cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MRI in the presurgical evaluation of patients with frontal lobe epilepsy and children with temporal lobe epilepsy" pathologic correlation and prognostic importance*

We performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using a high-field strength magnet (1.5 T) in two series of 53 patients with intractable partial epilepsy of frontal lobe or temporal lobe origin who subsequently received ablative surgery for their seizure disorder. In the first series of patients the pathologic correlation and prognostic importance of an MRI-identified lesion in the frontal lobe were assessed. Twenty-five percent of the patients with negative MRI studies and 67% of patients with neuroimaging abnormalities restricted to the frontal lobe, were seizure-free at a minimum duration of follow-up of 1 year. None of the patients with a multilobar MRI-detected abnormality was seizure-free postoperatively. In the second study the sensitivity and specificity of MRI-based hippocampal volumetry was determined in pediatric patients with partial epilepsy of temporal lobe origin unrelated to foreign-tissue pathology. Hippocampal formation atrophy in the epileptic temporal lobe was identified in 63% of patients. The sensitivity and specificity of hippocampal volumetry was 100% in patients with mesial temporal sclerosis. The presence of an MRI-detected epileptogenic lesion in the frontal lobe and hippocampal formation atrophy in the temporal lobe may correlate with the underlying pathology and affect the identification of potential candidates for epilepsy surgery.
Construction and use of free-standing solar silos as combined mass algal/fish culture units

Abstract Construction of solar silos for combined mass algal/fish culture is detailed and their speciality use outlined for mixed culture of unicellular green algae and blue tilapia (Sarotherodon aureus) .
Minimality and onsetless syllables in Zinza

A dispreference for onsetless syllables is often manifested by processes of consonant insertion or vowel deletion which eliminate onsetless syllables, and it is sometimes manifested by disallowing prosodic distinctions which onsetful syllables make, e.g. onsetless syllables may resist bearing tone or stress. This paper investigates the interaction between minimality and the structure of onsetless syllables in the Bantu language Zinza, documenting a previously unobserved onsetless effect which is partially conditioned by minimality. In Zinza, word-initial vowels of disyllables are lengthened, so /o-lja/ becomes [oo-lja] ‘you eat’ (compare [o-lima] ‘you cultivate’ and [ba-lja] ‘they eat’, with no lengthening). These facts test previous theories of onsetless effects (Downing 1993, 1998, Odden 1995, Orie 2000). I argue that a special representation of onsetless syllables is not warranted, and does not explain this pattern of lengthening. A constraint against word-initial short onsetless syllables interacting with word minimality suffices to explain this lengthening.
Children’s national identity in multicultural classrooms in Costa Rica and the United States:

The development of healthy national identifications in children and youth has important implications for the construction of democratic citizenries in culturally and linguistically diverse societie...
Immunoglobulin classes of the clawed toad, Xenopus laevis

Abstract 1. 1. Xenopus produced two molecular species of antibodies in response to injection of horseshoe crab hemocyanin in complete Fruend's adjuvant. 2. 2. These proteins resembled the γM and γG immunoglobulins of mammals in size and polypeptide chain structure.
Vasopeptidase Inhibition and its Role in Congestive Heart Failure

Vasopeptidase inhibition—that is, the dual inhibition of ACE and neutral endopeptidase—reduces blood pressure in a potent manner. Preliminary studies suggest that vasopeptidase inhibition can also effectively treat congestive heart failure. Additional corroborating studies to support the use of vasopeptidase inhibition in heart failure are now underway.
Delayed Crack Development in Porcelain Due to Incompatibility Stress

Delayed failure of metal-ceramic restorations due to static fatigue can occur when residual tensile stress is present in porcelain, even in the absence of intra-oral forces. Fixed-partial-denture (FPD) specimens and semicircular arch specimens with gapped cross-arch segments were employed to characterize the potential of two incompatible metal-ceramic systems for producing delayed crack development and to determine the relative sensitivity of these test designs as monitors of incompatibility stresses which resulted from thermal contraction differences between a nickel-chromium alloy and three experimental porcelains.The arch specimens were judged to be more suitable for analysis of residual stresses because of the larger magnitude of gap changes at each procedural change. However, the FPD specimens exhibited earlier evidence of delayed crack growth in porcelain when the thermal contraction coefficient of the metal exceeded that of the porcelain by either 1.7 × 10-6/°C or 2.2 × 10-6/°C. For these two state...
Demonstration of serum protein differences in cystic fibrosis by isoelectric focusing in thin-layer polyacrylamide gels.

