cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Measuring access to emergency obstetric care in rural Zambia.

Global health experts identify emergency obstetric care (EmOC) as the most important intervention to improve maternal survival in low- and middle-income countries. In Zambia, 1 in 27 women will die of maternal causes, yet the level of availability of EmOC is not known at the provincial level. Our goal was to develop a tool to measure the availability of EmOC in rural Zambia in order to estimate pregnant women’s access to this life-saving intervention. We created an instrument for determining the availability of EmOC based on the supplies and medicines in stock at health facilities as well as the skill level of health workers. We then surveyed a random sample of 35 health centres in the Central Province of Zambia using our novel instrument. We graded health centres based on their ability to provide the six basic functions of EmOC: administering parenteral antibiotics, administering parenteral oxytocics, administering parenteral anticonvulsants, performing manual removal of the placenta, removing retained products of conception and performing assisted vaginal delivery. Of the 29 health centres providing delivery care, 65% (19) were graded as level 1 or 2, 28% (8) as level 3 or 4 and 7% (2) as level 5. No health centre received a grade of level 6. The availability of EmOC in the Central Province of Zambia is extremely limited; the majority of health centres provide only one or two basic functions of EmOC, and no health centres perform all six functions. Our grading system allows for inter- and intra-country comparisons by providing a systematic process for monitoring access to EmOC in rural, low-income countries similar to Zambia.
Update in General Internal Medicine

The aim of this update is to briefly summarize the research articles published in 2008 that we think have the most important implications for General Internal Medicine practice. The wide breadth of General Internal Medicine practice always makes selecting articles a challenging and somewhat subjective process. In selecting articles, we relied heavily on the internal process we routinely use to do this in the Division of General Internal Medicine at Northwestern University. Each month, faculty members review an array of journals and journal aggregators (e.g., ACP Journal Club and Journal Watch General Medicine) to identify potential articles for discussion. A subgroup of the faculty then selects articles that deserve in-depth review and discussion by the entire faculty at our monthly Journal Club. If an article is judged to be particularly important and practice-changing, we then try to use this as a springboard for quality improvement efforts. For this review, we concentrate on eight articles with findings that we think should guide our practice in the future.
Lymphoid development: it's not 'all Greek to us' any more.

Lymphocyte lineage specification involves multiple regulatory factors that act in reciprocal fashion to ensure lineage committment and identity. New insights on how these factors interact were presented at the second Aegean Workshop on Gene Regulation in Lymphocyte Development.
Binding interaction studies of the immobilized Salmonella typhimurium with extracellular matrix and muscle proteins, and polysaccharides.

Abstract Our research attempts to understand the real-time interactions of immobilized Salmonella typhimurium with extracellular membrane proteins (collagen I, fibronectin and laminin) and muscle proteins (actin and myosin). Salmonella cells were immobilized on the sensor chip of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor. Typical results showed that collagen I and myosin had higher binding responses to the S. typhimurium surface but laminin, actin and fibronectin had lower binding responses. The binding kinetics of collagen I and Salmonella cell surface showed an apparent dissociation and association rate constants of 3.90E−4 s −1 and 1.07E+4 mol −1 s −1 . Using the model system developed in our laboratory, the interactions of carrageenans and other polysaccharides with collagen and the Salmonella sensor surface were evaluated. The κ-carrageenans blocked 92–100% binding of collagen to the Salmonella surface, while sodium alginate and low methoxy pectin blocked 50% and 18% binding, respectively. These biosensor studies allowed the rapid evaluation of compounds that may prevent bacterial attachment to poultry skin and carcasses, thus reducing pathogen contamination of poultry foods.
FEC Systems for Aeronautical Telemetry

We consider the design of capacity-approaching forward error correction (FEC) systems for use in the aeronautical telemetry environment. The modulation format is the bandwidth-efficient telemetry-group version of shaped-offset quadrature phase-shift keying (SOQPSK-TG). The FEC codes are a low-density parity-check (LDPC) code and a serially concatenated convolutional code (SCCC). The block structure of the two types of FEC is designed such that the two code words are formatted as similarly as possible. This unified format allows the flexibility of the FEC-encoded signal to be received by legacy test-range assets that are not equipped with FEC?although no coding gain is realized in such a case. We also show how a wide range of near-optimal SOQPSK demodulators can be paired with the FEC decoders; this includes the most widely deployed SOQPSK demodulator (the so-called symbol-by-symbol (SxS) demodulator), which so far has not been considered for use in FEC applications. In all of our demodulator/decoder designs, we apply techniques that are simple and robust and that fully decouple the demodulator's tasks (e.g., synchronization, filtering) from the decoder's tasks (e.g., path metrics, soft outputs). For both LDPC and SCCC, we show that very attractive system designs can perform within 0.5 dB of optimum, while requiring only a fraction of the complexity of the optimum system.
Gamma-Radiation from Tantalum, Iridium, and Gold

