cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quality of life of maxillectomy patients using an obturator prosthesis

Background The psychosocial adaptation of patients who had undergone a resection of the maxilla for cancer of the maxillary antrum and/or hard palate with the placement of an obturator prosthesis to restore speech and eating function was studied. Methods Forty-seven patients were interviewed who had a maxillectomy with an obturator prosthesis at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, an average of 5.2 years (SD = 2.4 years) ago, 94% of whom had some of their soft palate resected. Interviews were conducted by telephone by a trained research interviewer, using a series of questionnaires to assess their satisfaction with the functioning of their obturator, and the psychological, vocational, family, social, and sexual adjustment. Measures included the Obturator Functioning Scale (OFS), Psychosocial Adjustment to Illness Scale (PAIS), Mental Health Inventory (MHI), Impact of Event Scale, and Family Functioning Scale. Results Using multiple regression and discriminant function analyses, satisfactory functioning of the obturator prosthesis, as measured by the OFS, was found to be (1) the most highly significant predictor of adjustment, as measured by the PAIS (p < .0001) and the MHI Global Psychological Distress Subscale (MHI-GPD) (p < .001), and (2) significantly related to their perception of the negative socioeconomic impact of cancer upon their lives. The most significant predictors of better obturator functioning were the extent of resection of their soft palate (one third or less, p < .001), and hard palate (one fourth or less, p < .01). Specific aspects of obturator functioning that most significantly correlated with better adjustment (PAIS, MHI-GPD) were: less difficulty in pronouncing words (r = .40 and r = .51, respectively, p < .01), chewing and swallowing food (r = .27–.46, p < .05), and less change in their voice quality after surgery (r = .52 and r = .56, respectively, p < .001). Conclusions These findings suggest that a well-functioning obturator significantly contributes to improving the quality of life of maxillectomy patients. HEAD & NECK 1996;18:323–334 © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Specialization of the DNA-cleaving Activity of a Group I Ribozyme Through In Vitro Evolution

In an earlier study, an in vitro evolution procedure was applied to a large population of variants of the Tetrahymena group 1 ribozyme to obtain individuals with a 10(exp 5)-fold improved ability to cleave a target single-stranded DNA substrate under simulated physiological conditions. The evolved ribozymes also showed a twofold improvement, compared to the wild-type, in their ability to cleave a single-stranded RNA substrate. Here, we report continuation of the in vitro evolution process using a new selection strategy to achieve both enhanced DNA and diminished RNA-cleavage activity. Our strategy combines a positive selection for DNA cleavage with a negative selection against RNA binding. After 36 "generations" of in vitro evolution, the evolved population showed an approx. 100-fold increase in the ratio of DNA to RNA-cleavage activity. Site-directed mutagenesis experiment confirmed the selective advantage of two covarying mutations within the catalytic core of ribozyme that are largely responsible for this modified behavior. The population of ribozymes has now undergone a total of 63 successive generations of evolution, resulting in an average 28 mutations relative to the wild-type that are responsible for the altered phenotype.
Chronic Medical Illness in Patients With Recurrent Major Depression

The authors treated 115 elderly patients (ambulatory and without dementia) with recurrent major depression, by means of combined nortriptyline and interpersonal psychotherapy. They contrasted Cumulative Illness Rating Scale–Geriatric (CIRS–G) scores (for medical burden) in recovered and nonrecovered patients and generated a Cox proportional-hazards model of time-to-remission. The authors found no association between pretreatment chronic medical burden and acute treatment outcome in recovered (83 of 115) and nonrecovered patients and no relation of pretreatment CIRS–G scores with time-to-recovery. Findings support recent recommendations that practitioners be optimistic in treating elderly depressed, ambulatory patients whether or not significant medical burden coexists.
A sonographic sign for the detection in the second trimester of the fetus with Down's syndrome

Sonographic structural surveys were made at the time that 904 amniocenteses were performed for genetic evaluation in the second trimester. A sonographic sign was identified which places the fetus at high risk for having Down's syndrome.
Sociological findings in young children's word-processed writings

Abstract Graves (1983) tells us that children with positive writing histories develop positive self-concepts. We know that confident children learn best. The children at Broken Rocks are becoming confident, capable writers. They know when and why writing is used, and they find it a meaningful activity because they can successfully communicate through their writings. They provide clear evidence that they know something of writing form and structure. Now they can use their writing to express concern, to state rules, to recall, to request information, and even to fantasize (Hall, 1987). The sociological implications of children's writings must not be ignored. Through their writing, teachers can learn more about their students —when and how to help. They can identify ways to increase children's confidence and better assure school success. Conscious attention to the content of the children's stories will tell teachers when and how to intervene. This paper set out to describe a computer-connected writing program and share examples of children's writing. That has been done; but in the process, more was learned than expected. The findings proved compelling enough to become the greater focus of this work. It is not yet known whether the increase in these children's writing skills is a result of their relationship with computers or the effective teaching that occurs at this school; perhaps it is because they are allowed to create their own writing. It is likely a combination of all. It is also true that these young children seem to have bridged a gap by bringing their oral and written language startlingly close. Surely, from this point on they can become only more proficient writers.
Split-sum correlator simplifies range computations in GPS receiver

