cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Robust Semisupervised Deep Generative Model Under Compound Noise

Semisupervised learning has been widely applied to deep generative model such as variational autoencoder. However, there are still limited work in noise-robust semisupervised deep generative model where the noise exists in both of the data and the labels simultaneously, which are referred to as outliers and noisy labels or compound noise. In this article, we propose a novel noise-robust semisupervised deep generative model by jointly tackling the noisy labels and outliers in a unified robust semisupervised variational autoencoder randomized generative adversarial network (URSVAE-GAN). Typically, we consider the uncertainty of the information of the input data in order to enhance the robustness of the variational encoder toward the noisy data in our unified robust semisupervised variational autoencoder (URSVAE). Subsequently, in order to alleviate the detrimental effects of noisy labels, a denoising layer is integrated naturally into the semisupervised variational autoencoder so that the variational inference is conditioned on the corrected labels. Moreover, to enhance the robustness of the variational inference in the presence of outliers, the robust β-divergence measure is employed to derive the novel variational lower bound, which already achieves competitive performance. This further motivates the development of URSVAE-GAN that collapses the decoder of URSVAE and the generator of a robust semisupervised generative adversarial network into one unit. By applying the end-to-end denoising scheme in the joint optimization, the experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed framework by the evaluating on image classification and face recognition tasks and comparing with the state-of-the-art approaches.
Resources in Relational Packages: Social Capital as a Byproduct of Relational Work:

Social capital theory offers a compelling explanation as to why people are committed to making resources available to others outside of formal institutions. In this article, we build on social capi...
Racism and Cancer Screening among Low-Income, African American Women: A Multilevel, Longitudinal Analysis of 2-1-1 Texas Callers.

Although racism is increasingly being studied as an important contributor to racial health disparities, its relation to cancer-related outcomes among African Americans remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to help clarify the relation between two indicators of racism—perceived racial discrimination and racial residential segregation—and cancer screening. We conducted a multilevel, longitudinal study among a medically underserved population of African Americans in Texas. We assessed discrimination using the Experiences of Discrimination Scale and segregation using the Location Quotient for Racial Residential Segregation. The outcome examined was “any cancer screening completion” (Pap test, mammography, and/or colorectal cancer screening) at follow-up (3–10 months post-baseline). We tested hypothesized relations using multilevel logistic regression. We also conducted interaction and stratified analyses to explore whether discrimination modified the relation between segregation and screening completion. We found a significant positive relation between discrimination and screening and a non-significant negative relation between segregation and screening. Preliminary evidence suggests that discrimination modifies the relation between segregation and screening. Racism has a nuanced association with cancer screening among African Americans. Perceived racial discrimination and racial residential segregation should be considered jointly, rather than independently, to better understand their influence on cancer screening behavior.
RNA Virus Families: Distinguishing Characteristics, Differences, and Similarities

This chapter deals with RNA viruses that infect vertebrates, and highlights how differences between the biology of DNA and RNA viruses and differences among RNA viruses may help to determine how they can be detected by their hosts. Genetic material restricts the way in which RNA viruses can be maintained within infected individuals. The chapter briefly describes general concepts of viral replication that depend on the nature of the RNA genome. Much effort has recently been focused on further characterizing the nature of the nucleic acid ligands and how they are produced in the viral life cycle. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and their ligands and how they relate to the life cycle of different RNA virus families are briefly reviewed in the chapter. Viruses that establish a chronic infection will need to combat a sustained offense provided by the host’s antiviral immune response. The chapter also reviews two remarkably different RNA virus pathogens, foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), to contrast alternate and effective strategies to counteract the innate immune responses of their host.
TH‐CD‐210‐01: Recent Advances in SPECT/CT and PET/CT for Oncology

There have been significant recent advances in SPECT/CT and PET/CT for Oncology and Cardiology. In oncologic imaging, some commercial SPECT/CT systems now output quantitative uptake values; calibration and calculation of these quantitative uptake values will be discussed. Advances in PET detector design and PET data acquisition modes that have implemented in commercial PET/CT systems will be presented. Innovations in iterative reconstruction of SPECT/CT and PET/CT will also be described. In cardiac imaging, novel collimator designs, such as multi-pinhole and locally focusing collimators arranged in geometries that are optimized for cardiac imaging have been implemented to reduce imaging time and radiation dose. These new collimators have been coupled with solid-state photon detectors. The new SPECT scanners demonstrate up to a 7-fold increase in photon sensitivity and up to 2 times improvement in image resolution. Although PET scanners are used primarily for oncological imaging, cardiac imaging can benefit from the improved PET sensitivity of 3D systems without inter-plane septa and implementation of the time-of-flight reconstruction. Additionally, all major PET vendors now implement resolution recovery techniques. These new methods improve image contrast, image resolution, and reduce image noise for cardiac imaging. New quantification techniques have been proposed for analysis of cardiac SPECT and PET images. These include direct change analysis, motion-frozen analysis, hybrid quantification of SPECT and anatomical CT angiography data, and integration of several quantitative parameters in composite scores. Learning Objectives: 1. To discuss clinical implementation of commercial quantitative SPECT/CT systems 2. To describe advances in PET detector design and data acquisition 3. To report on innovations in iterative reconstruction of SPECT/CT and PET/CT 1. 4 Describe novel hardware designed for cardiac SPECT 4. Understand how recent hardware advances in PET/CT are relevant to cardiology 5. Describe new software techniques for quantification of cardiac SPECT and PET
Influence of Serratia marcescens Pigmentation on Cell Concentrations in Aerosols Produced by Bursting Bubbles

