cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Are peroxiredoxins tumor suppressors

It has been known for many years that free radicals, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), promote diseases such as cancer. Peroxiredoxins (Prdxs) are small H(2)O(2) scavenging proteins that appear to have tumor preventive functions since loss of Prdx1 in mice leads to premature death from cancer. However, as Prdxs are antioxidants they also scavenge the H(2)O(2) in cancer cells that way supporting survival and tumor maintenance. This suggests that Prdxs function as tumor 'preventers' rather than as tumor suppressors since they do not induce cell death when re-expressed in cancer cells, as it occurs with the tumor suppressor p53. Therefore, the knowledge of Prdx function and regulation may help provide a fuller understanding of the role of ROS in tumorigenesis.
Sexual maturation of Greek boys.

Background : Sexual maturation is dependent on genetic and environmental factors, therefore each ethnic group has to have its own normative data. Aim : This study describes the sexual maturation of Greek boys. Subjects and methods : We examined cross-sectionally 1266 healthy boys, aged 8-16 years. Pubertal staging in each boy was assessed according to Tanner's classification. Our data were also compared with those of a study performed in 1968. Results : The first pubertal sign was genital enlargement (G2) that occurred at a mean age of 11.0 ( &#45 1.3) years followed by pubic hair development (PH2) at 11.5 ( &#45 1.5) years of age. There was no clear change in pubertal maturation from the 1968 study. Conclusions : The age at which genital development occurs in Greek boys is no different from that of other Caucasian populations. However, pubic hair in Greek boys develops significantly earlier.
Use of propofol for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and emesis in oncology patients.

Nausea and vomiting associated with antineoplastic chemotherapy are distressing and may keep patients from complying with chemotherapy protocols. No drug has emerged among many as an effective antiemetic. It has been speculated that propofol may have intrinsic antiemetic properties. We report the use of low-dose continuous infusion propofol in three oncology patients to treat chemotherapy-associated nausea and vomiting. A bolus of 0.1 mg.kg-1 followed by a continuous infusion of 1 mg.kg-1.hr-1 was effective in both prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting. All three patients were alert, reported low nausea scores by visual analogue scale, and had no episodes of vomiting. When the infusion was discontinued, nausea and vomiting were noted in two patients. Propofol, given in a subanaesthetic infusion, was safe and effective as an antiemetic in these three patients.
Exercise regulates heat shock proteins and nitric oxide.

Heat shock proteins (HSP) produced during exercise have important roles in modulating the effects of oxidative stresses to preserve cellular function. The ability of HSP to regulate nitric oxide, which has both protective and detrimental effects on the airways and circulation, may have implications for exercise-induced asthma. Exercise regulates HSP and nitric oxide interactions and protects against organ dysfunction and oxidative stresses
Of tidal waves and human frailty.

Suggested Citation for this Article: Potter P. Of tidal waves and human fraility [about the cover]. Emerg Infect Dis [serial on the Internet]. 2005 Oct [date cited]. http://dx.doi.org/10.3201/eid1110.AC1110
Organization and structure of data on disk file memory systems for efficient sorting and other data processing programs

An approach to the organization and structure of data on Bryant Disc File Memory Systems for sorting and performing other data processing functions is presented. The following areas are covered: characteristics of Bryant Disc File Systems on the Bendix G-20 and RCA 301; two proposed “chaining” structures for data; and functions of a Disk File Executive Routine. The concepts for sorting and performing file maintenance processing using the proposed structure and executive routine are discussed. Additionally, it is shown that sorting can be accomplished without the use of disk storage work areas.
Electrical image deposition of charges from laminar flow in cylinders

Abstract The electrical force on a point charge in a conducting cylindrical channel is calculated exactly and compared with approximations used in the literature. The exact form is shown to lead to larger deposition rates for charges in a laminar flow in a viscous medium. Several numerical applications are presented.
Ultraviolet continuum and H2 fluorescent emission in Herbig-Haro objects 43 and 47

IUE short wavelength spectra are presented for the low excitation Herbig-Haro objects HH 43 and HH 47. In the former, several emission lines in the Lyman band of H2 from an excited state are observed which are due to fluorescence from the H Ly-alpha line pumping a lower state (that is in turn excited by a low-velocity shock wave). No evidence of highly ionized gas emission is found in the UV spectra, and both objects exhibit a UV continuum which peaks in the vicinity of 1500 A and is probably caused by H two-photon emission enhanced by low velocity shock collisional excitation.
SITE-SPECIFIC CLEAVAGE OF DNA-RNA HYBRIDS BY ZINC FINGER/FOKI CLEAVAGE DOMAIN FUSIONS

