cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A data-driven regularization strategy for statistical CT reconstruction

There is an unmet need for CT image reconstruction algorithms that reliably provide diagnostic image quality at reduced radiation dose. Toward this end, we integrate a state-of-the-art statistical reconstruction algorithm, ordered subsets, and separable quadratic surrogates (OS-SQS) accelerated with Nesterov’s method, with our own data-driven regularization strategy using the split Bregman method. The regularization enforces intensity-gradient sparsity by minimizing bilateral total variation through the application of bilateral filtration. Adding to the advantages of statistical reconstruction, our implementation of bilateral filtration dynamically varies the regularization strength based on the noise level algorithmically measured within the data, accommodating variations in patient size and photon flux. We refer to this modified form of OS-SQS as OS-SQS with bilateral filtration (OS-SQS-BF), and we apply it to reconstruct clinical, helical CT data provided to us as part of the Low Dose CT Grand Challenge. Specifically, we evaluate OS-SQS-BF for quarter-dose statistical reconstruction and compare its performance with quarter-dose and full-dose filtered backprojection reconstruction. We present results for both the American College of Radiology (ACR) phantom and an abdominal CT scan. Our algorithm reduces noise by approximately 52% relative to filtered backprojection in the ACR phantom, while maintaining contrast and spatial-resolution performance relative to commercial filtered backprojection reconstruction. The quarter-dose scan for the abdominal data set confirmed the identification of 3 liver lesions when using OS-SQS-BF. The reconstruction time is a limitation that we will address in the future.
Is Pre-Injury Leg Length Discrepancy A Risk Factor for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in the Skeletally Immature Athlete?:

Objectives:Recognition of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in children and adolescent athletes is paramount to develop effective strategies f...
GNQ-209P Mutation in Metastatic Uveal Melanoma and Treatment Outcome

Metastatic prognosis in uveal melanoma is assessed by gene expression profiling (GEP) testing of the tumor cells, usually obtained by fine needle aspiration (FNA). GEP has demonstrated high accuracy in distinguishing class I and II tumors, both having different metastatic potential. Transcriptomic studies identified distinct mutations including somatic mutations in GNAQ and GNA11, detected in more than 80%, and contribute to the upregulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and the development of uveal melanoma (UM). The role of these mutations in treatment selection and possible benefit from targeted therapy are somewhat unclear. However, until the discovery of novel agents, local versus systemic therapies remain options for treatment that can still be considered for disease control in certain cases. We report a series of patients with metastatic UM with distinct mutational profiles. One had significant liver metastases with proven GNQ-209P mutation on tissue biopsy while peripheral blood molecular profiling did not show these mutations. The other three cases had no GNQ-209P mutation. All cases received nab-paclitaxel (Abraxane) as a treatment drug, and we record their responses to treatment and their molecular-profiling results.
Using Animated Folktales to Teach Cultural Values: A Case Study With Korean-American Bilingual Kindergartners

This qualitative case study explores the intersection of multimedia, bilingualism, and culturally responsive practices by examining the responses that children of Korean descent have to animated fo...
Sexuality, Fertility, and Danger: Twentieth-Century Images of Women with Cognitive Disabilities

Historically, women with cognitive disabilities in the United States have been portrayed as sexually and socially threatening, and in need of professional management and control. Expressions of concern over the “sexual nature” of this group are still present in medical, legal, and popular cultural discourse. This presentation considers five examples (four nonfiction and one fictional) where the sexual identities of women with cognitive disabilities received national scrutiny: the sterilization of Carrie Buck; the institutionalization of “Deborah Kallikak” the Glen Ridge sexual assault case; the sterilization of Cindy Wasiek; and the movie “The Other Sister.” These examples reveal that implicit cultural assumptions (modern fairy tales) about the sexuality and fertility of women with cognitive disabilities are embedded in United States history, and still very much in evidence today.
Flexible Ureteroscopy: Access Sheath

Flexible ureteroscopy has become an increasing important tool for the urologist to diagnose and treat upper urinary tract pathology including renal calculi and urothelial cell carcinoma. The development of the ureteral access sheath (UAS) has assisted in the adoption of flexible ureteroscopy by providing a low pressure, visually clear environment for the surgeon to operate in. This chapter highlights the benefits that UASs provide during flexible ureteroscopy and also addresses some of the concerns with their use. The properties of different sheaths are addressed, as is the technique of proper use and placement. Expanding indications for flexible ureteroscopy with a UAS are discussed as well as exit strategies after use.
Core-Halo Structures in the 12CO Emission of CIT 6, AFGL 618 and IRAS 21282+5050