A novel correlator architecture for handling the satellite-to-receiver time skew in a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver is presented. The correlator's signal integration and numerically-controlled oscillator updates are referenced to receiver time epochs rather than satellite epochs as in traditional architectures. To avoid straddling navigation data bits, the correlation is split into two parts. The technique was successfully implemented and integrated into a field programmable gate array-based multichannel software GPS receiver.
Symptomatic heterotopic ossification following total knee arthroplasty.

Abstract Heterotopic ossification has been reported to occur in less than 10% of total knee arthroplastics. When this condition has occurred, it has previously been reported either to be asymptomatic or to cause discomfort that resolves with the passage of time. This care report is the first to note persistent pain and snapping due to heterotopic ossification adherent to the distal femoral cortex that required surgical excision to relieve symptoms after total knee arthroplasty.
FINITE FAULT MODELLING OF NEAR-FIELD ROCK MOTIONS IN THE NEW MADRID SEISMIC ZONE

Due to lack of strong motion records, point-source and finite-fault models have been used to simulate far-field motions at Memphis and St. Louis Cities from earthquake events in the New Madrid Seis...
Selective Surgery for Intermittent Exotropia Based on Distance/Near Differences

Background Classic teaching suggests that surgery for intermittent exotropia should be based on distance/near differences. Divergence excess, according to tradition, should be treated with symmetric lateral rectus recessions; simulated divergence excess and basic deviations should be treated with a recess/resect procedure. This teaching, to our knowledge, has not been systematically tested. Objectives To evaluate the appropriateness of selective surgery based on distance/near differences and to determine if bilateral lateral rectus recessions affect the distance deviation more than the near deviation. Patients and Methods Patients with basic type intermittent exotropia were randomized to 2 groups, those receiving either unilateral recess/resect procedures or symmetric lateral rectus recessions. Patients with simulated divergence excess intermittent exotropia received symmetric lateral rectus recessions. Outcome was observed 1 year after surgery. Results Of 19 patients with basic exotropia receiving lateral rectus recessions, 10 patients (52%) had a satisfactory outcome compared with 14 (82%) of the 17 patients who had recess/resect procedures ( P >.05). Of the 68 patients with simulated divergence excess, 55 patients (80%) had a satisfactory outcome after bilateral lateral rectus recessions. This result was significantly better than the outcome for patients with basic exotropia who underwent lateral rectus recessions ( P >.05). The decrease in the distance/near difference after surgery was essentially identical for patients with basic exotropia who underwent lateral rectus recessions as for those who received recess/resect procedures (means, 2.4 prism diopters vs 2.1 prism diopters, respectively). Conclusions Although this study did not evaluate increasing the amount of symmetric lateral rectus recessions for patients with basic exotropia, these data suggest that patients with basic type intermittent exotropia should be treated with recess/resect procedures. Data also suggest that patients with simulated divergence excess do well with lateral rectus recessions. Recess/resect procedures and symmetric surgery affect distance/near differences equally in patients with basic exotropia.
Exchange Market Pressure and Stock-Price Spillovers in Emerging Markets

Much research has been conducted on whether events in stock markets affect asset markets, or vice versa. Since causality has been shown to run in either direction (and sometimes both simultaneously), this relationship must be tested empirically on a case-by-case basis. This study does so, using a monthly index of Exchange Market Pressure (EMP) rather than simple appreciations or depreciations, for ten emerging markets. Vector Autoregressive (VAR) models, which capture regional and global effects, show that asset-market shocks often (but not always) spill over to EMP. Causality often runs the opposite direction as well. Some countries, such as Thailand and Poland, serve as important sources of regional shocks, while others, such as Croatia, are more susceptible to them. While it is often assumed that events in U.S. markets easily spill over to the rest of the world, declines in U.S. stock prices lead to lower emerging market stock prices or higher EMP in relatively few cases.
Electrochemical Oxidations of Central Nervous System Indoleamines, Catecholamines and Alkaloids: Potential Significance into Neurodegenerative Diseases

The serotonergic neurotransmitter 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), the catecholaminergic neurotransmittcr dopaminc (DA) and various tetrahydroisoquinoline (TIQ) and tetrahydro-β-carboline (THβC) alkaloids are all easily oxidized compounds. Aberrant oxidative transformations of 5-HT and other central indoles might be involved in neurodegenerative Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Changes in the oxidation chemistry of DA appear to be fundamental in substantia nigra neurons in Parkinson's Disease (PD). Various TIQ and THβC alkaloids are elevated in the brain as a result of ethanol drinking. Recent studies into the electrochemical oxidation chemistry of 5-HT, DA and various TIQ and THβC alkaloids have been reviewed. The potential roles of the oxidation chemistry of these compounds in neurodegenerative AD, PD and alcoholism are discussed.
No difference in cerebral hemispheric asymmetry of meditators as opposed to nonmeditators

