cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Memory Distance Measurement for Concurrent Programs

Memory distance analysis, the number of unique memory references made between two accesses to the same memory location, is an effective method to measure data locality and predict memory behavior. Many existing methods on memory distance measurement and analysis consider sequential programs only. With the trend towards concurrent programming, it is necessary to study the impact of memory distance on the performance of concurrent programs. Unfortunately, accurate measurement of concurrent program memory distance is non-trivial. In fact, due to non-determinism, the reuse distance of memory references may differ with the same input set across multiple runs. Since memory distance measurement is fundamental to analysis, we propose a measuring approach that is based on randomized executions. Our approach provides a probabilistic guarantee of observing all possible interleavings without repeated executions. In order to evaluate our approach, we propose a second symbolic execution based approach that is more rigorous but much less scalable than the first approach. We have compared the two approaches on small programs and evaluated the first one on Parsec benchmark suite and a large industrial-size benchmark MySQL. Our experiments confirm that the randomized execution based approach is effective and practical.
Fairness of AI for people with disabilities: problem analysis and interdisciplinary collaboration

There are several respects in which recent developments in machine learning-based artificial intelligence pose challenges of fairness for people with disabilities. In this paper, some of the central problems are identified, and briefly reviewed from a philosophical perspective motivated by a broad concern for social justice, emphasizing the role of ethical considerations in informing the problem analysis.
Structure-Based Targeting of Drugs to HIV Proteins

During the past two years a major effort has begun in the USA, France, Germany, U.K. and other countries to develop programs of rational drug design in the fight against Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Rational drug design is based on the idea that the detailed biological and structural analysis of the life cycle of the pathogen, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) can locate those sensitive events where drugs can block that cycle, and that specific drugs can be developed through a detailed knowledge of the structure of these sensitive components at atomic resolution. This is also known as structure-based drug targeting. The life cycle of the virus has been described in detail elsewhere (for example, Fauci, 1988). The obvious sensitive steps are adsorption, entry, uncoating, reverse transcriptase activity, integration, the five or six regulatory gene functions, protease activity, and the steps in virus assembly. Figure 1 shows the viral structure, and labels several identified components.
Architectures and Design Methodologies for Scalable and Sustainable Remote Laboratory Infrastructures

With the increasing demand for distance learning opportunities in the higher education sector, there is an ever-growing need for the design and deployment of remote laboratories, especially for engineering, science, and technology curricula. In order to accommodate the offering of entire degrees for distance learning students whose curricula require remote laboratories, scalable information technology infrastructures that support the large scale use and deployment of these remote laboratories must exist. This chapter provides a discussion of architectures and design methodologies using technology such as command and control communications, Web 2.0, and cloud computing, which provide a scalable, manageable, and sustainable technological infrastructure-basis for large scale remote laboratory deployment.
Abstract Semantic Associative Network Training: A Replication and Update of an Abstract Word Retrieval Therapy Program

Purpose We report on a study that replicates previous treatment studies using Abstract Semantic Associative Network Training (AbSANT), which was developed to help persons with aphasia improve their ability to retrieve abstract words, as well as thematically related concrete words. We hypothesized that previous results would be replicated; that is, when abstract words are trained using this protocol, improvement would be observed for both abstract and concrete words in the same context-category, but when concrete words are trained, no improvement for abstract words would be observed. We then frame the results of this study with the results of previous studies that used AbSANT to provide better evidence for the utility of this therapeutic technique. We also discuss proposed mechanisms of AbSANT. Method Four persons with aphasia completed one phase of concrete word training and one phase of abstract word training using the AbSANT protocol. Effect sizes were calculated for each word type for each phase. Effect sizes for this study are compared with the effect sizes from previous studies. Results As predicted, training abstract words resulted in both direct training and generalization effects, whereas training concrete words resulted in only direct training effects. The reported results are consistent across studies. Furthermore, when the data are compared across studies, there is a distinct pattern of the added benefit of training abstract words using AbSANT. Conclusion Treatment for word retrieval in aphasia is most often aimed at concrete words, despite the usefulness and pervasiveness of abstract words in everyday conversation. We show the utility of AbSANT as a means of improving not only abstract word retrieval but also concrete word retrieval and hope this evidence will help foster its application in clinical practice.
High-speed fiber-based spectrometer for plasma Thomson scattering.