Zinc-finger proteins of the Cys2His2 type bind DNA-RNA hybrids with affinities comparable to those for DNA duplexes. Such zinc-finger proteins were converted into site-specific cleaving enzymes by fusing them to the FokI cleavage domain. The fusion proteins are active and under optimal conditions cleave DNA duplexes in a sequence-specific manner. These fusions also exhibit site-specific cleavage of the DNA strand within DNA-RNA hybrids albeit at a lower efficiency (approximately 50-fold) compared to the cleavage of the DNA duplexes. These engineered endonucleases represent the first of their kind in terms of their DNA-RNA cleavage properties, and they may have important biological applications.
BACTERIAL COLONIZATION OF INFANTS RAISED IN INCUBA- TORS AND UNDER RADIANT HEATERS

The potential risk of infection among newborn infants raised under open radiant heaters (RH) Is uncertain. In a prospective, controlled study, rates of bacterial colonization of the anterior nares, umbilicus and groin were determined during the first 3 days of life in 15 infants raised under RH and in 27 Infants raised in isolette incubators (I). None of the infants received systemic antibiotics during the study. Decreased bacterial colonization was observed at all sites on each day of the study in the RH group. This was due to the almost complete absence of colonization with S. aureus in these infants. In contrast, colonization with S. aureus at the 3 sites ranged from 3.7 to 40.7% among the I Infants. S. epidermidis, the most commonly encounted organism, was seen with comparable frequency in both groups. There was also no intergroup difference in the prevalence of E. coli and other enterobacteriaceae. Systemic and topical infections were not observed in either group. These results suggest that RH inhibits colonization of the skin and nares with S. aureus, and may play a beneficial role in reducing the incidence of staphylococcal infection.
On the expected complexity of integer least-squares problems

The problem of finding the least-squares solution to a system of linear equations where the unknown vector is comprised of integers, but the matrix coefficient and given vector are comprised of real numbers, arises in many applications: communications, cryptography, GPS, to name a few. The problem is equivalent to finding the closest lattice point to a given point and is known to be NP-hard. In communications applications, however, the given vector is not arbitrary, but rather is an unknown lattice point that has been perturbed by an additive noise vector whose statistical properties are known. Therefore in this paper, rather than dwell on the worst-case complexity of the integer-least-squares problem, we study its expected complexity, averaged over the noise and over the lattice. For the “sphere decoding” algorithm of Fincke and Pohst we find a closed-form expression for the expected complexity and show that for a wide range of noise variances the expected complexity is polynomial, in fact often sub-cubic. Since many communications systems operate at noise levels for which the expected complexity turns out to be polynomial, this suggests that maximum-likelihood decoding, which was hitherto thought to be computationally intractable, can in fact be implemented in realtime—a result with many practical implications.
Phase diagram of a polarized Fermi gas across a Feshbach resonance in a potential trap

We map out the detailed phase diagram of a trapped ultracold Fermi gas with population imbalance across a wide Feshbach resonance. We show that under the local density approximation, the properties of the atoms in any (anisotropic) harmonic traps are universally characterized by three dimensionless parameters: the normalized temperature, the dimensionless interaction strength, and the population imbalance. We then discuss the possible quantum phases in the trap, and quantitatively characterize their phase boundaries in various typical parameter regions.
Latino Employment and Non-Latino Homicide in Rural Areas: The Implications of U.S. Immigration Policy

From 1990 to 2000, rural counties experienced a major influx of low-skill Latinos. This was due in part to the increased enforcement of the U.S.-Mexican border, which encouraged Latino migrants already in the United States to stay for fear that they cannot return. We examine whether the increasing dominance of Latinos in rural low-skill labor markets raised rural homicide among non-Latino whites and blacks. Using 1990 and 2000 census and crime data for counties, we find that where low-skill labor markets shifted toward Latino labor, violence increases among non-Latino whites, but not among blacks. This is in contrast to prior research emphasizing how low-skill jobs loss is detrimental mainly to blacks. This major structural change in the ethnic structure of low-skill employment has negative consequences for rural white communities, and current theorizing on the loss of low-skill jobs must account for these effects.
Evaluation of multimegabit networks for medical information delivery

High speed networking is a crucial ingredient in medical information systems. ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) and FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface) networking have overcome their high costs and it is now possible to deploy these technologies widely. However, the impact of these networks on the performance of medical information systems is not well documented. Structured experiments are required to evaluate networking in complex systems of hardware and software. A test system designed to simulate an image delivery and display system using Ethernet, FDDI and ATM networking was established. Bottlenecks in this system related to networking protocols and hardware, as well as operating system and disk operations were identified and examined. Special attention was given to the DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) protocol layered on TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol). Although the test ATM network was rated at 155 Mbps at the physical layer, observed maximum throughputs using TCP with optimized parameters were 79 Mbps for memory to memory transfers and 50 Mbps for disk to memory transfers. The default parameters yielded much lower throughputs with rates of 28 Mbps for memory to memory transfers. When the DICOM protocol was layered on top of TCP, a performance degradation of 10% to 78% of the optimal TCP rate was observed, depending on the type of image study being transferred (CR, CT, or MR). These initial data indicate the performance of a medical information system can be limited by a series of factors. Image data types have performance characteristics based on their image and study size. Appropriate selection and tuning of higher level protocols also makes a substantial contribution to system performance. Once network bandwidth exceeds ethernet speeds, disk operations are rate limiting factors in image retrieval.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A Field Study of Grouping Cows by Nutrient Requirements for Feeding