For eight strains of Serratia marcescens, increased cell concentrations were found in aerosols produced from bursting bubbles, with concentrations ranging from a maximum of ca. 80 times the bulk concentration for pigmented strains 4180, 933, and 274 to a minimum approximately equal to the bulk concentration for nonpigmented strain 8100. The increased cell concentration in the aerosol was suppressed when pigmented strains were grown at 37°C, a temperature at which the pigment prodigiosin is not synthesized, resulting in lower concentrations similar to those of nonpigmented strains. Strains that produce higher concentrations of prodigiosin after 1, 2, 4, and 8 days of growth show increasing concentrations in bubble-produced drops; duplicate cultures grown at 37°C did not show any increases. In four concurrent experiments, cells starved for 24 h showed greater concentrations than nonstarved cells for chromogenic strain NIMA, whereas for nonchromogenic strain WF, starved cells showed greater concentrations in three cases and a decreased concentration in the fourth. Bacterial concentrations in aerosol drops from bursting bubbles appear to be predominantly influenced by the surface condition of the bacterial cell.
Provider-agency fit in substance abuse treatment organizations: implications for learning climate, morale, and evidence-based practice implementation.

Substance abuse agencies have been slow to adopt and implement evidence-based practices (EBPs), due in part to poor provider morale and organizational climates that are not conducive to successful learning and integration of these practices. Person-organization fit theory suggests that alignment, or fit, between provider- and agency-level characteristics regarding the implementation of EBPs may influence provider morale and organizational learning climate and, thus, implementation success. The current study hypothesized that discrepancies, or lack of fit, between provider- and agency-level contextual factors would negatively predict provider morale and organizational learning climate, outcomes shown to be associated with successful EBP implementation. Direct service providers (n = 120) from four substance abuse treatment agencies responded to a survey involving provider morale, organizational learning climate, agency expectations for EBP use, agency resources for EBP use, and provider attitudes towards EBP use. Difference scores between combinations of provider- and agency-level factors were computed to model provider-agency fit. Quadratic regression analyses were conducted to more adequately and comprehensively model the level of the dependent variables across the entire “fit continuum”. Discrepancies, or misfit, between agency expectations and provider attitudes and between agency resources and provider attitudes were associated with poorer provider morale and weaker organizational learning climate. For all hypotheses, the curvilinear model of provider-agency discrepancies significantly predicted provider morale and organizational learning climate, indicating that both directions of misfit (provider factors more favorable than agency factors, and vice-versa) were detrimental to morale and climate. However, outcomes were most negative when providers viewed EBPs favorably, but perceived that agency expectations and resources were less supportive of EBP use. The current research benefits from a strong theoretical framework, consistent findings, and significant practical implications for substance abuse treatment agencies. Comprehensive attempts to strengthen outcomes related to EBP implementation must consider both provider- and agency-level characteristics regarding EBP use. Organizational efforts to more closely align provider attitudes and agency priorities will likely constitute a key strategy in fostering the implementation of EBPs in substance abuse treatment organizations.
Dysregulation of the Fanconi anemia pathway in sporadic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Proc Amer Assoc Cancer Res, Volume 47, 2006 4475 BACKGROUND: Much of our understanding of human cancer has come from studies of the hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes. Fanconi anemia (FA) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by cellular hypersensitivity to DNA cross-linking agents (mitomycin, cisplatin), progressive bone marrow failure, and cancer predisposition. Accumulating evidence suggests that patients with FA are predisposed to development of squamous cell carcinomas, particularly those involving the upper aerodigestive tract. extrapolation of this link to cancers in the general population may be of clinical interest. The purpose of this study was to determine whether dysregulation of FA genes occurs in sporadic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: We used the immunoblot-based FANCD2 monoubiquitination assay to assess for aberrations in the FA pathway in 13 sporadic HNSCC cell lines. Using quantitative real-time PCR, we assessed the expression of the FA genes FANCA, FANCB, FANCC, FANCD2, FANCE, FANCF, FANCG, FANCJ, FANCL and FANCM in 13 HNSCC cell lines and 49 samples of oral tongue cancer. RESULTS: Defective FANCD2 monoubiquitination was identified in 2 cell lines. Compared to normal human keratinocytes, downregulation of FA genes was observed in 5 cell lines. Downregulation of FA genes was also seen in 50% of tongue carcinoma samples compared to matched normal oral mucosa. Analysis of clinicopathological data demonstrated that downregulation of the FA pathway was associated with a young age and aggressive clinical phenotype. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that the FA pathway is dysregulated in HNSCC from patients without FA. The implications of this association merit further study.
Online Games, Community Aspects of