We present a novel concept for a Thomson scattering diagnostic, based on a high-speed fiber optic spectrometer. The high-speed fiber optic spectrometer presented here translates a spectral measurement from the frequency domain into the time domain, thus requiring the use of only a single photodetector for spectral acquisition. The high temporal precision offered by the instrument gives rise to a number of advantages over traditional spectrometers, such as nearly background-free measurements and multiple uses of the same injected beam. Multiple uses of the same beam would enable greatly increased measurement rates, in the range of 10–100 MHz. The spectral range and resolution of the fiber spectrometer can be easily tailored to be optimized for the light source and experimental conditions by selecting different lengths of fiber, thus allowing for the proposed technique to exhibit high dynamic range when measuring many points simultaneously. Finally, due to the temporal separation of the background from the signal, these improvements are possible without the need for increased average input laser power.
Distinguishing patterns of impairment on inhibitory control and general cognitive ability among bipolar with and without psychosis, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder

Abstract Background Deficits in inhibitory control on a Stop Signal Task (SST) were previously observed to be of similar magnitude across schizophrenia, schizoaffective, and bipolar disorder with psychosis, despite variation in general cognitive ability. Understanding different patterns of performance on the SST may elucidate different pathways to the impaired inhibitory control each group displayed. Comparing nonpsychotic bipolar disorder to the psychosis groups on SST may also expand our understanding of the shared neurobiology of this illness spectrum. Methods We tested schizophrenia (n = 220), schizoaffective (n = 216), bipolar disorder with (n = 192) and without psychosis (n = 67), and 280 healthy comparison participants with a SST and the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS), a measure of general cognitive ability. Results All patient groups had a similar degree of impaired inhibitory control over prepotent responses. However, bipolar groups differed from schizophrenia and schizoaffective groups in showing speeded responses and inhibition errors that were not accounted for by general cognitive ability. Schizophrenia and schizoaffective groups had a broader set of deficits on inhibition and greater general cognitive deficit, which fully accounted for the inhibition deficits. No differences were found between the clinically well-matched bipolar with and without psychosis groups, including for inhibitory control or general cognitive ability. Conclusions We conclude that 1) while impaired inhibitory control on a SST is of similar magnitude across the schizo-bipolar spectrum, including nonpsychotic bipolar, different mechanisms may underlie the impairments, and 2) history of psychosis in bipolar disorder does not differentially impact inhibitory behavioral control or general cognitive abilities.
Coordination of social behaviors by the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis

The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a sexually dimorphic, neuropeptide-rich node of the extended amygdala that has been implicated in responses to stress, drugs of abuse, and natural rewards. Its function is dysregulated in neuropsychiatric disorders that are characterized by stress- or drug-induced alterations in mood, arousal, motivation, and social behavior. However, compared to the BNST's role in mood, arousal, and motivation, its role in social behavior has remained relatively understudied. Moreover, the precise cell types and circuits underlying the BNST's role in social behavior have only recently begun to be explored using modern neuroscience techniques. Here, we systematically review the existing literature investigating the neurobiological substrates within the BNST that contribute to the coordination of various sex-dependent and sex-independent social behavioral repertoires, focusing largely on pharmacological and circuit-based behavioral studies in rodents. We suggest that the BNST coordinates social behavior by promoting appropriate assessment of social contexts to select relevant behavioral outputs and that disruption of socially relevant BNST systems by stress and drugs of abuse may be an important factor in the development of social dysfunction in neuropsychiatric disorders.
Evaluation of Transient Ischemic Attack and Minor Stroke: A Rapid Outpatient Model for the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond

The grim circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the need to refine and adapt stroke systems of care. Patients’ care-seeking behaviors have changed due to perceived risks of in-hosp...
What can evolutionary biology learn from cancer biology

Detecting and treating cancer effectively involves understanding the disease as one of somatic cell and tumor macroevolution. That understanding is key to avoid triggering an adverse reaction to therapy that generates an untreatable and deadly tumor population. Macroevolution differs from microevolution by karyotype changes rather than isolated localized mutations being the major source of hereditary variation. Cancer cells display major multi-site chromosome rearrangements that appear to have arisen in many different cases abruptly in the history of tumor evolution. These genome restructuring events help explain the punctuated macroevolutionary changes that mark major transitions in cancer progression. At least two different nonrandom patterns of rapid multisite genome restructuring - chromothripsis ("chromosome shattering") and chromoplexy ("chromosome weaving") - are clearly distinct in their distribution within the genome and in the cell biology of the stress-induced processes responsible for their occurrence. These observations tell us that eukaryotic cells have the capacity to reorganize their genomes rapidly in response to calamity. Since chromothripsis and chromoplexy have been identified in the human germline and in other eukaryotes, they provide a model for organismal macroevolution in response to the kinds of stresses that lead to mass extinctions.
Editorial-Measuring Satisfaction: Can It Be Done?