We present full synthesis 12CO J= 1-0 line emission images of three carbon rich evolved stars: CIT 6, AFGL 618 and IRAS 21282+5050. Each of these objects represents a different stage of evolution: CIT 6 is a carbon star still on the AGB, AFGL 618 is a transition object, and IRAS 21282+5050 is a young planetary nebula. Common to all three sources, we find what appears to be two mass loss components: a bright “core” located at the center of the source and a fainter “halo” surrounding the core (see Table below for observed characteristics). We speculate that the bright core was created by a more recent and higher mass loss rate wind than the fainter surrounding halo. However, concrete support for this idea awaits radiative transfer modelling of the 12CO that we are currently pursuing. Our full synthesis data are combined from millimeter interferometry using the Berkeley-Illinois-Maryland millimeter array (BIMA) and single dish maps using the NRAO 12m. We find that full-synthesis imaging, which combines the sensitivity of single dish and the spatial resolution of interferometry, is the only means to reveal such core-halo structures.
Being “Challenged” and Masking my own Uncertainty: My Parallel Journey with Elementary Prospective Teachers

ABSTRACTThis research utilized self-study methodology to examine my experience as a novice elementary mathematics teacher educator whose foundation was a high school mathematics teacher and graduat...
A generalization of the Hardy–Ramanujan inequality and applications

Abstract Let ω ( n ) denote the number of distinct prime factors of the positive integer n. In 1917, Hardy and Ramanujan showed that for all real numbers x ≥ 2 and all positive integers k, ∑ n ≤ x ω ( n ) = k 1 ≤ C x log ⁡ x ( log ⁡ log ⁡ x + D ) k − 1 ( k − 1 ) ! , where C and D are absolute constants. We derive an analogous result when the summand 1 is replaced by f ( n ) , for many nonnegative multiplicative functions f. Summing on k recovers a frequently-used mean-value theorem of Hall and Tenenbaum. We use the same idea to establish a variant of a theorem of Shirokov, concerning multiplicative functions that are o ( 1 ) on average at the primes.
Genome association of carcass and palatability traits from Bos indicus-Bos taurus crossbred steers within electrical stimulation status and correspondence with steer temperament 3. Aroma and flavor attributes of cooked steaks

Abstract Steaks from Bos indicus-influenced steers (n = 350) were evaluated for beef flavor and aromatic traits. Electrical stimulation status was a fixed effect. Genome-wide association was conducted with 34,957 SNP from a commercial array using a mixed linear model. Significant effects of electrical stimulation were less intense acid and browned flavors, and more intense cooked beef lean and livery flavors (P
Capecitabine as Maintenance Therapy for High-Risk, Resected Colorectal Cancer.

Introduction In 2020, colorectal cancer will be the fourth most frequently diagnosed malignant neoplasm and the second leading cause of site-specific, cancer-related deaths in the USA. Notably, 80% of the new cases are, by staging criteria, potentially curable even those with completely resected stage 4 disease. If slightly more than half the losses can be attributed to metastatic disease at presentation, then the remaining portion of deaths may be linked to disease relapse after surgery and, if applicable, adjuvant chemotherapy. The inference that these therapies are not curative for a significant number of subjects poses a role for maintenance therapy. Objective To assess event-free survival (EFS) of patients who received capecitabine as maintenance therapy following treatment according to current guidelines. Methods Clinical outcomes data were collected for 35 subjects treated with capecitabine as maintenance therapy. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted on collective data related to duration of maintenance therapy and disease or clinical status from surgery to initial event. Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to analyze EFS and overall survival. Results Of the entire cohort, 26 subjects have no evidence of disease (NED), a median of 5.5 years from surgery. Kaplan-Meier analyses indicated a 5-year EFS rate of 74% (95% CI: 60-90%). Eighteen of these 26 patients received capecitabine ≥30 months. Eight of the 17 subjects treated with capecitabine therapy for 5 years from surgery. Conclusion The findings and analyses of this cohort of patients suggest that maintenance capecitabine therapy reduces the risk of disease progression and cancer-related death.
Whiteness as futurity and globalization of higher education

Amid growing debates about globalization of higher education (HE) reproducing inequalities, an analysis of race as the organizing influence underlying this global phenomenon remains absent. This conceptual essay argues that our understanding of globalization of HE would benefit from an intersectional understanding of critical Whiteness studies and temporal studies to help racialize and further temporalize this phenomenon. It introduces Whiteness as futurity framework and its three components: Whiteness as (a) aspiration, (b) investment, and (c) malleability. Drawing on this framework, it provides a critical race temporal account of globalization of HE by critically examining two contemporary global HE trends, namely: (a) the global diffusion of liberal education, and (b) the growing use of global university rankings (GURs). It argues that Whiteness as futurity colonizes (or orients) global subjects’ (nation-states’, policy makers’, institutions’, and individuals’) imaginaries and reinforces the asymmetrical movements, networks, and untethered economies underpinning global HE. The article concludes that educators should consider seriously the insights of Whiteness studies in reconceptualizing globalization of HE.
Synthetic conjugate peptide Fba-Met6 (MP12) induces complement-mediated resistance against disseminated Candida albicans