By using a photographic method in connection with semi-circular focusing magnetic spectrometers, the beta-spectra due to internal conversion have been evaluated for gold 198, iridium 194, and tantalum 182. For gold a simple spectrum of 3 lines with differences the same as between the $K\ensuremath{-}L\ensuremath{-}M$ levels of mercury indicate a single gamma-ray of energy 0.408 Mev following beta-emission.In iridium, a complicated spectrum of more than 26 lines is observed which may be identified from the $K\ensuremath{-}L\ensuremath{-}M$ differences in platinum as due to 12 gamma-rays. These gamma-energies appear to fit well with a level scheme of six terms.Tantalum yields a spectrum of about 34 lines from which about 16 gamma-rays may be derived by applying the $K\ensuremath{-}L\ensuremath{-}M$ differences for tungsten. These gamma-energies fit satisfactorily on a level scheme of 9 terms.
Simulation of the 14-month chandler wobble in a global climate model

The agent that generates and maintains the 14-month Chandler wobble of the solid earth about its rotation axis has remained unresolved for a century with first the atmosphere, later earthquakes, and more recently the earth's fluid core proposed as candidates. Here we report that surface air pressure calculated in a coupled ocean-atmosphere general circulation model (GCM) displays a 14.7 month signal, whose amplitude is similar to that found by Maksimov (1960) in station data; we identify it as the atmospheric Chandler wobble. This result indicates that changes in atmospheric mass distribution excite and maintain the wobble of the solid earth, and that neither earthquakes nor the fluid core are significant contributors. Another result is that in the GCM the amplitude of the wobble at high latitudes is a substantial fraction of the annual cycle, and thus is an important factor in climate formation as Maksimov (1960) suggested.
Sales skills in the hospitality industry

Abstract Two surveys were conducted with the intention of increasing insight into the nature of sales in today's hospitality industry. One hundred U.S. hotel sales and marketing managers were surveyed about attitudes within the hotel sales community regarding training, salesmanship, qualities of effective salespeople, and related issues. Also, the training directors of fifteen hotel companies were interviewed concerning their training programs for entry-level salespeople. Presentation of the results of these surveys is preceded by commentary from the literature and from selected hotel sales executives regarding the unique nature of sales in the hospitality industry.
APPEARANCES DO COUNT: THE EFFECTS OF OUTCOMES AND EXPLANATIONS ON DISPUTANT FAIRNESS JUDGMENTS AND SUPERVISORY EVALUATIONS

In a simulated three‐issue organizational dispute, subjects were interrupted by a third party (their supervisor) who recommended—and eventually imposed—one of five different outcomes. Each outcome provided subjects the same overall payoff, though the arrangement of payoffs across each of the three issues varied. The design allowed us to evaluate four different perspectives regarding negotiators' perceptions of their outcomes. In addition, third parties provided justifications, apologies, or excuses for their actions. Fairness judgments and supervisory evaluations were most favorable when negotiators received an outcome reflecting favorable settlements on the majority of the issues, or the midpoint compromise; the least favorable reactions occurred when subjects received favorable outcomes on only their most important issue. Third parties who offered a justification for their actions were seen as fairer than those offering apologies or excuses. The findings reiterate the importance of considering both the symbolic characteristics of outcomes and the interactional justice inherent in different types of explanations.
.umma - Cyber solace in the digital age: Faith-based top level domain extension for a global muslim union

With the increasing pervasiveness and proliferation of the Internet, we notice an immediate global impact within the Muslim world. A growing academic interest also has acknowledged and highlighted this cyber trend. Researchers highly welcome and encourage lay Muslims to express their opinions, and so knot them together within the bond of a global family. This world-wide community is often known as “imagine community,” “digital umma” or “virtual umma”. Perceiving this new community is fascinating, but fraught with the challenges to define the “virtual umma” because the Internet is too huge and too disorganized. To provide substance to the abstract concept of virtual umma, and to make the opaque movement less diffuse, this paper proposes a faith based Top Level Domain (TLD) extension to set a boundary to the idea. Still, the new community on the cyber space will continue to benefit from being “deterritorialized,”1 and will allow the expansion of umma on a global scale. A faith-based TLD will introduce and ensure an inherent growth of an ontology for any specific domain (problem space) i.e. `Islam' or `Muslim.' These domain ontologies contain a conceptual schema which ensures the domain-specific quality of the schemas to develop a robust collective knowledge system [9].
Intracellular phenylalanine and tyrosine concentration in homozygotes and heterozygotes for phenylketonuria (PKU) and hyperphenylalaninemia compared with normals.

