cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling longitudinal data with a random change point and no time-zero: applications to inference and prediction of the labor curve.

In some longitudinal studies the initiation time of the process is not clearly defined, yet it is important to make inference or do predictions about the longitudinal process. The application of interest in this article is to provide a framework for modeling individualized labor curves (longitudinal cervical dilation measurements) where the start of labor is not clearly defined. This is a well-known problem in obstetrics where the benchmark reference time is often chosen as the end of the process (individuals are fully dilated at 10 cm) and time is run backwards. This approach results in valid and efficient inference unless subjects are censored before the end of the process, or if we are focused on prediction. Providing dynamic individualized predictions of the longitudinal labor curve prospectively (where backwards time is unknown) is of interest to aid obstetricians to determine if a labor is on a suitable trajectory. We propose a model for longitudinal labor dilation that uses a random-effects model with unknown time-zero and a random change point. We present a maximum likelihood approach for parameter estimation that uses adaptive Gaussian quadrature for the numerical integration. Further, we propose a Monte Carlo approach for dynamic prediction of the future longitudinal dilation trajectory from past dilation measurements. The methodology is illustrated with longitudinal cervical dilation data from the Consortium of Safe Labor Study.
The effect of alternative fraud model use on auditors’ fraud risk judgments

Abstract This study evaluates how the use of alternative fraud model practice aids affects external auditors’ fraud risk judgments. The extant fraud literature, including professional audit standards, focuses almost exclusively on the fraud triangle model (Cressey, 1973) and its components (i.e., pressure, opportunity, and rationalization) to explain the occurrence of fraud. However, the fraud triangle has not been tested empirically relative to other proposed fraud models designed to address the triangle’s limitations. For example, Wolfe and Hermanson (2004) proposed a fraud diamond model that adds individual “capability” to the fraud triangle as a fourth component reflecting the personal skills and attributes needed to recognize and act on fraud opportunities in an organization. A sample of 89 auditors in public accounting participated in a 2 × 2 experiment with fraud model practice aid type (fraud triangle or fraud diamond) and CEO risk level (low or high) manipulated randomly between subjects in a fraud risk assessment task. The results indicate a significant fraud model type effect, with auditors evaluating fraud risk factors based on a fraud diamond practice aid providing significantly higher (more conservative) fraud risk assessments than auditors evaluating fraud risk factors based on a fraud triangle practice aid. Subsequent factor analysis provides initial support for a revised fraud triangle that includes pressure, opportunity, and a broader capability dimension (that includes rationalization/attitude) as the three formative components.
Massive cerebral swelling immediately after cranioplasty, a fatal and unpredictable complication: report of 4 cases.

Cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy (DC) is associated with increased morbidity, but the reported mortality rate is low. Recently, some authors have reported a rare unexplained complication of sudden death in association with massive cerebral edema immediately after cranioplasty. The author reports on 4 patients who underwent cranioplasty after DC between January 2005 and August 2010 at his department and died because of massive cerebral edema immediately after uneventful surgery and anesthesia. All 4 of the new cases reported involved young male patients who underwent decompressive hemicraniectomy after traumatic brain injury. They developed massive cerebral swelling immediately after uneventful cranioplasty (3 patients) or after removal of an epidural hematoma several hours after surgery (1 patient). All 4 patients had a large skull defect and significantly sunken craniotomy site, and all were treated with a closed vacuum suction system that was placed under the scalp and kept open at the end o...
On Extension and Torsion of Strain-Stiffening Rubber-Like Elastic Circular Cylinders

This paper is concerned with investigation of the effects of strain-stiffening on the response of solid circular cylinders in the combined deformation of torsion superimposed on axial extension. The cylinders are composed of incompressible isotropic nonlinearly elastic materials. Our primary focus is on materials that undergo severe strain-stiffening in the stress-stretch response. In particular, we consider two particular phenomenological constitutive models for such materials that reflect limiting chain extensibility at the molecular level. The axial stretch γ and twist that can be sustained in cylinders composed of such materials are shown to be constrained in a coupled fashion. It is shown that, in the absence of an additional axial force, a transition valueγ=γt of the axial stretch exists such that for γ γt, the stretched cylinder tends to shorten on twisting. These results are in sharp contrast with those for classical models such as the Mooney-Rivlin (and neo-Hookean) models that predict that the stretched circular cylinder always tends to further elongate on twisting. We also obtain results for materials modeled by the well-known exponential strain-energy widely used in biomechanics applications. This model reflects a strain-stiffening that is less abrupt than that for the limiting chain extensibility models. Surprisingly, it turns out that the results in this case are somewhat more complicated. For a fixed stiffening parameter, provided that the stretch is sufficiently small, the stretched bar always tends to elongate on twisting in the absence of an additional axial force. However, for sufficiently large stretch, the cylinder tends to shorten on undergoing sufficiently small twist but then tends to elongate on further twisting. These results are of interest in view of the widespread use of exponential models in the context of the mechanics of soft biological tissues. The special case of pure torsion is also briefly considered. In this case, the resultant axial force required to maintain pure torsion is compressive for all the models discussed here. In the absence of such a force, the bar would elongate on twisting reflecting the celebrated Poynting effect.
Probable causes of recurrence in patients with chordoma and chondrosarcoma of the base of skull and cervical spine