Abstract Whole serum samples from cystic fibrosis patients, heterozygotes and normal individuals were analyzed using isoelectric focusing in thin-layer polyacrylamide gels. Using this technique consistent serum protein differences between the three serum types have been demonstrated. A protein with an isoelectric point of 5.48 ± 0.1 was found in 14 out of 17 normal sera and in all heterozygote sera tested but not in 15 out of 16 cystic fibrosis sera tested. A protein with an isoelectric point of 8.41 ± 0.1 was found in 12 out of 13 cystic fibrosis sera and all heterozygote sera but not in 11 out of 12 normal sera tested. The concentration of both of these proteins was demonstrated to be variable among the heterozygotes as shown by electrofocusing of different volumes of serum. Partial characterization of both proteins was achieved using the combined techniques of isoelectric focusing, immunoelectrophoresis, acrylamide to ionagar electrophoresis, ammonium sulfate precipitation and diethylaminoethylcellulose chromatography (pH 8.0). The protein with an isoelectric point at pH 5.48 ± 0.1 was found to be a heat labile beta-globulin and the protein with an isoelectric point of 8.41 ± 0.1 was found to be a heat labile gamma-globulin. The significance of the findings are discussed.
Intersection of migration and turnover theories-What can we learn?

Abstract Background The international migration of nurses has become a major issue in the international health and workforce policy circles, but analyses are not based on a comprehensive theory. Purpose The purpose of this article was to compare the concepts of an integrated nursing turnover theory with the concepts of one international migration framework. Methods An integrated turnover theory is compared with a frequently used migration framework using examples of each. Discussion Migration concepts relate well to turnover concepts, but the relative importance and strength of various concepts may differ. For example, identification, development, and measurement of the concept of national commitment, if it exists, is parallel to organizational commitment and may be fruitful in understanding the processes that lead to nurse migration. Conclusions The turnover theory provides a framework for examining migration concepts and considering how these concepts could relate to each other in a future theory of migration. Ultimately, a better understanding of the relationships and strengths of these concepts could lead to more effective policy.
A search for d-amino acids in tumor tissue

Abstract Many years have passed since Kogl and co-workers first reported that tumor proteins contain appreciable amounts of d -amino acids (1). In general, it was proposed that tumor proteins can be characterized by the presence of certain d -amino acids, specifically valine, leucine, lysine, and glutamic acid. They further implied that the initiation and autonomous character of tumor cells are dependent upon the formation and maintenance of these d -amino acids in the cell proteins (2). The proposal remained highly controversial for over 10 years, during which time a considerable number of papers, both supporting and refuting the matter, were published. 2 Miller finally reviewed the subject in 1950 (2). Unfortunately, no definite conclusions could be reached at that point as new evidence was being published concurrently (3). Thirty years of technological refinements have provided analytical methods for the resolution and detection of amino acid enantiomers far better than those used by the earlier investigators. In view of the fact that no conclusive evidence can be found in the literature, a new evaluation of this matter seems in order.
Reactive Functionalized Membranes for Polychlorinated Biphenyl Degradation.

Membranes have been widely used in water remediation (e.g., desalination and heavy metal removal) because of the ability to control membrane pore size and surface charge. The incorporation of nanomaterials into the membranes provides added benefits through increased reactivity with different functionality. In this study, we report the dechlorination of 2-chlorobiphenyl in the aqueous phase by a reactive membrane system. Fe/Pd bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized (in situ) within poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) functionalized polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes for degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Biphenyl formed in the reduction was further oxidized into hydroxylated biphenyls and benzoic acid by an iron-catalyzed hydroxyl radical (OH•) reaction. The formation of magnetite on Fe surface was observed. This combined pathway (reductive/oxidative) could reduce the toxicity of PCBs effectively while eliminating the formation of chlorinated degradation byproducts. The successful manufac...
Contamination risks associated with electrosurgery.

For more than 80years, high-frequency electrosurgery has provided dermatology and other areas of medicine with an efficient means of tissue destruction and hemostasis. 1,2 When electrosurgery is used for simple office procedures, little attention is given to risks of contamination. Many physicians have believed that electrical current sterilizes the tissue, as well as the active electrosurgical electrode tip. With electrocautery , the glowing red electrode is hot and sterile because of its high temperature. However, the most common electrosurgical modality used today, high-frequency electrosurgery, delivers electromagnetic energy in the form of high-frequency radio-frequency waves. 3 The tip of the high-frequency electrode passes electromagnetic energy into tissue, and heat is generated from either sparking or tissue resistance. Little or no heating occurs within the electrode at the point of tissue contact. 4,5 Although a high-frequency electrode tip generates no inherent heat, many practitioners have believed that the effects of the flow of
Impact of parameter settings on normal force and gap height during tribological measurements