The study of online gaming communities focuses on the relationships formed between players through participation in online games. Research into gaming communities sees games as a fundamentally social arena. The exact form of this sociability varies depending on the nature of the people involved and the technical constraints imposed by the game. However, a common pattern has emerged across research. Specifically, interaction often begins through team formation, as players form groups in order to tackle the challenges presented by the game world. Both forming and working within a team require communication, which is provided through text and voice chat as well as nonverbal means. Repeated interactions provide the basis for trust, which is critical in the formation of social capital, which in turn generates positive social outcomes for players. Keywords: communication; social capital; teams; trust
School-Family-Community Partnerships and Educational Change: International Perspectives

The last decade has seen a rise in research on and practices of school, family and community involvement in the education of youth. This trend can be attributed to a number of factors. Low achievement and high dropout rates, especially for poor and marginalized youth, have led educators and social scientists to become more aware of the importance of family and community involvement for school effectiveness and positive student outcomes. Moreover, communitarians and others have pointed to the loss of community and collective life that many people feel in their neighbourhoods, workplaces and schools as well. In this chapter, Sanders and Epstein make the case that in order for schools to educate all youth effectively, families and communities must become full partners in the process.
The Effects of Shoe Heel Heights on Postural, Acoustical, and Perceptual Measures of Female Singing Performances: A Collective Case Pilot Study

Voice professionals hold varying opinions about whether shoe heel heights affect vocal performance, but to date no empirical study has addressed this matter. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect, if any, of three shoe heel heights (low [ 2.5 in.]) on postural (head position, lumbar lordosis and knee flexion), acoustical (LTAS, formant frequency profiles), and perceptual (singer surveys) measures of prepared arias sung by individual female voice majors (N = 5) in a semi-naturalistic audition environment. Results were discussed in terms of audition clothing and accessories, opinions held by singers and voice teachers, and the direction of future research in this area.
Caught Off Center: Rethinking the Requirements for Antibody Affinity Maturation

Antibody affinity maturation involves selective survival of high affinity B cells and is thought to require the germinal center (GC) microenvironment. In this issue of Immunity, Di Niro et al. (2015) challenge this view, showing that low affinity B cells initiate Salmonella responses and affinity mature outside of GCs.
The Specific Binding of Vitamin A Acid to Equine Liver Alcohol Dehydrogenase

Addition of vitamin A acid to solutions of liver alcohol dehydrogenase (EC [1.1.1.1][1]) results in a significant quenching of the protein fluorescence. The quenching attains a maximum value when equimolar amounts of the reactants are present. The quenching is pH-dependent, and indicates the involvement of a group on the protein with a pK value of 7.6. Vitamin A acid is a competitive inhibitor of the oxidation of ethanol, but does not significantly affect the reverse reaction. On the other hand, vitamin A amide competitively inhibits the reduction of acetaldehyde, without significantly affecting the oxidation of ethanol. The vitamin A acid protects the essential thiol groups against carboxymethylation to a lesser degree than reduced coenzymes but to a higher degree than ethanol. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS It is a pleasure to thank Professor N. O. Kaplan for his support and encouragement during this work. The author is also indebted to Dr. P. H. van Leeuwen, N. V. Philips-Duphar, Weesp, The Netherlands, for his generous gift of the crystalline vitamin A acid isomers and the all- trans vitamin A aldehyde. [1]: pending:yes
Comparing economic performance of organic and conventional U.S. beef farms using matching samples

Economic performance measures of organic and transitioning-to-organic cow–calf farms are compared with those of non-organic cow–calf farms. A method of matching samples is used for the comparison, estimating sample average treatment effects for the subpopulation of the treated. Each organic farm is matched with one non-organic farm that is involved in the same beef industry segments and farm size classes, and in the same region. Furthermore, farmer demographic, farming system, and technology variables are used to identify matches. Bias is reduced by estimating separate weighted regression functions for the treated and untreated groups. Results suggest that higher cost of organic production is due primarily to higher capital recovery, taxes and insurance, and overhead costs. Evidence is found for differences in beef enterprise profitability by organic status.
Victorian Writers and the Infectious Fairy Tale

Molly Clark Hillard has embarked on a campaign in Spellbound to demonstrate that the Victorians were ambivalent about the fairy tale and yet created splendid works that reveal how fairy tales were ...
Review: Cortical construction in autism spectrum disorder: columns, connectivity and the subplate