Abstract Purpose : 141 patients with chordoma and chondrosarcoma of the base of skull and cervical spine were treated with proton and photon irradiation between 1980 and 1989. The local disease was controlled in 111 of these patients. This study reviews the 26 patients who have had their disease recur, and who have evaluable diagnostic studies to examine for probable causes of recurrence. Methods and Materials : The histologies of the current tumors were 21 non-chondroid chordomas, two chondroid chordomas, two chondroid chordomas, and three chondrosarcomas. The prescribed doses ranged from 67 Cobalt-Gray-Equivalent (CGE) to 72 CGE (average of 69 CGE). Doses to small regions of the tumor were deliberately reduced where they abutted certain normal tissues (brain stem, spinal cord, optic chiasm, and optic nerves) in order to keep these structures at acceptance dose levels. The first study, CT or MR scan, on which there was evidence of increase in tumor was carefully evaluated and that volume transferred to the CI' scan on which the treatment plan had been developed. The 3D dose distribution in the region of recurrence was carefully analyzed and a judgement made as to the most probable cause of recurrence. Results : Approximately one quarter (6 to 26) of the cases failed int he prescribed dose region. More than half (15 of 26) failed in regions where tumor dose was limited by normal tissue constraints. Approximately 10% of the patients recurred in the surgical pathway and 10% were judged to be marginal misses. Conclusions : Overall, 75% of the patients failed in regions receiving less than the prescribed dose. All tumors which failed in the high dose region had volume greater than 75 cc. Patients with cervical spine disease had a higher rate of recurrence (10 or 26) and larger tumors (average volume of 102 cc) than those with base of skull disease (16 of 115) with an average volume of 63 cc.
Comparison of Job Satisfaction in Six New Jersey Fisheries: Implications for Management

New Jersey's marine fisheries exhibit unusual diversity within a small geographical area-contrasting in terms of prey species, gear size and type, trip duration, seasonality, regulatory policies, and income levels. One might expect these differences to engender different patterns of job satisfaction. Based on a survey of several hundred fishermen, the paper compares baymen, oystermen, sea clarnmers, scallopers, draggers, and longliners with respect to thirty-three components of job satisfaction. Results show significant group-group contrasts in the nonmonetary rewards derived from fishing, even though all those surveyed were clearly commercial fishermen. One implication of these findings is that different regulatory tactics should be used if and when additional regulation of the fisheries becomes necessary.
Fine‐needle aspiration of cystic parotid gland lesions

BACKGROUND Many case reports describing various benign and malignant disease entities diagnosed in cystic parotid gland lesions by fine-needle aspiration (FNA) exist in the literature. Very few studies, however, discuss the efficacy and the diagnostic difficulties of FNA cytology in such lesions. The authors report a 5-year institutional experience with FNA cytology of cystic parotid gland lesions and address the accuracy of the procedure and avoidance of diagnostic pitfalls. METHODS A retrospective review of 46 cases in which patients clinically presented with cystic parotid gland lesions was done from a total of 221 parotid FNAs performed over a 5-year period at the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center. The clinical features, cytology, and follow-up surgical pathology were reviewed to determine diagnostic accuracy and highlight potential pitfalls. RESULTS Based on subsequent surgical excision in 29 of the 46 cases of cystic parotid gland lesions, a diagnostic accuracy rate of 83% was obtained for FNA. Approximately 20% (9 of 46 cases) were found to be clinically significant tumors and included 4 mucoepidermoid and 1 adenocarcinoma (NOS), 3 benign mixed tumors, and 1 metastatic melanoma. Three major factors were implicated as diagnostic pitfalls in our series: 1) failure to obtain critical clinical information, 2) overinterpretation of paucicellular specimens, and 3) failure to realize that certain tumors generally perceived as solid masses can present clinically as cystic lesions. CONCLUSIONS FNA cytology is a valuable tool in the primary diagnosis and management of cystic parotid gland lesions. The diagnostic accuracy of this procedure can be significantly improved by acquiring a detailed clinical history, obtaining an adequate cellular specimen, and having knowledge of the variety and frequencies of possible diagnostic entities that may present as cystic parotid gland lesions. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2000;90:111–6. © 2000 American Cancer Society.
Relative Effect of Temperature and pH on Diel Cycling of Dissolved Trace Elements in Prickly Pear Creek, Montana