The fungal genus Candida includes common commensals of the human mucosal membranes, and the most prevalently isolated species, C. albicans, poses a threat of candidemia and disseminated infection associated with an unacceptably high mortality rate and an immense $4 billion burden (US) yearly. Nevertheless, the demand for a vaccine remains wholly unfulfilled and increasingly pressing. We developed a double-peptide construct that is feasible for use in humans with the intention of preventing morbid infection by targeting epitopes derived from fructose bisphosphate aldolase (Fba) and methionine synthase (Met6) which are expressed on the C. albicans cell surface. To test the applicability of the design, we vaccinated mice via the intramuscular (IM) route with the conjugate denoted Fba-Met6 MP12 and showed that the vaccine enhanced survival against a lethal challenge. Because overall endpoint IgG1 and IgG2a antibody titers were robust and these mouse subclasses are associated with protective functionality, we investigated the potential of Fba and Met6 specific antibodies to facilitate the well-defined anti-Candida response by complement, which opsonizes fungi for degradation by primary effectors. Notably, reductions in the fungal burdens and enhanced survival were both abrogated in MP12-vaccinated mice that were pre-challenge dosed with cobra venom factor (CVF), a complement depleting factor. Altogether, we demonstrated that complement is relevant to MP12-based protection against disseminated C. albicans, delineating that a novel, multivalent targeted vaccine against proteins on the surface of C. albicans can enhance the natural response to infection.
New Insights into Pheromone Control and Response in Enterococcus faecalis pCF10

One of the best-studied forms of microbial behavior controlled by intercellular signaling is pheromone-inducible conjugation in Enterococcus faecalis. This chapter emphasizes significant results of research on the pheromone systems during the past several years, particularly the pCF10 system. The chapter focuses on new insights into the control of pheromone activity in donor and recipient cells, on the molecular mechanism of the pheromone response, and on the evolution of pCF10 plasmids. The majority of research on pCF10 plasmids has focused on pAD1 and pCF10. The genes encoded on the approximately 70-kb pCF10 plasmid are involved in pheromone-inducible conjugation. Specific outcomes of pheromone induction are discussed in the chapter. The authors describe the synthesis of cCF10 to exemplify a process that occurs in a similar fashion for several pheromones. The genetic screens and biochemical evidence demonstrating two functions for PrgX resulted in the development of a model of how PrgX negatively regulates from the prgQ promoter as well as positively regulates its own expression by a single mechanism. The X-ray crystal structure of PrgX is mainly helical with 17 alpha-helices. The authors propose that the pCF10 system described in the chapter has been appropriated by the plasmid for the purpose of increasing the sensitivity and adaptability to multiple situations.
Book Review: The Accidental Law Librarian

Book review of The Accidental Law Librarian by Anthony Aycock (Information Today, Inc., 2013), 75 C. & Res. Libr. 896-897 (2014).
An Analysis of E-Business Adoption and Its Impact on Business Performance

Across industries, firms have adopted e-business to better manage their internal business processes, as well as their interfaces with the environment. However, little is known about (1) the variations in e-business adoption patterns across businesses, (2) the antecedents of such variations, and (3) the impact of e-business adoption on performance outcomes. In this study, a unified framework that captures the antecedents, patterns, and outcomes of e-business adoption is proposed and empirically tested using data collected from senior managers in four technology-intensive industries. Applying a framework that captures the intensity of e-business adoption across four business process domains, we find that the antecedents and performance implications of e-business adoption are best studied in a process-specific context. We find, for example, that while the communication and internal administration aspects of e-business positively impact performance outcomes in the studied industries, the more high-profile activities related to online selling and e-procurement do not. Our findings provide the foundation for a more rigorous study of e-business.
Hepatic lipid metabolism in experimental diabetes: I. release and uptake of triglycerides by perfused livers from normal and alloxan-diabetic rats

Abstract The uptake of nonesterified fatty acids was accelerated and the net release of triglyceride by the isolated perfused rat liver was depressed in alloxan diabetes. Triglyceride release by livers from either normal or diabetic rats was proportional to the palmitate presented to the liver; triglyceride release, however, was depressed in livers from diabetic rats at all concentrations of perfusate fatty acid. Uptake of triglyceride from chylomicra was more rapid by livers from diabetic animals than by livers from normal fed rats. Ketone-body formation and urea production were both accelerated by diabetes and restored to normal levels by treatment with insulin of the animal from which the liver was obtained. Ketone-body output remained constant regardless of the quantity of palmitate added to the perfusion medium. Since the uptake by liver of triglycerides from chylomicra, or from a neutral fat emulsion as reported previously, was accelerated in alloxan diabetes, it was of interest to compare the rates of disappearance of a neutral fat emulsion from the blood stream of normal or diabetic rats. It was observed that the disappearance of neutral fat from the plasma of diabetic rats was delayed considerably in comparison to the normal. Insulin therapy of the animals, moreover, increased the rate of disappearance of esterified fatty acid from the blood. The uptake and release of triglyceride by the isolated perfused rat liver were discussed with reference to a mechanism for the occurrence of fatty liver and hyperlipemia in experimental diabetes.
Three‐dimensional planar surface‐current equivalence theorem with application to receiving antennas as linear differential operators