Assuming adequate technique, determinations of intracellular phenylalanine and tyrosine concentrations in lymphocytes are very reproducible. The concentrations found in this study (1981) in five homozygotes and five obligate heterozygotes for PKU and seven normals, are identical with the corresponding concentrations found in 1979 in 13 homo-and 19 obligate heterozygotes for PKU and 26 normals.
INCORPORATION OF ESTERS INTO PROTEINS : IMPROVED SYNTHESIS OF HYDROXYACYL TRNAS

We describe two synthetic advances in the preparation of acylated suppressor transfer RNAs which significantly enhance the ease with which α-hydroxy acids can be incorporated into protein structures using nonsense suppression methods. We demonstrate that, in most cases, protection of the α-hydroxy group in the acylation reaction is not necessary. In cases where protection of the α-hydroxy group is desired, we further demonstrate the efficacy of the TBDMS protecting group over the more standard o-nitrobenzyl-based protecting groups. These advances greatly simplify the protocol for incorporation of α-hydroxy acids into proteins, overcome limitations associated with photoreactive sidechains, and suggest a general approach to improved suppression yields.
Evaluation of existing and proposed computer architectures for future ground-based systems

Parallel processing architectures and techniques used in current supercomputers are described and projections are made of future advances. Presently, the von Neumann sequential processing pattern has been accelerated by having separate I/O processors, interleaved memories, wide memories, independent functional units and pipelining. Recent supercomputers have featured single-input, multiple data stream architectures, which have different processors for performing various operations (vector or pipeline processors). Multiple input, multiple data stream machines have also been developed. Data flow techniques, wherein program instructions are activated only when data are available, are expected to play a large role in future supercomputers, along with increased parallel processor arrays. The enhanced operational speeds are essential for adequately treating data from future spacecraft remote sensing instruments such as the Thematic Mapper.
Anterior cruciate ligament injury and hamstrings coactivation

Two experiments were conducted to determine whether injury to the anterior cruciate ligament influences coactivation patterns of the hamstrings during voluntary isometric knee extension. Normal patterns of hamstrings coactivation were established in a control group during submaximum and maximum effort isometric knee extension torque at two knee flexion angles. Subjects who had undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstructive surgery and a group of conservatively managed patients were studied using a modified protocol. It was predicted that (a) hamstrings coactivation patterns would vary significantly as a function of knee flexion angle, and (b) control and anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed subjects would differ significantly from the anterior cruciate ligament deficient subjects. Contrary to expectations, (a) hamstrings coactivation patterns were not significantly related to knee joint angle for any of the three groups, and (b) differences between hamstrings coactivation patterns of the anterior cruciate ligament deficient and anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed groups were not significant. The hamstrings coactivation pattern of the combined anterior cruciate ligament group data was significantly different from control patterns and characterized by significantly higher hamstrings coactivation. The coactivation may increase knee joint stability/stiffness and may be a beneficial adaptation to the injury-related knee joint instability. The long-term effect of this adaptation on knee joint function is unknown.
Using surface tension data to predict differences in surface and bulk concentrations of nonelectrolytes in water

Recently, we developed a quantitative interpretation of surface tension increments (STI) of salts, acids, and bases in terms of the solute (or salt ion) partitioning model (SPM). Here, we obtain an analogous SPM-based interpretation of surface tension increments of nonelectrolytes, which yields local-bulk partition coefficients (Kp) quantifying the accumulation or exclusion of these solutes in the local region near the air−water surface, and the amount of water per unit area of that region (b1σ). Sucrose exhibits the largest positive STI (approximately 1.4 ergs cm−2 Osm−1). Assuming that Kp = 0 for sucrose (i.e., that it is completely excluded from the surface of water), these STI provide a minimum estimate of b1σ of 0.20 H2O/A2, or a minimum thickness of the surface region of approximately two layers of water at bulk density. This is the same value as obtained previously from analysis of surface tension and hydrocarbon solubility increments of Na2SO4 and also for the interaction of glycine betaine with a...
In-RDBMS inverted indexes revisited

Every major open-source and commercial RDBMS offers some form of support for full-text search using inverted indexes. When providing this support, some developers have implemented specialized indexes that adapt techniques from the Information Retrieval (IR) community to work in a database setting, while others have opted to rely on the standard relational query engine to process inverted index lookups. This choice is an important one, since the storage formats and algorithms used can vary greatly between a specialized index and a relational index, but these alternatives have not been thoroughly compared in the same system. Our work explores the differences in implementation and performance of three representative environments for an in-RDBMS inverted index: an in-RDBMS IR engine, a row-oriented relational query engine, and a column-oriented relational query engine. We found that a specialized IR engine integrated into the RDBMS can provide more than an order of magnitude speedup over both the row- and column-oriented relational query engines for conjunctive and phrase queries. For warm queries, this advantage is largely algorithmic, and we show that by using ZigZag merge join to accelerate conjunctive and phrase query processing, relational inverted indexes can provide performance comparable to a specialized in-RDBMS IR engine with no change to the underlying storage format. Compression and index format, in contrast, have more impact on cold queries, where the IR and column-oriented engines are able to outperform the row-oriented engine, even with ZigZag merge join.
Deciphering the Protein Folding Code through Zipping Steps