Diel (24 hr) cycles in dissolved metal and As concentrations have been documented in many northern Rocky Mountain streams in the U.S.A. The cause(s) of the cycles are unknown, although temperature- and pH-dependent sorption reactions have been cited as likely causes. A light/dark experiment was conducted to isolate temperature and pH as variables affecting diel metal cycles in Prickly Pear Creek, Montana. Light and dark chambers containing sediment and a strand of macrophyte were placed in the stream to simulate instream temperature oscillations. Photosynthesis-induced pH changes were allowed to proceed in the light chambers while photosynthesis was prevented in the dark chambers. Water samples were collected periodically for 22 hr in late July 2001 from all chambers and the stream. In the stream, dissolved Zn concentrations increased by 300% from late afternoon to early morning, while dissolved As concentrations exhibited the opposite pattern, increasing 33% between early morning and late afternoon. Zn and As concentrations in the light chambers showed similar, though less pronounced, diel variations. Conversely, Zn and As concentrations in the dark chambers had no obvious diel variation, indicating that light, or light-induced reactions, caused the variation. Temperature oscillations were nearly identical between light and dark chambers, strongly suggesting that temperature was not controlling the diel variations. As expected, pH was negatively correlated (P < 0.01) with dissolved Zn concentrations and positively correlated with dissolved As concentrations in both the light and dark chambers. From these experiments, photosynthesis-induced pH changes were determined to be the major cause of the diel dissolved Zn and As cycles in Prickly Pear Creek. Further research is necessary in other streams to verify that this finding is consistent among streams having large differences in trace-element concentrations and mineralogy of channel substrate.
COLLECTIVIST ORIENTATION AS A PREDICTOR OF AFFECTIVE ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT: A STUDY CONDUCTED IN CHINA

This study tested the hypothesis of collectivist orientation as a predictor of affective organizational commitment. Data from 510 employees working in two organizations in China supported the hypothesis, that is, collectivist orientation is a significant predictor of affective organizational commitment when employees' specific organization, age, sex, organizational tenure, educational level, and pay satisfaction are controlled.
Interocular generalization of orientation specific color aftereffects.

Abstract McCollough effects were generated by monocular exposure to alternating red vertical and green horizontal gratings, and observed with achromatic orthogonal gratings that formed concentric square bands. Chromatic aftereffects on appropriately oriented gratings viewed by the contralateral eye were obtained when binocular scanning of the test pattern preceded testing with the contralateral eye. The red-green configuration was reversed between the two eyes. The chromatic aftereffects that appear with the contralateral eye are proposed to be “second order McCollough Effects”.
An in vitro Study of a Phase-Shift Nanoemulsion: A Potential Nucleation Agent for Bubble-Enhanced HIFU Tumor Ablation

Phase-shift nanoemulsions have the potential to nucleate bubbles and enhance high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) cancer therapy. This emulsion consists of albumin-coated dodecafluoropentane (DDFP) droplets with a mean diameter of approximately 260 nm at 37°C. It is known that superheated perfluorocarbon droplets can be vaporized with microsecond long ultrasound pulses if the acoustic pressure exceeds a specific threshold. In addition, it is well documented that particles smaller than 400 nm can extravasate through leaky tumor vessels and accumulate in the tumor interstitial space. Thus, nanoemulsions may passively target solid tumors, thus localizing cavitation nuclei for bubble-enhanced HIFU-mediated heating. In this study, we investigate the acoustic droplet vaporization of a DDFP nanoemulsion in tissue-mimicking gels and demonstrate the ability to nucleate inertial cavitation (IC) and enhance HIFU-mediated heating. The nanoemulsion was dispersed throughout albumin-acrylamide gel phantoms and sonicated with microsecond-length HIFU pulses (f = 2 MHz). The pressure threshold needed to vaporize the nanoemulsion was measured as a function of degree of superheat, pulse length and nanoemulsion concentration. It was determined that the vaporization threshold was inversely proportional with degree of superheat and independent of pulse length and concentration within the range of values tested. It was also shown that the bubbles formed from vaporized nanoemulsions reduced the IC threshold in the gel phantoms. Finally, it was demonstrated that cavitation from vaporized nanoemulsions accelerated HIFU-mediated heating. The results from this study demonstrate that phase-shift nanoemulsions can be combined with HIFU to provide a high degree of spatial and temporal control of bubble-enhanced heating.
Economics of pancreatoduodenectomy in the elderly.

Background. Managed care and the increasing percentage of surgical procedures performed in the elderly have renewed the focus on hospital charges and expenditures. The objective of this study was to determine whether septuagenarians and octogenarians accrue more hospital charges or have a higher risk of morbidity and death. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the charges and pertinent clinical outcomes data that were available on 70 of the last 100 pancreatoduodenectomies performed at our institution (1989 to 1994). Charges from four cost centers were analyzed and normalized to 1995 dollars by using the Consumer Price Index and Wilcoxon rank sum test. Patients were divided into two groups : group 1, 70 years of age or older (n = 21) ; group 2, younger than 70 years of age (n = 49). Results. Anesthetic charges were $2657 ± $835 for group 1 versus $2815 ± $826 for group 2, which was not a statistically significant difference. Laboratory charges were $4650 ± $3284 for group 1 versus $5969 ± $5169 for group 2, which was not a significant difference. Pharmaceutical charges were $5424 ± $4435 for group I versus $9243 ± $9695 for group 2, which was not a significant difference. Charges for operative units were $6198 ± $1671 for group I versus $7469 ± $2116 for group 2, p < 0.02. Total charges were $41,180 ± $20,635 for group 1 versus $50,968 ± $33,783 for group 2, which was not a significant difference. No difference was noted in morbidity, mortality, length of stay, or survival. Conclusions. Pancreatoduodenectomy in the elderly can be performed safely without accruing higher cost, increased morbity, or increased mortality.
Decision model for a place to live at PSU: The case of international graduate students

