silencing the AQP4 gene in cultured astrocytes was shown to prevent the ammonia-induced cell swelling. Here, we examined the evolution of brain edema in AQP4-null mice and their wild type counterparts (WT-mice) in different models of ALF induced by thioacetamide (TAA) or acetaminophen (APAP). Induction of ALF with TAA or APAP significantly increased brain water content in WT mice (by 1.6% ± 0.3 and 2.3 ± 0.4%, respectively). AQP4 protein was significantly increased in brain plasma membranes of WT mice with ALF induced by either TAA or APAP. In contrast to WT-mice, brain water content did not increase in AQP4-null mice. Additionally, AQP4-null mice treated with either TAA or APAP showed a remarkably lesser degree of neurological deficits as compared to WT mice; the latter displayed an inability to maintain proper gait, and demonstrated a markedly reduced exploratory behavior, with the mice remaining in one corner of the cage with its head tilted downwards. These results support a central role of AQP4 in the brain edema associated with ALF.
Extended adaptive filtering for wide-angle SAR image formation

For two-dimensional (2-D) spectral analysis, the adaptive filtering based technologies, such as CAPON and APES (Amplitude and Phase EStimation), are developed under the implicit assumption that the data sets are rectangular. However, in real SAR applications, especially for the wide-angle cases, the collected data sets are always non-rectangular. This raises the problem of how to extend the original adaptive filtering based algorithms for such kind of scenarios. In this paper, we propose an extended adaptive filtering (EAF) approach, which includes Extended APES (E-APES) and Extended CAPON (E-CAPON), for arbitrarily shaped 2-D data. The EAF algorithms adopt a missing-data approach where the unavailable data samples close to the collected data set are assumed missing. Using a group of filter-banks with varying sizes, these algorithms are non-iterative and do not require the estimation of the unavailable samples. The improved imaging results of the proposed algorithms are demonstrated by applying them to two different SAR data sets.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Triangular extended generalized quadrangles

In this paper, we continue the study from [2] of what are now called triangular extended generalized quadrangles. In particular, we determine all parameter sets such that the point graph is strongly regular with intersection number μ=2(t+1).
Brain Atrophy and Cognitive Function in Older Abstinent Alcoholic Men

We used computer-aided magnetic resonance image analysis and an age-normed battery of neuropsychological tests to measure brain atrophy and cognitive function in 14 older abstinent alcoholic men and 11 older controls in the expectation that these subject groups would show the greatest and most persistent cerebral effects consequent to chronic alcoholism. The abstinent alcoholics exhibited cognitive impairments (primarily in memory and visual-spatial-motor skills) compared with the controls. In contrast, we found no difference in global cerebral atrophy between the groups, although two alcoholics had extensive atrophy compared with all other subjects. However, there was a stronger association between age and ventricular dilation in the alcoholic sample compared with controls. We conclude that a substrate other than magnetic resonance imaging-detectable global atrophy must underlie the persistent cognitive impairments evident in the sampled alcoholics. Furthermore, if there are global atrophic changes in the brain associated with chronic alcoholism, these effects are not ubiquitous and/or may be reversible in most patients with sufficient abstinence.
Approximation of the classes {\boldsymbol{B}}_{{ {\boldsymbol{p}},{\boldsymbol{\theta}}}}^{\Omega } of periodic functions of many variables by Fourier sums in the space Lp with p = 1, ∞

We establish an exact-order estimate for the deviation of partial Fourier sums of periodic functions of many variables from the classes $$ B_{{p,\theta}}^{\Omega } $$ in the space L p with p = 1, ∞.
Some Volatile Components of Vitis Vinifera Variety White Riesling. 3. Neutral Components Extracted from Wine

SUMMARY— The neutral components of a table wine made from Vitis Vigzifern variety White Riesling were isolated by methylene chloride extraction. Free acids were removed by basic extraction leaving the neutrals in the methylene chloride solution. Individual components were separated by preparative scale gas chromatography and identification was accomplished through comparisons of relative retention times of knowns and unknowns on several different gas chromatographic columns and by infrared spectroscopy. The neutral essence consisted principally of alcohols; the maior ones: ethanol, n-propanol, isobutanol, 2-methylbutanol, 3-methyl butanol, n-hexanol, levo-2,3-butanediol, and 2-phenethanol. Present in smaller amounts were: 3-methylpentanol, 4-methyl-pentanol, meso-2,3-butanediol and linalool. The second most common class of substances in the essence was esters; the major ones: ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, ethyl n-caproate, ethyl n-caprylate, n-hexyl acetate, 1,3-propanediol monoacetate, and 2-phenethyl acetate. Present in smaller amounts were: n-propyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, 2-methylbutyl acetate, levo-2,3-butanediol monoacetate, ethyl lactate, ethyl 3-hy-droxybutyrate, ethyl 2.hydroxyisocaproate, ethyl n-caprate, ethyl 9.decenoate, diethyl succinate, diethyl malate, dimethyl phthalate, and diethyl phthalate. Components of functionality other than alcohols or esters were: y-butyrolactone, N-ethylacetamide, diethyl acetal, and acetaldehyde.
Marker-assisted selection for early-season cold tolerance in sorghum: QTL validation across populations and environments.