Earlier experiments suggest that the evolutionary information (conservation of amino acids and coevolution between amino acids) encoded in protein sequences is necessary and sufficient to specify the fold of a protein family. However, there is no computational work to quantify the effect of such evolutionary information on the folding process. Here we simulate a repertoire of native and artificial WW domain sequences using a physics-based protein structure search method called ZAM (Zipping and Assembly method), which samples conformational space effectively towards native-like conformations through zipping and assembly search mechanism. We explore the sequence-structure relationship for WW domains and find that the coevolution information has a remarkable influence on local contacts of N-terminal β-turn of WW domains. This turn would not form correctly in the absence of such information. Moreover, through maximum likelihood approach, we identify five local contacts that play a critical role in folding. using the contact probability of those five local contacts at the early stage of folding, we built a classification model. This enables us to predict the foldability of a WW sequence with 81% accuracy. Based on this classification model, we re-design the unfoldable WW domain sequences and make them foldable by introducing a few mutations that lead to stabilization of these critical contacts.
Only cytidines 5′ of the apolipoprotein B mRNA mooring sequence are edited

Abstract A 22 nucleotide ‘cassette’ containing three distinct sequence elements is required for efficient apolipoprotein B (apoB) RNA editing. One of the elements, the mooring sequence, has been proposed as the apoB RNA-recognition element in binding 66 and 44 kDa proteins during editosome assembly. We show here that editing can only take place on cytidines 5′ of the mooring sequence; thereby providing further proof for the proposed orientation-specific assembly of editing factors at the editing site. We also provide direct evidence for the existence of a cryptic mooring sequence immediately downstream of the wild-type editing site (between nucleotides 6688–6710). When a cytidine is introduced 5′ of this site (at nucleotide 6687), editing occurs at wild-type (nucleotide 6666) and cryptic sites. The cytidine to be edited is not involved in 66 and 44 kDa protein binding, and therefore, the data suggest that the cryptic mooring sequence binds these factors, and may facilitate factor recruitment to the wild-type editing site. These data may also explain why wild-type levels of editing on chimeric, RNA editing substrates can only be achieved when the 22 nucleotide editing cassette is flanked 3′ by apoB RNA sequence.
A Specification of Treatment Difference in the Design of Clinical Trials with Active Controls

Active control studies are often performed due to ethical reasons in life-threatening situations (1). Many difficulties and problems arise when the study objective of an active control study is to show that a new drug is effective by showing its similarity to a standard therapy (eg, Temple [2]; Temple, Pledger, and Hall [3]; Herson [4]; Pledger and Hall [5]; etc.). One of the difficulties in the design of such a study is the determination of a sufficient sample size. In practice, investigators often encounter the difficulty in specifying the treatment difference δ0 one wishes to detect for sample size calculation.A specification of δ0 which depends on the magnitude of the therapeutic effect of the standard therapy as compared to placebo is proposed in this paper. The motivation for this proposal and the statistical implication of using such δ0 in the conventional null hypothesis testing are discussed. It is argued that an active control equivalence study with adequate sample size may provide statistical e...
Endomorphic modeling concepts for high-autonomy architectures

Autonomy is an extended paradigm that subsumes both control and artificial intelligence (AI) paradigms, each of which is limited by its own abstractions. Control theory has run up against the limitations of its rigorous, but sparcely applicable, mathematical framework. AI research has lived under the illusion that intelligence can be demonstrated in abstract symbol spaces bereft of a rich, continuous coupling to the real world. Autonomy, as a design goal, offers an arena where both control and Al paradigms must be applied—and a challenge to the viability of both as independent entities. We discuss model-based architectures in which such paradigms can be integrated. Modeling principles for development of such architectures are proposed and illustrated. Endomorphic modeling plays a fundamental role since high autonomy requires models at different levels of abstraction that are homomorphically interrelated. Benchmarks are given for levels of autonomy that arise out of the model-based architecture.
Synthesis of monothiohydroxamic ligands and their lead complexes. Structures of N-methyl-3-pyridothiohydroxamic acid, bis(N-methyl-3-pyridothiohydroxamato) lead(II) and bis(N-cyclohexyl-phenylacetothiohydroxamato) lead(II)

Abstract An improved synthesis of thiohydroxamic acids is described. The reaction of carboxymethyl dithiophenylacetate with several substituted hydroxylamines in aqueous solution at neutral pH gives good yields of the resultant thiohydroxamic acids. The lead coordination chemistry of these compounds is being investigated as part of a program to develop lead-specific sequestering agents. The single crystal structure of bis(N-cyclohexyl-phenylacetothiohydroxamato) lead(II) shows that it is essentially trigonal bipyramidal, with the lead lone electron pair dominating the coordination geometry. The complex has crystallographic two-fold symmetry and the sulfur atoms occupy equatorial positions, with a PbO distance of 2.746 A and PbO distance of 2.383 A. The space group is P2 1 2 1 2 with a = 14.146, b = 18.003, c = 5.373 A , Z = 4 . The structure of bis(N-methyl-3-pyridothiohydroxamato) lead(II) shows a similar geometry but a different isomer. The approximate trigonal bipyramidal geometry has the equatorial coordination positions occupied by one oxygen and a sulfur. The PbS distances are 2.725 (equatorial) and 2.809 (axial) A. The corresponding PbO distances are 2.497 and 2.349 A. The space group is P2 1 2 1 2 1 with a = 7.512, b = 12.686, c = 21.583 A , Z = 4 . For comparison the crystal structure of the free ligand N-methyl-3-pyridothiohydroxamic acid has been determined. It is found in the E configuration (whereas the Z configuration is required for metal chelation). This represents the first such isomeric form for a thiohydroxamic acid, although both forms have been seen in hydroxamic acid crystal structures. The space groups is Pc, with a = 4.098, b = 8.999, c = 11.184 A , β = 100.48°, Z = 2 . The 207Pb NMR of a series of these complexes presents a convenient way to monitor the electronic environment of the lead nucleus; the resonances of these compounds occur in the range 1555-1493 ppm relative to PbMe4.
Mixed Reality Environment for Web-Based Laboratory Interactive Learning