There has been increased interest over the past decade to use soft tribology to mimic conditions in the oral cavity. Tribological measurements in these studies have been performed on a variety of instruments, both commercial and custom-made. While the effects of tribological surface characteristics (e.g. roughness, modulus, hydrophobicity) on tribological measurements have been examined, there has been little study of measurement variability due to differences in tribometer settings. Therefore, this study examined the effect of different tribometer measurement parameters on the magnitude and fluctuation of normal force, gap height, and friction coefficient. The instantaneous values of normal force and gap height, and the extent of fluctuation of those measurements, were affected by multiple instrument parameters. Friction coefficient values were not significantly affected by instrumental parameters; however, fluctuations in normal force and gap height can contribute to data variation, reducing measurement precision and adding confounding factors to data.
Anthropogenic Influence on the Autocorrelation Structure of Hemispheric-Mean Temperatures

It is shown that lagged correlations for and cross-correlations between observed hemispheric-mean temperature data differ markedly from those for unforced (control-run) climate model simulations. The differences can be explained adequately by assuming that the observed data contain a significant externally forced component involving both natural (solar) and anthropogenic influences and that the global climate sensitivity is in the commonly accepted range. Solar forcing alone cannot reconcile the differences in autocorrelation structure between observations and model control-run data.
Protein kinase D1 autophosphorylation via distinct mechanisms at Ser744/Ser748 and Ser916.

Protein kinase D1 (PKD1) is a physiologically important signaling enzyme that is activated via protein kinase C-dependent trans-phosphorylation of the activation loop at Ser744 and Ser748 followed by PKD1 autophosphorylation at Ser916. Although PKD-Ser916 autophosphorylation is widely used to track cellular PKD activity, this study exposes conditions leading to increased PKD-Ser(P)916 immunoreactivity without an associated increase in PKD activity in cardiomyocytes that heterologously overexpress catalytically inactive PKD1 and in cardiomyocytes treated with Go6976 (a PKD inhibitor that competes with ATP). In each case, PKD1 is detected as a Ser916-phosphorylated enzyme that lacks kinase activity. In vitro kinase assays reconcile these seemingly discrepant findings by demonstrating that PKD1-Ser916 autophosphorylation can proceed via either an intermolecular reaction or an intramolecular autophosphorylation that requires only very low ATP concentrations that do not support target substrate phosphorylation. Additional studies show that Ser744 and Ser748 are targets for a protein kinase C-independent autocatalytic phosphorylation and that the PKD1-S744A/S748A mutant is a Ser916-phosphorylated enzyme that is not active toward heterologous substrates. In contrast, PKD1-S916A is an active kinase that autophosphorylates at Ser744. However, the S916A substitution leads to a Ser748 phosphorylation defect and a prolonged cellular PKD1 signaling response. Collectively, these results implicate PKD1-Ser744 phosphorylation in the phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate-dependent mechanism that increases PKD1 activity toward physiologically relevant substrates. We show that PKD1-Ser916 autophosphorylation does not necessarily correlate with PKD1 activity. Rather, autophosphorylation at Ser916 is required for subsequent autophosphorylation at Ser748. Finally, this study exposes a novel role for Ser916 and/or Ser748 autophosphorylation to terminate the cellular PKD1 signaling response.
Monensin affects the trans half ofEuglena dictyosomes

Euglena gracilis was treated in 10-5 M monensin for various times from 2 minutes to 24 hours, and then processed for electron microscopy by fixation in glutaraldehyde and osmium tetroxide or potassium permanganate. Monensin affected the mature (trans) half of the cisternae but not the forming (cis) half of the cisternae. After glutaraldehyde and osmium tetroxide fixation, the affected cisternae appeared swollen, whereas after potassium permanganate fixation, the affected cisternae were distorted but not swollen. The monensin effect was first noticeable after 5 minutes of treatment and the maximum effect was observed after only 10 minutes of treatment. No additional monensin effects were observed up to 24 hours of treatment; however, by 24 hours there was variability in dictyosome form and some dictyosomes appeared relatively normal. The first noticeable effects at the 5 minute treatment time involved either the most mature (trans) cisterna or cisternae in the middle of the stack. Thus, inEuglena, the region of the Golgi apparatus that responds to monensin by cisternal dilation is restricted to the mature (trans) half of the dictyosomes, with the initial response given by specific cisternae in the stack.
Anoxic and oxic biological fluidized bed treatment of amines and phenol

Significant amounts of nitrogenous organic compounds found in industrial wastewaters can have major deleterious effects on the environment and public health; therefore, the removal of these compounds has become an essential component in industrial wastewater treatment. In this work the biodegradability of diisopropylamine and monoethylamine - compounds commonly found in petroleum refinery wastewater - was investigated under oxic and anoxic conditions. Biological fluidized bed reactors were employed in the investigation of single-stage carbon oxidation and nitrification with the amines and phenol as the compounds targeted for removal. Complete carbonaceous oxidation was achieved with a 50% nitrification rate. The feasibility of utilizing the amines and phenol as the organic carbon source for denitrification in an anoxic biological fluidized bed process was also examined. Carbon removal under anoxic conditions was greater than 85% at carbon loading rates less than 0.05 mg TOC/mg biomass-day and decreased to 60% at higher loading rates. Over the range of loading rates tested, the average ratio of mg TOC removed to mg NO3−-N utilized was observed to be 1.26.
Constancy of the shift‐up point in two temperature‐sensitive mammalian cell lines that arrest in G1