The impact of orthopaedic surgery is best measured using endpoints that matter to patients. Validated outcomes tools allow us to evaluate improvements in pain intensity, magnitude of disability, and other results that are important to patients. But metrics purporting to score patient satisfaction with the results of surgery—prominent both in the media [11] and in scientific publications of late [7, 14]—can be influenced by many factors that vary so wildly from patient to patient that trying to measure this parameter is unlikely to produce anything meaningful. And the act of quantifying “satisfaction” will result in findings that are tempting to quote, but risk misleading clinicians, policymakers, and patients.
The Kidney in Pediatric Liver Disease

There is an intricate relationship between the liver and the kidney, with renal physiology and function intimately involved in many primary disorders of pediatric liver disease. The hemodynamic changes of progressive cirrhosis affect and are directly affected by changes in renal blood flow and renal handling of sodium and free water excretion. Resulting complications of worsening ascites, hyponatremia, and acute kidney injury frequently complicate the care of children with advanced liver disease and contribute significant morbidity and mortality. While liver transplantation may restore hemodynamic stability, nearly 40% of pediatric liver transplant recipients develop chronic kidney disease post-transplant and approximately 25% are left with clinical hypertension. This review seeks to provide a basic understanding of this relationship to enable the provision of optimal care to children with liver disease.
Historia del arte e Imperio Azteca: la evidencia de las esculturas

Opinions on the nature of Aztec influence outside the Valley of Mexico vary greatly. They range from assertions of wide-spread material influences during the imperial period (1431-1521) to assertions of general cultural diffusions in central Mexico previous to the empire, and undermining its effects. A more nuanced understanding of the empire´s cultural influence lies somewhere between these two poles and requires the reconstruction of the particular histories of different areas. In the following essay the possible contributions of art history are explored through the analysis of sculptures from Aztec colony areas in the nearby Toluca Valley and in more distant North Veracruz.
SUPERCARRIERS VERSUS U.S. HARBOR DIMENSIONS

The oceans of the world are now being transited by tankers of a size beyond the capacity of any U.S. harbor. These ships offer potential economic savings of large proportions, and use of supercarrier technology could significantly effect the location of base refining and other important industries. However, provision of facilities to handle supercarriers pose unprecedented physicial, ecological, safety, and financial constraints. Provision of adequate harbor depths or alternative offshore loading facilities raises questions of regional transportation needs and marketing patterns. Studies and formulation of investment plans should be promptly initiated with close cooperation established between concerned Federal agencies, industrial, maritime, and port interests.
Temporal and Geographic Patterns in Opioid Abuse in Texas

Opioid analgesic abuse is an increasing problem in the United States. All opioid analgesic abuse exposures reported to Texas poison centers during 2000–2010 were identified and annual and geographic patterns were examined. The annual number of opioid analgesic abuse cases increased 160% from 441 in 2000 to 1,145 in 2010. The proportion of total opioid analgesic exposures reported to be due to abuse increased 55% from 11.4% in 2000 to 17.8% in 2010. The opioid analgesic rate per 100,000 was highest (90.15) in northeastern Texas and lowest (27.91) in the southern part of the state.
Accurate Strategies for K.A.M. Bounds and Their Implementation

We study perturbative expansions for quasi-periodic solutions of non—linear systems. We describe how to construct and implement algorithms that prove convergence of these expansions for values of the perturbation parameter as close to optimal as desired. The method is based on a constructive form of K.A.M. theory and implemented using interval arithmetic. For some cases, the algorithms have been run on a computer yielding results better than 90% of optimal.
Neutropenia Associated with Long Term Ceftaroline Use

Ceftaroline is a fifth-generation cephalosporin with potent antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. Neutropenia is a rare serious adverse event for the class of cephalosporins; however, we observed several cases of severe neutropenia in our outpatient infectious disease practice believed to be associated with ceftaroline use. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of neutropenia among patients receiving ceftaroline therapy for more than 7 days. We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of patients admitted to an 800-bed regional medical center between June 2012 and December 2014 who received ceftaroline for more than 7 days to assess the incidence of developing clinically significant neutropenia. Demographic and patient care data points as well as underlying admitting and chronic diagnoses were retrospectively collected from the medical record. Clinically significant neutropenia was defined as an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) less than 1,500 cells/mm(3). Analysis was performed to determine the incidence, severity, and outcome of neutropenia following ceftaroline administration. A total of 39 patients were included in the cohort. The median duration of therapy was 27 days. Seven patients (18%) developed neutropenia while on ceftaroline therapy. Four (10%) of the neutropenic patients had an ANC of <500 cells/mm(3). The median first neutropenic day was day 17, with the median ANC nadir of 432 cells/mm(3) on day 24. We determined that extended ceftaroline infusion is associated with the development of neutropenia. We recommend obtaining a complete blood count (CBC) with differential at the onset of therapy and weekly thereafter. Should the ANC fall below 2,500 cells/mm(3), then twice-weekly CBCs should be monitored for the duration of ceftaroline therapy, and therapy should be discontinued if the ANC falls to 1,500 cells/mm(3) or less.
Sensitivity of fluorescence lifetime to external pressure in a fluorophore-quencher labeled microbubble system