Meditation continues to be proposed for improving people’s use of their brains by changing ease of communication between cerebral hemispheres, or by changing their functional dissimilarities. We report the first tachistoscopic hemiretinae recognition test of asymmetry in meditators as opposed to nonmeditators.
The impact of the ice phase and radiation on a midlatitude squall line system

Abstract A two-dimensional cloud model is used to study the interrelationships among cloud microphysics, radiation, and dynamics in a midlatitude broken-line squall system. The impact of the ice phase, longwave and shortwave radiation on the dynamic and microphysical structures of this multicellular storm, the thermodynamic properties of the cloud ensemble, and their cloud-radiative feedback to the modeled squall line system is investigated in detail. In addition, partitioned heat, moisture, and water budgets are used to assess quantitatively the role of anvil clouds on the modeled squall line system. The major conclusions are as follows. 1) Both ice phase and radiation have little influence on the multicellular characters of the modeled squall line system. However, the ice phase and longwave radiation significantly impact the mesoscale structure and lead to a more realistic feature having an evident transition zone between the bright melting band and the convective region in the model-derived radar refle...
A hybrid approach for efficient ensembles

An ensemble of classifiers, or a systematic combination of individual classifiers, often results in better classifications in comparison to a single classifier. However, the question regarding what classifiers should be chosen for a given situation to construct an optimal ensemble has often been debated. In addition, ensembles are often computationally expensive since they require the execution of multiple classifiers for a single classification task. To address these problems, we propose a hybrid approach for selecting and combining data mining models to construct ensembles by integrating Data Envelopment Analysis and stacking. Experimental results show the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Outcomes of Adults With Pediatric-Onset Spinal Cord Injury: Longitudinal Findings and Implications on Transition to Adulthood

A successful transition to adulthood is an essential health outcome. In addition to providing effective, multidisciplinary, and family-centered treatment after an injury, a key goal of rehabilitation for children and adolescents with a spinal cord injury (SCI) is to promote meaningful and satisfying lives. This includes not only fostering independence but also addressing the complex health issues that arise with age and living with an SCI. This article reviews the central areas of transition within the framework of emerging adulthood in individuals with pediatric-onset SCI, including education, employment, independent living, social development, sexuality, psychological functioning, medical complications, and adult health care.
COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF PEDIATRIC TESTICULAR VOLUME: ORCHIDOMETER VERSUS ULTRASOUND

Purpose: Testicular volume measurements obtained with the Prader and Rochester orchidometers were compared to those obtained using scrotal ultrasound. The ability of each orchidometer versus ultrasound in detecting volume differential between 2 testes and the accuracy of orchidometer measurement by a less experienced examiner to that of a urologist were compared.Materials and Methods: A total of 65 males were examined by the attending urologist and urology nurse using the Prader and Rochester orchidometers, and scrotal ultrasound was subsequently performed by an attending radiologist. Statistical analysis of the results was performed to determine the correlation of orchidometer measurements between examiners, as well as with ultrasound, and sensitivity and specificity of orchidometer and ultrasound in detecting defined volume differentials between testes of 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%.Results: There was a strong linear relationship between testicular volume measurements using either orchidometer and ultrasound....
Fatty Acid Distribution in Tissues from Hens Fed Sterculia foetida Oil

Abstract CYCLOPROPENOID compounds have been reported to induce a variety of biological effects when ingested by the laying hen (reviews: Carter and Frampton, 1964; Phelps et al., 1965). One specific biological effect associated with these compounds involves lipid metabolism. Cyclopropene fatty acids, such as sterculic and malvalic, present in Sterculia foetida oil (SFO) interfered with the fatty acid metabolism in the hen resulting in deposition of more saturated and less monoenoic fatty acids in eggs, liver, blood plasma, and ovaries. Only slight changes occurred in fatty acid distribution of heart lipids or of depot fat (Evans et al., 1962, 1963). The present studies were conducted to obtain additional information on the influence of dietary SFO on the fatty acid metabolism in the laying hen. The criterion used was the fatty acid distribution in lipids from various tissues and organs. It was also possible to further clarify the effect of dietary SFO…
Bleomycin-induced flagellate erythema in a patient with Hodgkin’s lymphoma – A case report and review of literature

Bleomycin is a glycopeptide used as a chemotherapeutic agent for lymphomas, germ cell tumors, and pleurodesis of malignant pleural effusions. The pulmonary toxicity of bleomycin is well known while the cutaneous side effects are uncommon and varies from generalized hyperpigmentation, sclerodermoid changes, erythema multiformae, and gangrene to flagellate dermatosis. Here we report a characteristic but rare side effect of flagellate erythema, which developed secondary to bleomycin in a 27-year old woman with Hodgkin’s lymphoma after two cycles of treatment with adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, dacarbazine regimen. The rash subsided after discontinuation of bleomycin and treatment with steroids.
Distributed Estimation of a Parametric Field: Algorithms and Performance Analysis

