cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Skepticism, Suspension of Judgment, and Norms for Belief

According to Sextus Empiricus, the Skeptic suspends judgment in response to equipollence. This fact has two significant implications. First, the Skeptic has at most indirect control over his suspension of judgment and so does not suspend judgment at will. Second, the skeptic accepts the norm of truth for belief. This is a norm according to which one ought to believe that p only if p is true. However, there are passages in the Outlines of Pyrrhonism that imply the Skeptic accepts the norm of utility for belief. This is a norm according to which one ought to believe that p only if the belief that p promotes one’s tranquility. I first argue that if the Skeptic suspends judgment in response to equipollence, then a pragmatic reason can’t be the reason for which the Skeptic suspends judgment. I then argue that the norms of truth and utility for belief are incompatible just in the sense that the acceptance of the one precludes the acceptance of the other. If Sextus describes the Skeptic as accepting both of these norms for belief, as I argue he does, his conception of Skepticism in the Outlines is not coherent.
Modes of a tilted-mirror optical resonator for the far infrared

In an extension of the work of A. G. Fox and T. Li of Bell Telephone Laboratories, a study was made of the modes of tilted-plane mirrors having enough tilt to use the spillover radiation (at a straight edge) as output coupling. This geometry seems desirable as an oscillator to intercept a molecular beam and extract coherent power in the far infrared. Control of the tilt angle provides variable Q . Amplitude and phase of the output are smooth enough to use cylindrical optics for focusing or collimating the output. The three lowest-order two-dimensional modes were studied which, under reasonable conditions, are determined by a single parameter. It is \beta = \alpha(b/\lambda)^{1/2} , where α = mirror tilt, b = mirror separation, and λ = wavelength. The lowest mode (TEM 0 ) has loss per pass that increases almost linearly from 3 percent at \beta = 10^{-2} to 37 percent at \beta = 10^{-1} . The output appears to diverge from a virtual source about 3b behind the spillover edge of the shorter mirror. The virtual source of the lowest mode is displaced (0.7 to 1.1)( \lambda b)^{1/2} inward from the spillover edge. The mathematical problem proved to be an interesting exercise in devising ways to isolate an eigenfunction of an integral operator when the eigenvalues are nearly equal.
White House nominates nuclear commissioner

Just 3 days after U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission chairman Gregory Jaczko announced his intention to resign (Eos, 93(22), 211, doi:10.1029/2012EO220005, 2012), President Barack Obama nominated Allison Macfarlane to serve out the remainder of Jaczko's term, through June 2013. The White House announced that upon her appointment, Macfarlane would be designated as chair of the commission. Macfarlane is an associate professor of environmental science and policy at George Mason University. A member of the Blue Ribbon Commission on America's Nuclear Future from March 2010 to January 2012, she is also the author of the 2006 book Uncertainty Underground: Yucca Mountain and the Nation's High-Level Nuclear Waste and is an AGU member.
Oxidation numbers in the study of metabolism

The calculation and use of oxidation numbers in the study of metabolic reactions are discussed for normal oxidations (alcohol dehydrogenase and the NAD+/NADH couple, propanediol dehydratase) and for enzymatic reactions with a “hidden” redox component (transamination, the coupled conversion of ethylamine to ethanol, and the biomethylation of arsenic and selenium).
Political Inclusion of Latino Immigrants Becoming a Citizen and Political Participation

Does becoming a citizen represent a major step toward the inclusion of Latino immigrants in the American polity? I study this question by comparing the behavior of immigrants who have acquired citi...
On the performance of object clustering techniques

We investigate the performance of some of the best-known object clustering algorithms on four different workloads based upon the tektronix benchmark. For all four workloads, stochastic clustering gave the best performance for a variety of performance metrics. Since stochastic clustering is computationally expensive, it is interesting that for every workload there was at least one cheaper clustering algorithm that matched or almost matched stochastic clustering. Unfortunately, for each workload, the algorithm that approximated stochastic clustering was different. Our experiments also demonstrated that even when the workload and object graph are fixed, the choice of the clustering algorithm depends upon the goals of the system. For example, if the goal is to perform well on traversals of small portions of the database starting with a cold cache, the important metric is the per-traversal expansion factor, and a well-chosen placement tree will be nearly optimal; if the goal is to achieve a high steady-state performance with a reasonably large cache, the appropriate metric is the number of pages to which the clustering algorithm maps the active portion of the database. For this metric, the PRP clustering algorithm, which only uses access probabilities achieves nearly optimal performance.
Estimation of larval dry weight of Chaoborus americanus

A method for estimating larval dry weight as a function of tracheal front air sac length and instar was developed for second, third, and fourth instar Chaoborus americanus using linear regression analysis. The following equation: $$W^{0.5} = (L - a)/b,$$ where W = larval dry weight (µg), L = front air sac length (mm), a = the y-intercept, and b = the slope provided accurate estimates of larval dry weight for three C. americanus populations. No detectable change in size occurred in the air sacs of larvae preserved for one year in 5% formalin. This indicates that air sacs can be used to accurately estimate larval dry weight for preserved as well as living specimens.
Electromagnetic models for exploiting multi-path propagation in through-wall radar imaging