The cerebral cortex undergoes protracted maturation during human development and exemplifies how biology and environment are inextricably intertwined in the construction of complex neural circuits. Autism spectrum disorders are characterized by a number of pathological changes arising from this developmental process. These include: (i) alterations to columnar structure that have significant implications for the organization of cortical circuits and connectivity; (ii) alterations to synaptic spines on individual cortical units that may underlie specific types of connectional changes; and (iii) alterations within the cortical subplate, a region that plays a role in proper cortical development and in regulating interregional communication in the mature brain. Although the cerebral cortex is not the only structure affected in the disorder, it is a fundamental contributor to the behaviours that characterize autism. These alterations to cortical circuitry likely underlie the behavioural phenotype in autism and contribute to the unique pattern of deficits and strengths that characterize cognitive functioning. Recent findings within the cortical subplate may indicate that alterations to cortical construction begin prenatally, before activity-dependent connections are established, and are in need of further study. A better understanding of cortical development in autism spectrum disorders will draw bridges between the microanatomical computational circuitry and the atypical behaviours that arise when that circuitry is modified. In addition, it will allow us to better exploit the constructional plasticity within the brain to design more targeted interventions that better manage atypical cortical construction and that can be applied very early in postnatal life.
Usability Testing: An Evaluation Process for Internet Communications

This chapter defines usability testing, reviews its foundations, suggests when to use the methods, and provides resources for further guidance. Specifically, the discussion provides an overview of usability methodologies; discusses theoretical foundations for usability testing reviews; elaborates on card sorting, heuristic (expert reviews) evaluations, and verbal protocol analyses; highlights ethical and legal considerations; elaborates on an iterative process of integrating usability testing into Web site and other communication development; and finally suggests strategies for reporting the results. Keywords: card sorting; heuristic evaluation; usability methodologies; validity; verbal protocol analyses
Mathematics and Science Teachers' Use of and Confidence in Empirical Reasoning: Implications for STEM Teacher Preparation

The recent trend to unite mathematically related disciplines (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) under the broader umbrella of STEM education has advantages. In this new educational context of integration, however, STEM teachers need to be able to distinguish between sufficient proof and reasoning across different disciplines, particularly between the status of inductive and deductive modes of reasoning in mathematics. Through a specific set of mathematical conjectures, researchers explored differences between mathematics (n = 24) and science (n = 23) teachers' reasoning schemes, as well as the confidence they had in their justifications. Results from the study indicate differences between the two groups in terms of their levels of mathematical proof, as well as correlational trends that inform their confidence across these levels. Implications particularly for teacher training and preparation within the context of an integrated STEM education model are discussed.
Drosophila innate immunity: a genomic view of pathogen defense.

Insects employ an innate immune system to fend off infections. Several recent papers describe a genome-wide analysis of the signaling and transcriptional events associated with innate immune responses in Drosophila. The results of these studies paint a complex picture of a flexible regulatory system with interesting parallels to mammalian pathogen responses and wound healing.
Specific Heat of Copper, Silver, and Gold below 30°K

The specific heats of pure copper, silver, and gold have been measured in an automatic calorimeter in the range 2.5-30\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Above 20\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K the results on copper and gold differ by up to 1% from the author's previous results on these metals---most probably owing to an unstable germanium thermometer used in the earlier work. The new results are analyzed together with data in the 0.4-3.0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K range and give the following values for electronic-specific-heat coefficient ($\ensuremath{\gamma}$), electron effective mass ($\frac{{m}^{*}}{m}$), and low-temperature limiting Debye temperature (${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{0}^{c}$). The error limits are 95% confidence limits from the statistical analysis and do not include possible systematic errors. Copper: $\ensuremath{\gamma}=165.0\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2$ \ensuremath{\mu}cal/\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ g atom (0.691 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.001 mJ/\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ g atom); $\frac{{m}^{*}}{m}=1.38$, ${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{0}^{c}=(344.3\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2)$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Silver: $\ensuremath{\gamma}=152.8\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2$ \ensuremath{\mu}cal/\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ g atom (0.640 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.001 mJ/\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ g atom); $\frac{{m}^{*}}{m}=1.00$; ${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{0}^{c}=(226.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2)$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Gold: $\ensuremath{\gamma}=164.7\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3$ \ensuremath{\mu}cal/\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ g atom (0.689 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.001 mJ/\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}${\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ g atom); $\frac{{m}^{*}}{m}=1.08$; ${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{0}^{c}=(161.8\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2)$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. The results are briefly compared with other recent work on these metals.
Development of an in vitro bioassay for measuring susceptibility to macrocyclic lactone anthelmintics in Dirofilaria immitis