This paper demonstrates the use of decision models for the selection of a place to live for a new student who just came to Portland State University (PSU.) A hierarchical decision model (HDM) was selected as the tool and a model was constructed to meet the objective of selecting the best place to live. Cost, convenience, and safety were identified as the three goals in support of the objective. The criteria and sub-criteria were listed with respect to each goal. The alternatives were chosen for both on-campus and off-campus housings. The experts were selected from a group of international graduate students to quantify judgments based on the HDM model. Finally, utility values were used to compare the characteristics of the alternatives. The alternative with the highest score was identified as the best alternative.
Shape from projected light grid (abstract only)

An algorithm is proposed to obtain local surface orientation from the distortion of the projected light stripes in the image of the surface. Only partial camera calibration is required for the computations of surface normals. Only the directions of the optical axis and the projector axis are required from the 3-D scene for this algorithm. A mapping is defined from points in the image to points on the Gaussian sphere associated with the object. This mapping is based on the measurements of the distorted “quadrilaterals” in the image. Experimental results are obtained both for planar and curved surfaces.There are many “shape from” methods discussed in the literature. Surface normals can be obtained by calculating the spatial variation of brightness (shape from shading [4] ); by noting the distortion of texture elements (shape from texture [1]); by using range data directly (shape from stereo [3]); or by using the image of a moving object (shape from motion [2]). Our approach is similar to shape from texture, but we use externally imposed light stripes to simulate texture. Thus we can guarantee “texture” elements of known uniform sizes.We project a grid of light stripes on the scene. Knowledge of optical axis and projector axis is assumed. We further make the assumption of parallel projection. The light grids are observed as distorted quadrilaterals in the image. The amount of distortion is a function of the normal to the surface on which the grid is being projected. Lengths of the sides of these quadrilaterals measured in the image are then used to calculate the local surface normal. The algorithm can be used both on planar and curved surfaces.
Comparative failure analysis of allograft constructs stabilized with compression plates utilizing unicortical versus bicortical screws with or without PMMA

Abstract Orthopaedic internal fixation is subject to high stress concentration around screw holes leading to screw loosening. We compared the screw pullout strength ( n = 8), and bending and torsional stiffness ( n = 6) for cadaveric (young adult donors age 45 years or less) diaphyseal bone constructs with a gap and stabilized with Zimmer 4.5 narrow stainless steel dynamic compression plates with 4.5 mm cortical stainless steel screws placed in a unicortical or bicortical manner with and without intramedullary PMMA. The pullout strength for unicortical fixation with PMMA (4.3 ± .6 kN) was not significantly different with bicortical fixation with PMMA (5.3 ± 1.5 kN), n = 8, P > .5; and for the group with bicortical fixation without PMMA (4.3 ± 1.1 kN), n = 8, P > .5. The difference in bending stiffness for the group with two unicortical screws fixation with PMMA (324.1 ± 59.7 kN/m) was also not statistically significant when compared with the groups with four bicortical screws fixation without PMMA (278.7 ± 89.6 kN/m) and two bicortical screws fixation with PMMA (347.9 ± 66.7 kN/m), n = 6, P > .1. The difference in torsional stiffness for the group with two unicortical screws fixation with PMMA (173 ± 44 N m/deg) was not statistically significant when compared with the groups with four bicortical screws fixation without PMMA (190 ± 22 N m/deg), two bicortical screws fixation with PMMA (179 ± 36 N m/deg), and two bicortical screws fixation with PMMA (193 ± 31 N m/deg), n = 6, P > .5. The use of PMMA in allograft fixation appears to allow the use of fewer screws, and perhaps unicortical fixation without significant compromise of strength. Clinically, two unicortical screws with PMMA may replace the use of two bicortical screws without PMMA, or two bicortical screws with PMMA may replace four bicortical screws. The clinical relevance would be the ability to use fewer screws and reduce violation of the far cortex of the allograft.
Backward-wave interaction using step periodic structures

Periodicities introduced into hollow waveguides with step and turn symmetry are shown to have characteristics useful for backward-wave interaction in microwave electron tubes. Using Floquet's theorem, it is shown that the modes of a hollow waveguide can be shifted in phase over one period of the structure. Interaction with the shifted backward-wave mode is then possible over a range of frequencies. A gyrotron backward-wave oscillator is particularly suited to this structure; the interaction could be magnetically tuned over a range of frequencies, while a low phase constant is maintained. A solid waveguide has the added advantages of being easily built for high frequencies and rugged for higher temperatures.
Bacterial cupredoxin azurin as an inducer of apoptosis and regression in human breast cancer