[1] A surface-current equivalence theorem that states that the electromagnetic fields outside a three-dimensional (3-D) source region can be generated (to any degree of accuracy) by electric and magnetic surface currents that lie in a single plane within the source region is proven by showing that the fields of each spherical electromagnetic multipole can be generated by delta-function electric and magnetic surface currents in an arbitrarily oriented plane of infinitesimal area located at the origin of the spherical multipole. The theorem can be used to justify integral equation methods based on equivalent surface currents to represent radiated and scattered fields. Application of the theorem to antennas reveals that the output of an arbitrary linear receiving antenna can be expressed in terms of just the transverse spatial derivatives of the transverse components of the incident electric and magnetic fields at a single point in space. The coefficients of the transverse linear differential operator are expressed in terms of the spherical multipole coefficients of the antenna's complex receiving pattern.
Neural control of circadian rhythmicity in the crayfish

Gross locomotor activity, as well as the movements of single walking legs, were monitored in intact and surgically altered crayfish (Procambarus clarkii). Section of the circumesophageal connectives (CEC) abolished the circadian activity rhythm in both the first and fourth pair of walking legs (Figs. 1–3), while section of the nerve cord between the third and fourth thoracic ganglia abolished rhythmicity in only the fourth pair (Fig. 4). Bilateral ablation of the eyestalks led to a several fold increase in total daily activity and caused the animal to be continually active; however, quantitative measurements of the locomotor activity revealed that a circadian rhythm in the level of activity persists for 6–12 days following eyestalk removal (Figs. 7, 8, 13, 14). These results suggest that the circadian oscillation for the locomotor rhythm originates in the supraesophageal ganglion and is coupled to thoracic locomotor centers via axons in the CEC. The activity rhythm of eyestalkless animals could also be entrained to a light cycle even after ablation of the caudal photoreceptor; however, certain features of entrainment were altered (Figs. 9–12). Thus, although the eyestalks are not required for rhythmicity, eyestalk structures apparently do participate in entrainment.
A Pattern Selection Algorithm in Kernel PCA Applications

Principal Component Analysis (PCA) has been extensively used in different fields including earth science for spatial pattern identification. However, the intrinsic linear feature associated with standard PCA prevents scientists from detecting nonlinear structures. Kernel-based principal component analysis (KPCA), a recently emerging technique, provides a new approach for exploring and identifying nonlinear patterns in scientific data. In this paper, we recast KPCA in the commonly used PCA notation for earth science communities and demonstrate how to apply the KPCA technique into the analysis of earth science data sets. In such applications, a large number of principal components should be retained for studying the spatial patterns, while the variance cannot be quantitatively transferred from the feature space back into the input space. Therefore, we propose a KPCA pattern selection algorithm based on correlations with a given geophysical phenomenon. We demonstrate the algorithm with two widely used data sets in geophysical communities, namely the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI). The results indicate the new KPCA algorithm can reveal more significant details in spatial patterns than standard PCA.
Exploring Case-Based Bayesian Networks and Bayesian Multi-nets for Classification

Recent work in Bayesian classifiers has shown that a better and more flexible representation of domain knowledge results in better classification accuracy. In previous work [1], we have introduced a new type of Bayesian classifier called Case-Based Bayesian Network (CBBN) classifiers. We have shown that CBBNs can capture finer levels of semantics than possible in traditional Bayesian Networks (BNs). Consequently, our empirical comparisons showed that CBBN classifiers have considerably improved classification accuracy over traditional BN classifiers. The basic idea behind our CBBN classifiers is to intelligently partition the training data into semantically sound clusters. A local BN classifier can then be learned from each cluster separately. Bayesian Multi-net (BMN) classifiers also try to improve classification accuracy through a simple partitioning of the data by classes. In this paper, we compare our CBBN classifiers to BMN classifiers. Our experimental results show that CBBN classifiers considerably outperform BMN classifiers.
Developmental stage specificity of transcriptional, biochemical and CO2 efflux responses of leaf dark respiration to growth of Arabidopsis thaliana at elevated [CO2]

Plant respiration responses to elevated growth [CO(2)] are key uncertainties in predicting future crop and ecosystem function. In particular, the effects of elevated growth [CO(2)] on respiration over leaf development are poorly understood. This study tested the prediction that, due to greater whole plant photoassimilate availability and growth, elevated [CO(2)] induces transcriptional reprogramming and a stimulation of nighttime respiration in leaf primordia, expanding leaves and mature leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana. In primordia, elevated [CO(2)] altered transcript abundance, but not for genes encoding respiratory proteins. In expanding leaves, elevated [CO(2)] induced greater glucose content and transcript abundance for some respiratory genes, but did not alter respiratory CO(2) efflux. In mature leaves, elevated [CO(2)] led to greater glucose, sucrose and starch content, plus greater transcript abundance for many components of the respiratory pathway, and greater respiratory CO(2) efflux. Therefore, growth at elevated [CO(2)] stimulated dark respiration only after leaves transitioned from carbon sinks into carbon sources. This coincided with greater photoassimilate production by mature leaves under elevated [CO(2)] and peak respiratory transcriptional responses. It remains to be determined if biochemical and transcriptional responses to elevated [CO(2)] in primordial and expanding leaves are essential prerequisites for subsequent alterations of respiratory metabolism in mature leaves.
Prediction of Impending Hemorrhagic Transformation in Ischemic Stroke Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rats

