cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gynecologic cancers: factors affecting survival after pulmonary metastasectomy.

Background Little information is available regarding long-term survival after pulmonary metastasectomy for gynecologic malignancies. Methods All patients who underwent pulmonary resection for gynecologic malignancies at our institution between January 1985 and June 2001 were reviewed. Factors affecting long-term survival were analyzed. Results There were 103 patients, 70 of whom had metastatic disease limited to the lungs. Median age of these 70 patients was 59.4 years (range, 31 to 80 years). The primary tumor originated in the uterine corpus in 37 patients, endometrium in 23, cervix in 7, ovaries in 2, and vagina in 1. Histopathology was leiomyosarcoma in 29 patients, adenocarcinoma in 23, other sarcoma in 11, squamous cell carcinoma in 5, and choriocarcinoma and endolymphatic stromal myosis in 1 each. The median time interval between the first gynecologic procedure and pulmonary resection was 24 months (range, 0 to 237 months). A wedge excision was performed in 44 patients, lobectomy in 14, bilobectomy in 2, pneumonectomy in 1, and a combination in 9. Five patients (7%) had an incomplete resection. Eighteen patients (25.7%) developed at least one complication and 1 died (operative mortality, 1.4%). At last follow-up, 35 had died, and the median follow-up among those who were still alive was 36 months (range, 6 months to 13 years). Five-year and 10-year survival was 46.8% (95% confidence interval, 34.2% to 63.0%) and 34.3% (95% confidence interval, 19.7% to 52.5%), respectively. Factors that adversely affected survival include a disease-free interval between the first gynecologic procedure and pulmonary resection of less than 24 months (p = 0.004) and a primary site located in the cervix (p Conclusions Pulmonary resection for metastatic gynecologic cancer in selected patients is safe and effective. Both a short disease-free interval between the primary gynecologic procedure and pulmonary metastasectomy, and a primary cervical tumor had an adverse effect on survival.
Influences of Artificial Reefs on Juvenile Red Snapper along the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Abstract Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus represent one of the more economically important fisheries in the northern Gulf of Mexico; as such, Red Snapper abundance has decreased dramatically in the past two decades. The use of artificial reefs could aid in the rehabilitation of Red Snapper stocks by providing refuge for juveniles and a place of foraging and recruitment. A study was initiated to determine the effectiveness of different artificial reef distribution patterns in attracting and sustaining juvenile Red Snapper in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Fish traps (0.97 m long; 0.64 m high; funnel mouth size = 175×115 mm) were used to collect Red Snapper (<406 mm TL) that were associated with pyramid-shaped artificial reef structures (3.7-m triangular base; 2.4-m height; 3.2 metric tons) to evaluate two reef distribution designs: (1) five closely spaced pyramid units (“clumped” pattern) and (2) five closely spaced pyramids plus two sets of two pyramids at 30.5, 61.0, or 91.5 m from the five pyramids (“outl...
Two-dimensional electrophoresis of small-molecular-weight proteins.

Abstract We have developed a procedure for two-dimensional separation of small-molecular-weight (9000–30,000), acidic (pI 4–6) proteins that allows the use of strips cut from horizontal isoelectric-focusing slab gels for the first dimension, and discontinuous gels containing sodium dodecyl sulfate and high concentrations of urea in the second dimension. This technique facilitates the screening of large numbers of samples and the evaluation of electrofocusing artifacts. We emphasize measures to prevent major problems encountered in the use of this technique, particularly those caused by diffusion and aggregation. We also describe an extension of the method which allows the two-dimensional comparison of many samples in a selected narrow pH zone of interest.
Dehydrohalogenation of glycosyl halides with 1,5-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-s-ene☆

Abstract The 2-hydroxyglycals derived from D -glucose, D -galactose, cellobiose and lactose, as well as 2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-2-hydroxy- D -xylal and 2,3,5-tri-O-benzoyl-2-hydroxy- D -ribal were prepared by the use of 1,5-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-5-ene (2) in N,N-dimethylformamide. The reagent, 1,5-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non-5-ene, was found to be a suitable substitute for 2.
TROPOSPHERIC AND STRATOSPHERIC TEMPERATURE CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH PRESSURE CHANGES

Abstract The hypothesis is investigated that there is a physical difference between the development and motion components of a surface pressure change. Temperature changes indicate that deepening and filling are accompanied by high-level heating and cooling, respectively, while the motion part of pressure changes is associated with low-level temperature variations.
An NMR and molecular modeling study of the site-specific binding of histamine by heparin, chemically modified heparin, and heparin-derived oligosaccharides.