Azurin, a copper-containing redox protein released by the pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is highly cytotoxic to the human breast cancer cell line MCF-7, but is less cytotoxic toward p53-negative (MDA-MB-157) or nonfunctional p53 cell lines like MDD2 and MDA-MB-231. The purpose of this study was to investigate the underlying mechanism of the action of bacterial cupredoxin azurin in the regression of breast cancer and its potential chemotherapeutic efficacy. Azurin enters into the cytosol of MCF-7 cells and travels to the nucleus, enhancing the intracellular levels of p53 and Bax, thereby triggering the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c into the cytosol. This process activates the caspase cascade (including caspase-9 and caspase-7), thereby initiating the apoptotic process. Our results indicate that azurin-induced cell death stimuli are amplified in the presence of p53. In vivo injection of azurin in immunodeficient mice harboring xenografted human breast cancer cells in the mammary fat pad leads to statistically significant regression (85%, P = 0.0179, Kruskal-Wallis Test) of the tumor. In conclusion, azurin blocks breast cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway both in vitro and in vivo, thereby suggesting a potential chemotherapeutic application of this bacterial cupredoxin for the treatment of breast cancer.
Toward a psychology of knowledge. IV. Further illustrations of the hypothesis regarding philosophical conservatism and Rorschach movement responses.

This paper offers further illustrations of the hypothesis that Rorschach form and movement responsivity are differentially associated with political philosophy, specifically, that form responsivity is associated with Enlightenment philosophy and movement responsivity with Burkean philosophy. The illustrations are drawn from Robert Nisbet's “Conservatism and Sociology” and Werner Stark's “Conservative Tradition in the Sociology of Knowledge.”
Relation between the parabolic and spherical eigenfunctions of hydrogen

It is shown that the transformation coefficients relating the eigenfunctions of the Kepler problem in parabolic and spherical coordinates respectively are the normalized Clebsch-Gordan coefficients.
Rheokinetics of ring-opening metathesis polymerization of norbornene-based monomers intended for self-healing applications

Constant shear rate rheokinetics was used to evaluate the polymerization of four norbornene-based monomer systems as candidate healing agents in self-healing composites: endo-dicyclopentadiene (endo-DCPD), exo-DCPD, 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene (ENB), and a 1:1 volume mixture of endo-DCPD:ENB. The ruthenium catalyst induced ring-opening metathesis polymerization of the healing agent candidates were measured experimentally under isothermal conditions while the influences of several different variables were considered (e.g., test temperature, catalyst concentration, catalyst form). Analyzing the increase in viscosity during the polymerization, comparisons of the reaction kinetics of the different monomers were quantified by defining two parameters, tt and Δt, which correspond to the polymerization initiation and propagation rates respectively. Generally, ENB shows the fastest polymerization kinetics, and endo-DCPD the slowest. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 46:1804–1811, 2006. © 2006 Society of Plastics Engineers
Solubilities of and Transformations between the Anhydrous and Hydrated Forms of l-Serine in Water−Methanol Solutions

Methanol is used in the industrial crystallization of l-serine to reduce solubility and thereby to enhance the recovery from aqueous solutions in which l-serine has been synthesized. Earlier resear...
A modified involvement scale.

Abstract This investigation examines the psychometric properties of a modified involvement scale (MIS) using recreationists sampled at a national forest in upstate South Carolina and consumers enquiring about angling opportunities in the Low Country of South Carolina. Following the testing of several model configurations, support for a conceptualization of enduring involvement was observed consisting of five correlated facets: attraction, centrality, social bonding, identity expression and identity affirmation. This conceptualization was an extension of McIntyre’s measure. Notable departures from McIntyre’s conceptualization include the extraction of a social component previously embedded in the centrality facet and greater distinction in the leisure identification processes. This led to the construction of two identification facets. Testing using multiple criteria of validity and reliability illustrated that the MIS was a sound indicator of enduring leisure involvement.
ATMOSPHERIC DISPERSION OF LARGE SCALE SPILLS

Large scale spills of volatile cryogenic or pressurized ambient temperature liquids often produce denser-than-air clouds which disperse in the atmosphere in a manner that is different than trace gases. These differences are due to density or gravity-induced effects such as turbulence damping from the stable density stratification, alteration of the ambient velocity field due to gravity flow, and the source momentum flux. Also important are thermodynamic effects such as aerosol formation and flash vaporization upon release, evaporative cooling, or heat transfer from the ground modifying cloud buoyancy and turbulence. In addition, chemical reaction effects such as hydrolysis with atmospheric water vapor, polymerization, or decomposition which also affects cloud density and thermodynamics can be important. These effects are very important close to the release point but also can have dramatic effects on the cloud as it disperses downwind. Large scale tests involving releases of heavy gases have been conducted...
Laminin acts via β1 integrin signalling to alter cholinergic regulation of L‐type Ca2+ current in cat atrial myocytes