Background and Purpose —Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) of ischemic brain tissue may occur in stroke patients either spontaneously or after thrombolysis. A method to assess the risk of HT in ischemic tissue after stroke would improve the safety of thrombolytic therapy. As a means of predicting HT, we investigated the role of contrast-enhanced MRI at acute time points in a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion model with reperfusion. Methods —Intraluminal suture occlusion of the middle cerebral artery was used to produce transient ischemia in male Wistar rats (n=11). Reperfusion was performed by withdrawal of the occluding filament after 2 (n=4), 3 (n=6), or 4 (n=1) hours. MRI studies were performed before and after reperfusion with the use of conventional T1-weighted imaging, with and without gadolinium (Gd-DTPA) contrast agent, and T2-weighted imaging. Follow-up MRI and histological studies were obtained at 24 hours. Results —Petechial hemorrhage occurred by 24 hours in 9 of 11 animals. All animals showed brain swelling and cellular death throughout the ischemic region at 24 hours. A hyperintense region in the preoptic area became visible after Gd-DTPA injection within minutes after reperfusion in animals with subsequent HT. All animals showing acute Gd-DTPA enhancement subsequently developed petechial hemorrhage (or died) by 24 hours. In these animals, statistically significant differences in signal intensity ( P =.0005) between the ipsilateral enhancing region and a homologous contralateral region were detected on post–Gd-DTPA T1-weighted imaging. There was also a statistically significant correlation ( P =.01) between the rate of Gd-DTPA uptake and the size of the enhancing area. Two animals did not enhance with Gd-DTPA and did not exhibit hemorrhage on histological examination or MRI at 24 hours. No abnormalities were seen on precontrast T1-weighted images before and shortly after reperfusion or postcontrast T1-weighted images before reperfusion. Conclusions —The primary finding of this study was the detection of early Gd-DTPA parenchymal enhancement in 82% of the animals after reperfusion. Enhancement was seen before any detectable hemorrhage, suggesting that early endothelial ischemic damage occurs before gross brain infarction and hemorrhage. Thus, we suggest that acute Gd-DTPA enhancement may provide an early prediction of petechial hemorrhage.
Graphic animation and speech synthesis applications for the auditory and visually disabled

Traditionally, computer science courses focus on specific concepts. Entry level courses precede more advanced courses, knowledge is built in stages. Most computer science departments offer students several areas of interest to choose from. Often a department's curriculum is structured to assure that a breadth of knowledge is attained by participating students. This requirement sometimes fosters shallow understanding of many areas. Integrating learned materials into a course that allows students to apply theory and derive solutions for problems where textbook solutions are not available is still considered a novel experiment. Special projects and independent study courses offer prospective graduates an opportunity to combine learned skills in a useful application. One such project is described here.
Ten Ways to Get Rich in Consulting by Not Taking on Clients

Let us start by assuming that you are a competent, professional consultant in some field. You are thoroughly qualified in the content of whatever your speciality is. The natural aim of most consultants is to get rich by serving more clients, thus increasing their income. Another way to get rich might be to reduce costs, and hence increase profitability. There are at least 10 ways in which one can avoid the costs of taking on the wrong client, or taking on a client under the wrong conditions. The notions of “right” and “wrong” here are my own personal value system, as it has evolved over about 30 years of consulting. I have tried all of the “wrong” ways, innocently, from time to time. Perhaps that experience can help you to make different sorts of mistakes, or at least to be aware of what your own value system is.
Mythic imagery and Irish nationalism: Henry Grattan against union, 1800

This essay focuses upon the use of mythic images to create a transcendent vision of order. The efforts of a leading Irish speaker are analyzed as he argued against legislative union with Great Britain in 1800. Facing a certain loss in the debates and the extinction of the Irish state, Henry Grattan built a foundation for future nationalism. He offered a mythic interpretation of the debates and suggested a future rebirth of Ireland by emphasizing the enduring strengths of the Irish Constitution, the Irish Nation, and the Irish Spirit.
Electrical correlates of preconvulsive and convulsive doses of chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticides in the CNS.

Abstract Studies on acute cats were made to determine the electrical correlates of convulsions produced by chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticides. The most striking polygraphic correlates include: (1) preseizure episodes of hypersynchrony, sporadic rhythmic discharges or spike discharges synchronous in cortex and deep structures, (2) bilaterally symmetrical seizure development, (3) cortical predominance, (4) independent seizure genesis in hippocampus and superior colliculus and (5) induction of seizures by sensory stimulation. Additional studies in mice demonstrate that protection against the effects of chlorinated hydrocarbons afforded by various anticonvulsant drugs parallels the protection these same drugs have against pentylenetetrazol. These findings demonstrate that the striking similarities reported for chlorinated hydrocarbons and pentylenetetrazol in a number of peripheral systems also hold true for the convulsive properties within the central nervous system. They provide a clarification of chlorinated hydrocarbon effects in the central nervous system and provide a rationale for the treatment of chlorinated hydrocarbon poisoning by anticonvulsants effective against pentylenetetrazol seizures
Race Matters: The Unspoken Variable in the Teaching‐Learning Transaction