Two cell cycle-specific temperature sensitive (ts) mutants of mammalian cell lines, AF8 and K12, are known to arrest in G1 when shifted to the non-permissive temperature. We have determined the entry into S of both AF8 and K12 cells in five different growth conditions, namely: (1) quiescent sparse cultures stimulated to proliferative by serum; (2) quiescent dense cultures stimulated by serum; (3) quiescent sparse cultures stimulated by trypsinization and replating; (4) quiescent, dense cultures stimulated by trypsinization and replating; and (5) mitotic cells collected by mitotic detachment. In addition, for each cell line and for each different growth condition, we have determined the shift-up time, i.e., the time at which a shift-up to the nonpermissive temperature no longer prevents the entry of cells into S. In no case did K12 or AF8 enter S at the nonpermissive temperature. At the permissive temperature, the average time of entry into S varied in different growth conditions, and so did the shift-up time. However, in both cell lines, the distance of the average shift-up time from the average time of entry into S was remarkably constant, regardless of the growth conditions. i.e., 1.8 hours in K12 and 8.6 hours in AF8.
Uncertainty analysis on the absolute thickness of a cavity using a commercial wavelength scanning interferometer

ABSTRACT Wavelength scanning interferometry offers many advantages over traditional phase shifting interferometry, most significantly the elimination of mechanical movement of the part/s for phase modulation by implementing a tunable light source. Further, Fourier analysis on the interference time history enables this technique to accurately measure distances, treating the distance between two optical surfaces as an interf erometric cavity. We propose to evaluate the uncertainty in the thickness measurement of a transparent cavity using a commercial Fizeau wavelength scanning interferometer. This work follows the theory and measurement performed in a previous manuscript of measuring absolute distances of opaque objects using a commercial wavelength scanning interferometer. The limits in measuring a cavity using the commercial wavelength scanning interferometer depend on many factors such as temperature variations that affect the test and reference cavity, uncertainty in the reference cavity calibration, tuning rate non-linearities, etc. In addition to an analytical approach, a simulation is described to better understand the measurement process and the uncertainty associated in measuring absolute distances (thickness) of cavities. Preliminary experimental results on the absolute thickness of a transparent cavity are reported along with uncertainty sources. Keywords: absolute thickness measurement, wavelength scanning interferometry, uncertainty analysis
Factors Associated With Successful Chopart Amputation in Patients With Diabetes A Systematic Review

Chopart amputations were first performed for treatment of a non-salvageable distal foot but became unfavorable because of the development of equinovarus contractures and ulcerations. The majority of below-knee amputations today occur in ambulatory patients with diabetes in which a Chopart amputation may be a viable option; however, the durability of the residual limb is questionable. The authors undertook a systematic review of electronic databases and other relevant sources to identify material relating to the factors associated with a successful Chopart amputation in ambulatory patients with diabetes. Studies were eligible for inclusion only if they consecutively enrolled ambulatory patients with diabetes who underwent a Chopart amputation, regardless of etiology, with or without any tendinous or osseous balancing performed and had a mean follow-up of ≥12 months duration. Four studies involving 74 patients/feet were identified that met the inclusion criteria with a weighted mean follow-up of 21.1 months. The efficacy of tendinous and/or osseous balancing could not be assessed because of the lack of comparable techniques. However, review of the included studies supports that a residual functional limb can be maintained for ≥12 months with the use of a properly fitting high-profile prosthetic device for lifelong ambulation.
Jupiter: Aerosol Chemistry in the Polar Atmosphere.

Aromatic compounds have been considered a likely candidate for enhanced aerosol formation in the polar region of Jupiter. We develop a new chemical model for aromatic compounds in the Jovian auroral thermosphere/ionosphere. The model is based on a previous model for hydrocarbon chemistry in the Jovian atmosphere and is constrained by observations from Voyager, Galileo, and the Infrared Space Observatory. Precipitation of energetic electrons provides the major energy source for the production of benzene and other heavier aromatic hydrocarbons. The maximum mixing ratio of benzene in the polar model is 2 × 10^(-9), a value that can be compared with the observed value (2^(+2)_(-1)) × 10^(-9) in the north polar auroral region. Sufficient quantities of the higher ring species are produced so that their saturated vapor pressures are exceeded. Condensation of these molecules is expected to lead to aerosol formation.
Localization of mouse satellite dna on chromosomes of experimentally induced glioblastomas, non-centromeric lable in one glioblastoma producing c-type particles.