Through-wall radar imaging may be greatly enhanced by exploiting the multi-path propagation associated with walls, floors, ceilings and periodic structures. This paper describes electromagnetic models for such mechanisms, and presents imaging functions that incorporate these models. The resulting image provides super-resolution like quality.
Preparing Hispanic Students for the Real World: Benefits of Problem-Based Service Learning Projects

Student learning is enriched by problem-based service learning (PBSL) projects. For Hispanic students, the learning that takes place in PBSL projects may be even more significant, although the research published in academic journals about client-based projects for Hispanic students is limited. This article begins to advance an understanding of how PBSL projects can enhance the learning of Hispanic students. Data were gathered from 5 business courses and approximately 127 students, predominantly Hispanic, who served as consultants for various business organizations.
A Virtual Model for Aluminum Hot Forging Using an Artificial Neural Network Material Model Within Finite Element Analysis

The accuracy of a finite element model for design and analysis of a metal forging operation is limited by the incorporated material model’s ability to predict deformation behavior over a wide range of operating conditions. Current rheological models prove deficient in several respects due to the difficulty in establishing complicated relations between many parameters. More recently, artificial neural networks (ANN) have been suggested as an effective means to overcome these difficulties. In the present work, a previously developed ANN with the ability to determine flow stresses based on strain, strain rate, and temperature is incorporated with finite element code. Utilizing this linked approach, a preliminary model for forging an aluminum wheel is developed. This novel method, along with a conventional approach, is then measured against the forging process as it is currently performed in actual production.
Olfactory habituation: Fresh insights from flies

Habituation, the reduction in an animal's response to the repeated occurrence of an unchanging stimulus, is generally regarded as the simplest form of learning (1). Moreover, it is ubiquitous: every animal with a nervous system seems to possess the capacity for habituation (2). Given these facts, one might expect that habituation would be fairly well understood by modern neurobiologists. In reality, however, our understanding of the cellular mechanisms that underlie habituation is meager at best (3). That habituation remains so poorly grasped, neurobiologically, more than 100 years after the initial scientific accounts of this basic behavioral phenomenon (2) is—or should be—a matter of significant embarrassment for the field of learning and memory. However, two articles in PNAS by Ramaswami and colleagues (4, 5) go some way toward easing the embarrassment. They contain important insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of olfactory habituation in Drosophila, insights likely to generalize to other forms of habituation in other species, including mammalian species.
Wound-inducible proteinase inhibitors in pepper. Differential regulation upon wounding, systemin, and methyl jasmonate

Seven small (approximately 6,000 D) wound-inducible proteinase inhibitor proteins were isolated from leaves of pepper (Capsicum annuum) plants that are members of the potato inhibitor II family. N-terminal sequences obtained indicated that the pepper leaf proteinase inhibitors (PLPIs) exhibit homology to two GenBank accessions that code for preproteins containing three isoinhibitors domains each that, when post-translationally processed, can account for the mixture of isoinhibitors that are reported herein from pepper leaves. A constitutive level of PLPI proteins was found in pepper leaves, and these levels increased up to 2.6-fold upon wounding of the lower leaves. Exposing intact plants to methyl jasmonate vapors induced the accumulation of PLPIs. Supplying excised young pepper plants with water through the cut stems induced PLPI proteins to levels higher than those found in intact plants, but with high variability. Supplying the excised plants with systemin did not result in an increase of PLPI levels that were statistically higher than levels found in excised plants. Gel-blot analyses of PLPI induction revealed the presence of two mRNA bands, having slightly different mobilities in agarose gels. Only the low M(r) mRNA is present in untreated control plants, and it appears to be responsible for the constitutive levels of PLPI found in leaves. Both mRNA species are wound- and methyl jasmonate-inducible. Only the low- M(r) species is weakly induced by systemin, indicating a differential expression of the two PLPI species.
Fan loyalty and stadium funding in professional baseball.

This article reexamines the demand for baseball and provides estimates of fan loyalty for U.S.-based professional baseball teams using techniques developed in the stochastic frontier literature. Fa...
Modulation of A beta adhesiveness and secretase site cleavage by zinc.