This paper presents a web-based laboratory for distance learners by incorporati ng simulation and hardware implementation into web-based e-learning systems. It presents a development consisting of laboratory course through internet based on mixed reality technique to setup, run and manipulate set of experiments. Eac h experiment has been designed in a way that allows the learner to manipulate t he components and check if it works properly in order to achieve the experi ment objective. The proposed laboratory e-learning tool has web-based components accessed by authorized users. Learners can acquire the necessary skills they need, while learning the theory of the experiment and the basic characteristic s of each component used in the experiment. Finally, a case study was conducted to show t he feasibility and efficiency of the proposed method.
GABAergic microcircuits in the neostriatum

The vast majority of neostriatal neurons and intrinsic intrastriatal synapses are GABAergic, the latter arising from axon collaterals of spiny projection neurons and from GABAergic interneurons. An important feature of the functional organization of the neostriatum has long been assumed to be the existence of a widespread lateral inhibitory network mediated by the axon collaterals of spiny projection neurons. However, these collateral connections have recently been demonstrated electrophysiologically to be relatively weak--in contrast to feedforward interneuronal inhibition, which exerts strong effects on spike timing in spiny neurons. These new data are incompatible with current "winner-take-all" models of lateral inhibitory function in the neostriatum, and they force a modification of established concepts of the functional roles of feedback inhibition in this nucleus.
Stimulation of the secretion of parathyroid hormone during hypoglycemic stress.

The effect and the mechanism of insulin-induced hypoglycemic stress on parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion in man were evaluated. Porcine crystalline insulin (0.1 U/kg, iv) caused symtomatic hypoglycemia in all subjects. The maximum hypoglycemia occurred between 25 and 35 min following the insulin administration. A significant increase in the serum PTH concentration occurred promptly at 5 min following the time of maximum hypoglycemia, achieving peak levels between 5 and 15 min. Thereafter the serum PTH concentration gradually declined, reaching baseline values at 60 min. Serum cortisol levels were increased, but not until 30 min following the maximum hypoglycemia, and remained significantly elevated at 60 min. Therefore the stimulation of PTH secretion was not caused by elevated levels of serum cortisol. The serum calcium and magnesium levels remained unchanged throughout the procedure. A significant and sustained decline in the serum inorganic phosphate levels occurred following insulin administration. ...
Cognitive Style and Interpersonal Behavior: A Review with Implications for Human Relations Training

We can increase the effectiveness of human relations training (HRT) by recog nizing the differential effectiveness of various kinds of training with different "types" of participants. This article ...
On the effectiveness of the unit sample size for standard control charts: ARL VS. Aurl

In this paper we investigate the use of the average unit run length (AURL) as an important measure of the effectiveness of various quality control charting schemes. In particular we focus on its appropriateness for normally distributed processes that tend to produce units (or measurements) at slow rates. In our investigations with the standard Shewhart X and R charts, as well as the CUSUM chart, AURL shows that a sample size of n=1 can yield the fastest means of detecting shifts.
Hierarchical multi-class self similarities

The music similarity question is yet to be defined. From an objective signal point of view, at least three classes of similarities may be considered: pitch, rhythm, and timbre. Within each class, several scales of analysis may be evaluated: segment, beat, pattern, section. We propose a recursive approach to this hierarchical and perceptual similarity problem. Our musically meaningful set of measurements is computed from the ground up via dynamic programming. This may be regarded as an analysis foundation for content-based retrieval, song similarities, or manipulation systems.
Imaging Changes in Pediatric Intracranial Ependymoma Patients Treated With Proton Beam Radiation Therapy Compared to Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy.