The chromosomal localization of satellite DNA in two tissue culture lines derived -rom malignant mouse CNS tumors was investigated by in situ hybridization of 3H single-stranded satellite DNA purified by isopynic centrifugation in alkaline CSC1. Both tumors were glioblastomas originally induced by a methylcholanthrene implantation into the cerebrum of C3H mice; both displayed aneuploid chromosomal constitutions. One of these glioblastomas (TC 541) revealed labelling only of centromeric portions of the chromosomes even in cells containing greater than 200 chromosomes and thus it had a pattern of satellite distribution comparable to that of normal cells. The other glioblastoma (TC 509), that produced C-type particles and had a decrease in satellite DNA, displayed interstitial and telomeric label in some chromosomes in addition to labelling of the centromeres. "Hoechst 33258" fluorescence showed some interstitial and telomeric bright bands as well as centromeric bright regions, though to be consistent with in situ studies. The localization of satellite DNA to the chromosome arms and its possible relation to C-type virus is discussed.
Coadsorption of Sulfur and Carbon Monoxide on Platinum Single-Crystal Surfaces Studied by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy†

The spatial distribution of sulfur and carbon monoxide coadsorbed on stepped Pt(111) surfaces was characterized by low-energy electron diffraction and scanning,tunneling microscopy. The formation of a p(2x 2) sulfur overlayer on the platinum substrate leads to the slow doubling of the original monatomic steps, but subsequent room temperature exposure of that surface to CO removes the reconstruction and induces the formation of approximately 50 A wide intermediate steps covered with carbon monoxide exclusively. Additional CO dosing causes the development of more complex structures at the edge of the steps, where the excess sulfur is pushed to the bottom of the step while the rest of the terrace becomes covered with CO + S intermixed layers. The implications of these results for catalysis are briefly discussed.
Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Safety of High Doses of Ceforanide (BL-S786R) and Cefazolin

The pharmacokinetics and safety of ceforanide and cefazolin were compared in normal subjects after 30-min intravenous infusions of 2-, 3-, and 4-g single doses and 4-g twice-daily doses for 10 days. No significant differences were observed in plasma-renal pharmacokinetic parameters between single and multiple doses of ceforanide. Half-life (t((1/2)), 2.8 h), plasma clearance (Cl(p), 48 ml/min per 1.73 m(2)), and renal clearance (Cl(0-12h) (r), 47 ml/min per 1.73 m(2); tubular secretion, 44%, and glomerular filtration, 56%) did not change with increased dose or on multiple dosing. No significant change was observed in t((1/2)) (1.9 h), area under the plasma concentration-time curve, Cl(r) (60 ml/min per 1.73 m(2); tubular secretion, 80%, and glomerular filtration, 20%), or Cl(p) (75 ml/min per 1.73 m(2)) for 4-g single doses compared with twice-daily administration of cefazolin. A small increase in cefazolin clearance was observed when plasma concentrations were greater than 100 mug/ml, when the single dose was increased from 2 to 4 g; this was a result of the decrease in percentage of plasma protein binding and increased renal clearance due to increased glomerular filtration. The increase in renal clearance resulted in a lack of linear proportionality of the plasma area under the curve with dose over a range of 2 to 4 for both cephalosporins, although this effect was much less marked with ceforanide. Both compounds were well tolerated both locally and systemically. There was no evidence of any change in renal function based on clearances of drug, p-aminohippuric acid, or creatinine, and other standard clinical parameters.
Reactivation of spindle elongation in vitro is correlated with the phosphorylation of a 205 kd spindle-associated protein

Abstract Mitotic spindles isolated from the diatom Stephanopyxis turris consist of two half-spindles of closely interdigitating microtubules that slide relative to one another in the presence of ATP, reinitiating spindle elongation (anaphase B) in vitro. Purified spindles that have been exposed to ATP-γ-S undergo ATP-dependent reactivation more readily than do control spindles. Thiophosphorylated proteins in such spindles are located in the spindle midzone, kinetochores, and a portion of the pole complex. One major thiophosphorylated peptide of 205 kd is detected in extracts prepared from spindles labeled with [ 35 S]ATP-γ-S, and is also localized in the spindle midzone by using an antibody that recognizes thiophosphorylated proteins. It is likely that this 205 kd peptide is either a positive regulator or mechanochemical transducer of microtubule sliding when it is in a phosphorylated state.
Enhancement of field generation via maximal atomic coherence prepared by fast adiabatic passage in Rb vapor

We experimentally demonstrated the enhancement of coherent Raman scattering in Rb vapor by exciting atomic coherence with fractional STIRAP. The results support the possibility of increasing the CARS sensitivity
Transcriptional targeting of tumor endothelial cells for gene therapy