A field study was designed to evaluate the practicality of a system of grouping cows based on nutrient requirments for concentrations of CP and TDN. This cluster system was computerized and implemented in 10 commercial dairy herds feeding total mixed rations. Grouping recommendations based on DHIA records were provided for 12 mo. The final modified computer program was applied in retrospect to the 12 mo of production records of the herds. The cluster procedure, when compared with a milk only grouping with all other constraints identical, placed in the high groups cows 7 mo younger and 16 kg lighter, requiring .9% more TDN and .6 kg less DM. The cluster system placed in the low groups cows 9 mo older and 22 kg heavier, requiring 1.2% less TDN concentration and .8 kg more DM. Intragroup correlations for the cluster and milk systems were .59 and .41 for TDN, .65 and .57 for CP, and .19 and .48 for intake of DM, indicating that cows in clustered groups were more homogeneous in nutrient requirements than cows grouped by milk. Analysis of predicted feed cost per cow per day indicated similar feed costs for each grouping system.
Distributions of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α7 and β2 subunits on cultured hippocampal neurons

Abstract The hippocampus receives cholinergic afferents and expresses neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. In particular, the α 7 and β 2 nicotinic subunits are highly expressed in the hippocampus. There has been controversy about the location, distribution and roles of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors [Role L. W. and Berg D. K. (1996) Neuron 16, 1077–1085; Wonnacott S. (1997) Trends Neurosci . 20, 92–98]. Using immunocytochemistry and patch-clamp techniques, we examined the density and distribution of nicotinic receptors on rat hippocampal neurons in primary tissue culture. The density and distribution of α 7 subunits change with days in culture. Before 10 days in culture, α 7 expression, monitored immunocytochemically, is low and nicotinic currents are small or absent. In older cultures, about two-thirds of the neurons express nicotinic currents, and α 7 appears in small patches on the soma and out along the neuronal processes. These patches of α 7 subunits on the surface of the neuronal processes often co-localize with the presynaptic marker, synaptotagmin. The other most common nicotinic subunit, β 2, stays confined mainly to the soma and proximal processes, and β 2 is distributed more uniformly and is not specifically localized at presynaptic areas. The two subunits, α 7 and β 2, have different expression patterns on the surface of the cultured hippocampal neurons. Taken together with previous physiological studies, the results indicate that α 7 subunits can be found at presynaptic terminals, and at these locations, these calcium-permeable channels may influence transmitter release.
Cryopreserved embryo transfer is an independent risk factor for placenta accreta.

Objective To explore the association between cryopreserved embryo transfer (CET) and risk of placenta accreta among patients utilizing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and/or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Design Case-control study. Setting Academic medical center. Patient(s) All patients using IVF and/or ICSI, with autologous or donor oocytes, undergoing fresh or cryopreserved transfer, who delivered a live-born fetus at ≥24 weeks of gestation at our center, from 2005 to 2011 (n = 1,571), were reviewed for placenta accreta at delivery. Intervention(s) Cases of accreta (n = 50) were matched by age and prior cesarean section to controls (1:3) without accreta. The association between CET and accreta was modeled using conditional logistic regression, controlling a priori for age and placenta previa. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to determine thresholds of endometrial thickness and peak serum E 2 levels related to accreta. Main Outcome Measure(s) Placenta accreta. Result(s) Univariate predictors of accreta were non-Caucasian race (odds ratio [OR] 2.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.25–6.47); uterine factor infertility (OR 5.80, 95% CI 2.49–13.50); prior abdominal or laparoscopic myomectomy (OR 7.24, 95% CI 1.92–27.28); and persistent or resolved placenta previa (OR 4.25, 95% CI 1.94–9.33). In multivariate analysis, we observed a significant association between CET and accreta (adjusted OR 3.20, 95% CI 1.14–9.02), which remained when analyses were restricted to cases of accreta with morbid complications (adjusted OR 3.87, 95% CI 1.08–13.81). Endometrial thickness and peak serum E 2 level were each significantly lower in CET cycles and those with accreta. Conclusion(s) Cryopreserved ET is a strong independent risk factor for accreta among patients using IVF and/or ICSI. A threshold endometrial thickness and a "safety window" of optimal peak E 2 level are proposed for external validation.
Factors contributing to change in the European port system