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] landraces from China generally exhibit excellent emergence and seedling vigor under cool conditions, and are being used as sources of genes for improvement of seedling cold tolerance in other cultivars. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) could expedite the introgression of genes from landraces into elite lines, however, only a few studies have empirically demonstrated efficacy of MAS for quantitatively inherited agronomic traits. In a preceding study we identified quantitative trait loci (QTL) for early-season performance in a recombinant inbred (RI) population, one parent of which was a cold-tolerant Chinese line, ‘Shan Qui Red’ (SQR). In this study, three SSR markers (Xtxp43, Xtxp51, and Xtxp211), each representing a QTL, were tested in two new populations: (Tx2794 × SQR F3) and (Wheatland × SQR BC1F3). Individual families were genotyped, and early-season field performance was measured for two years. Statistical analyses showed that the SQR allele of Xtxp43 had favorable effects on seedling vigor in both populations, and on emergence in the Tx2794 population. A large positive effect of the SQR allele of Xtxp51 was observed in the Tx2794 population for vigor and emergence. Slight genotype by environment interaction was observed for Xtxp51 in the Wheatland population. Marker Xtxp211 had small but significant effects on seedling vigor and emergence in both populations. Various interactions between loci were also significant. This study validated QTL markers in various genetic backgrounds, and demonstrated the utility of MAS for a quantitative trait, early-season cold tolerance, evaluated in the field.
Statistical combination schemes of repeated diagnostic test data.

Rationale and Objectives When diagnostic tests are repeated and combined, a number of schemes may be adopted. Guidelines for their interpretations are required. Materials and Methods Three combination schemes, “and” (A), “or” (O), and “majority” (M), are considered. To evaluate these schemes, dependency by specifying κ values quantifying repeated test agreement was structured. In a pilot study, the combined accuracies of magnetic resonance imaging using six different pulse sequences of medial collateral ligaments of the elbows of 28 cadavers, with eight having lesions artificially created surgically, were examined. Images were evaluated simultaneously by using a five-point ordinal scale. For each pulse sequence, individuals for whom the diagnosis varied from once to three repetitions were considered. Results Scheme M improves diagnostic accuracy when sensitivity and specificity of a single test exceed 0.5, with maximal improvement at 0.79. Under scheme A, sensitivity decreases to 0.38–0.59. Under scheme O, sensitivity increases to 0.53–0.79. Scheme M yields a small improvement, reaching 0.50–0.71. Under scheme A, specificity increases to 0.95–0.98. Under scheme O, specificity decreases to 0.91–0.98. Scheme M also yields a small improvement, reaching 0.94–0.98. Conclusion Scheme A is recommended for ruling in diagnoses, scheme O is recommended for ruling out diagnoses, and scheme M is neutral. Consequently, different schemes may be used to optimize the target diagnostic accuracy.
Extraction of glycogen with dimethyl sulfoxide.

Abstract Glycogen has been isolated from rat livers by dimethyl sulfoxide extraction in a form which appears to be more representative of “native” glycogen than that isolated by other methods. Evidence has been obtained that the normal type of alkaline degradation might partially be the cause of the lower molecular weight of classical Pfluger preparations.
Potential intermediates in catecholestrogen biosynthesis: Characterization of a dienol epoxide derivative and related compounds via silylation reactions and gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric analysis

During 1H-NMR and gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric analytical investigations of the enone epoxides 2a-5, which are of interest as tautomers of dienol epoxides implicated in the biosynthesis of catecholestrogens, silylation reactions were observed to yield a derivative 21 of one of the putative dienol epoxide intermediates. The effect of the silylating reagents bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) and the trimethylsilimidazole (TSIM) on a variety of steroidal ketones, ketols, enones and enone epoxides is discussed and the reaction pathways are compared.
Avian Predation on Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) Sea Turtle Eggs and Hatchlings: Avian Opportunities, Turtle Avoidance, and Human Protection