Abstract Abnormalities of zinc homeostasis occur in Alzheimer's disease (AD), a dementia characterized by the aggregation of A beta in the brain, and in Down syndrome, a condition characterized by premature AD. We studied the binding of Zn2+ to a synthetic peptide representing residues 1-40 (A beta 1-40), as well as other domains of A beta. Two classes of Zn2+ binding were identified by 65Zn2+ labeling: highly specific pH-dependent high affinity (K(a) = 107 nM) binding, and lower affinity (K(a) = 5.2 microM) binding. Gel filtration chromatography identified monomeric, dimeric, and polymeric A beta species. Zinc induced a marked loss of A beta solubility upon chromatographic analysis. This was attributed to precipitation onto the column glass, which contains aluminosilicate, and was confirmed by the observation of zinc-accelerated precipitation of A beta by kaolin, a hydrated aluminum silicate suspension. Zinc binding also increased A beta resistance to tryptic cleavage at the secretase site, indicating that a small (<3 microM) increase in brain Zn2+ concentration could significantly alter A beta metabolism. We propose that elevated brain interstitial zinc levels may increase A beta adhesiveness and interfere with A beta catabolism. Consequently, abnormalities of regional zinc concentrations in the brains of patients with AD or Down syndrome may contribute to A beta amyloidosis in these disorders.
A system for automatic Chinese seal imprint verification

Chinese seal imprint verification by computer is very difficult, but is much needed by the application. An improved method for seal imprint verification based on stroke edge matching combined with image difference analysis is proposed. Experimental results show that the proposed approach is excellent in consistency, reliability and adaptability and is feasible for practical applications.
Stay or Leave? Externalization of Job Mobility and the Effect on the U.S. Gender Earnings Gap, 1979-2009

As jobs in the United States become less secure and traditional job ladders deteriorate, employees increasingly change employers to build their career. This article explores how this shift affects gender earnings disparities. I find that the effect of changing employers depends on whether changes occur in “good” or “bad” jobs and whether individuals leave voluntarily or involuntarily. Using the Panel Study of Income Dynamics 1979–2009, gender disparities narrowed among voluntary leavers in good jobs and involuntary leavers in bad jobs. Disparities stagnated among voluntary leavers in bad jobs. The gender gap actually increased among involuntary leavers in good jobs. Although the causal mechanisms driving these trends are still unknown, the results indicate that the externalization opens opportunities primarily to those who are already in good positions.
TGF‐β regulation of human macrophage scavenger receptor CD163 is Smad3‐dependent

Tight regulation of the inflammatory response is essential for the maintenance of physiologic homeostasis. A potentially important mediator of this process is CD163, a macrophage-specific member of the scavenger receptor cysteine-rich family. CD163 surface expression is up-regulated by glucocorticoids and the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10, and CD163 is shed acutely from the cell surface in response to lipopolysaccharide. We now demonstrate that transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) markedly reduces expression of CD163. Treatment of primary human monocytes with TGF-beta inhibited basal as well as dexamethasone-induced CD163 mRNA and protein expression. De novo protein synthesis was not required for this inhibition, suggesting that TGF-beta regulates CD163 expression transcriptionally. To delineate this transcriptional regulation, a 2.5-kb fragment of the CD163 promoter was isolated. This promoter was inhibited by TGF-beta, and suppression was dependent on Smad3 expression. These results define a novel function for TGF-beta and implicate an important role for CD163 in the host response to inflammation.
Work in Progress: Building Capacity for Research-Based Adaptation of Educational Innovation

This paper reports on a novel and strategic approach to building across a college faculty the capacity to participate in high quality evaluative research on teaching innovation. There are many factors pointing to acceleration of opportunities for innovation - and the need to develop systematic means for engaging disciplinary faculty in testing and adapting promising innovations. The paper reports on ways to instantiate what is referred to by NSF and others at the Cycle of Innovation. Our approach is to develop a "turnkey toolkit" by which research-based innovations are organized for cycle of innovation testing by faculty. The toolkit for each innovation is designed to give time-pressed faculty the means to undertake high quality adaptation research. A toolkit includes the materials needed for implementation; IRB guidance, a summary of relevant theoretical frameworks, active research questions and ongoing findings; and methodological and data collection templates for testing the innovation.
Formation and dynamics of a hot zone in radial flow reactor

An infrared camera was used to study the formation and dynamics of hot zones normal to the flow direction on the surface of a radial-flow reactor, placed horizontally, inside a vessel. The test reaction - the atmospheric oxidation of carbon monoxide - exhibited steady-state multiplicity. Slow cooling of the vessel caused a shift from a fully-ignited state to one with a hot zone in the center of the reactor bounded by cold zones at both reactor ends. The hot zone was separated by sharp temperature fronts from the adjacent cold zones. It shrank upon further cooling of the vessel and eventually extinguished. In certain cases, two stable states existed for the same operating conditions with qualitatively different hot zones and reaction rates. A slow back-and-forth motion of the temperature fronts (breathing) caused complex oscillations in the overall reaction rate. The dynamic features of the two fronts were different in some cases due to nonuniform catalytic activity and inefficient thermal dispersion. The amplitude and frequency of the temperature breathing motion increased upon cooling of the vessel containing the reactor. Experiments suggest that transversal hot zones are likely to form in packed-bed reactors close to the extinction temperature.
Demonstrating Scientific Reasoning.