Abstract Before 1989, West European ports were vying with one another to be in a competitive position in preparation for the cessation in 1993 of internal customs barriers within the European Common Market. The sudden opening up of Eastern Europe in 1989 gave an additional dimension to the competition, and the expected opening of the English Channel tunnel in 1993 will augment the challenge. As if these changes were not enough, European ports had to respond to a host of other trends and conditions. The stakes are high: experts have predicted that in the end, there will be only one central hub port, or at best three or four, and that other ports will have to serve as feeder or specialized ports.
Poster Abstract: Hierarchical Hybrid-State Systems for Coordinated Autonomous Driving in Mixed-Traffic Urban Environments

This study focuses on a number of control and coordination aspects of autonomous navigation in real-life urban traffic. By expanding the inherent hierarchy of the hybrid-state system formulation, a highly-structured yet modular architecture was developed to connect various traffic elements. The feasibility of coordination under vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication was investigated through experiments with multiple vehicles and roadside units. The necessary levels of situational awareness abstractions for different tiers of the proposed hierarchy were studied on stochastic hybrid-state system estimators.
Atomistic structure of high-index surfaces in metals and alloys

Abstract Interatomic potentials of the embedded atom (EAM) type were used to study the atomistic structure of high-index surfaces in metals and ordered alloys. The results show that a structural unit model can be developed for the structure of the high-index surfaces on the basis of the structure of a few low-energy surfaces. The model can predict the structural features and also give an estimate of the energies of the higher-index surfaces. We present examples in pure metals, Fe and Al and in the intermetallic alloys FeAl, NiAl and TiAl. The energies of alloy surfaces that present different possible terminations depend on the composition of the bulk. We show that this effect can be significant for low-index surfaces, and decreases in magnitude for higher-index surfaces.
The Chameleon Project for Adaptable Commanders and Teams

How do military commanders and teams trained and equipped to fight and destroy the enemy, adapt their warfighting skills to perform peacekeeping missions? To understand current practices in commander and team deployment preparation, a research team supported by the Army Research Laboratory, Human Research and Engineering Directorate (ARL, HRED) interviewed training developers and observed unit preparation for operations in Bosnia-Herzegovina (B-H). Thirty days after deployment, we observed and interviewed unit personnel to assess their perceptions of mission preparation and determined the knowledge, skills and abilities, and information technology required for commanders and teams to operate and make decisions as part of a multi-national peacekeeping force. Training was influenced by a warfighting mindset that did not provide an adequate opportunity for the unit to practice fundamental peacekeeping tasks, build multi-functional teams, or adapt their information technology. Researchers are using cognitive models in learning, decision-making, and teamwork to develop methods and tools for training, assessment, and collaboration.
A modelling study of the effects of continuous incremental improvement in the case of a process shop

Today's extremely competitive markets demand that businesses emphasize continuous improvement and/or re-engineering of their current processes. When the various methods for continuous improvement are considered, only setup reduction in the single machine case has received the most attention in the research literature. This study examines the effect of setup reduction and processing time reduction in the case of a multi-product multi-machine job shop. The research was designed to determine whether there are specific shop conditions which favor continuous improvement and examines the impact of these improvements on flexibility. The study also explores the use of the setup time to processing time ratio as an indicator of the effectiveness of further process improvements.
Cellular biology of Cryptosporidium parvum

With the emergence of Cryptosporidium parvum as a major pathogen encountered in human and veterinary clinical practice, a need for increased knowledge of the cellular- and immuno-biology of this Apicomplexan parasite has developed. Initial work has used paradigms taken from other Apicomplexans, especially Plasmodium, Toxoplasma and Eimeria, as a starting point. In this article, Carolyn Petersen discusses the observation that in these organisms, molecular targets of antibodies (which have protective value, in vivo, against disease) have frequently been located in the apical complex or on the surface of the invasive stages of the parasite and appear to mediate biologically crucial processes including motility, attachment to the host cell, modification of the host membrane, and entry into the host cell. Molecular-biology approaches to the study of enzymes and of structural proteins which mediate motility are also considered. Invasion mechanisms, biochemical pathways and motility may involve molecules that will prove susceptible to immunotherapeutic or chemotherapeutic interruption of cryptosporidiosis.
Unbiasedness of fourier integral estimator under weaker assumptions

The Fourier integral estimator (FIE) of the hazard rate function have been introduced by Singpurwalla and Wong (1983) in order to improve the rate of convergence of mean square error. However, the asymptotic properties are derived under several assumptions. These assumptions are too strong to be satisfied in most applications. The situation becomes worse when some of these assumptions appear contradictory to each other. This greatly limits the usage of FIE. This paper endeavors to release or weaken some of these assumptions and therefore expand the applicable coverage of FIE.
Toxic factors and proteolytic enzymes in burns.