This paper presents a distributed estimator for a deterministic parametric physical field sensed by a homogeneous sensor network and develops a new transformed expression for the Cramer-Rao lower bound (CRLB) on the variance of distributed estimates. Stochastic models used in this paper assume additive noise in both the observation and transmission channels. Two cases of data transmission are considered. The first case assumes a linear analog modulation of raw observations prior to their transmission to a fusion center. In the second case, each sensor quantizes its observation to M levels, and the quantized data are communicated to a fusion center. In both cases, parallel additive white Gaussian channels are assumed. The paper develops an iterative expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm to estimate unknown parameters of a parametric field, and its linearized version is adopted for numerical analysis. The performance of the developed numerical solution is compared to the performance of a simple iterative approach based on Newton's approximation. Numerical examples are provided for the case of a field modeled as a Gaussian bell. However, the distributed estimator and the derived CRLB are general and can be applied to any parametric field. The dependence of the mean-square error (MSE) on the number of quantization levels, the number of sensors in the network and the SNR of the observation and transmission channels are analyzed. The variance of the estimates is compared to the derived CRLB.
The Nature of Salvation: Theological Consensus in the Episcopal Church, 1801-73

Robert Prichard examines both high-church and evangelical theology in the nineteenth-century Episcopal church, claiming a commonality between the two that has been neglected in the study of Anglican history. Parting company with the interpretation dominant among historians of the Episcopal church for more than sixty years, he focuses on shared theological assumptions rather than on liturgical divisions. By focusing on these shared theological assumptions, he sheds new light on the Episcopal church, helping the reader to see the evangelical and high-church parties as concerned with theological as well as liturgical topics. Prichard's approach avoids overemphasis on division and opens the way for a broader comparison of the Episcopal church's relationship to other Protestant churches.
Development of microfluidic-based assays to estimate the binding between osteocalcin (BGLAP) and fluorescent antibodies.

Abstract Osteocalcin (bone gamma-carboxyglutamate protein; BGLAP) is a highly conserved molecule associated with mineralization of bone matrix. It regulates the dynamics of new bone formation and bone resorption. The synthesis of osteocalcin by osteoblasts is regulated by the active form of vitamin D. In this paper, we report the use of two fluorescent-based assays, one bead-based and a second involving an amino-silane surface pre-treatment, to obtain binding constants of 3.53×10 6 M −1 and 3.19×10 6 M −1 , respectively, for the binding of BGLAP to fluorescently labeled monoclonal-anti BGLAP-clone 2D5. These simple microfluidic techniques demonstrate the feasibility of developing microsphere-based and surface electrostatically-attached binding assays to study peptide–antibody interactions. Both techniques utilize sub-microliter volumes of material an important consideration when studying bone turnover markers (BTMs) like BGLAP.
The characteristics of human synovial tissue as seen with the electron microscope.

Synovial tissue specimens from the joints of nine persons, determined to be normal by light microscopic studies, were examined with the electron microscope. The arrangement of microstructures within the synovial cell indicates a moderate amount of metabolic activity, and appears to be clonsistent with the production of mucopcdysaccharides. A process of active transport was observed between the syno'vial cell and the joint space. Incorporation of collagen into the general architecture is also described, and the technical problems are considered. Specimens de tissu synovial ab le articulationes de novem personas esseva examinate per microscopia electronic post determination de lor normalitate per microscopia optic. Ee disposition del microstructura intra le cellula synovial reflecte un grado moderate de activitate metabolic e pare esser apte al production de mucopolysaccharidos. Un processo de transport active esseva observate inter le cellula synovial e le spatio articular. Le incorporation de collageno in le architectura general es etiam deseribite. Problemas technic es discutite.
Mothers' and fathers' scaffolding of their 2‐year‐olds during problem‐solving and literacy interactions

Building upon Wood & Middleton's (1975) concept of parental scaffolding, the influence of parent-child interactions on children's competence within several tasks was investigated. Thirty-two 2-year-old children visited our lab twice, once with their mothers and once with their fathers. During each session dyads participated in problem-solving and literacy tasks, followed by independent child performance tasks. Although subtle differences were found between mothers' and fathers' contingent behaviours displayed during the interactions, at a global level, parents were equally effective in their ability to scaffold their children's emerging skills. Specifically, parental scaffolding behaviours were associated with children's success measured both during the interaction and independently (i.e. following the interactions). These results have implications for the interpretation of research comparing mothers and fathers, and lend support to the claim that scaffolding can be an effective instructional strategy.
Time-dependent cell membrane damage under mechanical tension: Experiments and modeling