Sensitivity of fluorescence lifetime of a dye labeled on the surface of a microbubble to external pressure is studied. Results show a fluorophore-labeled microbubble system is an excellent sensor for noninvasive measurement of weak pressure.
The plant B3 superfamily

The plant-specific B3 superfamily encompasses well-characterized families, such as the auxin response factor (ARF) family and the LAV family, as well as less well understood families, such as RAV and REM. In Arabidopsis, there are 118 B3 genes, and in rice there are 91 B3 genes. The B3 domain is present in genes from gymnosperms, mosses and green algae, indicating that the B3 domain evolved on the plant lineage before multicellularity. The aim of this review is to phylogenetically characterize the members of the B3 family in Arabidopsis and rice and to review the function of the B3 genes that have been studied to date.
P046: Validation of a simple tool to save resources with previous MRSA carriers

According to international recommendations, patients who previously carried Methicilin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) should benefit from isolation measures while waiting for MRSA screening results. All these measures are resource consuming. The use of an algorithm, valid and reproducible, for assessing the probability of MRSA carriage on admission may allow better allocation of resources and economies.
CO 2 Laser For The Removal Of Extraaxial Neoplasms

Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation results in a release of electromagnetic energy which is unique in that the light energy thus generated is of a single wave length (monochromatic), and the waves are in synchrony in space and time (coherent). The energy is not dampened by dispersion or interference of conflicting electromagnectic fields. Each substance which can be made to laser (laser medium) emits light energy of a wave length specific to itself. In the spectrum of electromagnetic waves, visible light occupies a narrow band. Light in the far infrared spectrum, produced by the carbon dioxide laser, is invisible and is not absorbed by pigmented materials. It can be focused to a fine point with a selenium-germanium lens. On impact with solid or liquid matter, light energy is converted to heat energy. In living tissue, this results in an instantaneous elevation of intracellular water temperture to the boiling point and explosion of the cell to a cloud of smoke. The speed of the process protects adjacent cells by the leidenfrostche or water jacket effect, which insulates the area of intense heat from its surroundings.
Network traffic anomaly detection using weighted self-similarity based on EMD

Network traffic anomaly detection is an important part in network security. Identifying abnormal activities in a timely manner has been a demand in network anomaly detection. Conventional detection methods include Hurst parameter method, wavelet transform and Markov model. This article proposes a new method using weighted self-similarity parameter to detect abnormal activities over the internet. By performing a real-time Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) on the network traffic, we calculate the weighted self-similarity parameter based on the first Intrinsic Mode Function to analyze and detect suspicious activities. This approach provides the benefits of faster and accurate detection, as well as low computational cost.
Noise Properties Of Images Reconstructed From Fourier Modulus

Computer experiments were performed to determine the effects of photon noise on reconstructing images from stellar speckle interferometer data. Estimates of the modulus of the Fourier transform of an extended space object were computed using the method of Labeyrie on degraded images simulated to include the effects of atmospheric turbulence and photon noise (Poisson statistics). Several Fourier modulus estimates with different signal-to-noise ratios were computed by assuming different brightness levels (photons per pixel) for the object in each case. Images were reconstructed from the Fourier modulus estimates using an iterative method based on the nonnegativity of the object. It was found that the rms error of a reconstructed image is roughly equal to the square root of the rms error of the Fourier modulus estimate.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Characterization of a zebrafish (Danio rerio) sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor expressed in the embryonic brain.

Abstract Sphingosine 1-phosphate elicits a variety of responses in mammals via at least five G protein-coupled Edg receptors. We cloned zebrafish edg1 and expressed it in Rh7777 cells. In these cultures, S1P inhibited forskolin-driven rises in cAMP and this response was eliminated by pretreatment of the cultures with pertussis toxin. In Rh7777 membranes, S1P stimulated GTPγ[35S] binding 2–3 fold. Zebrafish edg1 is expressed in embryonic brain, particularly ventral diencephalon, optic stalks, and anterior hindbrain. Our findings suggest that nonmammalian vertebrates use S1P to signal during embryogenesis and that the properties of Edg1 receptor have been conserved for 400 million years.
Microporous membranes of polyoxymethylene from a melt-extrusion process: (I) effects of resin variables and extrusion conditions