The diprotonated form of histamine binds site-specifically to heparin, a highly sulfated 1→4 linked repeating copolymer comprised predominantly of 2-O-sulfo-α-l-iduronic acid (the I ring) and 2-deoxy-2-sulfamido-6-O-sulfo-α-d-glucopyranosyl (the A ring). The binding is mediated by electrostatic interactions. The structural features of histamine and heparin, which are required for the site-specific binding, have been identified from the results of 1H NMR studies of the binding of histamine by six heparin-derived oligosaccharides and four chemically modified heparins and molecular modeling studies. The results indicate that the imidazolium ring of diprotonated histamine is critical for directing site-specific binding, while the ammonium group increases the binding affinity. The imidazolium ring binds within a cleft, with the A ring of an IAI triad at the top of the cleft, and the I rings forming the two sides. The H3 proton of the A ring is in the shielding cone of the imidazolium ring. The carboxylate grou...
Lichen planus–like eruptions: An emerging side effect of tumor necrosis factor-α antagonists

As tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors gain wider use in clinical practice, it is becoming increasingly evident that these potent immunosuppressants can also induce inflammatory reactions. We present two cases of lichen planus–like eruptions after infliximab and adalimumab therapy for psoriasis, and review the literature on this phenomenon. Eleven cases of lichen planus or lichenoid drug eruptions have been previously reported in patients taking TNF-α inhibitors, in addition to several cases of psoriasiform eruptions with a lichenoid histology. Because TNF-α has been implicated in the pathogenesis of lichen planus, induction of lichenoid reactions by TNF-α inhibition is somewhat unexpected. We consider potential immunologic mechanisms, and suggest that TNF-α inhibition may precipitate lichenoid reactions through disruption of a delicate balance between TNF-α and interferon-α in susceptible patients.
Queue warning with integration of passive sensory systems

Highway queue warning provides early congestion estimation to motorists and reduces potential delay by allowing them to either change lanes or take alternate routes. It can facilitate effective highway operations as well as lower energy consumption and greenhouse gas emission by preventing traffic from congestion. Quality of the estimation depends heavily on real-time traffic data. This paper proposes a framework for early queue warning and presents an initial effort on intelligent network flow optimization with near real-time data collected by passive sensory systems. Along with near real-time traffic data, highway performance is visualized and traffic congestion can be observed from its beginnings. The framework not only shows a systematic approach to conduct queue warning for highway operations but also severs as a platform to bridge the demand and supply of sensing technologies. Primary components of the framework and future needs on traffic data are also discussed.
Use of prostate-specific antigen and tumor volume in predicting needle biopsy grading error

Abstract Objectives To study the discrepancy between histologic grades of needle biopsy and prostatectomy specimens and to define the potential role of prostatespecific antigen (PSA), PSA density, and tumor volume in predicting the tumor grade. Methods Histopathologic grades on needle biopsy and subsequent radical prostatectomy specimens were compared in 135 patients with clinically organ-confined prostate cancer. The frequency of undergrading (difference of one or more grades) by needle biopsy was then compared to PSA, PSA density, and other preoperative parameters. Results The frequency of undergrading by one level was 45% using the M. D. Anderson Hospital (MDAH) system and 47% using the Gleason system. When the tumor grades were classified into two categories, undergrading rates of 26% (low to high grade by the MDAH system) and 21% (moderately well to poorly differentiated by the Gleason system) were noted. Serum PSA and PSA density correlated with the grading error rate: the higher the PSA and PSA density values, the higher the biopsy undergrading rate. PSA showed a significant correlation with undergrading ( P = 0.0019). Undergrading occurred in 32% of patients with a PSA more than 4 and 10 ng/mL or less and in 47% of those with a serum PSA more than 10 ng/mL. In all cases when the PSA was 4 ng/mL or less, the needle biopsy results correctly predicted the final tumor grade category. Tumor volume was not associated with frequency of undergrading. Conclusions The ability to predict tumor grade can be enhanced by considering the serum PSA value.
Grinding efficiency with balls or cones as media

Abstract The current study is concerned with the development of a methodology for comparison of the grinding efficiency for tumbling mills using balls and truncated cones as media. This methodology involves conducting both laboratory and plant tests, determining fundamental breakage parameters and computer simulation. A computer simulation of the energy required to produce different-size products was made for the two media shapes under different equivalent media-size definitions. In all instances the balls were found to be more efficient than cones with an energy advantage of 5–20%. The reason for this difference has been the probability of capture for different media shapes tentatively attributed to a higher probability of particle capture with balls.
Involvement of mu1 and mu2 opioid receptor subtypes in tail-pinch feeding in rats.