Purpose The clinical significance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes after radiation therapy (RT) in children with ependymoma is not well defined. We compared imaging changes following proton beam radiation therapy (PBRT) to those after photon-based intensity modulated RT (IMRT). Methods and Materials Seventy-two patients with nonmetastatic intracranial ependymoma who received postoperative RT (37 PBRT, 35 IMRT) were analyzed retrospectively. MRI images were reviewed by 2 neuroradiologists. Results Sixteen PBRT patients (43%) developed postradiation MRI changes at 3.8 months (median) with resolution by 6.1 months. Six IMRT patients (17%) developed changes at 5.3 months (median) with 8.3 months to resolution. Mean age at radiation was 4.4 and 6.9 years for PBRT and IMRT, respectively ( P =.06). Age at diagnosis (>3 years) and time of radiation (≥3 years) was associated with fewer imaging changes on univariate analysis (odds ratio [OR]: 0.35, P =.048; OR: 0.36, P =.05). PBRT (compared to IMRT) was associated with more frequent imaging changes, both on univariate (OR: 3.68, P =.019) and multivariate (OR: 3.89, P =.024) analyses. Seven (3 IMRT, 4 PBRT) of 22 patients with changes had symptoms requiring intervention. Most patients were treated with steroids; some PBRT patients also received bevacizumab and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. None of the IMRT patients had lasting deficits, but 2 patients died from recurrent disease. Three PBRT patients had persistent neurological deficits, and 1 child died secondarily to complications from radiation necrosis. Conclusions Postradiation MRI changes are more common with PBRT and in patients less than 3 years of age at diagnosis and treatment. It is difficult to predict causes for development of imaging changes that progress to clinical significance. These changes are usually self-limiting, but some require medical intervention, especially those involving the brainstem.
Embryonic diapause in vertebrates

Embryonic diapause occurs in many species of vertebrates, but the physiological mechanisms which control this fascinating process are exceedingly different in the diverse groups which employ this reproductive strategy. In nonmammalian species and some bats, reduction in rate of embryonic development is temperature dependent, but this is not the case in most mammals. Development becomes arrested at the blastocyst stage of embryogenesis in mammals which exhibit delayed implantation, whereas postimplantation development is continuous but retarded in species exhibiting delayed development. The hormonal control of diapause is remarkably different in the various species. Pituitary secretion of prolactin prevents implantation in the tammar wallaby but hastens renewed development and implantation in the mink and spotted skunk. Ovariectomy results in the eventual death of blastocysts in mustelids but induces renewed development and implantation in the armadillo. Luteal function, as evidenced by elevated progesterone secretion, is essentially constant in the roe deer and armadillo, whereas the luteal cells fail to complete their differentiation and secrete low levels of progesterone in carnivores. Progesterone will induce implantation in the tammar wallaby, but estrogen is required to induce renewed development and implantation in rodents. Neither progesterone and/or estrogens appear to be capable of stimulating implantation in carnivores. The uterus plays an important role in maintaining the embryos in a viable state throughout the period of diapause. In many species the uterus undergoes histological changes and secretes increased amounts of protein, yet we still do not understand the role, if any, these proteins play in initiating renewed embryonic development. Thus the phenomenon of embryonic diapause still holds many mysteries for scientists to solve. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A COMPARISON OF AVIAN HEMATOZOAN EPIZOOTIOLOGY IN TWO CALIFORNIA COASTAL SCRUB COMMUNITIES

Passerine birds within two California (USA) coastal scrub ecosystems, an island and a mainland site, were examined for hematozoa from 1984 to 1990. Island birds had a significantly lower hematozoan prevalence than mainland birds. This prevalence difference can be related to a lack of appropriate hematozoan vectors on the island. Haemoproteus spp. and Leucocytozoon spp. were the most commonly encountered hematozoa; four new species of Leucocytozoon spp. and one new Haemoproteus sp. were found in five host families. No transmission of hematozoan parasites was detected at the island site during the study. At the mainland coastal scrub site, Leucocytozoon spp. was transmitted each year while Plasmodium spp. and Haemoproteus spp. transmission varied between years. There was evidence that some species of birds acquired infections outside of their breeding season. Results of this study lend further support to the prediction of decreased disease on remote island ecosystems.
The regulation of yeast mating-type chromatin structure by SIR: an action at a distance affecting both transcription and transposition.

Abstract The two yeast mating-type alleles MAT a and MAT α each produce two mRNAs that are transcribed in opposite and diverging directions from central promoters. Silent copies of MAT a ( HMR a) and MAT α ( HML α) contain identical DNA sequences throughout the transcribed region, yet are not transcribed, except in sir − strains. Since SIR represses not only transcription from a silent copy but also its ability to act as a recipient in a mating-type interconversion, we have investigated whether it might act by regulating the entire chromatin structure of a silent locus. We have therefore compared the profile of DNAase I and micrococcal nuclease cleavage at HML α with MAT α and HMR a with MAT a in sir − and SIR + strains. We find that SIR is necessary for the maintenance of a different chromatin structure at HM loci from their active counterparts at MAT . One particularly striking change that SIR induces provides a simple explanation for one of its biological properties: control of directionality of switching. SIR causes the disappearance of a DNAase I-hypersensitive site at Y-Z boundary (found at MAT or HM sir − ) that is coincident with a double-strand cleavage possibly created by HO in the initiation of a mating-type switch.
The legend of plantar neuropraxia in long-distance athletes