This paper reports a study of cancer cell membrane damage during filtration caused by cell membrane tension. The membrane tension was induced when cells were captured on a microfabricated parylene-C filter during the constant-pressure-driven filtration. This work includes both experiments and modeling to explore the underlying biomechanics of the cell membrane damage. The developed model not only agrees with our time-dependent cell damage data, but also fits well with previous results on red blood cells reported by other groups.
Kinetic pathways of DNA melting with long- and short-range interactions

We investigate kinetic pathways of the DNA melting transition using modified versions of the Poland–Scheraga (PS) and Peyrard–Dauxois–Bishop (PDB) models. The models have been generalized to include variable-range energetic interactions. Using Monte Carlo and Brownian dynamic simulations on the PS and PDB models, respectively, we find that while both models exhibit metastability for a variety of ranges, only the modified PS model with short-range interactions gives compact nucleating droplets. In contrast, the nearest-neighbor PDB model exhibits a critical configuration where most bases are unbound. For both the PS and PDB models, we find that increasing the range of interaction allows the system to be brought close to a pseudospinodal where the susceptibility diverges. We calculate the exponent γ characterizing this divergence using simulations and a self-consistent mean field theory. Near the pseudospinodal, the nucleating droplet in both models is diffuse and grows from the center in contrast to droplets predicted by classical nucleation theory. Finally, we show that including a heterogeneous sequence of bases does not significantly alter these qualitative results and discuss the implications for biological DNA.
Dynamics computation of closed-link robot mechanisms with nonredundant and redundant actuators

The authors discuss a general and systematic computational scheme of the inverse dynamics of closed-link mechanisms. It is derived by using d'Alembert's principle and obtained without computing the Lagrange Multipliers. To account for the constraints, only the Jacobian matrix of the passive joint angles in terms of actuated ones is required. Given a nonredundant actuator system, this allows a unique representation of the constraints even for complicated multiloop closed-link mechanisms. The inverse dynamics of closed-link mechanisms that contain redundant actuators and their redundancy optimization are also discussed. For a redundant actuation system that contains N/sub r/ redundant actuators, the passive joint angles are represented by N/sub r/+1 independent ways as functions of actuated joints. Using their Jacobian matrices, the actuation redundancy of a closed-link mechanism is parameterized by an N/sub r/-dimensional arbitrary vector in a linear equation. Numerical examples are given to show the computational efficiency of inverse dynamics computation and the potential of closed-link manipulators with actuation redundancy. >
Helicobacter pylori and gastric cancer

This review focuses on the similarities between the epidemiology of gastric cancer and the epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori. Their demographic patterns and the results of studies regarding familial and environmental risk factors are described. The association of gastric cancer and H. pylori infection with both gastric ulcer and chronic atrophic gastritis is also characterized and the possibility that a H. pylori infection could lead to gastric cancer is discussed.
Topographical analysis of the onset VEP in the detection of paracentral visual field defects.

Transient visual evoked potentials (VEP) were recorded simultaneously from 16 electrodes evenly placed over posterior scalp locations covering the occipital, posterior parietal and temporal areas. Interhemispheric amplitude difference of the N70 deflection was established across 6 homologous lateral electrode pairs in 15 normal controls and 32 patients with chiasmatic or retrochiasmatic cerebral lesions. Twenty-three of these had known homonymous or bitemporal field defects while 9 had normal fields on routine perimetry. Significant interhemispheric asymmetry of any single electrode pair occurred in 55% of the 32 patients with known pathology, while the cumulative yield of all electrode pairs was over 80 percent. The diagnostic yield of individual electrode pairs was significantly different: the electrode pair placed over the temporo-parietal junction detected the highest number of abnormalities. The cumulative abnormality taken over all lateral electrode pairs could be described with a curve well fitted ...
Familial vocal cord dysfunction associated with digital anomalies

Familial vocal cord dysfunction is a rare condition that has been reported in only a few instances. This is a report of identical male twins, both of whom had congenital bilateral abductor vocal cord paresis associated with finger deformities. The vocal cord paresis progressed to paralysis that required tracheotomy, then returned to a slowly resolving paresis during which the vocal cords had incoordinated motion generally known as synkinesis. Another male sibling and the mother had a history of stridor during infancy and finger deformities. Several other relatives had digital abnormalities, and an infant first cousin with finger abnormalities required a tracheotomy for vocal cord paralysis.
Light Scattering and Morphology of Cataract Formation in Transgenic Mice Containing the HIV-1 Protease Linked to the Lens αA-Crystallin Promoter