Abstract Tail-pinch feeding (TPF) in rats is decreased following general (naltrexone, NTX) and mu (Cys 2 -Tyr 3 -Orn 5 -Pen 7 -amide, CTOP) opioid antagonists, but not following kappa (nor-binaltorphamine, Nor-BNI) or delta (naltrindole, NTI) opioid antagonists. Because multiple mu (mu 1 and mu 2 ) and delta (delta 1 and delta 2 ) opioid receptor subtypes have been characterized, the present study evaluated whether TPF was differentially altered following ICV administration of general (NTX), mu (beta-funaltrexamine, B-FNA), mu 1 (naloxonazine, NAZ), kappa (Nor-BNI), delta 1 ([D-Ala 2 , Leu 5 , Cys 6 ]-enkephalin, DALCE) and delta 2 (NTI) opioid antagonists. Like the reversible mu antagonist CTOP, the irreversible mu antagonist B-FNA significantly and dose-dependently (1–20 μg) reduced TPF by up to 28%. In contrast, whereas NAZ (50 μg) reduced TPF by 32%, this effect was highly variable and failed to achieve significance. Neither NTX (5–10 mg/kg, SC), Nor-BNI (20 μg), DALCE (40 μg) nor NTI (20 μg) significantly altered TPF, suggesting that kappa, delta 1 and delta 2 opioid receptor subtypes were not involved. Because no antagonist altered the duration of food contact during tail pinch, it appears that the opioid effect modulates ingestive rather than activational mechanisms. The reliable inhibition of TPF by B-FNA (mu 1 and mu 2 ), together with the variable effect of naloxonazine (mu 1 ), appears to implicate both mu binding sites in this response.
Chemical properties of surimi seafood nutrified with ω-3 rich oils.

Abstract Surimi-based seafood products are widely accepted and enjoyed worldwide. The US consumption increased in 1980s; however, it leveled thereafter. Food products nutrified with ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are in increasing demand due to demonstrated health benefits. Currently, surimi seafood is not nutrified with ω-3 PUFAs. In the present study, surimi seafood was nutritionally-enhanced with ω-3 PUFAs-rich oils (flaxseed, algae, menhaden, krill, and blend). The objectives were (1) chemical characterization of FA composition and oxidation, and (2) determination of physicochemical properties (colour and texture) of the nutritionally-enhanced surimi seafood. Oil addition resulted in increased ( P P
The influence of ion bombardment on the adhesion of thin films to substrates

Abstract Ion bombardment has been used for several years to improve the adhesion of metallic films to ceramic substrates. Many studies have demonstrated such an improvement in film adhesion but no single mechanism is considered responsible. This paper discusses the mechanisms that can contribute to adhesion and the supporting experimental evidence. For example, intermediate phase formations, structure changes, and stress relief as the result of ion beam mixing are discussed. Ion bombardment can also result in changes in film and substrate hardness, friction characteristics, and film thickness (due to sputtering), which can affect the measurement of adhesion in a mechanical test. While the scratch test and the peel test (both commonly used adhesion tests) are useful for comparisons of the adhesion strength for specimens within the same film/substrate system, the ion beam may cause sufficient changes in the character of the system so as to make straightforward comparisons between mixed and unmixed specimens difficult.
Establishing Best Practices and Guidance in Population Modeling: An Experience With an Internal Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis Guidance

This tutorial describes the development of a population pharmacokinetic (Pop PK) analysis guidance within Pfizer, which strives for improved consistency and efficiency, and a more systematic approach to model building. General recommendations from the Pfizer internal guidance and a suggested workflow for Pop PK model building are discussed. A description is also provided for mechanisms by which conflicting opinions were captured and resolved across the organization to arrive at the final guidance. CPT: Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology (2013) 2, e51; doi:10.1038/psp.2013.26; advance online publication 3 July 2013
Ligand-dependent complex formation between the Angiotensin II receptor subtype AT2 and Na+/H+ exchanger NHE6 in mammalian cells

Abstract Involvement of Angiotensin II (Ang II) in the regulation of sodium levels by modulating the Na+/H+ exchangers is demonstrated in many tissues. Screening of a mouse 17-day fetus cDNA library with the Angiotensin II receptor AT2 as the bait in yeast two-hybrid assay led us to identify an AT2-interacting mouse fetus peptide that shared 98% amino acid identity with the corresponding region of the human NHE6. NCBI Blast search showed that the clone 6430520C02 (GenBank™ Accession # AK032326 ) of the mouse genome project carried the complete sequence of this new mouse NHE6 isoform. The human and mouse NHE6 peptides share 97% overall homology. Further analysis showed that the region spanning the third intracellular loop and C-terminal cytoplasmic tail of the AT2 directly interacted with a 182 amino acid region that spans the predicted 5th intracellular loop and the initial part of the C-terminus of the mouse NHE6 in yeast two-hybrid assay. This 182-amino acid region that interacted with the AT2 also shares 98% homology with the corresponding region of rat NHE6 and therefore is highly conserved across species. We detected widespread expression of this NHE6 isoform in several rat tissues including 10-day fetus, 17-day fetus, and 30-day post-natal tissues of heart, brain, kidney and muscle. Moreover, the AT2 co-immunoiprecipitated with a hemagglutinin tagged NHE6 when expressed in human cell line MCF-7, and activated by AngII. This ligand-dependent complex formation between the AT2 and NHE6 suggests that the hormone Ang II may act as a regulator of NHE6, and Ang II-mediated direct protein–protein interaction between AT2 and NHE6 could be a mechanism for modulating the functions of the ubiquitously expressed NHE6 in different tissues.
CT and ultrasound in the diagnosis of cavernous hemangioma and lymphangioma of the orbit