Johnson-Bailey points to the importance of examining and understanding race as a variable with an impact on the teaching-learning transaction.
Latent inhibition in the autoshaping paradigm

Latent inhibition was assessed in the acquisition of autoshaping in the pigeon. One group of pigeons was preexposed to an 8-sec key-light stimulus presented 50 times per session for a minimum of 10 sessions. A different group was preexposed to the experimental chamber without any scheduled events. Over 4 days of testing, the pigeons preexposed to the to-be- conditional stimulus required a greater number of trials to the first keypeck, pecked after fewer trials, and pecked at a slower rate than the group not preexposed to the to-be-conditional stimulus. All these effects were statistically significant. Thus, the phenomenon of latent inhibition was extended to the pigeon and the autoshaping task.
Advances in oral anti arrhythmic therapy: implications for the anaesthetist

Surgical patients often are receiving antiarrhythmic therapy. Thus, because anaesthetic agents can affect cardiac function and may interact with concurrent antiarrhythmic medications, the anaesthetist should be aware of the electrophysiology associated with dysrhythmias and their management. Tocainide, flecainide, mexiletine, encainide and amiodarone have been introduced recently and each has an unique pattern of bioavailability, metabolism and toxicity. Patients treated with these drugs need special concern as they have abnormal cardiovascular systems and may be at increased risk for perioperative morbidity. In addition, unexpected untoward reactions and toxicity can result from interactions of anaesthetic agents and these drugs. This review discusses normal cardiac electrophysiology, common dysrhythmias and the electrophysiological effects of the newer oral antiarrhythmic drugs.
Host Corn Earworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Reared on Meridic Diet Containing Silks from a Resistant Corn Genotype on Archytas marmoratus (Diptera: Tachinidae) and Ichneumon promissorius (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae)

Larvae of Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) fed on a meridic diet containing silks of a resistant corn genotype, ‘Zapalote Chico 2451# (PC3)’, were examined as suitable hosts for a larval–pupal parasitoid, Archytas marmoratus (Townsend), and a pupal parasitoid, Ichneumon promissorius (Erich). Host pupal weight, parasitoid weight, and developmental time were significantly reduced when host larvae were reared on a diet containing resistant silks compared with diet without resistant silks. Weight of A. marmoratus was strongly correlated with host weight for both host diets. Parasitoid developmental time for both parasitoids was also correlated with host pupal weight for hosts fed on a diet containing resistant silks. Fecundity of both parasitoids was not affected by host diet. Adult longevity of I. promissorius was significantly reduced when reared from hosts fed the diet containing resistant silks compared with hosts reared on the diet without resistant silks. Longevity of female A. marmoratus was not affected by host diet, but male A. marmoratus lived longer when reared from hosts fed the resistant diet. Despite a few negative effects (lower percentage emergence of A. marmoratus ) of a resistant host diet on the parasitoids, these strategies could be compatible because the negative effects did not result in lower parasitoid fecundity or increased parasitoid developmental time.
Origin of the fibroblastic growths in chicken buffy coat macrophage cultures

Abstract The development of fibroblastic colonies in chicken buffy coat macrophage cultures obtained from cardiac and venous blood and peritoneal exudate has been studied. Fibroblastic colonies developed only in macrophage cultures obtained from cardiac blood or peritoneal exudate and not in venous route blood cultures. Compared to the untreated control cultures a significantly higher frequency of development of fibroblastic colonies was noticed in cardiac blood macrophage cultures treated with materials of chick embryonic origin viz. allantoic fluid, filtered chorioallantoic membrane extract, Rous sarcoma virus prepared on chorioallantoic membrane or Newcastle disease virus prepared in the allantoic cavity. It is concluded that a strong possibility of connective tissue fragment contamination of blood exists when obtained by the cardiac route.
Uptake of Sulfa Drugs from Aqueous Solutions by Marine Algae

Marine algae Lessonia nigrescens Bory (L13) and Macrocystis integrifolia Bory (S12) were evaluated as adsorbents for the removal of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and sulfacetamide (SAM). Batch adsorption of SMX and SAM was investigated as a function of pH, adsorbent dosage, initial sulfa concentration, and ionic strength. The maximum adsorption capacity of SMX followed the trend: L13 > S12 within the range 56.63-73.8 mg/g, whereas for SAM, it ranged between 177.94 and 163.67 mg/g with the trend: S12 > L13. Based on the results, the formation of hydrogen bonds as the main mechanism is proposed. A solution of 0.1 N NaOH recovered the adsorbents with a high efficiency for their use in repetitive cycles. FTIR and SEM techniques were utilized for the characterization of both adsorbents. The potential use of seaweed in the elimination of sulfas from residual water was explored as a low-cost and environmentally-friendly purification technique.
Scheduling on same-speed processors with at most one downtime on each machine