SUMMARY All preparations bioassayed were sterile. In addition, incorporation of antibiotics during preparation of the skin extract did not lessen the mortalities. The toxicity of the dialyzed mouse skin extract is not due to the presence of bacteria. In searching for factors which cause death in burn patients receiving therapy, we investigated the skin as a source of toxic factors. Both normal and burned skin, when processed as described, yielded sterile extracts which caused death in saline-treated scalded mice. By means of ammonium sulfate precipitation and Sephadex chromatography of this extract, fractions having enzymatic activity have been obtained. These fractions also proved toxic to saline-treated scalded mice. Isolation and identification of the active material may contribute to understanding the cause of death in burn patients and hopefully to therapy.
Large enhancement of two-photon absorption in semiconductors using highly non-degenerate photons

We performed frequency non-degenerate pump-probe experiments in several direct-gap semiconductors using femtosecond and picosecond pulses. Tuning the long wavelength photons in the IR region, we observed a 125-fold enhancement of the two-photon absorption coefficient.
New Perspectives on van der Waals - London Interactions of Materials. From Planar Interfaces to Carbon Nanotubes

The drive towards nanoscale assembly necessitates an accurate understanding of all the fundamental forces present in a given system to ensure the greatest chance of success. The van der Waals - London dispersion (vdW-Ld) interaction is the universal, long range, interaction that is present in all materials systems. However, scientists and engineers often either ignore or crudely approximate the vdW-Ld interactions because the calculations often appear impractical due to the 1) lack of the required full spectra optical properties and 2) lack of the proper geometrical formulation to give meaningful results. These two barriers are being actively eliminated by the introduction of robust ab initio codes that can calculate anisotropic full spectral optical properties and by proper extensions to the Lifshitz vdW-Ld formulation that take into account anisotropic spectral optical properties as well as novel geometries. These new capabilities are of broad utility, especially in the biological community, because of the di!cult y in experimental determination of full spectral optical properties of nanoscale, liquid phase biomolecules. Here we compare 3 levels of complexity of vdW-Ld interactions (optically isotropic planar, optically anisotropic planar, and optically anisotropic solid cylinder) as well as calculate and compare a variety of Hamaker coe!cien ts relevant to these systems. For the latter two, more complex, cases, we use the ab initio optical properties of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Our results show the e"ects of strong optical anisotropy upon the overall vdW-Ld interaction strength as well as the presence of strong dispersion-driven torques in both anisotropic cases, which can play a role in CNT alignment with other CNTs and also preferred CNT alignment directions with optically anisotropic substrates(1, 2).
MAIN STREET ON MAIN STREET: Community Identity and the Reputation of Sinclair Lewis

Whereas sociologists have devoted extensive attention to the development of individual identity, the question of community identity has not received similar treatment. Most examinations of collecti...
Referenced magnetotellurics at cerro prieto

Abstract Among the various geophysical methods for determining the distribution of electrical resistivity within the earth, the magnetotelluric (MT) method alone utilizes the natural low-frequency telluric voltage variations and the simultaneous magnetic variations which cause the telluric currents. Electric and magnetic fields are related through impedance, Z(ω); E(ω) = Z(ω) H(ω), where ω is the angular frequency. In general, Z(ω) is a tensor expression which, when properly evaluated over a wide range of frequencies, provides information needed to determine the electrical parameters beneath the station. The accuracy of previous MT surveys has often been limited by bias in the estimates of Z caused by noise in the measurements. It is impossible to eliminate all measurement noise, particularly in the vicinity of a large artificial source of magnetic fluctuations such as the Cerro Prieto power plant. Additional simultaneous measurements of the magnetic fluctuations at a remote location make it possible to obtain an unbiased estimate of Z. This new technique was employed in April 1978 to perform MT soundings at six locations on a NE-SW line near the Cerro Prieto volcano (line D - D′) and at one station near the Cerro Prieto geothermal power plant. The reference magnetometer was sited at the edge of the Cucapa Mountains, 10 km west of the field, and data were telemetered to the recording truck. The results of these soundings will be presented. The interpretation of Z(ω) to determine the conductivity structure of the ground is still a developing field. The results from a single line of soundings are usually not by themselves sufficient to determine the structure. However, data from this survey will be used for comparisons to detailed Schlumberger and dipole-dipole dc resistivity surveys made on the same line. The MT data also provide information on deep crustal resistivity. The station near the power plant is close to the production area, and repetitive measurements during the life of the field might ultimately help determine whether changes in resistivity due to changes in reservoir conditions can be monitored from the surface.
Clinical Documentation to Improve Patient Care

In this issue, the Medical Informatics Committee of the American College of Physicians reviews the current and emerging purposes of clinical documentation. The editorialist urges providers and othe...
Voiding dysfunction - A review