A perforated patch recording method was used to determine how plating cells on laminin (20 microg ml(-1); >2 h) alters cholinergic regulation of L-type Ca(2+) current (I(Ca,L)) in atrial myocytes. Acetylcholine (ACh; 1 microm)-induced inhibition of basal I(Ca,L) was not different between cells on glass and laminin. However, stimulation of I(Ca,L) elicited by ACh withdrawal was significantly smaller in cells on laminin (10 +/- 2 %) than on glass (48 +/- 5 %) (P < 0.001). Stimulation of I(Ca,L) induced by either spermine-NO (200 microm), milrinone (10 microm), IBMX (100 microm) or forskolin (1 microm) was significantly smaller in cells plated on laminin than on glass. However, stimulation of I(Ca,L) by 100 microm 8-CPT-cAMP or intracellular dialysis with 50 microM cAMP was not different between cells plated on laminin or glass. Basal, forskolin- and IBMX-stimulated cAMP content was significantly smaller in cells plated on laminin than on glass. Stimulation of I(Ca,L) by ACh withdrawal was significantly smaller in cells plated on an alpha beta 1-integrin antibody (10 +/- 4 %) than on glass (3 +/- 6 %; P < 0.001). In cells on laminin, prior exposure to 100 microg ml-1 YIGSR, a laminin receptor-binding peptide, restored ACh-induced stimulation of I(Ca,L) (58 +/- 14 %)laminin alone (7 +/- 2 %; P < 0. 05). Addition of 20 microm cytochalasin D or 1 microM latrunculin A, agents that prevent actin polymerization, to cells on laminin restored ACh-induced stimulation of I(Ca,L). We conclude that laminin binding to beta 1 integrins acts in association with the actin-based cytoskeleton to attenuate adenylate cyclase activity. As a result, laminin inhibits NO-mediated stimulation of I(Ca,L) elicited by ACh withdrawal. Laminin-integrin signalling may be relevant to changes in autonomic regulation that occur during cardiac development and/or disease.
Dielectric Aging in Tetragonal Solid Solutions of Calcium Titanate in Barium Titanate

The dielectric aging phenomenon was observed in tetragonal polycrystalline solid solutions of calcium titanate in barium titanate between 30° and 90°C, and the 90° ferroelectric domain microstructures were analyzed using replica electron microscopy and statistical procedures. The results show a correlation between aging rate and 90° domains that may be satisfactorily interpreted in terms of the internal residual stress relaxation theory of aging.
Identification of petrogenetic processes using covariance plots of trace-element data

Abstract All models of trace-element evolution (Rayleigh crystallization, batch partial melting, etc.) give rise to plots of data which have distinctive geometric forms, either exponential or hyperbolic. The forms of the plots depend only on the type of model, and not on the bulk distribution coefficients of the elements represented, composition of the source-rock or magma, or fraction of liquid in the system. Ratio-ratio plots of trace-element data can be used to determine rapidly if specific models are consistent with the data, even when the above factors are unknown. The geometric forms are most easily distinguished on ratio-ratio plots of the form X Y vs. X V , where X, Y and V are three trace elements, and the effective bulk distribution coefficients of elements Y and V are as unlike as possible. If possible, the bulk distribution coefficient of element X should be only slightly greater than that of V. On such plots, data for rocks related by batch partial melting or equilibrium crystallization fall on linear trends, while data for rocks related by Rayleigh crystallization or fractional melting fall on curved trends that extrapolate to the origin. The geometric form of plots of data from rocks related by collection melting (batch partial melting followed by collection and mixing of the magma in a reservoir) could not be evaluated analytically, but it was found empirically that trends of data from model rocks related by collection melting are usually linear on X Y vs. X V plots. The geometric forms of X Y vs. X V plots of data from rocks related by mixing or contamination may be either linear or curved. However, by plotting ratios of three elements, X Y vs. V Y , data from rocks related by mixing or contamination will fall on linear trends. On this type of ratio-ratio plot, data from rocks related by other processes should fall on curved trends. This method is applied to several suites of igneous rocks and it is seen that the number of acceptable petrogenetic models can be considerably reduced with minimal effort. The advantages of the method are that it is relatively rapid and does not require any a priori assumptions concerning the bulk distribution coefficients, composition of the source-rocks of magmas, or fraction of liquid in the system. The principal disadvantages of the method are that it requires relatively high-quality trace-element data, and that the analyses must represent as wide a compositional spread as possible.
The Agrarian Origins of the Knitwear Industrial Cluster in Tiruppur, India

Abstract The reorganization of work in Tiruppur into small-firm networks has propelled it to the center of India’s cotton knitwear exports. Industrial studies explanations remain unresolved in reconciling informalized, insecure labor alongside the possibility of an innovative “industrial district.” An analysis of the industrial present reveals that not only are the majority of owners of the agrarian Gounder caste but they are also predominantly ex-industrial workers. This paper investigates the regional and agrarian processes through which Gounders of worker-peasant origins forged their class mobility through their “toil,” while also remaking the knitwear industrial cluster into dynamic small-firm networks.
The Production of an Urban Hazardscape in Pakistan: Modernity, Vulnerability, and the Range of Choice