A game called Black Box is a useful tool for introducing various features of scientific reasoning to introductory research methods classes. The rules of the game are straightforward and it uses little time, thus allowing a real-time demonstration of processes such as induction and deduction. Instructors can also make other analogies between aspects of the game and various concepts commonly mentioned in discussions of scientific reasoning, such as serendipity or falsification.
Phase-locking, quasiperiodicity and chaos in periodically driven noisy neuronal models: a spectral approach

In auditory experiments neurons are often driven by periodic or periodically modulated inputs. The response of the neurons is often periodic and phase-locked to the stimulus. However, this is not always the case. It is well-known that even simple deterministic models can exhibit quasiperiodic behavior, with no clear relationship between the phases of the stimulus and response. Moreover, the biological situation is further complicated by presence of noise in the periodic inputs and intrinsic cellular properties, e.g. firing rate adaptation. We develop analytical tools for detection of parameter regimes corresponding to different locking behaviors in more detailed stochastic biophysical models, so that these regimes can be avoided or chosen as necessary. In an effort to develop a mathematical theory applicable to the above biologically-motivated project on phase-locking and related phenomena, we have developed a spectral approach to stochastic circle maps. A stochastic circle map is defined as a Markov chain on the circle. This abstract class of objects includes a wide range of models for firing times of periodically forced noisy neuronal models. We define and analyze some dynamic properties of the system such as stochastic phase locking and stochastic bifurcation cascades. The main tool is analysis of the spectrum and eigenspaces of the transition operator of the Markov chain. We relate the dynamics of the stochastic system to those of a few identifiable finite state deterministic dynamical systems, the dynamics of which can in turn be deduced from the spectral properties of the corresponding matrices. We also show that the firing regime of the stochastic system can be determined by the shape of its eigenvalue “cloud.”
Pre-computing Function Results in Multi-Core and Many-Core Processors

In recent years, the number of hardware supported threads in desktop processors has increased dramatically. All but the very lowest cost net books and embedded processors now have at least dual cores and soon systems supporting upwards of 8 to 16 hardware threads are likely to be commonplace. Unfortunately, it will be difficult to take full advantage of the parallelism emerging processors will be able to provide. To help address this issue, we are investigating mechanisms to pre-compute function results in separate threads running concurrently with the main program thread. The concurrent threads are forked automatically and without program modification. A critical component for the success of this idea is an ability to build a background thread that can pre-compute usable results in some effective manner. For some support functions (dynamic memory) exact arguments predictions for the function pre-computation are not necessary, for others (trigonometric functions) they are. In work with dynamic memory, we are able to pre-compute memory blocks and show modest speedup: saving approximately 25\% of the dynamic memory costs. In studies with predicting argument values to trigonometric functions, we show that learning algorithms are able to successfully predict the next argument values approximately 44\% of the time.
Online learning in management education: an empirical study of the role of personality traits

In this study we seek to better understand the outcomes of online education by observing the role of learners’ personality traits. Under the premise that the behaviors that maximize learning are contingent on the delivery method, we compared learning outcomes of students participating in four sections of an undergraduate principles of management course—three sections were taught using the online approach and one section was taught using the classroom teaching approach (N = 132). Following a multi-group quasi-experimental design, we controlled for differences in teaching delivery styles between the online and traditional classes. Then, we utilized students’ personalities as the key independent variable of learning across classes. Our results corroborate that personality is an independent variable worthy of consideration in online settings. Results also suggest that future research in these settings benefits from considering narrow descriptions of personality as opposed to traditional broad traits (e.g., the big-five model). Specifically, we argue that online education demands a particular set of behavioral patterns (i.e., low gregariousness, achievement orientation) necessary to navigate the idiosyncrasies of online education (e.g., social isolation, schedule flexibility). We discuss the theoretical implications of our results in the context of online education and offer practical suggestions for online teaching design.
Undersensing as a consequence of lead incompatibility: case report and a plea for universality.

Implantation of a single chamber bipolar pulse generator was complicated by transient Joss of ventricular sensing, caused by mechanical damage to the unipolar lead connected to the system. A perforation of the insulating sheath was found at the site of the proximal connector block, and undersen-sing resolved after restoring its integrity with silicone adhesive. The ability to attach an unprotected univocal lead to a bipolar connector, shared by the Voluntary (VS-1) and International (IS-1) designs, invites the possibility of injury to the insulating sheath by accidental tightening of the proximal screw. There is thus an urgent need for the development and universal adoption of a robust interface standard in lead connector design.
Customer Acquisition among Small and Informal Businesses in Urban India: Comparing Face-to-face and Mediated Channels

This study further explores the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in small and informal businesses in the developing world by focusing on the role of ICTs in customer acquisition and retention. Data is drawn from a survey of 317 sole proprietors and operators of small businesses with five or fewer employees in and around urban Hyderabad in Southern India. Respondents describe how various customers were acquired—via walk-in, referral, family connections, landline telephone, mobile phone, internet/email, etc. Results suggest that face-to-face interactions dominate customer interactions, even among those with access to ICTs. Four tests explore whether telephony enables more specialized, hands-off, numerous or distant relationships with customers; a significant relationship between landline ownership and total number of customers is found.
Safety and efficacy of oral calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3) for the treatment of psoriasis.