It is well known that angiogenesis plays a critical role in the pathobiology of tumors. Recent clinical trials have shown that inhibition of angiogenesis can be an effective therapeutic strategy for patients with cancer. However, one of the outstanding issues in anti-angiogenic treatment for cancer is the development of toxicities related to off-target effects of drugs. Transcriptional targeting of tumor endothelial cells involves the use of specific promoters for selective expression of therapeutic genes in the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels of tumors. Recently, several genes that are expressed specifically in tumor-associated endothelial cells have been identified and characterized. These discoveries have enhanced the prospectus of transcriptionally targeting tumor endothelial cells for cancer gene therapy. In this manuscript, we review the promoters, vectors, and therapeutic genes that have been used for transcriptional targeting of tumor endothelial cells, and discuss the prospects of such approaches for cancer gene therapy.
Using Mathematical Programming For Marketing Plan Optimization

While a growing number of companies are embracing analytical metrics to measure the performance of their critical business processes, many neglect to apply the same mathematical rigor to their marketing efforts. This paper examines how to apply a disciplined quantitative approach to resource allocation within the context of marketing. This project will examine a company that manufactures and sells electric power generation components. This firm’s executive management believes that developing nations in Asia have a particularly strong need for power generation equipment as they build and expand new infrastructure at a rapid pace. Management objective is to construct a marketing plan that will maximize both total revenue as well as revenue from a targeted geographic region, while working within the budgetary and other constraints. Operations Research offers sophisticated tools for translating complex business situations into mathematical expressions. These expressions may then be evaluated to identify one or more optimal solutions. Multivariate Testing is used to quantify all the relevant variables for the mathematical model. This statistical tool allows the researcher to simultaneously test the effect of various input factors on the response variable, and also test for any interactions between factors. These interactions are often significant in predicting the response outcome. Using indexed utility values produces a blended model that can simultaneously satisfy both objectives. This blended model results in a marketing plan that will increase total revenue by more than five million dollars, a 57% gain. At the same time, the plan will generate an 18% increase in targeted revenue, positioning the company for future growth. The project shows that companies can, and should, insist on the same degree of financial accountability from their marketing investments that they would expect from any other capital or operational expenditures.
Human Annulus Fibrosus Material Properties from Biaxial Testing and Constitutive Modeling are Altered with Degeneration

The annulus fibrosus (AF) of the intervertebral disk undergoes large and multidirectional stresses and strains. Uniaxial tensile tests are limited for measuring AF material properties, because freely contracting edges can prevent fiber stretch and are not representative of in situ boundary conditions. The objectives of this study were to measure human AF biaxial tensile mechanics and to apply and validate a constitutive model to determine material properties. Biaxial tensile tests were performed on samples oriented along the circumferential–axial and the radial–axial directions. Data were fit to a structurally motivated anisotropic hyperelastic model composed of isotropic extra-fibrillar matrix, nonlinear fibers, and fiber–matrix interactions (FMI) normal to the fibers. The validated model was used to simulate shear and uniaxial tensile behavior, to investigate AF structure–function, and to quantify the effect of degeneration. The biaxial stress–strain response was described well by the model (R 2 > 0.9). The model showed that the parameters for fiber nonlinearity and the normal FMI correlated with degeneration, resulting in an elongated toe-region and lower stiffness with degeneration. The model simulations in shear and uniaxial tension successfully matched previously published circumferential direction Young’s modulus, provided an explanation for the low values in previously published axial direction Young’s modulus, and was able to simulate shear mechanics. The normal FMI were important contributors to stress and changed with degeneration, therefore, their microstructural and compositional source should be investigated. Finally, the biaxial mechanical data and constitutive model can be incorporated into a disk finite element model to provide improved quantification of disk mechanics.
Dynamic Selection of Optimal Cryptographic Algorithms in a Runtime Environment

This paper presents the results of research conducted by the author in support of dynamic selection of optimal cryptographic algorithms in a runtime environment (DSOCARE), the author’s doctoral dissertation. Based on DSOCARE framework, a first full-scale proof-of-concept prototype was developed by the author in Java and C#/VB. The prototype was used to perform collection, selection, and reporting functions on common symmetric block ciphers, where the collection function included running benchmark tests and storing the data in DBMS located on DSOCARE server. The Runtime Optimal Cryptographic Algorithm Selector (ROCAS), based on a hybrid Genetic Algorithm (GA) method, was used to find Pareto-optimal solutions for a diverse array of client security requests with high and low security, speed, and priority quality of service (QoS) parameters. Finally, the reporting function was used to create the data and figures presented in this paper. This paper concludes that adaptive security used in DSOCARE framework mitigates the tradeoff between security, speed, and priority elegantly. It further reinforces the author's thesis that selection of optimal cryptographic algorithms is possible only at runtime.
Adaptive control of a stewart platform‐based manipulator

A joint-space adaptive control scheme for controlling noncompliant motion of a Stewart platform-based manipulator (SPBM) was implemented in the Hardware Real-Time Emulator at Goddard Space Flight Center. The six-degrees of freedom SPBM uses two platforms and six linear actuators driven by dc motors. The adaptive control scheme is based on proportional-derivative controllers whose gains are adjusted by an adaptation law based on model reference adaptive control and Liapunov direct method. It is concluded that the adaptive control scheme provides superior tracking capability as compared to fixed-gain controllers.
Response inhibition and everyday memory complaints in older adult women.