For more than 20 years, anthelmintics of the macrocyclic lactone (ML) drug class have been widely and effectively used as preventives against the canine heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis. However, in recent years an increased number of lack of efficacy (LOE) cases are being reported, in which dogs develop mature heartworm infections despite receiving monthly prophylactic doses of ML drugs. While this situation is raising concerns that heartworms may be developing resistance to MLs, compelling evidence for this is still lacking. Resolution of this dilemma requires validated biological or molecular diagnostic assays, but, unfortunately, no such tests currently exist. To address this need, we developed and optimized a larval migration inhibition assay (LMIA) for use with D. immitis third-stage larvae. The LMIA was used to measure the in vitro dose–response of two ML drugs (ivermectin and eprinomectin) on a known ML-susceptible laboratory strain of D. immitis. A nonlinear regression model was fit to the dose–response data, from which IC50 values were calculated; the mean IC50 and 95% confidence interval for IVM was 4.56 μM (1.26–16.4 μM), greater than that for EPR at 2.02 μM (1.68–2.42 μM), and this difference was significant (p = 0.0428). The R2 value for EPR assays (0.90) was also greater than that for IVM treatment (0.71). The consistency and reproducibility of the dose–response data obtained with this assay suggests that it may be a useful technique for investigating the relative susceptibilities to ML drugs in other D. immitis populations.
From episteme to phronesis to artistry in the study and improvement of teaching

Abstract This paper describes the shift in view concerning the conditions of knowledge in education. It describes the practical ramifications of positivism and the ways in which it impacted relationships between professors and school practitioners. It then provides a description of the emergence of phronesis as an alternative to episteme as an orientation to knowledge and eventually explores the ramifications of Aristotle's concept of the productive, a concept related to artistry, as a further development of the growing pluralism in our views of knowledge and the conditions for excellent practice.
Delinquent behaviors and male adolescent development: A preliminary study.

Commonly identified developmental tasks of male adolescence were examined for their relationship to delinquent behavior during adolescence among a general sample of 11-to 18-year-old males (N=337). Evaluations of the prevalence and mean level of delinquent acts across the age groups confirms previous suggestions that delinquent behavior follows the adolescent years quite closely. Measures of three primary developmental domains—family relations, social relations, and educational/vocational orientations—were taken and correlated with delinquent behavior across three substages of adolescence. The patterns of correlations suggest there is support for the view that a substantial portion of delinquent behavior is tied to struggles with adolescent development tasks.
Constant pressure molecular dynamics for molecular systems

Technical aspects of the constant pressure molecular dynamics (MD) method proposed by Andersen and extended by Parrinello and Rahman to allow changes in the shape of the MD cell are discussed. The new MD method is extended to treat molecular systems and to include long range charge-charge interactions. Results on the conservation laws, the frequency of oscillation of the MD cell, and the equations which constrain the shape of the MD cell are also given. An additional constraint is introduced to stop the superfluous MD cell rotation which would otherwise complicate the analysis of crystal structures. The method is illustrated by examining the behaviour of solid nitrogen at high pressure.
The determinants of web page viewing behavior: an eye-tracking study

The World Wide Web has become a ubiquitous information source and communication channel. With such an extensive user population, it is imperative to understand how web users view different web pages. Based on an eye tracking study of 30 subjects on 22 web pages from 11 popular web sites, this research intends to explore the determinants of ocular behavior on a single web page: whether it is determined by individual differences of the subjects, different types of web sites, the order of web pages being viewed, or the task at hand. The results indicate that gender of subjects, the viewing order of a web page, and the interaction between page order and site type influences online ocular behavior. Task instruction did not significantly affect web viewing behavior. Scanpath analysis revealed that the complexity of web page design influences the degree of scanpath variation among different subjects on the same web page. The contributions and limitations of this research, and future research directions are discussed.
Spectral preprocessing for clustering time-series gene expressions

Based on gene expression profiles, genes can be partitioned into clusters, which might be associated with biological processes or functions, for example, cell cycle, circadian rhythm, and so forth. This paper proposes a novel clustering preprocessing strategy which combines clustering with spectral estimation techniques so that the time information present in time series gene expressions is fully exploited. By comparing the clustering results with a set of biologically annotated yeast cell-cycle genes, the proposed clustering strategy is corroborated to yield significantly different clusters from those created by the traditional expression-based schemes. The proposed technique is especially helpful in grouping genes participating in time-regulated processes.
Lymphosarcoma in siblings, associated with cytogenetic abnormalities, immune deficiency, and abnormal erythropoiesis*

A 12-year-old boy is described who had short stature, a thin facies, and lymphosarcoma.A specific cytogenetic anomaly was present; a group A chromosome had been replaced by two large fragments. In addition, there were decreased circulating IgG, IgA and IgM levels and a defect in cellular immunity. Ineffectual erythropoiesis with a low-grade anemia, megaloblastic changes, and multinucleated erythroblasts were also noted. A female sibling similar in physical appearance had a defect in the thymic-dependent system (aplasia of the thymus) and died with lymphosarcoma
Influence of Ring Methylation in Group 15 Tetramethylcyclopentadienyl Complexes, M(C5Me4H)nI3−n (M = As, Sb)†