Eighteen cases of cavernous hemangioma and seven cases oflymphangioma of the orbit were evaluated with regard to contrast enhancement, hemogeneity, type of margin, anatomic location, and associated changes in the bone. Hemangiomas usually demonstrated homogeneous contrast enhancement, a relatively smooth margin, intraconal location, with occasional extension to the orbital apex, and focal bone expansion. Lymphangiomas showed either minimal heterogeneous or absence of contrast enhancement irregular margins, and anterior and posterior locations. Ultrasonography of hemangiomas showed high amplitude and closely packed echoes from vessel walls adjacent to blood-filled spaces. Lymphangiomas had a similar ultrasound pattern, but with very wide separation of echoes due to larger fluid lakes.
Numerical simulation of the stratus-to-cumulus transition in the subtropical marine boundary layer. Part I: boundary-layer structure

Abstract A stratus-to-cumulus transition (SCT) that resembles observations occurred in Lagrangian numerical simulations of the subtropical marine boundary layer over the northeastern Pacific Ocean southwest of California. The Lagrangian approach involves translating the domain along the climatological boundary-layer trajectory at a rate equal to the observed surface wind speed. The SST is increased at a corresponding rate. The simulations did not include drizzle, the diurnal cycle, divergence changes, or mesoscale circulations and thus demonstrate that these processes are not essential for an SCT. A 2D numerical cloud model that can explicitly represent large convective eddies is used. Turbulence at scales smaller than the large eddies is parameterized using a third-moment turbulence closure. This type of model requires no cloud-regime-specific input and is computationally economical for multiday simulations. The results suggest that there are four stages in the transition from the stratus-topped boundary...
Maximum Possible Weaving Volume for Effective Operations of Ramp-Weave Areas: Online Estimation

Understanding the behavior of weaving flows and estimating the effects of time-variant traffic conditions on the capacity of weaving areas are of critical importance in developing effective operational strategies for freeway management. An online procedure for estimation of the maximum possible weaving volume over time for a given ramp-weave area is presented. The method is based on the findings from weaving behavior analysis, which indicates that under moderate to heavy flow conditions the diverging vehicles, that is, the freeway-to-ramp vehicles, tend to move to the auxiliary lane on entering the weaving area, whereas the ramp-to-freeway vehicles travel a short portion of the auxiliary lane before they merge to the main line. Therefore, the beginning portion of an auxiliary lane in a ramp-weave area is shared by both merging and diverging vehicles, and the length of such a shared area, called the effective weaving zone, varies depending on the length of a given weave section and the amount of weaving flow. Such join-then-split weaving behavior implies that the maximum value of the weaving volume in a ramp-weave area with one auxiliary lane is limited by the maximum through capacity of one lane. The proposed method reflects the weaving behavior described above and determines the maximum possible weaving volume for a given time interval as a function of exit and merge capacities, which are dependent on the traffic conditions downstream of weaving areas. Preliminary test results with 5 min of data from a ramp-weave site indicate that the maximum possible weaving volume is estimated with reasonable accuracy.
Synthetic ligands that activate and inhibit a quorum-sensing regulator in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

The transcription factor QscR is a regulator of quorum sensing in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and plays a role in controlling virulence in this prevalent opportunistic pathogen. This study outlines the discovery of a set of synthetic N-acylated homoserine lactones that are capable of either activating or strongly inhibiting QscR in a cell-based reporter gene assay. We demonstrate that the synthetic antagonists inhibit ligand-dependent QscR binding to DNA. Several of these ligands can selectively modulate QscR instead of LasR, or modulate the activity of both receptors, and represent new chemical tools to study the hierarchy of quorum-sensing signaling in P. aeruginosa.
Learning to Listen Again: The Role of Compliance in Auditory Training for Adults With Hearing Loss

Purpose To examine the role of compliance in the outcomes of computer-based auditory training with the Listening and Communication Enhancement (LACE) program in Veterans using hearing aids. Method The authors examined available LACE training data for 5 tasks (i.e., speech-in-babble, time compression, competing speaker, auditory memory, missing word) from 50 hearing-aid users who participated in a larger, randomized controlled trial designed to examine the efficacy of LACE training. The goals were to determine: (a) whether there were changes in performance over 20 training sessions on trained tasks (i.e., on-task outcomes); and (b) whether compliance, defined as completing all 20 sessions, vs. noncompliance, defined as completing less than 20 sessions, influenced performance on parallel untrained tasks (i.e., off-task outcomes). Results The majority, 84% of participants, completed 20 sessions, with maximum outcome occurring with at least 10 sessions of training for some tasks and up to 20 sessions of train...
Thermal fractionation of outer fiber doublet microtubules into A- and B-subfiber components. A- and B-tubulin.

