cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Why the trade/GNP ratio decreases with country size

Abstract Several rational models are constructed to show why the ratio of a country's foreign trade to its GNP should decrease with increasing country size. A physics-inspired model of absorption of a quasi-continuous particle flow by a quasi-homogeneous space results in detailed agreement with the observed contemporary world-wide pattern of import/GNP vs. population size. On the average, world imports behave as if 63% of a product flow were absorbed by the nearest 730,000 people or by people within 37 miles of the production center, whichever number of people is higher. “Characteristic transport distances” (over which 63% of flow is absorbed) are given for 110 countries and range from 10 to 300 miles. The corresponding “characteristic absorption numbers” range from 160 to 1700 people; they indicate the number of people, linearly arranged, which absorbs 63% of a flow.
Availability and state of order of hydroxyl groups on the surfaces of microstructural units of crystalline cotton cellulose

The relative accessibilities of the hydroxyl groups of the D-glucopyranosyl units of hydrocellulose have been studied by means of the reaction of N,N-diethylaziridinium chloride, which produces 2-(diethylamino)ethyl cellulose. The deviation in the distribution of substituents among the 2-O-, 3-O-, and 6-O-positions of the D-glucopyranosyl residues in a hydrocellulose from that in a disordered cellulose in which the three types of hydroxyl groups are equally accessible is the basis for estimating the selective accessibilities of the hydroxyl groups in the crystalline cellulose. A particular hydrocellulose, lying within the range of leveling-off degree of polymerization, was studied in detail; this hydrocellulose, designated EHC (“Exemplar Hydrocellulose”), was formed from fibrous cotton by hydrolysis for 0.67 hr in 2.5N hydrochloric acid at reflux. EHC exhibited higher selective accessibility (larger deviation from equal accessibility) of the hydroxyl groups at C-2, C-3, and C-6, than samples of hydrocellulose formed in shorter or longer periods of hydrolysis. This selective accessibility is discussed in terms of intra- and intermolecular hydrogen bonding on the surfaces of crystalline microstructural units in EHC.
Flip My Class! A faculty development demonstration of a flipped-classroom

Abstract This article describes a unique model for a faculty development program focused on sensitizing clinical pharmacy practice (CPP) faculty to the “flipped-classroom” approach to teaching. The developers of this program assigned pre-program homework to the faculty, which required them to watch a YouTube origami video on “How to make a paper crane?” and a Prezi presentation on flipped-classroom concept. Faculty were instructed to watch the crane video, construct their own crane, and send in a picture of it to the faculty facilitators by the deadline. The in-class program activities included a quiz on the homework; evaluation and feedback of the cranes submitted; a discussion on how to utilize class time for higher order complex assignments via a flipped-classroom approach; and individual, small-, and large-group reflection. Twenty of 34 (59%) CPP faculty completed the paper crane homework. Twenty-three faculty (68%) attended the “in-class” workshop. Overall, 84% of the faculty stated that the faculty development workshop and homework very strongly or strongly increased their understanding of a flipped-classroom and 88% of the faculty stated that they would consider flipping one of their classes next year. This well-received faculty development model successfully sensitized faculty to the flipped-classroom concept by having them take on the role of the student. This faculty development program is a model for other schools/colleges to expose faculty to alternative teaching techniques which may help them “think outside the box” when teaching student pharmacists.
Epilogue: what do clinicians expect from imagers?

Although the expectations of clinicians caring for patients with coronary artery disease from imagers are enormous, they are fairly straightforward. Clinicians need assistance in the identification of patients who are at very high risk of developing acute coronary events. In a large proportion of
An exploration of women's reasons for termination timing in the setting of fetal abnormalities

Abstract Background Over 3% of pregnancies are complicated by a fetal abnormality, of which, approximately 80% are terminated. Despite early screening options, women often present at the cusp of legal limits for termination. Study Design A qualitative study was conducted with women terminating pregnancies for fetal abnormalities. Semi-structured interviews explored reasons for termination timing. Analysis utilized latent content and constant comparative methods. Results Of 30 participants between 13+4 and 23+5 weeks gestation, their median age was 35 years, 73.3% were white, 70% were religiously affiliated, and 60% had children. The median time from abnormality identification until termination was 16.5 days (range 2–73). The major themes for termination timing included (1) an abrupt shift in “low-risk” pregnancy perception; (2) challenging medical interactions; (3) an emotional decision-making process; and (4) termination access barriers. Conclusions Timing of termination for fetal abnormalities is attributable to multiple issues. Future research should identify optimal prenatal counseling strategies, address systemic barriers, and identify patient decision-making resources.
Quantitative electrophysiological studies of regenerating visuotopic maps in goldfish--II. Delayed recovery of sensitivity to small light flashes.

Abstract The regenerating retinotectal projection of goldfish was mapped with punctate flashes of light produced by red light-emitting diodes. The characteristics of multiunit receptive fields were studied in fish kept at 25°C at different times after unilateral optic nerve crush. From about 20 days, when the first visually-evoked responses to black-on-white stimuli appeared, until about 40 days, no consistent responses to light-emitting diodes could be obtained, although high-contrast, long-duration light-emitting diode stimuli elicited weak off-responding. At around 40 days, responses to light-emitting diodes reappeared as the amplitude of evoked multiunit activity increased sharply. At their emergence, light-emitting diode-sensitive multiunit receptive fields were irregular and only slightly enlarged, but quickly regained normal shape and size. Conformity to a linear and uniform visuotopography recovered more slowly and, in some individuals, incompletely. The results suggest that “on” and “off” optic fiber systems, probably with small terminal arbors, are functionally expressed at a later time in regeneration than the predominantly “off” system manifested earlier. The different time courses of recovery in these systems explain several aspects of the recovery of visual behavior during optic nerve regeneration.
EEG AND MEMORY EFFECTS OF LOW-DOSE INFUSIONS OF PROPOFOL