Summary plaque-type psoriasis has been successfully treated with oral calcitriol. but there has been no long-term follow-up on the safety and efficacy of this calciotropic hormone for psoriasis. In a single centre study, patients were enrolled in an open trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral calcitriol for psoriasis. Of the 85 patients who received oral calcitriol, 88.0% had some improvement in their disease: 26.5, 36.2 and 25.3%. had complete, moderate and slight improvement in their disease. respectively. The mean baseline psoriasis area severity index score (PASI) of 18 4 ± 1.0 was reduced to 9.7 ±0.8 and 7.8±1.3 after 6 and 24 months on oral calcitriol therapy. Serum calcium concentrations and 24 h urinary calcium excretion increased by 3.9% and 148.2%, respectively. but were not outside the normal range. Bone mineral density remained unchanged. The clearance of creatinine decreased by 13 4% from baseline during the first 6 months of treatment, and thereafter. remained unchanged after 3 years of follow up. An evaluation of creatinine, inulin and para-aminohypurate (PAH) clearance was performed in eight patients. After 6 months on oral calcitriol. there was a 22.5% decline in creatinine clearance but no significant changes were observed in either inulin or PAH clearance, suggesting that calcitriol alters creatinine metabolism or secretion hut does not affect renal function. Oral calcitriol is effective and safe for the treatment of psoriasis.
Using Games To Increase Active Learning

This paper will identify and describe two learning games that have been effectively used to spark interest and enthusiasm and to increase active learning in undergraduate business courses. Many current undergraduate college students have grown up with TV game shows, interactive video games, and the Internet as forms of entertainment and education. In comparison to these fast-paced, interactive mediums, a traditional lecture class can seem dull. The use of in-class games is one way to increase student engagement with the class and relevant material.
Erfolgsfaktoren im Rahmen von großen IT-Veränderungsprozessen

Die Zeiten, in der ein Versicherungsunternehmen nur den Marktfuhrer nachahmen musste, um erfolgreich zu sein, sind seit der Jahrtausendwende endgultig vorbei. Auch die blose Kostenorientierung, die zu Beginn dieses Jahrzehnts die Diskussionen von Versicherern pragte, ist kaum noch anzutreffen. Echte Vorteile beim Kampf um Neugeschaft und Marktanteile sind nur noch mit originaren Unternehmensstrategien und dem entsprechendem Agieren auf den Markten zu erreichen. Dazu kommt, dass die gesamte Branche, neben dem aktuellen und primar finanzmarktkrisenbedingten Ertragsproblem, ein grundlegendes Problem in Hinblick auf das Wachstum hat. Seit Jahren krankt das Neugeschaft, und die Prognosen fur die nachsten Jahre fallen nicht optimistischer aus. Und selbst da, wo noch Wachstum
Conformational Chaperones for Structural Studies of Membrane Proteins Using Antibody Phage Display with Nanodiscs

A major challenge in membrane biophysics is to define the mechanistic linkages between a protein's conformational transitions and its function. We describe a novel approach to stabilize transient functional states of membrane proteins in native-like lipid environments allowing for their structural and biochemical characterization. This is accomplished by combining the power of antibody Fab-based phage display selection with the benefits of embedding membrane protein targets in lipid-filled nanodiscs. In addition to providing a stabilizing lipid environment, nanodiscs afford significant technical advantages over detergent-based formats. This enables the production of a rich pool of high-performance Fab binders that can be used as crystallization chaperones, as fiducial markers for single-particle cryoelectron microscopy, and as probes of different conformational states. Moreover, nanodisc-generated Fabs can be used to identify detergents that best mimic native membrane environments for use in biophysical studies.
Multiplexed Photoionization Mass Spectrometry Investigation of the O(3P) + Propyne Reaction

The reaction of O(3P) + propyne (C3H4) was investigated at 298 K and 4 Torr using time-resolved multiplexed photoionization mass spectrometry and a synchrotron-generated tunable vacuum ultraviolet light source. The time-resolved mass spectra of the observed products suggest five major channels under our conditions: C2H3 + HCO, CH3 + HCCO, H + CH3CCO, C2H4 + CO, and C2H2 + H2 + CO. The relative branching ratios for these channels were found to be 1.00, (0.35 ± 0.11), (0.18 ± 0.10), (0.73 ± 0.27), and (1.31 ± 0.62). In addition, we observed signals consistent with minor production of C3H3 + OH and H2 + CH2CCO, although we cannot conclusively assign them as direct product channels from O(3P) + propyne. The direct abstraction mechanism plays only a minor role (≤1%), and we estimate that O(3P) addition to the central carbon of propyne accounts for 10% of products, with addition to the terminal carbon accounting for the remaining 89%. The isotopologues observed in experiments using d1-propyne (CH3CCD) and analy...
The Use of Routine and Selective Intraoperative Cholangiography