A two-part study utilizing polyoxymethylene (POM) was undertaken to investigate a three stage process (melt extrusion/annealing/uniaxial stretching) (MEAUS) employed to produce microporous films. In this first part, three POM resins (D, E, and F) were melt extruded into tubular films (blowup ratio; BUR = 1), where resin D has a higher weight average molecular weight (Mw) than resin E, but both possess similar and relatively narrow molecular-weight distributions (MWD). In contrast, resin F is characterized by a distinctly broader MWD while its Mw is slightly higher than resin D. Specific attention was focused upon the morphological and crystal orientation results as a function MWD and Mw. A stacked lamellar morphology was obtained in each case from the melt extrusion; however, the type of stacked lamellar morphology, planar or twisted, and the orientation state was found to depend upon both the resin characteristics and the melt-extrusion conditions. Atomic force microscopy and wide-angle X-ray scattering were the main techniques utilized to study the melt-extruded films while dynamic melt rheometry in conjunction with the Carreau-Yasuda model aided in differentiating the melt-flow behavior of the three resins. Small-angle light scattering (SALS) was also employed to characterize the morphological state. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 2944–2963, 2001
The fine structure of neurons and satellite cells in the trigeminal ganglion of cat and monkey

Neurons and satellite cells in the trigeminal ganglion of cats and monkeys fixed by aldehyde perfusion were examined in the electron microscope. The fixative employed and its tonicity appear to be critical factors in accounting for some of the differences noted in earlier descriptions. With satisfactory preservation, only one variety of neuron is seen on the basis of cytoplasmic and nuclear features, although there is a substantial size range. Interdigitating processes of neurons into the satellite cell capsule probably accounts for the axon terminals and intracapsular nerve nets reported in early metallic impregnation studies. Axonal glomeruli are encased in satellite cells and become myelinated by Schwann cells as the axon leaves the region of the neuron soma. Satellite cells reveal layers of attenuated processes forming unusual membrane complexes around the axons. The external surfaces of the satellite cells are completely invested with a prominent basal lamina, which is continuous with that surrounding the Schwann cell at the first “internode.”
Isolation and properties of some reptilian and fish chymotrypsins

Abstract Chymotrypsinogens were isolated in highly purified form by a chromatographic procedure, from the pancreas of the turtles Chelydra serpentina and Pseudemys elegans. After activation with bovine trypsin, they both hydrolyze the substrate N- benzoyl - l - tyrosine ethyl ester about three times as rapidly as bovine chymotrypsin does. The rates of the inactivations by chloromethyl ketone derivative of l -phenylalanine and l -leucine were measured, on chymotrypsins from three reptiles and the tuna. From these, and from the relative activities on tyrosine and leucine substrates, a partial similarity to procine chymotrypsin C (which shows high rates with leucine derivatives), was discerned. It is therefore concluded that although the reactivity of the chymotrypsin active center is basically similar from the fish to the mammals, complex variations on the basic pattern in relation to the binding site are apparent in each species examined. A clear division into A and C types, as found in mammals, could not be made in the range of lower vertebrates investigated here. The alkylation and specificity evidence suggests that forms with combined features of both the A and C types have appeared in reptilian and fish species.
The Critical Role of School Climate in Effective Bullying Prevention

Research has shown a negative association between positive school climate and bullying behavior. This article reviews research on school climate and bullying behavior and proposes that an unhealthy and unsupportive school climate (e.g., negative relationship between teachers and students, positive attitudes towards bullying) provides a social context that allows bullying behavior to occur. We provide information on how to evaluate the school climate and intervene to promote a more positive school climate and to reduce bullying behavior. Although there has been an increased interest among school personnel, parents, and students to reduce bullying behavior, the issue of how to assess the myriad of factors that may cause and maintain bullying behaviors, and to select evidence-based prevention and intervention programs, remains a challenge for many educators. This article seeks to address these two issues by highlighting the importance of school climate in bullying prevention and reviewing some school climate...
Definition of the Escherichia coli MC4100 Genome by Use of a DNA Array

We have used an Escherichia coli K-12 whole-genome array based on the DNA sequence of strain MG1655 as a tool to identify deletions in another E. coli K-12 strain, MC4100, by probing the array with labeled chromosomal DNA. Despite the continued widespread use of MC4100 as an experimental system, the specific genetic relationship of this strain to the sequenced K-12 derivative MG1655 has not been resolved. MC4100 was found to contain four deletions, ranging from 1 to 97 kb in size. The exact nature of three of the deletions was previously unresolved, and the fourth deletion was altogether unknown.
Further studies of spinodal decomposition in Fe-Cr

Abstract The phase separation associated with the misscibility gap in Fe-Cr was studied via small angle neutron scattering. Studies were made on two sets of Fe-32Cr alloys identically aged at 500°C for times to 200 h. Each set, however, received different solutionization treatments, one being at 1200°C and the other at 850°C. In both cases the temporal evolution of the peak position and height could be expressed as t−a′ and ta″, respectively. Values of these parameters showed strong dependence on solutionization treatment with a′ = 0.12, a″ = 1.0 for 850°C solutionization and a′= 0.20, a″ = 0.6 for 1200°C solutionization. Examination of the 850°C solutionized set showed significant departure from the Cahn-Hilliard-Cook and Langer-Bar-on-Miller theories. The 1200°C solutionized set, in contrast, showed reasonable accord with the two theories allowing extraction of relevant thermodynamic parameters based on quantitative analysis. These results indicate that the early stages of spinodal decomposition are being viewed for the high temperature solutionization set of aging experiments.
Alumina Microstructural Sample Preparation Using a Borate Glaze