Abstract Two constructs of transgenic mice, TG 61 and TG 72 , containing the HIV-1 protease linked to the lens αA-crystallin promoter develop cataract. The TG 61 construct develop cataract in utero, while the TG 72 construct exhibit frank opacities on the 24th day (homozygotes) and 26th day (hemizygotes) post natum. Polarized light scattering measurements were performed on cortical and nuclear sections of TG 72 lenses from day 19 to day 26 as a function of scattering angle. The parallel components of the scattered light intensity increase gradually during opacification, the perpendicular components show very low values from day 19 to day 22 after which they increase exponentially. Analysis of the scattered light intensities yielded parameters describing the size of the protein aggregates, the size of the domains exhibiting optical anisotropy/birefringence, the difference in refractive index between (a) the protein aggregates and their surroundings and (b) the birefringent units and their surroundings. The last parameter accounts for the major portion of the increase in lens turbidity. The TG 72 construct shows normal lens development on day 16. By day 21 the posterior cortex shows some disintegration, while the lens is still clear. By day 26 the lens nucleus migrates toward the posterior pole and there is a major alteration in the cortical fibers. Scanning electron microscopic studies reveal normal fiber cell organizations in control animals. In the TG 72 construct the fiber cells are well organized at 16 days after birth but already develop some slight separation in the posterior cortical part of the lens. By post-natal day 21, the nucleus and the anterior cortex still exhibit well aligned fiber cell organization, but the posterior cortex shows disalignment. By day 26 in the TG 72 construct, all areas of the lens show complete disintegration of the fiber cells and amorphous masses are present throughout. The light scattering parameters describing changes on the nanometer scale can be correlated with the changes in lens morphology during cataractogenesis that occur on the micrometer scale. In comparison, the light and scanning electron microscopic examinations of the postnatal TG 61 construct show that the lens is severely disrupted and contains completely disintegrated fiber cell remnants at an early age.
Structure and electronic properties of InN and In-rich group III-nitride alloys

The experimental study of InN and In-rich InGaN by a number of structural, optical and electrical methods is reviewed. Recent advances in thin film growth have produced single crystal epitaxial layers of InN which are similar in structural quality to GaN films made under similar conditions and which can have electron concentrations below 1 × 1018 cm−3 and mobilities exceeding 2000 cm2 (Vs)−1. Optical absorption, photoluminescence, photo-modulated reflectance and soft x-ray spectroscopy measurements were used to establish that the room temperature band gap of InN is 0.67 ± 0.05 eV. Experimental measurements of the electron effective mass in InN are presented and interpreted in terms of a non-parabolic conduction band caused by the k · p interaction across the narrow gap. Energetic particle irradiation is shown to be an effective method to control the electron concentration, n, in undoped InN. Optical studies of irradiated InN reveal a large Burstein–Moss shift of the absorption edge with increasing n. Fundamental studies of the energy levels of defects in InN and of electron transport are also reviewed. Finally, the current experimental evidence for p-type activity in Mg-doped InN is evaluated.
An Analysis of Public Policies in Cities

R ESEARCH ON PUBLIC POLICIES in the United States has generally taken two directions. The first, and older tradition, may be called "normative" studies of public policy. These studies attempt to analyze, usually in a critical fashion, a particular public policy (agriculture, labor, education, unemployment, etc.) and most generally also suggest either reforms in the existing policy or a new type of policy altogether. For example, there are numerous studies of our foreign aid program which describe, in detail, how it has failed in one way or another to live up to certain standards. These reports are also accompanied with general or specific recommendations on how the program can be "improved." The criteria of evaluation which these critiques of on-going programs employ are usually certain stated goals which the authors feel are, or ought to be, highly valued. Often authors will suggest that if certain steps are taken programs can be developed which will lead to "solutions" of the problems under examination. The major point of argumentation, however, is generally the extent to which on-going policies deviate from, important values or goals. Studies of this kind have now fallen somewhat into disrepute as being "value-laden" and lacking in scientific interest. Much of the dissatisfaction revolves around the point that such studies are argumentative and sometimes rhetorical, using data to score policy points rather than scientific ones. Almost anyone can think of values which current policies in almost any field are either slow in satisfying, or not satisfying at all, and hence criticize public policies on that basis. A newer effort in the direction of policy analysis has been the attempt to think futuristically about either the consequences of ongoing policies or what kinds of policies would be appropriate given a world x number of years hence. These studies have taken impetus from governmental interest in social science efforts to talk about the future in such fields as demography, disarmament, nuclear strategy,
Line versus continuum solar neutrinos.