This study investigated avian predation on Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) sea turtle eggs and hatchlings at the Ostional (Costa Rica) arribada beach. Our objectives were to identify avian predators and describe their behavior, examine avian foraging opportunities for obtaining eggs and hatchlings, describe different foraging opportunities, and to examine differences in the time hatchlings were exposed on the sand surface to avian predators as a function of time of day, sand temperature, number of hatchlings emerging at one time, and position in the emergence order (early, middle, or late). The timing of nesting and hatchling emergence, length of the incubation period, and heavy rains provided birds with foraging opportunities. Timing is critical because: 1) females nest in every month, but hatchlings require 45–65 days to hatch, thus nesting females dig up nests from previous nestings, 2) heavy rains increase stream flow, causing bank erosion, exposing nests to avian predators, 3) strong tides expos...
Total hip arthroplasty in developmental dysplasia of the hip: Review of anatomy, techniques and outcomes

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) in developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) presents many challenges to the reconstructive surgeon. The complex femoral and acetabular anatomy makes standard reconstruction technically challenging. Acetabular coverage can be improved by medialization of the component or augmentation of the deficient areas with bone graft. Femoral shortening osteotomies are considered in cases of severe dysplasia and frankly dislocated hips. Each patient’s unique anatomy dictates what options of reconstruction are available. The functional outcomes of THA in DDH are generally excellent, though higher rates of mechanical failure have been reported in this group. This article reviews the anatomy, classification, technical considerations, and outcomes of THA in patients with DDH.
Increased susceptibility to tetanus toxin-induced seizures in immature rats

Abstract Studies were undertaken to compare tetanus toxin-induced electrographic and behavioral seizure activity in immature and adult rats. Multifocal epileptiform activity was induced by unilateral hippocampal injection of tetanus toxin in 10-day-old immature and in 90–120-day-old adult rats. Bilateral cortical surface electrodes and, in some animals, hippocampal depth electrodes were placed and serial video EEG was recorded for 2 h during the week following tetanus toxin injection. Tetanus toxin-induced interictal spike frequency was significantly higher and seizure duration was significantly longer in immature compared to adult rats. Immature rats tended to have more frequent seizures compared with adults, but the difference was not statistically significant. Ictal behaviors were different for the two groups with immature rats commonly demonstrating wild running seizures which were not seen in adult rats. These findings suggest that there are age-dependent differences in electrographic and behavioral seizure expression in the tetanus toxin seizure model and that the epileptic syndrome in immature rats is more severe.
Removal of Encephalitozoon intestinalis , Calicivirus, and Coliphages by Conventional Drinking Water Treatment

The removal of the Microsporidia, Encephalitozoon intestinalis, feline calicivirus and coliphages MS-2, PRD-1, and Fr were evaluated during conventional drinking water treatment in a pilot plant. The treatment consisted of coagulation, sedimentation, and mixed media filtration. Fr coliphage was removed the most (3.21 log), followed by feline calicivirus (3.05 log), E. coli (2.67 log), E. intestinalis (2.47 log), MS-2 (2.51 log). and PRD-1 (1.85 log). With the exception of PRD-1 the greatest removal of the viruses occurred during the flocculation step of the water treatment process.
Reshaping the history of American sociology

(1994). Reshaping the history of American sociology. Social Epistemology: Vol. 8, The Social Epistemology of Sociology, pp. 9-18.
Primary culture of human Schwann and schwannoma cells: improved and simplified protocol.

Primary culture of human Schwann cells (SCs) and vestibular schwannoma (VS) cells are invaluable tools to investigate SC physiology and VS pathobiology, and to devise effective pharmacotherapies against VS, which are sorely needed. However, existing culture protocols, in aiming to create robust, pure cultures, employ methods that can lead to loss of biological characteristics of the original cells, potentially resulting in misleading biological findings. We have developed a minimally manipulative method to culture primary human SC and VS cells, without the use of selective mitogens, toxins, or time-consuming and potentially transformative laboratory techniques. Schwann cell purity was quantified longitudinally using S100 staining in SC cultures derived from the great auricular nerve and VS cultures followed for 7 and 12 weeks, respectively. SC cultures retained approximately ≥85% purity for 2 weeks. VS cultures retained approximately ≥80% purity for the majority of the span of 12 weeks, with maximal purity of 87% at 2 weeks. The VS cultures showed high level of biological similarity (68% on average) to their respective parent tumors, as assessed using a protein array featuring 41 growth factors and receptors. Apoptosis rate in vitro negatively correlated with tumor volume. Our results, obtained using a faster, simplified culturing method than previously utilized, indicate that highly pure, primary human SC and VS cultures can be established with minimal manipulation, reaching maximal purity at 2 weeks of culture. The VS cultures recapitulate the parent tumors' biology to a great degree, making them relevant models to investigate VS pathobiology.
CFD ANALYSIS OF NOx FORMATION IN WASTE-TO-ENERGY SYSTEMS USING DETAILED CHEMICAL KINETIC MODELING