A method was developed for preparing alumina surfaces for microstructural analysis. Samples were polished using a sodium borate glaze, which produced a smooth surface with the grain boundaries accented.
Weekly EZN-2208 (PEGylated SN-38) in combination with bevacizumab in patients with refractory solid tumors

Background Anti-angiogenic therapies such as bevacizumab upregulate hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), a possible mechanism of drug resistance. Camptothecin analogues, including SN-38, have been shown to reduce the expression and transcriptional activity of HIF-1α in preclinical models. We hypothesized that co-administration of pegylated SN-38 (EZN-2208) may offset the induction of HIF-1α following bevacizumab treatment, resulting in synergistic antitumor effects. Patients and Methods Patients with refractory solid tumors were enrolled. Objectives were to evaluate the modulation of HIF-1α protein and target genes in tumor biopsies following administration of the combination of EZN-2208 administered weekly × 3 (days 1, 8, 15) and bevacizumab administered every 2 weeks, in 28-day cycles, and to establish the safety and tolerability of the combination. Tumor biopsies and dynamic contrast enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) were obtained following bevacizumab alone (before EZN-2208) and after administration of both study drugs. Results Twelve patients were enrolled; ten were evaluable for response. Prolonged stable disease was observed in 2 patients, one with HCC (16 cycles) and another with desmoplastic round cell tumor (7 cycles). Reduction in HIF-1α protein levels in tumor biopsies compared to baseline was observed in 5 of 7 patients. Quantitative analysis of DCE-MRI from 2 patients revealed changes in Ktrans and kep. The study closed prematurely as further clinical development of EZN-2208 was suspended by the pharmaceutical sponsor. Conclusion Preliminary proof-of-concept for modulation of HIF-1α protein in tumor biopsies following administration of EZN-2208 was observed. Two of 10 patients had prolonged disease stabilization following treatment with the EZN-2208 and bevacizumab combination.
Electrochemical nitration of single-wall carbon nanotubes

Abstract Electrochemical nitration of self-assembled single wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) sheets with –NO 2 groups is reported. A SWNT sheet, used as the working electrode in 6 M aqueous solution of potassium nitrite, was anodically oxidized to form –NO 2 groups on the SWNTs. Attenuated-total-reflection Fourier-transform infrared and micro-Raman spectroscopy showed the presence of chemisorbed –NO 2 groups consistent with transmission electron microscope images of the nanotube bundles after functionalization. Approximately 13% weight loss attributed to C–NO 2 bond breaking was measured by thermogravimetry, corresponding to an endothermic dissociation process measured by differential thermal analysis with an onset temperature near 425 °C.
The effects of centrally and peripherally acting cholinergic drugs on the short-term performance gradient following passive-avoidance training.

Rats, injected with physostigmine salicylate, neostigmine methylsulfate, atropine sulfate, atropine methylate, or saline, were trained in a passiveavoidance platform procedure and were tested 5, 15, or 120 sec later. In the salinetreated groups step-down latencies increased between the 5-second and 15-second intervals and stabilized between the 15-second and 120-second intervals. Relative to saline controls, the drugs had the following effects: physostigmine decreased test latencies at the 15- and 120-second intervals; atropine sulfate and methylate increased test latencies at the 5-second interval; neostigmine did not modify test latencies at any of the 3 intervals.
Studies on salt-treated reticulocyte ribosomes.

Abstract Reticulocyte ribosomes were dissociated into metabolically active subunits by suspending the crude ribosomal preparation in 0.5 m KCl at a very high ribosome concentration (above 6 mg/ml). These subunits, which were harvested by sedimentation and stored in 0.25 m sucrose, are called shocked ribosomes (s-ribosomes). Structural transformations were exhibited when the ionic environment of the s-ribosomes was altered. In 0.1 m Tris-Cl, pH 7.5 (at 23 °) a suspension of s-ribosomes at a concentration of 4 mg/ml yields two major sedimenting species with sedimentation coefficients of 30S and 47S at 20 °. The relative concentration (by weight) of these subunits. was 1–2. The appearance of these two distinct subunits species depends on the relative concentration of Tris-Cl and ribosomes, and on the time of incubation. The degree of reconstitution into particles of 72S or larger parallels that of recovery of activity for amino acid incorporation.
Surgical treatment of parathyroid disease: A review