In a child who is toilet trained the sudden onset of daytime wetting with frequency or urgency is alarming to the parents. Initially this subject was subdivided into a number of descriptive clinical conditions which led to a lot of confusion in recognition and management. Subsequently, the term elimination dysfunction was coined by Stephen Koff to emphasise the association between recurrent urinary infection, wetting, constipation and bladder overactivity. From a urodynamic point of view, in voiding dysfunction, there is either detrusor overactivity during bladder filling or dyssynergic action between the detrusor and the external sphincter during voiding. Identifying a given condition as a 'filling phase dysfunction' or 'voiding phase dysfunction' helps to provide appropriate therapy. Objective clinical criteria should be used to define voiding dysfunction. These include bladder wall thickening, large capacity bladder and infrequent voiding, bladder trabeculation and spinning top deformity of the urethra and a clinically demonstrated Vincent's curtsy. The recognition and treatment of constipation is central to the adequate treatment of voiding dysfunction. Transcutaneous electric nerve stimuation for the treatment of detrusor overactivity, biofeedback with uroflow EMG to correct dyssynergic voiding, and behavioral therapy all serve to correct voiding dysfunction in its early stages. In established neurogenic bladder disease the use of Botulinum Toxin A injections into the detrusor or the external sphincter may help in restoring continence especially in those refractory to drug therapy. However in those children in whom the upper tracts are threatened, augmentation of the bladder may still be needed.
Using three minimally biasing elicitation techniques for knowledge acquisition

Bias can hinder the process of knowledge acquisition by causing discrepancies between what is reported by the expert or interpreted by the knowledge engineer and the expert's actual thinking. Thus, bias affects the building of systems that reflect the experts' actual heuristics and operational procedures. Bias is defined, here, as an altering or misrepresentation of the expert's thought processes. This paper focuses on three manual elicitation techniques—the verbal protocol, a type of verbal probe, and the ethnographic query. These techniques were tailored to avoid the introduction of bias and to be easy for the lay person to use. For each technique, detailed guidance is given on situations in which it can be used, how to set up for its use, and how it can be administered.
Macbeth in the Resource Room: Students with Learning Disabilities Study Shakespeare

A teacher describes a secondary English unit on Shakespeare implemented in a manner designed to take advantage of the learning differences of resource room students. After developing and investigating questions relating to Macbeth, students then read and enjoyed the drama. As a result of acquiring an understanding of Shakespeare exceeding that of students in general classes, self-esteem and academic motivation increased. Finally, connections to practice and behavioral, constructivist, feminist, and critical theories are discussed. Appendices describe specific schedules and routines.
CHEMICAL AND MINERALOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SASANIAN AND EARLY ISLAMIC GLAZED CERAMICS FROM THE DEH LURAN PLAIN, SOUTHWESTERN IRAN*

One hundred and seventy-five glazed ceramics from Sasanian and Early Islamic period sites located on the Deh Luran Plain in southwestern Iran were examined by instrumental neutron activation analysis for characterizing differences in ceramic pastes and by laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry for identifying the constituents of the ceramic glazes. The results of the analysis reveal that alkaline-based glazed ceramics have paste compositions that are distinct from contemporary and later ceramics decorated with alkaline-low-lead and lead-based glazes.
Abnormal processing of a recombinant feline leukemia virus envelope polyprotein and its interference with subgroup C virus infection

Processing of the env polyprotein of a noninfectious feline leukemia virus (FeLV) recombinant, named r6gp, was examined in human-transfected cells. The r6gp provirus was previously generated in the frame of FeLV, subgroup B, GA clone with substitution of all but 40 C-terminal amino acid sequences of the surface glycoprotein (SU) from an endogenous FeLV provirus element (CFE-6). Although r6gp produced a normal size (85 kDa) env glycoprotein precursor, the product, unlike the precursor of the parental virus, was neither additionally glycosylated nor further processed into mature env proteins. Biochemical observations were consistent with the idea that the chimeric env polyprotein was trapped in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and were directly supported by immunofluorescence microscopy analyses. Interestingly, the residence of the chimeric protein in the ER specifically interfered with FeLV, subgroup C (Sarma) virus infection but not the parental FeLV-B virus infection. Since FeLV-C provirus sequences could be readily detected in the infected cells, it appeared that r6gp env expression did not block entry of the challenge virus. While FeLV-B and CFE-6 env genes share an extensive overall sequence homology, a variable region (region VI) of CFE-6 near the C-terminus of SU, which was retained in the r6gp construct, exhibits a considerably higher degree of homology to FeLV-C than FeLV-B. Thus, we propose that region VI is involved in conferring specificity for the env polyprotein oligomerization in the ER, and that co-oligomerization of the trapped r6gp env with FeLV-C is the reason for specific interference with FeLV-C infection. The results also demonstrate for the first time a functional abnormality of a recombinant FeLV env gene which is structurally similar to those commonly detected in FeLV-induced feline lymphosarcomas.
Temperature effect on the non-newtonian viscosity of an aqueous polyacrylamide solution