This study was undertaken to better understand the governing processes and reaction conditions under which NOx is produced in Waste to Energy (WtE) boilers. A three dimensional CFD model was created and calculated using the GRI 3.0, 50 species, 309 step detailed chemical kinetic model (DCKM) for methane/ethane combustion. Model results for primary NOx emissions and other pollutants agree well with collected data, proving the fidelity of the model. NO was the primary pollutant accounting for approximately 99% of the total NOx emissions. Fuel bound nitrogen was found to be the main source of NO produced in the boiler with thermal and prompt mechanisms having lesser impacts. Three principal intermediates were identified in the formation of NO; NH, HNO, and NCO. The assumption of fuel nitrogen conversion to either NH3 or HCN is an unknown parameter that was shown to have a small impact on NO emissions, indicating that this is an area that should not be explored further in this continuing study. Furthermore, varying the boiler pressure had a small impact on final NO emissions, indicating that this is not a condition that should be considered for plant operation. The next phase of this research will include the development of a reduced DCKM in order to expedite the running of new scenarios for future studies as well as optimization of boiler geometry and combustion mixing to achieve the lowest possible NOx emissions.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
The generation of vibrotactile patterns on a linear array: influences of body site, time, and presentation mode.

In order to provide information regarding orientation or direction, a convenient code employs vectors (lines) because they have both length and direction. Potential users of such information, encoded tactually, could include persons who are blind, as well as pilots, astronauts, and scuba divers, all of whom need to maintain spatial awareness in their respective unusual environments. In these situations, a tactile display can enhance environmental awareness. In this study, optimal parameters were explored for lines presented dynamically to the skin with vibrotactile arrays on three body sites, with veridical and saltatory presentation modes. Perceived length, straightness, spatial distribution, and smoothness were judged while the durations of the discrete taps making up the “drawn” dotted lines and the times between them were varied. The results indicate that the two modes produce equivalent sensations and that similar sets of timing parameters, within the ranges tested, result in “good” lines at each site.
Dispersion Analysis of 1.55um Free-Space Optical Communications through a Heavy Fog Medium

Free-space optical communication (FSOC) is a method by which one transmits a modulated beam of visible or infrared light through the atmosphere for broadband applications. FSOC makes connectivity possible between high-rise buildings and metropolitan and intercity communication infrastructures. While radio frequency (RF) communication still dominates the commercial communications networks, it has not been able to meet the increasing demand for larger data rates. Reliable communications require a good understanding of the surrounding environment that affects the communications channel. The fundamental limitation of FSOC arises from the environment through which light propagates. The presence of particles, such as fog and clouds in the propagation channel introduces spatial and angular dispersion to the transmitted light signals. Attenuation of the light signals through the propagation medium is a combined effect of dispersion and absorption by particles. A mode of ray tracing is developed to simulate light going through the medium. A 2-D histogram is presented to investigate correlation of spatial and angular dispersion of the received light.
Presidential IQ, Openness, Intellectual Brilliance, and Leadership: Estimates and Correlations for 42 U.S. Chief Executives

Individual differences in intelligence are consistently associated with leader performance, including the assessed performance of presidents of the United States. Given this empirical significance, IQ scores were estimated for all 42 chief executives from George Washington to G. W. Bush. The scores were obtained by applying missing-values estimation methods (expectation-maximization) to published assessments of (a) IQ (Cox, 1926; n = 8), (b) Intellectual Brilliance (Simonton, 1986c; n = 39), and (c) Openness to Experience (Rubenzer & Faschingbauer, 2004; n = 32). The resulting scores were then shown to correlate with evaluations of presidential leadership performance. The implications for George W. Bush and his presidency were then discussed.
Pharmacologic Agents for Pediatric Neuroimmune Disorders

Autoimmune diseases make up a significant portion of the acute and chronic caseload of all pediatric neurologists. By comparing these diseases and their treatments side by side, common themes become evident. Therapeutic decisions follow patterns dependent on the clinical situation. Physicians must adapt therapy based on individual clinical responses. This article provides an overview of the current therapeutic options as they relate to the more common pediatric neuroimmune disorders.
Analysis of the pediatric surgery match: factors predicting outcome