Since the first parathyroidectomy was performed by Mandl in 1925, there have been many advances in our understanding of the parathyroid gland and its related disorders of calcium homeostasis. Our ability to establish the diagnosis of parathyroid neoplasia and locate the source of autonomous parathormone production has also dramatically improved. Nevertheless, it was the advent of the routine calcium and phosphate screening done on the sequential multiple analyzer (SMA-12) that has caused a tremendous increase in the number of patients who are diagnosed to have hyperparathyroidism and who therefore present for surgical treatment. Essential for successful and uncomplicated treatment of this disorder is a thorough understanding of the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the parathyroid glands. This review will consider the parathyroid glands in their normal state, as well as the diagnosis and management of the various disorders associated with them.
A reinforcement-depletion urn problem—I. Basic theory

An urn contains balls of different colors. Specified numbers of each color are added and form a reinforcement. The total reinforcement is randomly removed, forming a depletion. The process, not necessarily with the same reinforcements, is performed a number of times. The factorial moment generating function of the urn configurations at any stage is given in terms of multivariate difference operators. Cases when the reinforcement vector is defined as a stochastic variable are considered. The problem is a generalization of an urn model associated with radioactive atoms and stable atoms proposed by S. R. Bernard. The solutions given here have a definite application to the problem of modelling tracers in compartmental systems.
Effect of lead and cobalt on the growth of Anacystis nidulans.

Lead is toxic to most living things at high exposure and there is no demonstrated biological need. The limit for lead in drinking water as set by US Public Health Service if 0.05 ppm. Previous reports have indicated that algae are not as sensitive to lead as many other organisms. Chelating agents, such as EDTA (Ethylene Diamine Tetraacetic Acid) are able to reduce the toxicity of lead and other metals. In natural habitats this may be due to the effect of reducing agents and amino acids. PH value has been reported to influence the effect of metals. Cobalt is a relatively rare metal produced primarily as a by-product of other metals, chiefly copper. It is used in high temperature alloys and in permanent magnets. Its salts are used in paint dryers as catalysts, and in the production of pigments. Cobalt has been shown to inhibit chlorophyll biosynthesis and the site inhibition by cobalt has been identified. In this study the effect of lead and cobalt on the growth of Anacystis nidulans will be studied.
Detection of Spatial Correlations in an Ultracold Gas of Fermions

Spatial correlations are observed in an ultracold gas of fermionic atoms close to a Feshbach resonance. The correlations are detected by inducing spin-changing rf transitions between pairs of atoms. We observe the process in the strongly interacting regime for attractive as well as for repulsive atom-atom interactions and both in the regime of high and low quantum degeneracy. The observations are compared with a two-particle model that provides theoretical predictions for the measured rf transition rates.
Self-perceived and observable self-direction in an online asynchronous programming course using peer learning forums

This study broadens the objectives of previous work (Boyer, N., Langevin, S., Gaspar, A. (2008). Self direction and constructivism in programming education. Proceedings of the ACM Special Interest Group in IT Education Conference, 16–18 October 2008, Cincinnati, OH) in which we used a survey-based instrument, the Personal Responsibility Orientation Self-Directed Learning Scale – PRO-SDLS (Stockdale, S.L., & Brockett, R.G. (2006). The continuing development of the PRO-SDLS: An instrument to measure self-direction in learning based on the personal responsibility orientation model. Paper presented at the 20th International Self-Directed Learning Symposium, Cocoa Beach, FL), as a new perspective to measure the impact of innovative approaches in the teaching of computer programming in online courses. The data have been collected during the offering of an undergraduate online asynchronous programming course delivered in 2008 at the University of South Florida Polytechnic. Our primary pedagogical intervention ha...
CORR Insights®: High Satisfaction Yet Decreased Activity 4 Years After Transphyseal ACL Reconstruction

This CORR Insights® is a commentary on the article “High Satisfaction Yet Decreased Activity 4 Years After Transphyseal ACL Reconstruction” by Schmale and colleagues available at: DOI: 10.1007/s11999-014-3561-6. The author certifies that he, or a member of his immediate family, has no funding or commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc.) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research ® editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request. The opinions expressed are those of the writers, and do not reflect the opinion or policy of CORR ® or the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons®. This CORR Insights® comment refers to the article available at DOI: 10.1007/s11999-014-3561-6.
Properties of the 77 keV level of 197Au

Abstract The 77 keV level of 197 Au has been studied by Coulomb excitation with low energy 16 O projectiles. The quantity eB (E2)↑ = 0.0231 17 was obtained. Coupled with the recent precision measurements of the lifetime and mixing ratio, our measurement determines α total = 4.0(2), which is in agreement with theory if penetration effects are included for the hindered M1 transition. The penetration parameter λ = 1.8(3) was determined for this transition.
Neurodevelopmental outcome in neonates after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: cranial magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography correlation.