Arsenic and antimony triiodide react with 3 equiv of Na[C5Me4H] in THF to form the yellow tris(tetramethylcyclopentadienyl) derivatives M(C5Me4H)3 in 61% and 76% yields, respectively. When equimola...
On mild and vigorous oxidation of mixtures of chlorinated hydrocarbons in droplet burning

Abstract Droplet burning with mixtures of nonane and the heavily chlorinated tetrachloroethane (TECA) was studied computationally using a quasi-steady, spherical diffusion flame model of simultaneous fuel vaporization, pyrolysis, and combustion, with detailed transport and a semidetailed reaction mechanism. The dependence of the droplet burning rate on the chlorine content was examined through the TECA concentration in the fuel mixture. It is shown that the model predicts reasonably well the influence of chlorine content on the d 2 -law burning rate constant experimentally determined in a previous study, and that the sharp decrease in the burning rate for fuel mixtures with Cl H ratio around and greater than unity is caused by the reduction of heat release, as well as through the chemical inhibition by chlorine. The computational results also suggest the beneficial effect of water vapor in promoting burning.
Depression as a Function of Eating Disorder Diagnostic Status and Gender

The purpose of the present study was to examine depressive symptoms as a function of eating disorder (ED) diagnostic status and gender. A demographic questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II; Beck, Steer & Brown, 1996), and the Questionnaire for Eating Disorder Diagnoses (Q-EDD; Mintz, O'Halloran, Mulholland & Schneider, 1997) were administered to a nonclinical sample of college-aged men (n = 115) and women (n = 136). Contrast tests revealed significant differences in mean BDI-II scores as a function of Q-EDD diagnostic status. This effect did not differ as a function of gender and the pattern was the same for both cognitive and somatic-affective depressive symptoms. The nature of the comorbid relationship between ED and depressive symptoms appears markedly similar across both genders.
Contractile responses to temperature in the locomotory musculature of striped bass Morone saxatilis

The effects of temperature on contractile function of isolated, chemically skinned red (slow oxidative) and white (fast glycolytic) fibers of skeletal muscle from thermally acclimated striped bass (Morone saxatilis) were determined. Acclimation to 10° or 25°C has no significant effect on maximum isometric tension (Po) or maximum unloaded contraction velocity (Vo) of fibers of either muscle type. Sensitivity to acute changes in temperature is markedly greater for slow-twitch fibers than for white, fast-twitch fibers. Q10 (15–5°C) of Vo is 1.58 and 2.27 and R10 (15–5°C; analogous to Q10, but for parameters that are not rate functions) of Po is 1.57 and 2.17 for fibers from white and red muscle, respectively. R10 of maximum attainable power output is 1.29 for white and 4.50 for red fibers. Power for low speed, sustained swimming is derived exclusively from red muscle in striped bass, permitting comparisons between swimming performance and contractile capacity to be drawn. For maximum sustainable swimming speed at 15°C, calculated contraction velocity of a red muscle fiber corresponds to the maximum power output of a single fiber of red muscle at 15°C. Thermal sensitivity of red muscle power output predicts that maximum sustained swimming speed of striped bass will be severely impaired at cold temperatures. However, cold acclimation induces a proliferation of the red muscle mass that may ameliorate the thermal sensitivity of red muscle contractile function.
Lonophoric Properties of Polysorbate 80

Polysorbate 80, a surfactant often assumed to be inert, was found to bind a number of biochemically important ions (K+, Na+, NH4+, Ca2+) and transport them through a model membrane (CH2Cl2). The rates and fluxes of potassium ions were found to depend on the initial concentration of potassium ion, the polysorbate 80 concentration, the temperature, and the stirring rate. The thermodynamic constants for the process were determined and its mechanism is discussed.
Sensitivity of groundwater systems to CO2: Application of a site-specific analysis of carbonate monitoring parameters at the SACROC CO2-enhanced oil field

Abstract A field study and geochemical modeling of a shallow aquifer, situated above a long-running (>35 years), large-scale (∼250 km2) CO2-enhanced oil recovery site (SACROC oil field), were conducted to determine how the aquifer might react to input of injectate CO2. Because calcite dissolution is widely accepted as the process that will result from CO2 input into an aquifer, our assessment focused on carbonate-specific geochemical parameters (e.g., DIC, pH, Ca2+, and HCO3−). After a careful characterization of the geochemical system of the Dockum aquifer above SACROC, a hypothetical leak of CO2 was modeled into the system. Our analysis indicates that dedolomitization (dolomite dissolution with concurrent calcite precipitation) is the dominant native geochemical process and calcite dissolution cannot be assumed to result from CO2 input. Dedolomitization, which is widely documented and common in many hydrologic systems, is driven in the Dockum above SACROC by both natural hydrologic and human-induced mechanisms. A sensitivity analysis under simulated CO2 input for systems undergoing dedolomitization or calcite dissolution shows that both systems are relatively sensitive to CO2. Whereas the magnitude and direction of geochemical shift in pH, Ca2+, and HCO3− depend on site-specific environmental factors, the shift in DIC is relatively similar in any of the modeled environments. The implication for monitoring geologic sequestration sites is that use of current monitoring parameters may require characterization of fundamental site-specific conditions for correct prediction of the consequences of CO2 input; however characterization may not be necessary if DIC is used as the primary monitoring parameter.
Intermittent low-calorie regimen and booster sessions in the treatment of obesity