A significant laminar heat transfer enhancement in a 2:1 rectangular duct occurs when a dilute aqueous polyacrylamide solution is used. There is strong evidence that this enhancement might be due to the effect of temperature on the viscosity of the polyacrylamide solution particularly at the low shear rate. However, there is no experimental data that reports this low shear viscosity over a range of temperature. The objective of the study is to report viscosity data which depend on both shear rate and temperature and to develop a method to correlate the viscosity data using a mathematical equation. A new temperature-dependent viscosity equation based on the Carreau model is introduced; this model takes into account the effects of shear-thinning non-Newtonian characteristics and temperature on the viscosity of the polyacrylamide solution.
Aspects of the regulation of long-chain fatty acid oxidation in bovine liver.

Factors involved in regulation of bovine hepatic fatty acid oxidation were examined using liver slices. Fatty acid oxidation was measured as the conversion of 1-[14C]palmitate to 14CO2 and total [14C] acid-soluble metabolites. Extended (5 to 7 d) fasting of Holstein cows had relatively little effect on palmitate oxidation to acid-soluble metabolites by liver slices, although oxidation to CO2 was decreased. Feeding a restricted roughage, high concentrate ration to lactating cows resulted in inhibition of palmitate oxidation. Insulin, glucose, and acetate inhibited palmitate oxidation by bovine liver slices. We suggest the regulation of bovine hepatic fatty acid oxidation may be less dependent on hormonally induced alterations in enzyme activity as observed in rat liver and more dependent upon action of rumen fermentation products or their metabolites on enzyme systems involved in fatty acid oxidation.
Evaluation of supply chain structures through modularization and postponement

Abstract This paper introduces a conceptual framework for evaluating different supply chain structures in the context of modularization and postponement. In our analysis, modularization is linked to inbound logistics as the combination of different components (or modules) allow for the assembly of the final product. Postponement, however, corresponds with the outbound logistics since it is through the distribution function that customers' specific demand is satisfied. Given this perspective, we introduce a taxonomy and develop a corresponding framework for the characterization of four supply chain structures, defined according to the combined levels of modularization and postponement: Rigid, Postponed, Modularized and Flexible. We also illustrate the applicability of the resulting framework through quantifying the total cost differential for utilizing a particular supply chain structure. By quantifying the total cost for employing a particular supply chain structure we can numerically illustrate structural results that allow for an objective comparison among them. As such, our findings substantiate the empirical evidence that vertical integration along the supply chain is not always desirable. A point of emphasis in this paper is the notion that firms may be better off making combined modularization (outsourcing) and postponement decisions as opposed to separate ones (as they currently do). This also suggests that modularization and postponement decisions need not be independent and that their joint consideration extends operational advantages worthy of contemplation.
Optical model analysis of 200 MeV p

Differential cross sections and analyzing powers are presented for $^{16}$O(p\ensuremath{\rightarrow},p${)}^{16}$O elastic scattering at ${E}_{\mathrm{p}=200}$ MeV, extending over a large range of momentum transfer (up to q\ensuremath{\sim}6 ${\mathrm{fm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$). The data were analyzed in the framework of the nonrelativistic optical model. In addition to standard Woods-Saxon potentials, nonstandard radial shapes for the central and the spin-orbit potentials were investigated. The data are not adequately described over the entire angular range using a Woods-Saxon real central potential, but two distinct parametrizations (not simply related by the usual discrete or continuous parameter ambiguities which maintain a rough phase-shift equivalence) were found which provide a far superior representation. The similarity in the angular distributions given by these two potentials can be attributed to the fact that the non-spin-flip partial-wave scattering amplitudes ${a}_{L}$ differ by only a simple rotation in the complex ${a}_{L}$ plane. This rotation has a negligible effect on the predicted cross section and the analyzing power angular distributions, but leads to sizable differences in the predicted spin-rotation function Q(\ensuremath{\theta}).
Health-related quality of life in osteoporosis.