Abstract This article reconsiders vulnerability to contemporary hazards within the context of a globalizing world, characterized by the hegemony of technocratic and social modernity. It presents findings of a field study conducted on flood hazard in the Rawalpindi/Islamabad conurbation in Pakistan. Insights from three intellectual traditions within resource geography—pragmatism, political ecology, and “socionature”—are coupled with the landscape idea within cultural geography to develop the integrative concept of a “hazardscape.” This concept is defined as both an analytical way of seeing that asserts power and as a social-environmental space where the gaze of power is contested and struggled against to produce the lived reality of hazardous places. Analyses of the Lai Nullah hazardscape in the Rawalpindi/Islamabad conurbation reveal that flood victims perceive a much greater range of choice in dealing with the flood hazard than do policy makers. On the other hand, flood managers, typically state agents, ...
The Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway and Its Role in Cancer

Critical cellular processes are regulated, in part, by maintaining the appropriate intracellular levels of proteins. Whereas de novo protein synthesis is a comparatively slow process, proteins are rapidly degraded at a rate compatible with the control of cell cycle transitions and cell death induction. A major pathway for protein degradation is initiated by the addition of multiple 76-amino acid ubiquitin monomers via a three-step process of ubiquitin activation and substrate recognition. Polyubiquitination targets proteins for recognition and processing by the 26S proteasome, a cylindrical organelle that recognizes ubiquitinated proteins, degrades the proteins, and recycles ubiquitin. The critical roles played by ubiquitin-mediated protein turnover in cell cycle regulation makes this process a target for oncogenic mutations. Oncogenes of several common malignancies, for example colon and renal cell cancer, code for ubiquitin ligase components. Cervical oncogenesis by human papillomavirus is also mediated by alteration of ubiquitin ligase pathways. Protein degradation pathways are also targets for cancer therapy, as shown by the successful introduction of bortezomib, an inhibitor of the 26S proteasome. Further work in this area holds great promise toward our understanding and treatment of a wide range of cancers.
Array comparative genomic hybridisation of 52 subjects with a Smith–Magenis-like phenotype: identification of dosage sensitive loci also associated with schizophrenia, autism, and developmental delay

Background Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) is caused by del(17)(p11.2), including the retinoic acid induced 1 gene (RAI1) , or mutation of RAI1 . Haploinsufficiency of RAI1 results in developmental delay, mental retardation, sleep disturbance, self-abusive behaviors, and most features commonly seen in SMS. In this study, 52 subjects were referred for molecular analysis of RAI1 due to the presence of an SMS-like phenotype in each case. For this cohort, deletion and mutation analyses of RAI1 were negative; thus, the clinical diagnosis of SMS could not be confirmed and suggested that at least one other locus was responsible for the phenotype(s) observed. Methods Here, we present whole-genome array comparative genomic hybridization and detailed phenotypic data of these 52 subjects. Results This SMS-like cohort exhibited developmental delays, sleep disturbance, self-abusive behaviors, motor dysfunction, and hyperactivity of the same type and prevalence as that of SMS. In this analysis, we identified at least 5 new loci that likely contribute to the SMS-like phenotype, including CNVs that were found in more than one subject. Genes in these regions function in development, neurological integrity, and morphology, all of which are affected in SMS. Conclusions Given the phenotypic overlap between SMS and the SMS-like cases, these data may provide some insight into the function of RAI1, including the pathways in which it may be involved and the genes it may regulate. These data will improve diagnosis, understanding, and potentially treatment of these complex behavior and mental retardation syndromes.
Unsteady Aerodynamic Forces at Low Airfoil Pitching Rates

Abstract : Experiments were conducted on a NACA-0015 airfoil undergoing low constant pitch rates to study the effects of dynamic stall formation on the airfoil upper surface pressure field. The airfoil was pitched about pivot locations of 0.25c, 05c, and 0.75c at nondimensional pitch rates below 0.2. Lift and drag coefficients were evaluated for all cases, and smoke flow visualization at low pitch rates was studied for the quarter chord pivot location. Results indicate that the greatest increases in lift due to the pitching motion occur prior to the nondimensional pitch rate of 0.1 for all three pivot locations. The effects of pitch rate on the maximum lift and drag values appear similar for the three pivot locations studied. Lift to drag ratios show significant enhancement even at very low nondimensional rates. Flow visualization indicates that the leading edge dynamic stall vortex is present even at very low nondimensional pitch areas. Keywords: Aerodynamic lift/drag; Pitch motion; Airfoils; Leading edges; Stall vortices; Aerodynamic forces; Unsteady flow; Reprints.
Software enterprise pedagogy for project-based courses

The Software Enterprise is a pedagogical model combining traditional lecture with project-based learning. The Enterprise model leads students through a modular series of lessons that combine foundational concepts with skills-based competencies. In this tutorial, software engineering educators in higher education or industry will learn the methodology, get exposed to assessment techniques such as e-portfolios and concept maps, and become familiarized with the open resources available to educators that adopt the pedagogy. This tutorial should be of interest to any educator interested in making their project-based courses more engaging and more relevant to students needing to be ready to practice the profession from the first day they exit the Enterprise environment.
New avenues in treatment of paediatric migraine: a review of the literature.