Abstract Irreversible ligation of the right common carotid artery and right internal jugular vein is usual in venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for treatment of severe respiratory failure in neonates. Vessel ligation with ECMO may magnify risksof cerebral hemorrhage or infarction (CHI) and adversely affect neurodevelopmental outcome. To correlate CHI after ECMO with neurodevelopmental outcome, we reviewed cranial ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans in 22 consecutive neonatal ECMO survivors and compared these with results of Bayley Scales of Infant Development obtained at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months of follow-up. All patients had US, and 19 had MRI. No US or MRI had focal abnormal findings attributable to ECMO; specifically, there was no evidence of CHI. Two infants had generalized cerebral atrophy, and one of these had an abnormal Bayley examination. One infant with a normal MRI had an single right focal seizure 4 days after ECMO. Of 20 infants with Bayley developmental tests at 3 to 30 months of age (mental index range, 72 to 135; motor index range, 71 to 150), only 3 were abnormal. In our experience, the incidence of CHI secondary to ECMO is less than that reported. After ECMO, the absence of intracranial hemorrhage, cerebral infarct, or cerebral atrophy on US or MRI usually correlates with normal short-term neurodevelopmental outcome.
Experience using an ASP model to expand a state-initiated telemedicine program

Abstract The Arizona Telemedicine Program began in 1996 as a state-initiated program to create the technical infrastructure for the statewide deployment of telemedicine. An important goal was to develop a business model to move toward self-sustainability and enable additional healthcare organizations to participate without increased state funding. In Arizona, small, geographically isolated communities are under-served both in terms of specialty medical services and telecommunications, while a few urban areas concentrate on medical resources and specialty services. There are traditional geographically based referral patterns that would have to be supported in order for telemedicine to be successful and the Program sought to create a model for expanding telemedicine as a “peer” network in place of the traditional “hub-and-spoke” model common to telemedicine at that time. In 1997, the Program developed a membership model focused on the core telemedicine network services. Any member of the network can interact with any other member of the network for clinical telemedicine services and medical education programming. Professional clinical services among members are established using separate agreements that are layered upon, and independent of, the network membership contract. Using this membership model, the telemedicine network in Arizona has grown from the initial eight sites funded by the state to more than 22 sites. Cost recovery from the memberships and other centralized cost recovery enabled by the model now offsets 45% of the total cost of operating the statewide infrastructure. This Application Service Provider (ASP)-based membership model for telemedicine network services has worked extremely well for Arizona.
A note on the use of sorbitol solution in pharmaceutical formulations

Evidence is presented to indicate the significance of the shipping containers for commercial sorbitol solutions used in the formulation of liquid dosage forms. Some inconsistency in stability data of ascorbic acid formulations is attributed to the relatively high trace metal content of the sorbitol solution used. This solution was supplied in a poorly protected metal container.
TREATMENT OF RETINAL VASCULITIS

Retinal vasculitis is an ocular finding that may represent a primary syndrome; may be part of an isolated ocular syndrome, such as birdshot chorioretinopathy; or may be a component of a systemic disease, such as Wegener's granulomatosis or multiple sclerosis. Regardless of the cause of the retinal vasculitis, there are some generalized treatment concepts that should be kept in mind. This article describes the authors' approach to the management of patients with retinal vasculitis. These general guidelines may somewhat vary depending on the underlying cause of the retinal vascular inflammation. As with other forms of uveitis, a stepwise treatment approach is offered. Not all patients with retinal vasculitis require therapeutic intervention. Therapy is probably indicated in a patient exhibiting any of the following symptoms: vision-limiting vitritis, capillary destruction around the foveal avascular zone, broad areas of capillary dropout, or cystoid macular edema. The following methods are discussed: observation, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory preparations, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive agents. The role of surgical intervention is discussed, as well as some newer innovative approaches to the treatment of ocular inflammation. Certain conditions may vary from these generalized guidelines, and these are discussed later in the article. Before embarking on the use of any immunomodulating therapy, it is imperative for the clinician to have thoroughly evaluated the patient for the possibility of an infectious cause. This should have been done as part of the patient's history and ocular examination, as well as through the use of serologic studies, radiographs, and, if indicated, vitreous humor analysis. Bear in mind that the laboratory evaluation should be carefully guided by the results of a detailed medical history and review of organ systems. If this detailed history is negative then only a limited number of tests should be ordered.8 In most cases the laboratory "shotgun" approach will be both diagnostically unrewarding and expensive. If a specific infectious agent is identified, then specific antimicrobial therapy is indicated. If no infectious agent is found, then immunomodulating approaches may be indicated.