Abstract Outer fiber doublet miorotubules can be fractionated into soluble B-subfiber protein (B-tubulin) and intact singlet microtubules (A-tubulin) by heating in a low ionic strength medium for two minutes at 40 °C. On reduction and alkylation, the two proteins have similar mobilities on alkaline, urea-containing polyacrylamide gels, but only A-tubulin migrates on gels at pH 4.5. Acid-solubilized A tubulin shows minimum solubility at pH 6, whereas B-tubulin is relatively insoluble at pH 4.5. Amino-acid analysis reveals that A-tubulin has at least six more basic amino acids per mole than B-tubulin, while the latter contains a like number of residues more of glycine and valine. A-tubulin has eight moles of cysteine but B-tubulin contains seven moles of cysteine and one disulfide bond. Both proteins bind 0.5 mole of guanine nucleotide per 60,000 g of protein. Tryptic peptide mapping shows that the proteins are nearly identical, with A-tubulin having more peptides than B-tubulin in accord with the differences in amino acid composition. The tubulins show gross dissimilarities from muscle actin on the basis of tryptic peptides. The data indicate at least two different types of microtubule proteins, showing an over-all similarity in general composition and peptide arrangement, but having significant differences in basic amino acid substitutions and cysteine content.
Experimental and modeling study on the pyrolysis and oxidation of iso-octane

Abstract High pressure iso-octane shock tube experiments were conducted to assist in the development of a Jet A surrogate kinetic model. Jet A is a kerosene based jet fuel composed of hundreds of hydrocarbons consisting of paraffins, olefins, aromatics and naphthenes. In the formulation of the surrogate mixture, iso-octane represents the branched paraffin class of hydrocarbons present in aviation fuels like Jet A. The experimental work on iso-octane was performed in a heated high pressure single pulse shock tube. The mole fractions of the stable species were determined using gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy. Experimental data on iso-octane oxidation and pyrolysis were obtained for temperatures from 835 to 1757 K, pressures from 21 to 65 atm, reactions times from 1.11 to 3.66 ms, and equivalence ratios from 0.52 to 1.68, and ∞. Iso-octane oxidation showed that the fuel decays through thermally driven oxygen free decomposition at conditions studied. This observation prompted an experimental and modeling study of iso-octane pyrolysis using an iso-octane sub-model taken from a recently published n-decane/iso-octane/toluene surrogate model. The revised iso-octane sub-model showed improvements in predicting intermediate species profiles from pyrolytic experiments and oxidation experiments. The modifications to the iso-octane sub-model also contributed to better agreement in predicting the formation of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide when compared to the recently published 1st Generation Surrogate model and a recently published iso-octane oxidation model. Model improvements were also seen in predicting species profiles from flow reactor oxidation experiments and ignition delay times at temperatures above 1000 K at both 10 and 50 atm.
The LHRH system in normal and neonatally androgenized female rats

Abstract LHRH immunopositive perikarya were localized in basal, mid-, and dorsal-hypothalamic-septal areas in horizontal vibratome sections treated with Arimura's antiserum no. 743 in the PAP technique. No perikarya or fibers were present following treatment with antiserum absorbed with synthetic LHRH. Approximately 60% of the total LHRH immunopositive cells were present in the mid-hypothalamus at the level of the organum vasculosum while 20% were present in basal and dorsal-hypothalamic-septal areas, respectively. This distribution was equivalent in normal and neonatally androgenized females (1.25 mg testosterone propionate on day 5) 52 days after ovariectomy and implantation of E 2 capsules. LHRH fibers in the periventricular and lateral pathways projecting to the median eminence and organum vasculosum were comparable in normal and androgenized females. Although androgenized females were acylic prior to ovariectomy and demonstrated reduced sexual receptivity following treatment with exogenous steroids, no differences in the LHRH system were demonstrated at the light microscope level by immunocytochemistry. Deficits in ovulation of androgenized females is probably not due to an inability of neurons to produce LHRH, but alternatively to release it.
Children with constipation: What happens to them when they grow up?

Constipation and soiling are common complaints in childhood and often cause distress to the children and their parents. The treatment for these symptoms is oral and sometimes rectal laxatives or behavioural therapy. Until now, there have been few randomized controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of the different treatment regimens. Moreover, there is a lack of information regarding what happens to these children with constipation when they grow up. A recent long-term follow-up study in The Netherlands showed that 30% of the children followed beyond puberty continued to have severe complaints of constipation such as a low defecation frequency and soiling. Long-lasting support and the development of improved therapeutic regimens are necessary to treat these difficult patients more effectively.
Invited Commentary on the Movement Continuum Special Series

Every day physical therapists walk into a clinic, meet an individual with movement dysfunction, and attempt to determine the problems that can be ameliorated by a physical therapy intervention in order to improve function and quality of life for their patient. How does theory affect reality? How does theory affect one's practice? In science, theory is generally derived from a set of basic principles to provide a model or framework that either originates from or is supported by experimental evidence. Propositions of a theory can be tested through the scientific method. Empirical findings can provide evidence that either provides support or refutes aspects of the theory. In this Movement Continuum Special Series by Allen, the Movement Continuum Theory (MCT) proposed by Cott et al1 is the basis for the exploration that unfolds in these 3 articles. The originators of the MCT propose it as a potential “grand theory” of physical therapy. Whether this is the theory that truly will represent the reality of clinical practice is subject to question. However, Allen has provided an important step to support or challenge this theory; she has proposed a multidimensional model of movement in order to develop a self-reported outcome measure of movement ability. This series provides a thoughtful approach to link theory with practice. Parts 1 and 2 of the series incorporate contemporary standards of instrument development that result in the Measurement Ability Measure (MAM) proposed by Allen. …
An exploration of orientation representation by Lie algebra for robotic applications