The use of routine versus selective intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis or other calculous disease is controversial. Proponents argue that IOC identifies aberrant biliary anatomy, prevents common bile duct injury (CBDI), which is a devastating and costly complication, and prevents retained common bile duct stones that may later become symptomatic. Opponents argue that interpretation of cholangiograms is inaccurate thus limiting the utility of IOCs and that evidence has failed to definitively conclude that IOC prevents complications of either CBDI or retained common bile duct stones. Furthermore, IOC requires hospital resources and surgeon expertise, may not be cost-effective, and has its own risks of associated complications. As newer modalities emerge for identifying biliary anatomy and for detecting common bile duct stones intraoperatively such as fluorescence cholangiography, the controversy over routine versus selective IOC may become obsolete. Given the current evidence, however, there still remains a choice of whether or not to perform routine IOC, and that choice depends upon surgeon experience, complexity of cases, and local resources.
Pediatric Abdominal Organ Transplantation: Current Indications, Techniques, and Imaging Findings

In the past decade, with improved surgical technique and knowledge of immunosuppression, pediatric lung and heart transplantation have been established as viable therapeutic interventions for pediatric patients with end-stage cardiopulmonary disease from various underlying congenital and acquired disorders. Although outcomes for pediatric patients are similar to those for adult patients, thoracic organ transplantation in this special age group carries unique challenges for preoperative and postoperative imaging evaluation. The article provides an up-to-date review of the postoperative transplant anatomy, imaging techniques, and complications of pediatric lung and heart transplantation.
Fusobacterium nucleatum Osteomyelitis of the Femur in a Patient with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia: A Case Report.

Case: Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome, is an often overlooked cause of orthopaedic-related infections despite a well-accepted association in the literature. We present the case of a forty-seven-year-old man with HHT who developed femoral osteomyelitis and a subsequent pathologic femoral fracture from a rare bacterial species associated with HHT. Conclusion: Patients with HHT and extremity pain should be carefully evaluated for orthopaedic infections. If an orthopaedic infection is suspected, fastidious organisms should be considered as a possible etiologic agent. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is helpful when organisms cannot be isolated from traditional culture media.
Lateral Eye Movement, Handedness and Sex:

Since Day ( 3 ) first described lateral eye movement, i.e., the lateral movement of the eyes in response to reflective questions, investigators (1, 2, 9 ) have reported differences in the cognitive abilities of consistent right and left movers which were in general agreement with the differences in ability associated with the functions of the left and right cerebral hemispheres (5, 7, 8 ) . Assuming the validity of the aforementioned relationship, it is surprising to note that both Bakan ( 1 ) and Ecaugh (4 ) reported that direction of lateral eye movement and handedness were unrelated. Further, apparently no one has reported a relationship between direction of lateral eye movemenr and sex. Since both handedness ( 5 ) and sex ( 6 ) have been associated with patterns of abilities that seem to be related to differential functioning of the cerebral hemispheres, it was thought that the relationships between direction of la:eral eye movement and both handedness and sex should be investigated. The subjects were 23 female and 15 male undergraduates, of which 21 considered themselves right-handed and 17 left-handed. Using Bakan's ( 1 ) criteria, 16 of these subjects showed strong right lateral eye movement and 22 showed strong left movement. Significant associations were found between direction of movemenr and both handedness and sex. Specifically 16 of 22 left-movers were right-handed and 1 1 of 16 right-movers were left-handed ( x a = 6.45, p < .025, Phi = .412). In addition, 10 of 16 right-movers were male and 17 of 22 left-movers were female ( X 2 = 6.13, p < .025, Phi = ,402). These findings should be interpreted as identifying variables which require attention in future research on lateral eye movements. If these data are supported, then perhaps previous relationships reported between lateral eye movements and patterns of ability should be reevaluated since these results may be confounded by handedness and/or sex.
Fuzzy Expert System for Condition Assessment of Overhead Transmission Line Icing

Icing and snowing on overhead transmission lines in extremely cold climatic events is an enormous threat to the stability and safety of power system.To analyze the potential for damage to transmission line and tower as a result of icing events,we proposed a fuzzy expert system for condition assessment of overhead transmission line icing and snowing with characteristics of fuzziness and indefiniteness.According to the characteristic quantities for condition assessment,3 kinds of models,namely,the static mechanical load assessment model,the external insulation assessment model,and the conductor galloping assessment model,were established.And the condition assessment knowledge base corresponding to each assessment model was built based on test result,field data and expert knowledge.Furthermore,field data from China Southern Power Grid on-line monitoring and precaution system were used to test the effectiveness of the proposed fuzzy expert system.Test results reveal that the proposed fuzzy expert system is able to provide the most of monitoring data and the assessment result is reasonable,providing a good approach to evaluate the icing condition levels of overhead transmission lines.
Inspection and Adjustment of Steam and Water Pipe Support & Hanger in Thermal Power Plant

Steam and water pipe support hanger failure can cause the pipeline damage in thermal power plant,and also has passive influence on the safe operation of units.This article introduces the static-dynamic load and accidental load on pipe support hanger, check method for primary and secondary stress acted on the pipe support hanger as well as its typical failure mode,and thus to give the adjustment thinking so as to solve practical problems.
Nontraumatic Subclavian Artery Abnormalities: Spectrum of MDCT Findings.