We consider the problem of scheduling a set of independent tasks on multiple same-speed processors with planned shutdown times with the aim of minimizing the makespan. We give an LPT-based algorithm, LPTX, which yields a maximum completion time that is less than or equal to 3/2 the optimal maximum completion time or 3/2 the time that passes from the start of the schedule until the latest end of a downtime. For problems where the optimal schedule ends after the last downtime, and when the downtimes represent fixed jobs, the LPTX maximum completion time is within 3/2 of the optimal maximum completion time. In addition, we show that this result is asymptotically tight for the class of polynomial algorithms assuming that P NP. We also show that the bound obtained previously for a similar problem, when no more than half of the machines are shut down at the same time, for the LPT algorithm is asymptotically tight in the class of polynomial algorithms if P NP.
Separation of zeta (ζ) and various gamma (γ) chains of human embryonic hemoglobin Portland I by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography

Abstract The zeta (ζ) and various gamma (γ) chains of Hb Portland I have been separated and isolated from blood samples obtained from neonates with hydrops fetalis due to homozygous α-thalassemia. By using developers containing acetonitrile, methanol, and potassium phosphate and either an analytical (3.9 mm × 30 cm) or a preparative (7.8 mm × 30 cm) μBondapak C-18 column (Waters), globin chains from 200 μg to 5.0 mg have been isolated in pure forms. Analytical and preparative procedures using short (50-min duration) and extended (186-min duration) gradient programs have been developed. In addition to the type of column and developer conditions, the following factors are found to be important: (a) preparation of sample, (b) sample loading, and (c) cleaning of the column. Preliminary studies indicate that the yield ranges from 40 to 60% depending on the type of globin sample and the age of the column. This procedure also permits the separation of α, β, and various γ globin chains from fetal and adult samples.
Anion transport regulates intracellular pH in renal cortical tissue

Abstract The regulation of cell pH by anion transport was examined in suspensions of rabbit renal proximal tubules. Values for cell pH were derived from 14 C-labeled 5,5-dimethyloxazolidine-2,4-dione distribution. In buffer with 10 mM/I HCO 3 − and gassed with 95% O 2 /5% CO 2 , the anion transport inhibitors, 4-acetamido-4′-isothiocyano-2,2′-disulfonic stilbene and furosemide, raised the cell-to-extracellular pH gradient from 0.23 ± 0.02 to 0.31 ± 0.02 and 0.31 ± 0.03 , respectively, but in combination their effects were not additive. Replacement of extracellular Cl − by NO 3 − raised the pH gradient from 0.24 ± 0.04 to 37 ± 0.05 . Neither inhibitor raised the pH gradient in Cl − -free media. Incubation of suspensions in HCO 3 − and CO 2 -free media raised the pH gradient from 0.18 ± 0.02 to 0.29 ± 0.03 . Removal of Cl − in addition to HCO 3 − and CO 2 raised the pH gradient still further, to 0.36 ± 0.02 . The results demonstrate that two different anion transport inhibitors raise cell pH and the cell-to-extracellular pH gradient in proximal tubules and are consistent with the idea that the mechanism for this effect is inhibition of alkali anion exit from the tubule cell. This process appears to depend on extracellular Cl − and probably occurs primarily by HCO 3 − transport. The results support the concept that alkali anion transport, most probably HCO 3 − exit from the peritubular cell border, is an important regulator of cell pH in renal proximal tubule.
Investigating a New Methodology for Ranking International Mutual Funds

This paper tests the hypothesis that a composite forecast is, at times, more accurate than separate forecasts. The rationale for forecast superiority is that valuable information missing from one model may be captured by the other model. The expected asset returns from the traditional CAPM and the mean-lower partial moment CAPM have been combined to generate a composite systematic risk measure. The measure is then used in Treynor's performance index and tested on a sample of U.S.-based international mutual funds. The results show that the composite beta is a statistically significant and meaningful parameter. However due to sample size, the Wilcoxon signed rank test fails to provide strong evidence that there is a significant difference between Treynor's fund rankings when using the two different asset-pricing models.
Discussion of “Mechanistic Model for CaS O4 Fouling on Nanofiltration Membrane” by Che-Jen Lin, Saqib Shirazi, and Pritesh Rao

The mass transfer phenomenon that leads to concentration polarization and crystallization of salt on membrane surfaces during filtration of CaSO4 solutions is a dynamic process as presented in Fig. 5 of the original paper . The flux decline observed is due to the increases in both the density and thickness of the concentrated layers of CaSO4 i.e., concentration polarization and salt cake on the membrane surface Li et al. 2005 . Eqs. 1 and 2 in the paper are valid for steady state conditions, as the authors have noted. However, the authors have used these equations to estimate a dynamic parameter i.e., concentrations of CaSO4 on membrane surface at specific times . The estimated concentrations of CaSO4 at the membrane surface Table 1 of the original paper show a decrease in CaSO4 concentration over time as the membrane fouling progresses from point A to point D. With the progression of fouling over time, one would expect the CaSO4 concentration at the membrane surface to increase, as illustrated in Fig. 6 of the original paper , since this is the primary cause of fouling, which causes the flux decline presented in Figs. 3 and 7 of the original paper . Other researchers have used the steady state solution of the mass transfer equation for estimation of salt concentration on membrane surfaces at the time of nucleation or to determine if the precipitation is expected to occur in more complex systems van de Lisdonk et al. 2001; Le Gouellec and Elimelech 2002 . These limited applications of the steady state solution may be appropriate in such cases as the flux appears to be stable during the time of nucleation. For simplification purposes, assuming that the flux decline is entirely due to increase in concentration of CaSO4 at the membrane surface, then, the decrease in flux can be related to the increase in concentration of CaSO4 at the membrane
Time Costs of Fertility Care: The Hidden Hardship of Building a Family