The rate of neutrino line emission is calculated for nuclei that are usually assumed to produce only continuum neutrino emission. A convenient formula is derived that gives for solar interior conditions the ratio of the rates of neutrino line emission to continuum neutrino emission. The only significant line emission from the solar interior is expected from the {ital pep} and {sup 7}Be-electron capture reactions.
Geometry processing - a personal perspective

Summary form only given. With the advent of large 3D datasets, generated mostly by 3D scanning devices, geometric mesh processing has become an important field within computer graphics and geometric modeling. In this article, the author describes on what has been accomplished in this field over the past decade, where the field stands today and where the author thinks it is going. The author's perspective is based on his academic and industrial experience in geometry processing over the last decade.
Economic principles motivating social attention in humans

We know little about the processes by which we evaluate the opportunity to look at another person. We propose that behavioural economics provides a powerful approach to understanding this basic aspect of social attention. We hypothesized that the decision process culminating in attention to another person follows the same economic principles that govern choices about rewards such as food, drinks and money. Specifically, such rewards are discounted as a function of time, are tradable for other rewards, and reinforce work. Behavioural and neurobiological evidence suggests that looking at other people can also be described as rewarding, but to what extent these economic principles apply to social orienting remains unknown. Here, we show that the opportunity to view pictures of the opposite sex is discounted by delay to viewing, substitutes for money and reinforces work. The reward value of photos of the opposite sex varied with physical attractiveness and was greater in men, suggesting differential utility of acquiring visual information about the opposite sex in men and women. Together, these results demonstrate that choosing whom to look at follows a general set of economic principles, implicating shared neural mechanisms in both social and non-social decision making.
Contrast-induced nephropathy: pathophysiology and preventive strategies

Contrast-induced nephropathy is the third most common cause of hospital- acquired renal failure, after decreased renal perfusion and nephrotoxic medications. Identification of patients at risk and implementation of preventive strategies can decrease the incidence of this nephropathy. Prevention strategies focus on counter- acting vasoconstriction, enhancing blood flow through the nephron, and providing protection against injury by oxygen free radicals. Knowledge of the adverse effects associated with infusion of contrast media, identification of patients at risk for contrast-induced nephropathy, and application of evidence-based prevention strategies allow nurses to assist in the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy.
Measurements of substrate-mounted millimeter-wave integrated-circuit antennas at 230 GHz

Measurements of three different millimeter-wave integrated-circuit antennas are reported. These antennas were developed in an effort to find a moderate-gain millimeter-wave IC antenna composed of strictly planar elements. The first and most elementary antenna is a resonant strip dipole (0.390 mm long) on a finite thickness substrate. The next antenna combines the dipole with a metal disc placed on the opposite side of the substrate. The final antenna combines the dipole with a Fresnel zone plate/reflector combination on the opposite side of the substrate. The unique feature of these antennas is that all of the components are made using simple IC fabrication techniques: simple metal depositions on dielectric layers. Power patterns are presented. >
Identification of a tap-dependent leader peptide recognized by alloreactive T cells specific for a class Ib antigen

Recognition of the class Ib antigen Qa-1 by a portion of alloreactive cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) clones requires that the target cell express a second gene, termed Qa-1 determinant modifier (Qdm). We show that Qdm is identical to most D allele genes, excepting Dk, and that a nonamer peptide derived from D alloantigens restores CTL recognition on cells that lack the Qdm-encoded determinant. The equivalent Dk peptide has an Ala-->Val interchange at P3 and requires approximately 4 logs more peptide than the AlaP3 peptide for target cell lysis. Two of five CTL clones, not dependent on Qdm for target cell recognition, also recognize the Qdm peptide as well as the ValP3 variant. Although the Qdm peptide spans residues 3-11 from the leader, it requires the Tap transporters for its expression. Thus, the response against this class Ib molecule provides a tool for dissecting alloreactivity as well as pathways for antigen presentation.
A full transparent fiber-optic ring architecture for WDM networks

A fully transparent fiber-optic ring architecture for wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) networks is proposed. The physical topology of the proposed network is based on a single or multifiber ring. The nodes at the periphery of the network are connected onto the ring via a polarization-independent acoustically tunable optical filter (PIATOF). This device is used for injecting the transmission from each node at a predefined wavelength onto the ring and at the same time for accessing the transmission of the other nodes. Expressions are derived for the throughput of different network configurations. >
Regulation of Ribosome Biogenesis by the Rapamycin-sensitive TOR-signaling Pathway in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The TOR (target of rapamycin) signal transduction pathway is an important mechanism by which cell growth is controlled in all eucaryotic cells. Specifically, TOR signaling adjusts the protein biosy...
Bi-static ISAR range-doppler imaging and resolution analysis

Bi-static ISAR has many advantages compared to mono-static ISAR. In this paper, we describe the bi-static ISAR signal model, range resolution and Doppler resolution; discuss coherent processing of reflected signals at the receiver site to produce ISAR range-Doppler images of moving targets; and analyze bi-static Doppler and micro-Doppler features of target motions. We use simulated bi-static radar data to generate ISAR images of moving targets and extract bi-static micro-Doppler features.
Functional genomics approaches to understanding brain disorders

The completed draft of the human genome sequence has facilitated a revolution in neuroscience research. This sequence information and the development of new technologies used to analyze gene expression on a genomic scale provides a new and powerful means to investigate brain disorders of unknown etiology and to isolate novel drug targets for these disorders. The term functional genomics broadly describes a set of technologies and strategies directed at the problem of determining the function of genes, and understanding how the genome works together to generate whole patterns of biological function. The most powerful of these functional genomics approaches, expression profiling or DNA microarrays, can be used to analyze the expression of thousands of genes simultaneously. The results to date from the application of DNA microarray methods to postmortem diseased human brain tissue, animal models and cell culture models of brain disorders provide an exciting glimpse into the future of this field.
Identification of optimal locations for decentralized controllers using residues