A number of conventional methods for orientation representation are reviewed and discussed. An analysis based on Lie algebra for exploring possible definitions of three-dimensional (3D) orientation vectors and for unifying representations of position and orientation is presented. The associated computation methods are developed and verified by application to the six-axis Puma 560 robot. >
Actively learning level-sets of composite functions

Scientists frequently have multiple types of experiments and data sets on which they can test the validity of their parameterized models and locate plausible regions for the model parameters. By examining multiple data sets, scientists can obtain inferences which typically are much more informative than the deductions derived from each of the data sources independently. Several standard data combination techniques result in target functions which are a weighted sum of the observed data sources. Thus, computing constraints on the plausible regions of the model parameter space can be formulated as finding a level set of a target function which is the sum of observable functions. We propose an active learning algorithm for this problem which selects both a sample (from the parameter space) and an observable function upon which to compute the next sample. Empirical tests on synthetic functions and on real data for an eight parameter cosmological model show that our algorithm significantly reduces the number of samples required to identify the desired level-set.
Designing BOTs with BDI agents

In modern computer games, ‘bots’ - Intelligent realistic agents play a prominent role in success of a game in market. Typically, bots are modeled using finite-state machine and then programmed via simple conditional statements which are hard-coded in bots logic. Since these bots have become quite predictable to an experienced games player, she might lose her interest in game. We present a model of bots using BDI agents, which will show more human-like behavior, more believable and will provide more realistic feel to the game. These bots will use the inputs from actual game players to specify her Beliefs, Desires, and Intentions while game playing.
Poster Sessions Revisited: A Student Research Convocation

Poster sessions are considered to be an efficient format for presenting research. A departmental student research convocation using this format is described and shown to be an effective way to encourage research activities among undergraduate and graduate students. In addition, the convocation had the benefit of communicating to faculty and students the variety of scholarly activities being conducted in the department.
Effect of frozen storage on deep-fat fried breaded onion rings

Freshly fried and frozen breaded onion rings with and without in-pack dessicant were compared with freshly fried similar rings for moisture content of onion and for moisture content, colour and shear force/toughness of the coating. Moisture migration from onion to coating during freezing/storage/thawing increased significantly without dessicant, but did not remain in the coating with dessicant. Significant moisture loss/juiciness occurred from the onion in both frozen packs, and neither procedure was satisfactory.
WOMEN'S MOVEMENTS IN THE THIRD WORLD: Identity, Mobilization, and Autonomy

▪ Abstract Sociology has paid insufficient attention to third world women's movements. In this review, for which we draw upon a variety of interdisciplinary sources, we focus on three questions: the issue of women's interests; the conditions under which women mobilize—particularly the effects of democratization, nationalist, religious, and socialist movements; and the issue of state and organizational autonomy. We argue that the concept of a political opportunity structure inadequately captures the role that states in the third world play in determining the possibilities of third world women's movements. We call for more comparative work with a focus on the local rather than on the macro level. This will help us to better understand both the ways in which women's collective identities and interests are constructed and the ideological and material conditions under which mobilizations actually take place.
Internet-based web-mediated collaborative design and learning environment

This paper presents an overview of an on-going effort that focuses on combined research and curriculum development. It presents a tool kit of collaboration technologies developed by our group, and an education testbed for multidisciplinary and geographically distributed teams that exercise the Internet-based Web-mediated collaborative technologies tool kit. The tool kit of collaboration technologies is aimed to assist team members, project managers and owners to: (1) capture, share, publish, and link knowledge and information related to a specific project, (2) navigate through the archived knowledge and information, (3) evaluate and explain the product's performance, and (4) interact in a timely fashion. The Architecture/Engineering/Construction (AEC) course offered at Stanford University acts as a testbed for cutting edge information technologies and a forum that trains a new generation of professionals to team up with practitioners from other disciplines and take advantage of information technology to produce a better, faster, cheaper product. The paper concludes with a number of questions regarding the impact of information technologies on team performance and behavior.
Instruction Scheduling in the Presence of Java's Runtime Exceptions

One of the challenges present to a Java compiler is Java's frequent use of runtime exceptions. These exceptions affect performance directly by requiring explicit checks, as well as indirectly by restricting code movement in order to satisfy Java's precise exception model. Instruction scheduling is one transformation which is restricted by runtime exceptions since it relies heavily on reordering instructions to exploit maximum hardware performance. The goal of this study was to investigate the degree to which Java's runtime exceptions hinder instruction scheduling, and to find new techniques for allowing more effcient execution of Java programs containing runtime exceptions.
Sea Ice and Climate. Part II: Model Climate Stability to Perturbations of the Hydrological Cycle