Introduction Applicants in the NRMP for pediatric surgery have little objective data available regarding factors predicting successful matching. We analyzed data from applicants at our institution to attempt to identify parameters correlated with three outcomes: successfully matching, or attaining either a top ten or top three ranking in our final submitted match list.
DETERMINATION OF ORTHO‐NASAL AROMA THRESHOLD FOR MULTICOLORED ASIAN LADY BEETLE IN A CONCORD GRAPE JUICE

Sensory evaluation was used to determine the aroma threshold of Harmonia axyridis (multicolored Asian lady beetle [MALB]) in Concord grape juice. Prior to Concord grape juice preparation, MALB was added to the Concord grapes at concentrations of 0 and 8.4 MALB/kg fresh grapes. To determine the odor threshold, the three alternative forced-choice method of sample presentation was used, with an ascending concentration series of 0.5, 1.5 and 4.5 MALB/kg fresh grapes. The panel aroma threshold concentration, calculated using the best estimate threshold over two panel sessions, was 1.8 MALB/kg fresh grapes. Individual detection thresholds ranged from 0.29 to 7.79 MALB/kg fresh grapes, with 75% of the panelists having a detection threshold at or below 0.87 MALB/kg fresh grapes. These results indicate the influence of low numbers of MALB on Concord grape juice aroma, and suggest the importance of quality control programs, including the implementation of established tolerance limits, to monitor grape quality. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Harmonia axyridis, the multicolored Asian Ladybeetle (MALB), was originally introduced as a method of biocontrol. However, its presence is now becoming problematic with respect to crop quality. In order to minimize economic losses to the Concord grape industry, determination of the number of MALB required to produce a detectable change in Concord grape juice is critical for juice producers in the establishment of their quality control programs. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the aroma threshold level of MALB in Concord grape juice. The panel aroma threshold concentration, calculated using the best estimate threshold was 1.8 MALB/kg fresh grapes, with 75% of the panelists having a detection threshold at or below 0.87 MALB/kg fresh grapes. These results indicate the influence of low numbers of MALB on Concord grape juice aroma, and suggest the importance of quality control programs, including the implementation of established tolerance limits, to monitor grape quality.
The Influence of Comonomer Composition on Dimethacrylate Resin Properties for Dental Composites

During the polymerization of multifunctional monomers for dental restorations, typical final double-bond conversions range from 55 to 75%. The low conversion results in a large amount of extractable monomer, reduced adhesion to the filler, and the potential for increased swelling. In this work, the ability to increase the maximum conversion by optimizing the copolymer composition is explored. A series of multi-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate monomers of various lengths was used as a model system to determine how the copolymer composition affects the final conversion, the mechanical properties, and the predicted shrinkage. It was found that the ultimate conversion can be significantly increased, shrinkage decreased, and mechanical properties maintained. It was found that up to 30 wt% of poly(ethylene glycol) 600 dimethacrylate could be added to diethylene glycol dimethacrylate without reducing the strength and increasing the conversion. Results for other comonomer combinations were similar.
Locating hot nodes and data routing for efficient decision fusion in sensor networks

This paper presents a fundamentally new approach to integrating local decisions from various nodes and efficiently routing data in sensor networks. By classifying the nodes in the sensor field as ''hot'' or ''cold'' in accordance with whether or not they sense the target, we are able to concentrate on a smaller set of nodes and gear the routing of data to and from the sink to a fraction of the nodes that exist in the network. The introduction of this intermediary step is fundamentally new and allows for efficient and meaningful fusion and routing. This is made possible through the use of a novel Markov Random Field (MRF) approach, which, to the best of our knowledge, has never been applied to sensor networks, in combination with Maximum A Posteriori Probability (MAP) stochastic relaxation tools to flag out the ''hot'' nodes in the network, and to optimally combine their data and decisions towards an integrated and collaborative global decision fusion. This global decision supersedes all local decisions, and provides the basis for efficient use of the sensed data. Because of the MRF local nature, nodes need not see or interact with other nodes in the sensor network beyond their immediate neighborhood, which can either be defined in terms of distance between nodes or communication connectivity, hence adding to the flexibility of dealing with irregular and varying sensor topologies, and also minimizing node power usage and providing for easy scalability. The routing of the ''hot'' nodes' data is confined to a cone of nodes and power constraints are taken into account. We also use the found location of the centroid of the hot nodes over time to track the movement of the target(s). This is achieved by using the segmentation at time t as an initial state in the stochastic MAP relaxation at time [email protected]