OBJECTIVE. The subclavian arteries (SCAs) may exhibit a wide spectrum of nontraumatic pathologic conditions ranging from common diseases, such as atherosclerosis, to vascular emergencies that are associated with a high morbidity and high mortality, such as type A aortic dissection and acute arterial thrombosis. MDCT angiography is an excellent modality to diagnose pathologic conditions of the SCAs. CONCLUSION. Optimization of CT acquisition protocols and interactive interpretation with 2D multiplanar reformatting and 3D rendering techniques are critical for diagnostic accuracy.
How Much Should Respondents be Told about the Information Being Sought from them

This exploratory study was designed to test the influence of informed consent versus free consent, upon respondent’s information. One group of undergraduate students (110) received a questionnaire with full disclosure as to the information sought while another group of students (108) received the same questionnaire with nondisclosure of the information sought. Both groups were basically similar on demographic characteristics collected. Suprisingly, there were no significant differences (at or less than the .05 level) for any of the interpersonal orientation characteristics collected between the two groups. The tentative conclusion to be drawn until additional research is done on other marketing topics is that researchers may be able to fully inform respondents about the nature of the study without endangering the accuracy of the information sought.
Primary obesity surgery endoluminal.

Introduction Primary obesity surgery, endoluminal (POSE) is a promising procedure for weight loss surgery because it is outpatient, is incisionless and has short recovery time. We demonstrate the POSE procedure as a potential option for the bariatric patient.
Nerve Injuries of the Neck

Abstract Peripheral nerve injuries of the neck account for a large portion of all peripheral nerve injuries. The most common cause is iatrogenic injury during surgical procedures. The most frequently injured nerves are the accessory and recurrent laryngeal nerves, but all nerves of the neck are at risk. The syndromes associated with nerve injury in the neck can be debilitating. Most injuries are neuropraxic and will recover spontaneously with conservative treatment. Multiple treatment options exist for patients with severe, permanent peripheral nerve injuries in the neck including reanastomosis and reinnervation procedures. A complete and thorough knowledge of surgical anatomy is necessary to minimize the risk to patients during surgery of the neck.
Quantitative Methodology for Studying Families

Many characteristics shape the research methods of family scholars. First, families have a shared past and future (Copeland and White, 1991). Other fields study groups that have history, but few areas involve a history that is so persistently salient to everyday decisions. Second, families are both sacred and profane. The reverence we have for families challenges researchers who seek to objectify and measure them, while also recognizing the levels of violence, dishonesty, and abuse in families that expressions like “dirty linen” fail to capture. Being both sacred and profane introduces a level of privacy that is difficult to unravel.
CHAPTER 232 – Ras and Cancer

It has been 20 years since H-ras mutations were identified in DNA from the bladder cancer cell line T-24. Since this seminal observation, rates of mutation in H-ras, N-ras, and K-ras have been measured in most types of human cancers. The clonal nature of these mutations in tumors strongly suggests a causal role, a suggestion that has been amply verified by mouse models of Ras-induced cancer. A striking result of this comprehensive survey is the considerable variation in frequency in Ras mutation between different types of cancer. In pancreatic carcinoma, K-ras is activated by point mutation in almost every case, whereas Ras mutations are hardly ever detected in mammary carcinomas, to cite two extreme examples. The biological or molecular basis of these observations is not yet understood. One interpretation is that alternative mechanisms of activating the Ras pathway (receptor amplification, activation of downstream pathways) also occur at varying frequencies. Another interpretation is that different types of cancer vary in their dependence on the Ras pathway.
Cytologic features of cutaneous follicular tumors and cysts in dogs.

Background Follicular tumors and cysts are common skin lesions in dogs. Both are distinguished based on their cellular origin (matrical, isthmus, or infundibular cells) and the type of keratin they produce. Typically, differentiation requires histopathology, as all these lesions often have similar cytologic features. Objectives The goal of this retrospective study was to identify unique cytologic features that may assist differentiation of canine benign follicular tumors and cysts at cytology, using histopathology as gold standard. Methods Electronic medical records of the University of California-Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital were searched for diagnoses of follicular tumors and cysts in dogs that had both histopathologic and cytologic diagnoses between January 2000 and December 2013. Cytologic specimens were reassessed in a blinded manner for the presence and type of background, cells, noncellular elements, and inflammation. Results Forty-six samples were included in the study. Follicular cysts (n = 25) and infundibular keratinizing acanthomas (n = 5) contained sheets of keratinized anucleate to nucleated squamous cells. Trichoepitheliomas (n = 8) had 2 primary cytologic presentations: those with primarily basaloid cells that appeared to be undergoing keratinization (3/8; 38%) and those with keratinizing anucleate to nucleated squamous cells (5/8; 63%). Trichoblastomas (n = 8) had pink matrix with spindle cells and contained cohesive clusters of basaloid cells. Conclusion Trichoblastomas, and to a lesser extent, trichoepitheliomas, have unique cytologic features with the potential to distinguish them from other benign follicular tumors and cysts. These results are an important first step toward improving the diagnostic specificity of cytologic examination of cutaneous follicular lesions.
The Geography of Malnutrition