Background. Legend has it that endurance athletes who develop plantar foot pain during long-distance running frequently experience an eventual relief of pain due to a transient neuropraxia brought on by continued activity. Objective. To evaluate the nature of this legend, we assessed long-distance runners for the presence of sensory deficits before and after completion of an ultramarathon, expecting to find an induced neuropraxia and abnormal sensory results. Methods . Twenty-five adult participants of an ultramarathon were evaluated prior to their 50/100 km run and again upon completion of the race. Neurosensory testing was performed using a 10 g monofilament at 4 locations on each foot and a 128 Hz tuning fork at one location on each foot. The same techniques were used prior to, and at conclusion of the race. Results. We detected no neuropraxia or sensory deficits in any participant, despite reports by the same subjects that they had experienced the phenomenon during the race. While runners commonly report losing sensation in their feet during long runs, we were unable to demonstrate any sensory deficit with simple field-based testing. Conclusion. We believe that there is room for additional research to be performed using more sensitive means of neurosensory evaluation.
Concept Mapping as an Alternative Approach for the Analysis of Open-Ended Survey Responses

This article presents concept mapping as an alternative method to existing code-based and word-based text analysis techniques for one type of qualitative text data—open-ended survey questions. It i...
First principles of motivation to learn and e 3 -learning

CDIE_A_315663.sg m in virtually all courses, this article uses the single term e 3 -learning, as introduced by Spector and Merrill in this special issue to refer to these systems collectively with the emphasis on effectiveness, efficiency, and engagement. Learning concerns learner motivation. Five first principles of motivation and volition that characterize learning systems that effectively motivate students are introduced in this article.
Poly(L-alanine)-modified nanoporous colloidal films

The surfaces of nanopores in colloidal films assembled from 255 nm silica spheres were modified with poly(L-alanine) brushes using surface-initiated polycondensation. Polymer length was controlled by the polymerization time. The molecular transport through the colloidal films was studied using cyclic voltammetry as a function of polymer brush thickness, temperature, and pH. Transport rates through the colloidal films were found to be dependent on temperature and pH, with the magnitude of the effect dependent on the length of the polypeptide chain.
100× frequency magnification using a time-lens-based spectral imaging system

We demonstrate frequency magnification by a factor of 105 using a spectral imaging system with two four-wave mixing based time-lenses. We achieve a 1-GHz frequency resolution.
Active overbank deposition during the last century, South River, Virginia

Abstract We quantify rates of overbank deposition over decadal to centennial timescales along the South River in Virginia using four independent methods. Detailed mercury profiles sampled adjacent to the stream channel preserve the peak historic mercury concentration on suspended sediment dating from 1955 to 1961 and suggest sedimentation rates of 8 to 50 cm/100 years. Sediment accumulation over the roots of trees suggest rates of 0 to 100 cm/100 years, with significantly higher values on levees and lower values on floodplains farther from the channel. Profiles of 137Cs and 210Pb from two eroding streambanks are fit with an advection–diffusion model calibrated at an upland reference site; these methods suggest sedimentation rates of 44 to 73 cm/100 years. Mercury inventories from 107 floodplain cores, combined with a previously published reconstruction of the history of mercury concentration on suspended sediment, provide spatially comprehensive estimates of floodplain sedimentation: median sedimentation rates are 3.8 cm/100 years for the
The influence of individual regulatory focus and accountability form in a high performance work system

Abstract Our mixed-methods study considers how alignment of HR practices contributes to success in a high performing manufacturing firm with a contingent reward system. Results showed greater task and challenge performance for promotion focused individuals and lower challenge performance for prevention focused individuals. Accountability also predicted higher levels of task and challenge performance. Finally, accountability moderated the regulatory focus–performance relationship such that both forms of performance were higher for individuals higher in promotion focus who perceived themselves accountable for the corresponding outcome, task or innovation. Prevention focused individuals had higher challenge performance the greater their perception of accountability for innovation.
ST2 contributes to T-cell hyperactivation and fatal hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in mice

Cytokine storm syndromes, such as familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (FHL), are lethal disorders caused by uncontrolled, systemic immune activation. In the murine model of FHL, in which perforin-deficient (Prf1(-/-)) mice are infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), disease is driven by overabundant interferon (IFN)γ-producing LCMV-specific CD8(+) T cells thought to arise from excessive antigen stimulation through the T-cell receptor. However, this paradigm is insufficient to explain several fundamental aspects of FHL, namely, the inability of many pathogenic antigens to induce hyperinflammation, and the previously identified role of MyD88 in the disease. We now show a novel role for the MyD88-dependent interleukin-33 (IL-33) receptor, ST2, in FHL. Expression of IL-33 and ST2 is upregulated in LCMV-infected Prf1(-/-) mice. Blockade of ST2 markedly improves survival of LCMV-infected Prf1(-/-) mice and reduces the severity of multiple disease parameters, including serum levels of IFNγ. This decrease in IFNγ corresponds to a reduction in both the frequency of IFNγ(+) LCMV-specific CD8(+) and CD4(+) T cells and the magnitude of IFNγ expression in these cells. These findings demonstrate that disruption of ST2 signaling in the murine model of FHL reduces T cell-mediated production of IFNγ and suggest a revised paradigm in which danger signals such as IL-33 are crucial amplifiers of immune dysregulation in FHL. Furthermore, this study provides evidence to support blockade of ST2 as a novel therapeutic strategy for FHL.
Understanding Human Accommodation and Presbyopia by in vivo Imaging of the Anterior Segment