Abstract The sensitivity of a simple climate model to variations in a global hydrological cycle is studied. The model consists of a zonally averaged single basin, two-hemisphere ocean model coupled to an atmospheric energy balance model and a thermodynamic sea ice model. Land processes are reduced to considerations of the oceanic catchment basins, which serve to amplify or decrease the oceanic freshwater forcing. The model typically admits both symmetric and asymmetric equilibria. For sufficiently strong global freshwater forcing, the symmetric circulation is replaced by asymmetric states. This is accomplished by a supercritical pitchfork bifurcation. It is shown that sea ice enhances climate sensitivity in that larger changes of the hydrological cycle are required to induce instability if sea ice is neglected. This behavior comes from the strong damping of SST anomalies under ice, which is essential for suppressing deep ocean temperature anomalies. Thus, ocean temperature plays an important role in clima...
The multipolar stage and disruptions in neuronal migration.

The genetic basis is now known for several disorders of neuronal migration in the developing cerebral cortex. Identification of the cellular processes mediated by the implicated genes is revealing crucial stages of neuronal migration and has the potential to reveal common cellular causes of neuronal migration disorders. We hypothesize that a newly recognized morphological stage of neuronal migration, the multipolar stage, is vulnerable and is disrupted in several disorders of neocortical development. The multipolar stage occurs as bipolar progenitor cells become radially migrating neurons. Several studies using in utero electroporation and RNAi have revealed that transition out of the multipolar stage depends on the function of filamin A, LIS1 and DCX. Mutations in the genes encoding these proteins in humans cause distinct neuronal migration disorders, including periventricular nodular heterotopia, subcortical band heterotopia and lissencephaly. The multipolar stage therefore seems to be a critical point of migration control and a vulnerable target for disruption of neocortical development. This review is part of the INMED/TINS special issue Nature and nurture in brain development and neurological disorders, based on presentations at the annual INMED/TINS symposium (http://inmednet.com/).
Azolla-Anabaena Symbioses: Basic Biology, Use, and Prospects for the Future

For the benefit of newcomers to the area of Azolla research some introductory material is presented. Azolla is a genus of free-floating, heterosporous aquatic pteridophytes. At present the genus usually is considered to contain six extant species in two sections. The subgenus Euazolla includes A. filiculoides Lamarck, A. caroliniana Willdenow, A. mexicana Presl and A. microphylla Kaulfuss, while the subgenus Rhizosperma includes A. pinnata R. Brown and A. nilotica DeCaisne. Species identification, which is in need of further assessment and possible revision, is based primarily upon features of the reproductive structures. The four new world species in the Euazolla are characterized by three megaspore floats while the two old world species in the Rhizosperma have nine megaspore floats.
Computed Tomography Screening for Lung Cancer: Has It Finally Arrived? Implications of the National Lung Screening Trial

The National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) has provided compelling evidence of the efficacy of lung cancer screening using low-dose helical computed tomography (LDCT) to reduce lung cancer mortality. The NLST randomized 53,454 older current or former heavy smokers to receive LDCT or chest radiography (CXR) for three annual screens. Participants were observed for a median of 6.5 years for outcomes. Vital status was available in more than 95% of participants. LDCT was positive in 24.2% of screens, compared with 6.9% of CXRs; more than 95% of all positive LDCT screens were not associated with lung cancer. LDCT detected more than twice the number of early-stage lung cancers and resulted in a stage shift from advanced to early-stage disease. Complications of LDCT screening were minimal. Lung cancer–specific mortality was reduced by 20% relative to CXR; all-cause mortality was reduced by 6.7%. The major harms of LDCT are radiation exposure, high false-positive rates, and the potential for overdiagnosis. This review discusses the risks and benefits of LDCT screening as well as an approach to LDCT implementation that incorporates systematic screening practice with smoking cessation programs and offers opportunities for better determination of appropriate risk cohorts for screening and for better diagnostic prediction of lung cancer in the setting of screen-detected nodules. The challenges of implementation are considered for screening programs, for primary care clinicians, and across socioeconomic strata. Considerations for future research to complement imaging-based screening to reduce the burden of lung cancer are discussed.
Reproducing, resisting and transcending discourses of femininity: a discourse analysis of women’s accounts of leisure

Situated within a feminist, social constructionist perspective, this paper explores the utility of discourse analysis for the study of women’s leisure. The accounts of 14 women who regularly participate in leisure and self‐care were analysed and three discursive resources were identified. Whereas hegemonic constructions of femininity typically serve to forestall women’s leisure participation, participants’ accounts here are shown to negotiate these social meanings by reproducing, resisting or transcending dominant discourses of femininity. Findings are discussed with respect to health promotion initiatives aimed at supporting women’s leisure.
Cofactors for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Entry into Primary Macrophages