SUMMARY Objective To explore the association of executive functions to the everyday memory complaints of healthy older adults. Methods Ninety-nine community-dwelling women aged 60 and above were administered a battery that included neuropsychological tests of executive functions and memory, along with self-report measures of everyday memory complaints, depression, and anxiety. Results Multivariate regression analyses revealed that a measure of response inhibition (Stroop Color-Word) accounted for unique variance in predicting memory complaints above and beyond measures of episodic memory, depression, and anxiety. Depression, however, accounted for the largest variance in memory complaints. Conclusions Higher frequency of everyday memory complaints among older adults was associated with decreased response inhibition independent of episodic memory and affective state. Further research is needed to understand the interrelationships among these and other predictors of everyday memory complaints. Copyright # 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Noise characterization of static CMOS gates

We present new macromodeling techniques for capturing the response of a CMOS logic gate to noise pulses at the input. Two approaches are presented. The first one is a robust mathematical model which enables the hierarchical generation of noise abstracts for circuits composed of the precharacterized cells. The second is a circuit equivalent model which generates accurate noise waveforms for arbitrarily shaped and timed multiple-input glitches, arbitrary loads, and external noise coupling.
Sub-sampling unconsolidated sediments: A solution for the preparation of undistrubed thin-sections from clay‐rich sediments

Using the principles of electro‐osmosis, a sub‐sampling technique for clay-rich sediments is introduced that produces undisturbed thin‐sections from sediment cores. The fragile sample remains in the same disposable box throughout the process, preventing collapse of its structure during sub‐sampling, manipulation and impregnation, as well as other potential problems.
Design and analysis of a fast frequency-hopped DBPSK communication system. I. Error performance in AWGN plus partial-band noise jamming

The purpose of the paper is to present the design and performance analysis of a fast frequency-hopped (FFH) spread spectrum communication system employing differential binary phase-shifted-keying (DBPSK) modulation and differentially coherent demodulation. The receiver utilizes a hop time tracking loop to "lock" the hop clock. The authors present an analysis of the average bit error probability of the overall system when it is operating in additive white Gaussian noise plus partial-band noise jamming. The effect of channel phase distortion is also studied. >
A Theory of Change and a Framework for Analysis

The main point to be taken from the survey in Chapter Two is that we do not understand as much as we could about economic and institutional change in banking in the United States. The theoretical literature in economics and political science attributes reform to economic change that disrupts the political “equilibrium”, which leads to interest group competition and legislative change. Case studies of regulatory change in a variety of industries including banking, attribute the stimulus for interest group competition and legislative reform to a variety of factors including changes in economic and political conditions, technological innovation, policy failure, new ideas, and political entrepreneur ship. However, the precise connection between these factors and the motivation to pursue specific types of institutional change has not been fully developed either theoretically or empirically. While scholarship in institutional political economy emphasizes the role of transaction costs and a broader range of institutional change processes than interest group competition and legislative activity, these theories have not been applied to explain banking reform in the late 20th century in the United States. In short, the linkages between economic change and institutional change have not been fully specified and the role of other governance processes has not been considered.
ANALYSIS OF REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM ONTOGENY AND HOMOLOGY IN NASSARIUS VIBEX (GASTROPODA: BUCCINIDAE: NASSARIINAE)

The post-larval development of the reproductive system in Nassarius vibex was investigated using a histological approach, to establish the sequence of organogenesis and the contribution of different organogenetic components to the adult system. This research is part of a broader investigation with two primary objectives. The first is to provide a detailed analysis of reproductive system development that can be used to re-evaluate existing character sets and generate new characters for reconstructing gastropod phylogenies. The reproductive tract has always been a promising but problematic system to work with in phylogenetic research, because of the uncertain homology of many parts of the system. Most of the reproductive system itself develops during post-larval ontogeny, a phase of gastropod development that has been investigated in very few taxa; thus this line of research has the potential to provide a wealth of new information. The second objective is to establish comparable organogenetic series for representative gastropod taxa that can be used to investigate the significance of heterochronic processes in the evolution of gastropod organ systems. The reproductive system in Nassarius vibex develops very late in ontogeny from two ontogenetic components in the male and three in the female. Development and differentiation of the organ system is not completed until near maturity. In both sexes, ductal components develop first and fuse to form the rudimentary reproductive tract. Gonads and accessory reproductive structures develop after the ductal components are fused, and glandular tissues do not appear until near maturity. The penis does not develop until near maturity. The capsule and albumen glands in this species are broadly conjoined, unlike the situation in other members of Nassarius. The ingesting gland develops between them as a dorsal outgrowth of the glandular lumen.
The common prophylactic therapy for bowel surgery is ineffective for clearing Bacteroidetes, the primary inducers of systemic inflammation, and causes faster death in response to intestinal barrier damage in mice