The author's present a methodology for determining, in a large-scale system, the number of decentralized controllers necessary to control a set of critical eigenvalues, and to identify their optimal locations. The method is based on residues. A multimachine power system example is given to illustrate the proposed technique. >
Steady-state analysis of a slotted and controlled Aloha system with blocking

We assume the reader is somewhat familiar with the ongoing development of Aloha techniques as described briefly in Abramson's FJCC 7 0 paper and Roberts's SJCC72 paper. In short, an Aloha system permits the (hopefully) occasional interference of data packet transmissions in a multi-access channel and provides for the retransmission of lost packets after some randomly distributed interval. The purposes behind permitting interference and providing recovery are (1) reduced central communication control to improve reliability and (2) improved use of communication facilites under bursty loads as found in interactive computer communication. Aloha techniques are finding applicability in various communication contexts (e.g., satellites), but here the emphasis is on large populations of (potentially mobile) interactive terminals.Slotted. In a slotted Aloha system, all terminals begin their packet (re)transmissions at the ' tick of some global clock. Slotting has been advocated by Roberts as a simple way to improve the limiting thruput of an Aloha channel by a factor of 2. Global ticking can be implemented in a (hopefully positive) number of ways and its feasibility is assumed in this paper. We rely on slotting to simplify our analysis, but suggest that the stability and control phenomena studied are characteristic of Aloha systems in general.Controlled. The notion of an optimal retransmission delay was introduced by Roberts. We extend the notion to include dynamic control of retransmission delay. A controlled Aloha system has the property that its terminals adjust their retransmission behavior as a function of perceived channel utilization. It will be shown that such adjustments are implementable in at least one way and that they improve system performance under heavy loads.Blocking and Thinking. When a user's terminal has a ready packet, it is assumed that no new packets can be generated. The user is said to be blocked. When a user is not blocked, he is said to be thinking. This assumption about user behavior departs from Abramson 's analysis and is thought to produce more realistic solutions. Recall that Abramson (in FJCC70) modelled users as unperturbable, realtime, Poisson sources of new packets. By adding blocking to an Aloha model, transmission delays feed back (as in real life) on the generation of transmission requests. User sessions are said to be dilated by transmissions delays.It is intended that think time account for (1) delays in central system response, (2) return transmission delays, (3) real user thinking time, and (4) type-in time. Block time accounts only for delays due to transmissions through the multi-access channel.The following analysis rests on some (very) simplifying assumptions about an Aloha system in equilibrium, in steady state. While having a large population of users tends to support our steady-state arguments, the dynamics do indeed require more detailed investigation.
Value of Glypican 3 Immunostaining in the Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma on Needle Biopsy

The diagnostic value of glypican 3 (GPC3) immunostaining on needle biopsy specimens has not been well assessed. In this study, 120 liver needle biopsy specimens, including 46 from cirrhotic livers and 74 hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), were immunohistochemically examined for expression of GPC3. The results showed strong cytoplasmic and membranous staining in 36 HCCs (49%), among which 20 cases (56%) showed diffuse immunoreactivity. None of the 46 cirrhotic livers exhibited positive GPC3 immunostaining. The nonneoplastic liver tissues (cirrhotic or noncirrhotic) that were present in the majority of the HCC cases were also completely negative for GPC3 expression. These data demonstrate that GPC3 is a reliable immunohistochemical marker for the diagnosis of HCC on needle biopsy specimens when positive. However, the detection rate in our series seems lower than that reported in studies using resection specimens as the study materials. Our findings emphasize that GPC3 immunoreactivity can be focal and that negative staining should not be viewed as evidence to exclude the diagnosis of HCC in challenging needle biopsy specimens.
Hooker’s Consequentialism and the Depth of Moral Experience

RESUME: Avec Ideal Code, Real World, Brad Hooker cherche a offrir une version du consequentialisme de la regle qui serait a l'abri des critiques habituelles. Nous tentons de la mettre en question en soutenant que le principe fondateur de son approche, qui non seulement maximise le consequentialisme, mais est aussi pluraliste envers le bien-etre et les autres necessites, repose sur des problemes philosophiques. Il semble qu'aucune adaptation ne puisse proteger cette approche des critiques habituelles. Je suggere que toute approche qui maximise le consequentialisme de la regle envers le bien-etre, interprete dans un sens riche et pluraliste, sera probablement susceptible de tomber sous les critiques habituelles. Nous mettons aussi en question l'approche differentielle qu'adopte Hooker dans ses travaux ulterieurs apres avoir delaisse le consequentialisme de la regle.