Abstract The present study investigated two new weight-control strategies: an intermittent low-calorie regimen and intermittent scheduling of booster sessions. A new approach to predicting patient weight loss, based on a pretreatment assessment with a highly-structured eating regimen, was also studied. Forty-eight obese patients were randomly assigned to either a Standard Behavioral weight-control condition or to an Intermittent Low-calorie Regimen (
Mohr's circle in measurement of residual strains by through hole drilling technique: Effect of transverse sensitivity

The construction of Mohr's circle for measurement of residual strains in thin plates by the Hole Drilling Method is described. The relative errors in determining the location of the centre and the radius of Mohr's circle due to ignoring the effect of transverse sensitivity are calculated. For normal gauges with low cross sensitivity, these errors are shown to be negligible (less than 1%).
Developmental considerations in the investigation of conduct disorder

The papers in this special issue attest to the theoretical and empirical advances that have been made in understanding the epidemiology, subtypes, etiology, neuropsychology, psychobiology, course, consequences, prevention, and treatment of conduct disorder (CD) (see also Kazdin, 1987; Loeber, 1990; Loeber & Stouthamer-Loeber, 1986; Moffitt, 1990; Patterson, 1982; Robins, 1991; White, Moffitt, Earls, Robins, & Silva, 1990). A number of theoretical conceptualizations have been forwarded in an attempt to comprehend this complex form of disorder in children. Such divergence in thinking indicates that the topic of CD has evolved into an active and significant domain of inquiry. To date, however, there has been no unifying theoretical framework for bringing conceptual clarity to the diverse perspectives represented in the study of conduct disorder. Although existing work within particular disciplines and subdisciplines has provided substantial contributions to our understanding of CD, these accounts typically have not considered the broader matrix of complex and evolving biological, cognitive, socioemotional, representational, and social-cognitive capacities of the developing child. As a consequence, disparate theoretical formulations are often too narrow in focus to address the range of processes and mechanisms that will be necessary to explain adequately how and why manifestations of CD emerge, change overtime and are influenced by children's developmental levels.
Pyrosequencing: An accurate detection platform for single nucleotide polymorphisms

Pyrosequencing, a non-electrophoretic method for DNA sequencing, is emerging as a popular platform for analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This technology has the advantage of accuracy, ease-of-use, and high flexibility for different applications. Here, we review the methodology and the use of this technique for SNP genotyping, SNP discovery, haplotyping, and allelic frequency studies. In addition, we describe new schemes for template preparation and multiplexing as an effort for cost reduction in large-scale studies.
Stable fly sex attractant and mating pheromones found in female body hydrocarbons

Investigation into the nature and function of stable fly pheromones indicated that both male sex attractant and mating pheromones are present. Polyolefin fraction of female body hydrocarbons attracted virgin males while thetrans andcis olefins were found to be responsible for mating stimulation. Characterization of the attractive components is under way.
Multidisciplined investigation to locate theKentucky shipwreck

A local artifact collector contacted the U.S. Army Engineer District, Vicksburg in the fall of 1994 concerning timbers from a ship protruding from the west bank of the Red River, Louisiana, during the summer of 1994. From historical records it was determined that the shipwreck is that of the Kentucky, which sank in 1865. An investigation integrating archaeological, geological, and geophysical methods was undertaken to determine the location, orientation, and depth of the wreckage. Based on site geology, the shipwreck is expected to lie within a silty sand deposit within 4–8.5 m below the ground surface. The results of probe investigations performed by the archaeologists and borehole data orient the long axis of the ship N57.5E. This orientation conflicts with the geophysical data, which suggest an orientation of N116W. The geophysical surveys identified an anomalous region, approximately 31 m long and 10 m wide, that borders the Red River and an abandoned channel of the Red River. The magnetometer data suggests that the bow of the ship is pointed toward the abandoned channel. This orientation contradicts historical records which have the bow pointing toward the modern Red River. A subsequent underwater investigation by the archaeological contractor discovered a rudder-related mechanism protruding from the bank of the Red River, confirming the geophysical prediction. All three scientific surveys agree that the wreckage is at a depth 3.8–8.5 m below ground surface and at an inclined position, with a downward slope from the bank of the Red River to the abandoned channel. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.*
Chronic oranulomatous disease of childhood with renal involvement