Scheimpflug photography, high-resolution MRI, and other non-invasive methods have been used to characterize accommodation and presbyopia development in normal adult human eyes. The resultant model provides a framework for accommodating IOL design and testing.
On the Challenges of Quieting a Freight Locomotive Cab Interior

The primary purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the challenges—both from an engineering standpoint and economically—facing the railway industry in improving the noise and vibration characteristics in locomotive cabs. To this end, we will first establish the vibration characteristics of a typical locomotive cab used in freight locomotives in North America. Next, we will evaluate the effect of separating the cab structure from the reminder of the locomotive structure by elastomeric mounts. This cab configuration is commonly referred to as “soft-mounted cab,” in contrast to a “hard-mounted cab,” which is rigidly attached to the remainder of the locomotive structure. The structural dynamics of a production locomotive cab is studied in a laboratory environment. The cab is excited by a hydraulic actuator, in a manner closely resembling field inputs. After establishing the baseline vibrations of the cab, the study presents the results of vibration tests for the soft mounted cab. A comparison between the hard-mounted and soft-mounted cabs indicate that soft mounting the locomotive cab can result in substantial noise and vibration reduction at all locations in the cab, and therefore provide: • more crew comfort, • less equipment damage, and • manufacturing cost savings. The paper will also discuss the effect of the measures that are needed for quieting the cab, such as soft mounting it, on the locomotive manufacturers from an engineering and business perspective.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Beyond known methanogens

Recent advances in DNA sequencing and analysis have shown that much of the microbial life on Earth differs from previously described organisms. The organisms in this “microbial dark matter” are globally ubiquitous and numerous but have largely unknown physiologies ( 1 – 4 ). Given their great evolutionary distance from all laboratory cultures, these mysterious organisms may harbor unique functions with potentially useful biotechnological applications. Like most environments on Earth, coal-bed reservoirs contain microbial dark matter. On page 434 of this issue, Evans et al. ( 5 ) show that members of the microbial dark matter phylum Bathyarchaeota ( 6 ) from coal beds have the genetic potential to generate methane.
Robotic folding of 2D and 3D structures from a ribbon

Automatic folding has drawn increasing attention in robotics research in the past ten years. The focus has been on folding two-dimensional (2D) sheets into three-dimensional (3D) structures, but little work has been done on how structures may be formed by folding ribbons. Here we propose the concept of robotic ribbon folding including a general workflow from shape design to ribbon folding and shape retention. We also propose a method to realize robotic ribbon folding on the macroscopic scale. The method consists of minimally engineered ribbons with patterned flexures, a folding robot, and a folding scheme that relates the orientation of flexures, the type of folds and the type of structural elements. By using this method we demonstrate robotic ribbon folding into 2D static structures such as triangles and squares, 3D static structures, and planar kinematic linkages such as a simple non-crossing four-bar mechanism. Burn-in result shows a four-bar mechanism with all bars' length of 5 cm could move for over 660 cycles.
Expression and purification of functional recombinant epitopes for the platelet antigens, PlA1 and PlA2

The platelet antigens, PlA1 and PlA2, are responsible for most cases of posttransfusion purpura (PTP) and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) in the caucasian population and are determined by two allelic forms of the platelet glycoprotein GPIIIa gene. To study the interaction between these antigens and their respective antibodies, we inserted the sequence that encodes the signal peptide and the N-terminal 66 amino acids of the PlA1 form of GPIIIa into the expression vector pGEX1. To express the PlA2 antigen, nucleotide 196 of the PlA1 coding sequence was mutated to the PlA2 allelic form. When transformed and induced in Escherichia coli, the two constructs produce glutathione S-transferase (GST)/N-terminal GPIIIa fusion proteins, one containing leucine at position 33 (PlA1), the other proline (PlA2). These proteins are easily purified in milligram quantities using glutathione-Sepharose and react specifically with their respective antibodies by immunoblot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Antigenicity of the PlA1 fusion protein in reduced glutathione increases with time; moreover, the addition of oxidized glutathione accelerates this process, presumably because of formation of the native disulfide bonds. Neutralization assays indicate that the PlA1 fusion protein competes for all of the anti-PlA1 antibody in the serum of patients with PTP and NAIT that is capable of interacting with the surface of intact platelets. This study shows that the GST/N-terminal GPIIIa fusion proteins contain conformational epitopes that mimic those involved in alloimmunization, and that regions other than the amino terminal 66 amino acids of GPIIIa are not likely to contain or be required for the development of functional PlA1 epitopes. Furthermore, these recombinant proteins can be used for the affinity-purification of clinical anti-PlA1 antibodies and specific antibody identification by western blotting, making them useful in the diagnosis of patients alloimmunized to PlA1 alloantigens.