Objective To determine the time that infertile couples spend seeking and utilizing fertility care. Design Prospective cohort. Setting Eight community and academic infertility practices. Patient(s) A total of 319 couples presenting for a fertility evaluation. Intervention(s) Face-to-face and telephone interviews and questionnaires. Main Outcome Measure(s) Participants recorded diaries of time spent on provider visits, travel, telephone, and miscellaneous activities. Participants also recorded time off from work due to the physical and mental stress related to fertility care. Linear regression was used to assess relationship between fertility characteristics and time spent pursuing care. Result(s) Diaries were completed by 319 subjects. Over an 18-month time period, the average time spent on fertility care was 125 hours, equating to 15.6 days, assuming an 8-hour workday. For couples utilizing cycle-based treatments (CBT), overall time spent pursuing care averaged 142 hours, versus 58 hours for couples using other therapies, with the majority of time spent on provider visits (73 hours). After multivariable adjustment for clinical and sociodemographic characteristics, possessing a college degree and intensity of fertility treatment were independently associated with increased time spent pursuing fertility care. Furthermore, couples that spent the most time on care were significantly more likely to experience fertility-related stress. Conclusion(s) Over the course of 18 months of observation, couples pursuing fertility treatment dedicated large amounts of time to attaining their family-building goals. This burden on couples adds to the already significant financial and emotional burdens of fertility treatment and provides new insight into the difficulties that these couples face.
Induction of DNA-protein crosslinks by dichloromethane in a V79 cell line transfected with the murine glutathione-S-transferase theta 1 gene.

Abstract Dichloromethane (DCM) is considered a probable human carcinogen. Laboratory studies have shown an increased incidence of lung and liver cancer in mice but not in rats or hamsters. Despite the correlation between metabolism of DCM by the glutathione- S -transferase (GST) pathway and the occurrence of tumors in different species, the mechanism of tumor induction by DCM metabolites produced through the GST pathway remains unclear. In this study a V79 cell line stably transfected with the murine GST theta 1 gene (mGSTT1) was compared to the parent cell line (MZ) to determine how the construct affects DCM metabolism and the sensitivity of the cell line to DNA damage and cytotoxicity. V79 cells were treated with DCM (2.5–10 mM) or formaldehyde (150–600 μM) for 2 h. Also, formaldehyde produced by V79 cytosol metabolism of DCM was measured spectrophotometrically. DNA damage and DNA–protein crosslinks were measured by the standard and proteinase K-modified alkaline single cell gel electrophoresis (SCG) assays. Cytotoxicity was assessed by trypan blue stain exclusion, the Live/Dead ® cell viability/cytotoxicity kit for animal cells, and the neutral red assay. After DCM treatment a significant concentration-dependent increase in tail moment in the V79 MZ cells was observed compared to a significant concentration-dependent decrease in tail moment in the V79 mGSTT1 cells. Post-incubation with proteinase K significantly increased DNA migrations in DCM-treated V79 mGSTT1 cells. DCM formed significantly higher levels of formaldehyde in the cytosol of the V79 mGSTT1 cells than in the cytosol of the V79 MZ cells. Results using the cytotoxicity assays were comparable using the trypan blue and Live/Dead ® assays, neither showing a difference in response between the two cell lines when exposed to either formaldehyde or DCM. These results indicate that V79 mGSTT1 can metabolize DCM to a genotoxic and cytotoxic metabolite, which is likely formaldehyde. This is the first time that the magnitude of the GSTT1 effect can be observed in mammalian cells without confounding caused by using cells with different genetic backgrounds.
Discrimination reversal under sodium pentobarbital

Four groups of rats were trained on a two lever spatial discrimination problem. Ss injected with pentobarbital during acquisition and placebo during reversal learned the discrimination reversal with fewer errors than control group Ss which never received pentobarbital. Administering pentobarbital only during reversal learning impaired acquisition of the new response.
Development of a fiber-optic sensor for trace metal detection in aqueous environments

The availability and speciation of a number of metals widely dispersed in the aquatic environment intimately affect the biogeochemistry of the ocean and its inhabitants. Much research has been focused on the development of analytical methodologies to elucidate better the background concentrations variability, and contaminant effects of metal species. The purpose of this research is to investigate the viability of a fiber-optic sensor that will be a sensitive and selective probe for trace metals in natural waters.
Lyapunov Function Gradient Generated Robust Control in the Absence of the Nominal Stabilizing Control

To this time, published descriptions of the application of the Bass form of Lyapunov function gradient generated robust control have presented the details of a control synthesis procedure which includes the finding of a nominal stabilizing control and implementing it along with the robust control law it generates. In the present treatment, one class of unstable plants for which the implementation of the nominal stabilizing control law is not needed is described, and the conditions for stability are proven.