Abstract A case of chronic granulomatous disease of childhood with marked urinary tract manifestations and primary renal involvement is described. The pathogenesis of the disease and aspects of the metabolic defect are discussed. This case is reported to acquaint the pediatric urologist with this disease entity that mimics several other granulomatous diseases and the incidence of which is increasing in the pediatric age group.
Using Lean Six Sigma to improve investment behavior

Purpose – This paper aims to use Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and consumption mapping concepts to develop a disciplined methodology for a self-directed investor so that adverse decision-making behaviors are avoided. Classical financial theories assume that individuals maximize expected utility by arriving at financial decisions in a rational manner. But, over time, investor performance has lagged behind corresponding market performance. Despite these results and research on their causes, investors continue to repeat systematic mistakes leading to suboptimal financial outcomes. Design/methodology/approach – Consumption maps are developed based on behavioral finance research that shows why investors make predictable and costly errors in their decision making. The authors show that the contemporary methodologies within LSS, used successfully in the manufacturing and service sectors, can be used to enforce rationality in investing. Findings – The approach proposed herein provides a new framework that researchers shou...
Efficacy and safety of lasilactone, a new combination diuretic, in essential hypertension.

Abstract 1. Lasilactone, a new combination diuretic (furosemide 20 mg and spironolactone 50 mg) was evaluated in 30 patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension. Each patient received one capsule of lasilactone daily. 2. Significant changes in BP were observed 1 week after initiation of therapy and were sustained during the observation period of 1 year. 3. Supine and standing BP fell from 148.6 ± 2.6/102.1 ± 1.9 to 120.8 ± 1.4/91.7 ± 1.2 and from 154.4 ± 2.1/106.1 ± 1.6 to 125.7 ± 2.2/90.7 ± 1.5 mm Hg respectively. 4. There were no changes in the concentrations of plasma glucose, lipids, uric acid and potassium. On the other hand, levels of plasma renin activity rose from 0.69 ± 0.06 to 3.95 ± 0.47 ng/ml/hr and urinary aldosterone excretory rate increased from 9.6 ± 1.6 to 42.8 ± 4.2 μg/day. 5. This study suggests that addition of spironolactone to furosemide improves the hypotensive potency and minimizes the metabolic and electrolyte alterations of the latter.
High-pressure vapor-liquid equilibrium for R-22 + ethanol and R-22 + ethanol + water

High-pressure vapor−liquid equilibrium (VLE) data for the systems CO2 + methanol at 313.05 K, CO2 + ethanol at 323.55, 325.15, and 333.35 K, R-22 (chlorodifluoromethane) + ethanol at 343.25, 361.45, and 382.45 K, and R-22 + ethanol + water at 351.55, 362.65, and 371.85 K are obtained using a circulation-type VLE apparatus. The apparatus is tested with measurements of the CO2 + methanol and CO2 + ethanol systems. The experimental data are correlated using the Peng−Robinson and Elliott−Suresh−Donohue equations of state.
Human lung tumor cell secretion of interleukin-2 for protection against tumor engraftment.

Background: Lung cancer continues to claim large numbers of human lives each year despite advances made in conventional therapies. The use of biologic response modifiers to modulate the immune system against human tumors is an alternate form of immunotherapy. Interleukin-2 (IL-2), or T-cell growth factor, is an important modulator of activated T cells. We show here that tumor cells transduced with human IL-2 cDNA provide protective immunity against engraftment of IL-2-secreting, as well as parental non-IL-2-secreting, tumor cellsin vivo. Methods: In an attempt to increase the antigen-induced proliferation and cytotoxicity T cells within the vicinity of tumor antigen, we have transduced human lung tumor cell lines (generated from whole tumor specimens obtained fresh from the operating room) with a vector containing the IL-2 gene. Cell lines secreting 0.5–20 Cetus units/ml of IL-2 were generated. Control cell lines were similarly established using the same retroviral vector containing the gene for adenosine deaminase (ADA). The growth of tumor xenografts of the vector-modified cell lines was observed in severe combined immunodeficient (scid) mice. Results: Using C.B-17scid mice, we have observed that the local secretion of IL-2 by these human lung tumor cell lines will prevent engraftment of that tumor intoscid mice. The parental tumor as well as the tumor containing the ADA gene grow aggressively in thescid mouse. Growth arrest also correlated strongly with the amount of IL-2 secreted by the tumor cells. The local secretion of IL-2 by the transduced cell line will abrogate the tumorigenicity of the parental cell line as well as an allogeneic tumor. The inhibition of growth occurs only when the tumors are placed in close proximity to each other. After gamma irradiation, transduced tumor cells will continue to secrete IL-2. Conclusion: These results indicate that (a) human lung tumor cell lines can be transduced with IL-2-containing retroviral vectors; (b) local and sustained release of IL-2 will induce an antitumor response by the host against the IL-2-secreting as well as the control tumor cells; (c) secretion of IL-2 continues after the cells are irradiated. This study suggests that cytokine-secreting human lung tumors may be used in vaccination protocols for cancer patients.