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of an emerging theme within the subfield of nutritional geography we call the geography of malnutrition. Work relating to malnutrition is a high-priority research topic, with growing relevance to geographical concepts, but there is no overview of geographical approaches to this theme. Using keyword searches in Google Scholar and Web of Science to obtain relevant publications, we identified the major foci of work within this theme: undernutrition, diseases that cause malnutrition, the nutrition transition, and critical and feminist approaches to malnutrition. We review these foci, provide examples of prominent work, and identify areas of research concerning malnutrition that are highly spatial but have yet to be effectively studied using geographic techniques.
Current practices and safety of medication use during rapid sequence intubation.

Abstract Purpose Characterize medication practices during and immediately after rapid sequence intubation (RSI) by provider/location and evaluate adverse drug events. Materials and methods This was a multicenter, observational, cross-sectional study of adult and pediatric intensive care unit and emergency department patients over a 24-h period surrounding first intubation. Results A total of 404 patients from 34 geographically diverse institutions were included (mean age 58 ± 22 years, males 59%, pediatric 8%). During RSI, 21%, 87%, and 77% received pre-induction, induction, and paralysis, respectively. Significant differences in medication use by provider type were seen. Etomidate was administered to 58% with sepsis, but was not associated with adrenal insufficiency. Ketamine was associated with hypotension post-RSI [RR = 1.78 (1.36–2.35)] and use was low with traumatic brain injury/stroke (1.5%). Succinylcholine was given to 67% of patients with baseline bradycardia and was significantly associated with bradycardia post-RSI [RR = 1.81 (1.11–2.94)]. An additional 13% given succinylcholine had contraindications. Sedation practices post-RSI were not consistent with current practice guidelines and most receiving a non-depolarizing paralytic did not receive adequate sedation post-RSI. Conclusions Medication practices during RSI vary amongst provider and medications are often used inappropriately. There is opportunity for optimization of medication use during RSI.
Independent voluntary correction and savings in locomotor learning.

ABSTRACT Humans can acquire new walking patterns in many different ways. For example, we can change our gait voluntarily in response to instruction or adapt by sensing our movement errors. Here, we investigated how acquisition of a new walking pattern through simultaneous voluntary correction and adaptive learning affected the resulting motor memory of the learned pattern. We studied adaptation to split-belt treadmill walking with and without visual feedback of stepping patterns. As expected, visual feedback enabled faster acquisition of the new walking pattern. However, upon later re-exposure to the same split-belt perturbation, participants exhibited similar motor memories whether they had learned with or without visual feedback. Participants who received feedback did not re-engage the mechanism used to accelerate initial acquisition of the new walking pattern to similarly accelerate subsequent relearning. These findings reveal that voluntary correction neither benefits nor interferes with the ability to save a new walking pattern over time.
Physalaemin-Like Immunoreactivity from Human Lung Small Cell Carcinoma: Isocratic Reversed-Phase HPLC Analysis of the Chemically Modified Peptide

The metastatic human lung tumor, small cell carcinoma (SCC), exhibits ectopic (inappropriate) synthesis of numerous peptide hormones, such as ACTH, [Arg8]-vasopressin, hCGβ, calcitonin, oxytocin, prolactin, and growth hormone (Rees et al. 1974; Rees 1976; Baylin and Mendelsohn 1980). Furthermore, tumors resected from patients (Wood et al. 1981), or passaged in nude (athymic) mice (Erisman et al. 1982), or cultured into numerous cell lines (Moody et al. 1981, 1983 a, b; Sorenson et al. 1982) were found to contain immunoreactivity to the amphibian peptide bombesin and more recently to physalaemin (Erisman et al. 1982; Lazarus et al. 1983), which is the prototype of the tachykinin family of peptides discovered by Erspamer et al. (1964). The presence of immunoreactivity to bombesin was detected in human fetal and neonatal lungs (Wharton et al. 1978) and in the lungs of children (Cutz et al. 1981; Track and Cutz 1982) and appears to be associated with a mammalian form of bombesin similar to porcine gastrin-releasing peptide, a 27 amino acid residue peptide (Iwanago 1983; Price et al. 1983; Tsutsumi et al. 1983). On the other hand, the physalaemin-like immunoreactive material (PLIM), initially discovered in the gastrointestinal tract (Lazarus and DiAugustine 1980; Lazarus et al. 1980), was also present in neuronal (Lazarus et al. 1980) and pulmonary tissue from diverse mammlian species (Lazarus et al. 1982). Further studies showed however, that PLIM differed from the amphibian peptide (Lazarus et al. 1982) and the purified immunoreactive material was in fact an octapeptide with homology to the N-terminal region of physalaemin (Wilson et al. 1984).