Introduction and objective The role of secreted gut microbial components in the initiation of systemic inflammation and consequences of antibiotic therapies on this inflammatory process are poorly elucidated. We investigate whether peripheral innate cells mount an inflammatory response to gut microbial components, the immune cells that are the primary drivers of systemic inflammation, the bacterial populations that are predominantly responsible, and whether perioperative antibiotics affect these processes. Method and experimental design Conditioned supernatants from gut microbes were used to stimulate murine innate cell types in vitro and in vivo , and proinflammatory responses were characterised. Effects of antibiotic therapies on these responses were investigated using a model of experimental intestinal barrier damage induced by dextran sodium sulfate. Results Proinflammatory responses in the periphery are generated by components of anaerobes from the Bacteroidetes phylotype and these responses are primarily produced by myeloid dendritic cells. We found that the common prophylactic therapy for sepsis (oral neomycin and metronidazole administered to patients the day prior to surgery) is ineffective for clearing Bacteroidetes from the murine intestine. A point of critical consequence of this result is the increased systemic inflammation and premature death observed in treated mice, and these outcomes appear to be independent of gut bacterial spread in the initial phase of intestinal barrier damage. Importantly, spillage of gut microbial products, rather than dissemination of gut microbes, may underlay the initiation of systemic inflammation leading to death. Conclusions Our data further affirm the importance of a balanced gut microflora biodiversity in host immune homeostasis and reinforce the notion that inadequate antibiotic therapy can have detrimental effects on overall immune system.
General Responses of the Bone Marrow to Injury

Hematologic responses in a toxicologic setting may be quite complex and may involve both local as well as systemic manifestations of toxicity and/or pharmacologic response. Direct toxicity to bone marrow can lead to changes such as marrow necrosis, marrow dysplasia, and macrophage hyperplasia. Some toxic compounds can directly stimulate or suppress the development of 1 or more marrow cell lines. The marrow may also respond to injury at distant sites with increased production of various blood cell elements. Accurate interpretation of hematologic responses generally involves integration of peripheral blood data with bone marrow findings as well as toxicologic findings in other organ systems. This manuscript overviews the various marrow changes encountered in toxicologic studies and provides a perspective of how these changes are best approached from an interpretive viewpoint.
Challenges and issues in health professions education in Africa

The challenges facing health professions education in Africa focus on physical infrastructure, accreditation systems, student selection and faculty recruitment, retention, and development. Higher education in the health professions must be closely aligned with community health needs, and with the training and support of community health workers. A key ingredient in changing institutions in this way is implementation of effective strategies for strengthening the faculty. In addition, information systems, and their prerequisite stable electric power supply, must be supported by internal public resources combined with external aid. These infrastructure investments will facilitate better quality education, improved diffusion of information among schools, and more useful data for self study by institutions.
Legacies of a nationwide crackdown in Zimbabwe: Operation Chikorokoza Chapera in gold mining communities*

Although conflict in Zimbabwe's diamond mining sector has recently received much international scrutiny, very little research has examined conflict in Zimbabwe's gold mining sector. This article analyses how a nationwide crackdown called Operation Chikorokoza Chapera (‘No More Illegal Mining’) affected – and ‘disciplined’ – livelihoods in profound ways in both licensed and unlicensed gold mining regions. Drawing on interviews conducted between 2006 and 2013 with artisanal miners in the Insiza, Umzingwani and Kadoma areas as well as miners who crossed the border to Mozambique, the study reveals how a highly politicised crackdown led to uneven consequences. The analysis highlights both structural and physical violence, with more than 25,000 miners and traders arrested between 2006 and 2009 and more than 9,000 still imprisoned in 2013. Situating the crackdown within evolving political and economic interests, the study contributes to an understanding of how simplified discourses on ‘eradicating illegal mining’ mislead and mask power dynamics, while policing activities transform patterns of resource control. The study also emphasises that conceptualisations of the crackdown's legacy should carefully consider the agency of artisanal miners' associations, which, in some cases, have been actively seeking to resist coercive policies and rebuild livelihoods in the aftermath of Operation Chikorokoza Chapera.