Macrophages are permissive for macrophage-tropic (M-tropic) human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) isolates that use CCR5 for entry but are resistant to CXCR-4-dependent T cell-tropic prototype strains. M-tropic variants are critical for HIV-1 transmission, and persons who are homozygous for an inactivating mutation of CCR5 are resistant to HIV-1 in vivo. In vitro, their macrophages and lymphocytes are resistant to M-tropic strains that depend on CCR5. It is shown that CCR5-deficient macrophages are permissive for a dual-tropic isolate, 89.6, that uses CCR5, CXCR-4, and other cofactors. Entry by 89.6 into CCR5-deficient macrophages was blocked by the CXCR-4 ligand SDF and by an anti-CXCR-4 antibody. Immunoflorescence staining and reverse transcription PCR confirmed macrophage CXCR-4 expression. Thus, CXCR-4 on macrophages mediates entry of certain dual-tropic but not T cell-tropic isolates. Therefore, HIV-1 strains differ in how they utilize chemokine receptors as cofactors for entry, and the ability of a chemokine receptor to facilitate entry depends on the cell in which it is expressed.
Antioxidant and Anticancer Properties and Mechanisms of Inorganic Selenium, Oxo-Sulfur, and Oxo-selenium Compounds

Inorganic selenium and oxo-sulfur compounds are widely available in dietary supplements and have been extensively studied for their antioxidant and anticancer properties. Although many in vivo and clinical trials have been conducted using these compounds, their biochemical and chemical mechanisms of efficacy are the focus of much current research. This review discusses the ability of inorganic selenium compounds, such as selenite, and selenate, to prevent damage from reactive oxygen species as well as their ability to promote cell death by reactive oxygen species generation. Oxo-sulfur and selenium compounds, such as allicin, dimethyl sulfone, methionine sulfoxide, and methylselenenic acid also have similar abilities to act as both antioxidants and pro-oxidants, but the mechanisms for these behaviors are distinctly different from those of the inorganic selenium compounds. The antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties of these small-molecule sulfur and selenium compounds are extremely complex and often greatly depend on experimental conditions, which may explain contradictory literature reports of their efficacy.
Body weight is a predictor of biphasic shock success for low energy transthoracic defibrillation.

Abstract Background: Transthoracic impedance and current flow are determinants of defibrillation success with monophasic shocks. Whether transthoracic impedance, either independently or via its association with body weight, is a determinant of biphasic waveform shock success has not been determined. Methods and results: We studied 22 swine, weighing 18–41 kg. After 15 s of ventricular fibrillation, each pig received transthoracic truncated exponential biphasic shocks (5/5 ms), 70–360 J. Shock success was strongly associated individually with body weight, leading-edge transthoracic impedance and current at low energy levels (70 and 100 J, all P P =0.02; and at 100 J was 1.30, 95% CI: 1.14–1.49, P Conclusions: Body weight is a determinant of shock success with biphasic waveforms at low energy levels in this swine model.
Model for tunneling in many-particle systems.

A model is proposed for studying tunneling in many-particle systems that is simple enough to solve and realistic enough to test various collective models of multidimensional barrier penetration. We find that the imaginary time dependent mean-field theory works very well in its domain of applicability, as does a continuum hopping approximation. The usual cranked mean field approximation is much less reliable.
A tanh substitution technique for the analysis of abrupt and graded interface multilayer dielectric stacks

The authors report a new analytical technique for estimating the peak reflectivity of lossless dielectric stacks with combinations of quarter and/or half-wave thicknesses. A simple variable substitution is used to transform the standard formula for the reflectivity of a Fabry-Perot resonator into a remarkably simplified form. The resulting expressions for reflectivity are intuitively appealing, allowing use of additive algebra to calculate the peak reflectivity of a multilayer dielectric stack. >
Subjected to medical experimentation: Pennsylvania's contribution to "science" in prisons.

Introduction These two young doctors from the University of Pennsylvania came into the prison and laid me on a table for about 45 minutes. The doctors cut me on both sides of my lower back and inserted something?something like medical gauze?and then stitched me up. Ten days later they called me back, opened the stitches on one side and took the packing out and stitched me up again. After another ten days, they called me back and did the same thing to the other side. I was never given an anesthetic and never told what they were doing or putting in me, but I did get $10 for each cut.1
Simulating thermal boundary conditions of spin-lattice models with weighted averages

Abstract Thermal boundary conditions have played an increasingly important role in revealing the nature of short-range spin glasses and is likely to be relevant also for other disordered systems. Diffusion method initializing each replica with a random boundary condition at the infinite temperature using population annealing has been used in recent large-scale simulations. However, the efficiency of this method can be greatly suppressed because of temperature chaos. For example, most samples have some boundary conditions that are completely eliminated from the population in the process of annealing at low temperatures. In this work, I study a weighted average method to solve this problem by simulating each boundary conditions separately and collect data using weighted averages. The efficiency of the two methods is studied using both population annealing and parallel tempering, showing that the weighted average method is more efficient and accurate.