BACKGROUND Headaches are a common problem in paediatric practice. Recurrent headaches can be a significant source of stress for patient and parents, and disruptive regarding school obligations and parental work responsibilities. Most treatment interventions are developed from research data extrapolated from adult studies, with resultant concerns of safety and efficacy when utilizing these therapeutic conclusions in children. METHODS This paper incorporates current treatment strategies in paediatric migraine utilizing a Medline search of English language studies from January 1988 to December 1999, with a literature search referencing the terms of paediatrics, migraines, headaches, therapy and treatment. Reference sections of the articles were reviewed for pertinent information prior to January 1988. Articles were evaluated systematically to formulate concise terms for diagnosis of paediatric migraine and applicability to clinical treatment studies. Particular emphasis was placed on newer options with relevance in adult treatment such as triptans and anti-epileptic drugs, and their benefit in therapy of paediatric migraine. Non-pharmacological options were also subjected to organized review to determine relevance in treatment of paediatric migraine. RESULTS The review of the literature indicates that although migraine in childhood and adolescence appears to be increasing in prevalence, few clinical studies are available, with most current treatment recommendations utilizing data from adult studies. CONCLUSION Further headache treatment studies in the paediatric population are necessary in order to ascertain safety and efficacy of pharmaco-therapeutics in these children. Also, much current interest in treatment in adults with recurrent headaches involves non-pharmacological areas-dietary modification and stress management. Application of these avenues especially warrants further clarification with regard to relevance in paediatric migraine treatment.
Peripheral neuropathy in osteosclerotic myeloma: Clinical and electrodiagnostic improvement with chemotherapy

A patient with a severe remote-effect polyneuropathy and other paraneoplastic features of osteosclerotic myeloma improved dramatically with melphalan and prednisone treatment. Serial electrodiagnostic studies provided an objective means of following the response to therapy and documented the improvement. We believe this represents the first reported patient with multifocal osteosclerotic myeloma and a myelomatous polyneuropathy responding to melphalan and prednisone.
Cell alignment required in differentiation of Myxococcus xanthus

During fruiting body morphogenesis of Myxococcus xanthus, cell movement is required for transmission of C-factor, a short range intercellular signaling protein necessary for sporulation and developmental gene expression. Nonmotile cells fail to sporulate and to express C-factor-dependent genes, but both defects were rescued by a simple manipulation of cell position that oriented the cells in aligned, parallel groups. A similar pattern of aligned cells normally results from coordinated recruitment of wildtype cells into multicellular aggregates, which later form mature fruiting bodies. It is proposed that directed cell movement establishes critical contacts between adjacent cells, which are required for efficient intercellular C-factor transmission.
Prevalence of impaired driving behaviors in a diverse, rural, southern middle school

Little research has been reported on the risky behaviors of pre-driving adolescents revolving around alcohol use, in particular impaired driving behaviors, which in general have been shown to be higher in rural areas. This study investigated the prevalence of drinking while driving and riding with a drinking driver among 290 middle school students in a Mississippi Delta area middle school. Just under half (45.3%) responded that at least once in the past 30 days they had ridden with a drinking driver and 17% indicated they had driven an automobile after drinking alcohol. The prevalence of underage drinking, driving under the influence of alcohol, and riding with a drinking driver among our sample of middle school students is alarming. This study shows alcohol-related driving behaviors are not solely performed by those who are legally licensed to drive, but simply by those who have access to vehicles. The authors recommend that prevention programs focusing on reducing the incidence of impaired driving should start in early adolescence.
Evaluation of Aperture Codes for High Throughput Spectroscopy

A coded aperture spectrometer maintains the spectral resolution of a traditional slit spectrometer while dramatically increasing the throughput. Here we evaluate the performance of different aperture codes for spectroscopy of weak, incoherent sources.
Novel treatments after experimental brain injury

Perinatal hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy(HIE) is being studied in laboratory models that allow the delayed cascade of events triggered by the energetic insult to be examined in detail. The concept of the 'excitotoxic cascade' provides a conceptual framework for thinking about the pathogenesis of HIE. Major events in the cascade triggered by hypoxia-ischaemia include overstimulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate type glutamate receptors, calcium entry into cells, activation of calcium-sensitive enzymes such as nitric oxide synthase, production of oxygen free radicals, injury to mitochondria, leading in turn to necrosis or apoptosis. New experimental approaches to salvaging brain tissue from the effects of HIE include inhibition of neuronal nitric oxide synthase, administration of neuronal growth factors, and inhibition of the caspase enzymes that execute apoptosis. Recent experimental work suggests that these approaches may be effective during a longer 'therapeutic window' after the insult, because they are acting on events that are relatively delayed. Application of modest hypothermia may allow these agents to be neuroprotective at even longer intervals after hypoxia-ischaemia.
Teaching Strategies: Using Humor to Facilitate Learning

(1992). Teaching Strategies: Using Humor to Facilitate Learning. Childhood Education: Vol. 69, No. 2, pp. 105-106.
Introduction to the Proceedings of the Fourteenth Symposium on Biotechnology for Fuels and Chemicals

This report is a collection of introductions to sessions made at the Fourteenth Symposium on Biotechnology for Fuels and Chemicals.