Abstract The increasing prevalence and complexity of osteoporosis mandates that healthcare providers take a comprehensive view of the scientific investigation, treatment, and management of the disease. Despite recent pharmacologic advances, the enhancement of quality of life for patients with osteoporosis remains an elusive goal. The measurement of disease-specific quality of life in osteoporosis has recently improved with the development of three new tools specifically designed for this purpose. This paper provides an overview of the newly developed questionnaires along with some suggestions for the improvement of quality of life for this growing segment of the population.
Profile of the Retina by Optical Coherence Tomography in the Pediatric Age Group

Purpose To establish normative values of the retina in the pediatric population using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Design Prospective observational case control study. Methods Prospective study examining macular thickness and nerve fiber layer thickness in children with no ocular disease. After clinical examination, patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria underwent OCT scanning. Results Thirty-two eyes were examined for macular thickness and 25 eyes for nerve fiber layer thickness. Normative values are found in the Table. The average foveal thickness for children is 221 microns vs 182 microns in adults. Conclusion This study demonstrates normative values of retinal thickness and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in the pediatric age group. Children have slightly thicker maculas than adults; the RNFL thickness is comparable to adults.
Dominance Hierarchy Influences Adult Neurogenesis in the Dentate Gyrus

Many mammalian species form dominance hierarchies, but it remains unknown whether differences in social status correspond to structural differences in the brain. Stressful experiences may arise naturally during the establishment of dominance, and stress has been linked to adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus. To determine whether position in a dominance hierarchy leads to changes in adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus, we examined the brains of rats housed in a visible burrow system (VBS), a seminaturalistic environment with opportunities for social interaction. Dominance hierarchies emerged among the males in all colonies within 3 d of living in the VBS. Although cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus did not differ between the groups, more new neurons were observed in the dentate gyrus of the dominant males compared with both subordinates and controls. Dominant and subordinate animals showed similar basal, stress, and recovery from stress levels of corticosterone, as well as similar thymus, adrenal gland, and body weights, suggesting that variables other than stress are responsible for the observed changes in adult neurogenesis. The differences in brain structure persisted among the animals that had no access to the burrow system after the dominance hierarchy stabilized, suggesting that social status rather than living in a complex environment accounts for the effect of dominance on adult neurogenesis.
Human movement understanding: a variety of perspectives

Our laboratory is examining human movement from a variety of perspectives: synthesis of animated movements and analysis of moving images. Both gestural (limb and hand) and facial movements are being explored.
Correlates of receiving reproductive health care services among U.S. men aged 15 to 44 years.

Men have a significant role in reproductive health decision making and behavior, including family planning and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).Yet studies on reproductive health ...
Protein identification with Teflon as matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization sample support

Protein identification is a critical step in proteomics, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOFMS) plays an important role in that identification. Polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) was tested as a new MALDI sample support to improve protein identification. The tryptic peptides obtained from a model protein were bound to the surface of a modified MALDI sample holder via the hydrophobic interactions that occur between the Teflon surface and the peptide ion-pairs, and the affinity of α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid for the peptides. During that surface-binding step, the peptide mixture was also desalted and concentrated. A greater number of matched peptides and a larger sequence coverage were obtained for the proteins when Teflon was used as the sample support compared with conventional sample preparation methods and a stainless-steel surface. In addition, the characterization of a small amount of protein was improved with Teflon. Nine silver-stained protein spots obtained from 2-D gel of a human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteome were identified by this method. Among the nine protein spots, peptide 6:c3c fragment and procollagen c-proteinase enhancer were not annotated in any published 2-D map of human CSF. A Teflon MALDI sample support is a low-cost, simple, and effective method that can be used to improve the quality of the MALDI mass spectrum of a complex tryptic peptide mixture, and to achieve a higher level of reliability and success in protein identification. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First-Principles-Based Multiscale, Multiparadigm Molecular Mechanics and Dynamics Methods for Describing Complex Chemical Processes

We expect that systematic and seamless computational upscaling and downscaling for modeling, predicting, or optimizing material and system properties and behavior with atomistic resolution will eventually be sufficiently accurate and practical that it will transform the mode of development in the materials, chemical, catalysis, and Pharma industries. However, despite truly dramatic progress in methods, software, and hardware, this goal remains elusive, particularly for systems that exhibit inherently complex chemistry under normal or extreme conditions of temperature, pressure, radiation, and others. We describe here some of the significant progress towards solving these problems via a general multiscale, multiparadigm strategy based on first-principles quantum mechanics (QM), and the development of breakthrough methods for treating reaction processes, excited electronic states, and weak bonding effects on the conformational dynamics of large-scale molecular systems. These methods have resulted directly from filling in the physical and chemical gaps in existing theoretical and computational models, within the multiscale, multiparadigm strategy. To illustrate the procedure we demonstrate the application and transferability of such methods on an ample set of challenging problems that span multiple fields, system length- and timescales, and that lay beyond the realm of existing computational or, in some case, experimental approaches, including understanding the solvation effects on the reactivity of organic and organometallic structures, predicting transmembrane protein structures, understanding carbon nanotube nucleation and growth, understanding the effects of electronic excitations in materials subjected to extreme conditions of temperature and pressure, following the dynamics and energetics of long-term conformational evolution of DNA macromolecules, and predicting the long-term mechanisms involved in enhancing the mechanical response of polymer-based hydrogels.