The purpose of this study was to identify EEG changes associated with low-dose propofol infusion producing only sedative effects, and to describe the memory effects of low-dose propofol infusion. Ten healthy volunteers underwent EEG monitoring (at Fz, Cz, Pz and Oz electrode sites) before, during and after propofol 0.5mg kg−1 i.v. bolus and 75 fig kg−1 min−1 as an infusion. Mean serum concentration of propofol during infusion was 0.86 (SD 0.14) μg ml−1. The EEG changed significantly during infusion, with increased power in the beta, (15–20 Hz). beta2 (20.5–30 Hz) and delta (1–3.5 Hz) frequencies. Beta1 and beta2 power changes were most marked at the Fz and Cz electrodes. Subjects were sedated, but able to complete cognitive tasks. Visual analogue scales of attention and sleepiness were obtained throughout the study and demonstrated a sedative effect during propofol infusion, but were not a significant factor in memory performance or EEG changes. A verbal learning task (Rey Auditory-Verbal Learning Task) administered before, during and after infusion showed a marked reduction in short-term memory capacity and dramatically impaired free recall and recognition during infusion. Nine of 10 subjects had partial amnesia for complex visual scenes presented during infusion, recalling less than 50% of the material. Stronger cueing was required to retrieve information presented during propofol infusion, with an increase in mean retrieval time from 95.4 (41.2) s to 426.8 (83.1) s. EEG and memory effects resolved quickly after the end of infusion. We conclude that anterior, high frequency EEG activity increases significantly during low-dose propofol infusion and that propofol produces significant memory impairment which has characteristics of true amnesia, concurrent with changes in beta, power in the EEG. The fact that low-dose propofol produces significant changes in both cognitive and EEG measures warrants further investigation into the utility of the EEG power spectrum as a useful monitor of amnesia during conscious sedation with propofol.
The creation of an infrarenal aneurysm within the native abdominal aorta of swine

Background Models of native abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) have been created in rodents using elastase and calcium chloride perfusion. These models, however, do not permit the evaluation of endovascular devices. This study describes the use of mechanical and enzymatic techniques to create native AAA in swine. Methods Surgically exposed abdominal aortas of ten male Yorkshire swine (25-35 kg) were dilated, then perfused for 20 min with a 50-mL solution of elastase (30 units) and collagenase (8000 units). Serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 1, 3, and 6 wk was used to evaluate postoperative aortic diameter. Animals were euthanized at 24 h, 48 h and 1, 2, and 6 wk for histological evaluation. Results MRI demonstrated an increase in mean aortic diameter by 73.3% ± 30.2% (33.3-116.7%), which gradually increased postoperatively. Partial endothelial loss, mural neutrophil infiltrate, and elastin disruption were evident (1, 3, and 7 days). Smooth muscle cell attrition occurred within the inner tunica media (7 days). Collagen deposition, limited SMC repopulation and luminal reendothelialization appeared at 3-6 wk. Elastin injury persisted. Conclusions The creation of an infrarenal aneurysm is possible within the native aorta of swine. After aneurysm creation, progressive increase in aortic diameter was detectable. Further evaluation will be necessary to more completely characterize the nature and extent of elastase-induced porcine aortic aneurysmal degeneration.
Quantitative determination of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethyleneglycol and its sulfate conjugate in human lumbar cerebrospinal fluid using liquid chromatography with amperometric detection

Abstract A sensitive and direct reversed-phase liquid chromatographic method with amperometric detection was developed for the determination of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethyleneglycol (MHPG). The concentrations of the free and sulfate conjugate of MHPG were measured in human lumbar cerebrospinal fluid. All samples were preconcentrated by extraction with ethyl acetate. Deconjugation of the sulfate form of MHPG was achieved by enzymatic hydrolysis with sulfatase. Peaks were identified on the basis of chromatographic behavior, ratio of responses at several oxidation potentials and the stopped-flow UV spectra of the collected fractions. The free MHPG content of 20 cerebrospinal fluid samples ranged between 0.720 and 19.51 ng/ml with the mean of 5.126 ± 4.652 (S.D.) ng/ml. The sulfate conjugate of MHPG in 12 samples of cerebrospinal fluid ranged between 0.08 and 0.850 ng/ml with the mean value of 0.2365 ± 0.2269 (S.D.) ng/ml. Although our results correlate well with the literature values, no attempt was made to interpret the quantitative data since samples were obtained from routine, diagnostic testing of patients admitted to the medical or neurologic services at the Mount Sinai Hospital.
The effects of electroplated chromium on the plastic deformation of copper single crystals

Abstract The effects produced by electroplated chromium coatings of various thicknesses on the stress-strain parameters of copper single crystals were studied. The behaviour of coated crystals is discussed in terms of the flow stress gradient normally established during deformation and the production of surface damage which results from film rupture. Data showing the effects of sub-grain size on the tensile behaviour of copper crystals are also presented.
Untangling therapeutic ingredients of a personalized intervention for patients with depression and severe COPD.

Objective We developed a personalized intervention for depressed patients with COPD (PID-C) aimed to mobilize patients to participate in the care of both conditions. We showed that PID-C reduced depressive symptoms and dyspnea-related disability more than usual care over 28 weeks. This study focused on untangling key therapeutic ingredients of PID-C. Design Randomized controlled trial. Setting Community. Participants 138 patients who received the diagnoses of COPD and major depression after screening 898 consecutive admissions for acute inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation. Intervention Nine sessions of PID-C compared with usual care over 28 weeks. Measurements Primary outcome measures were the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Pulmonary Functional Status and Dyspnea Questionnaire–Modified. Other measures were adherence to rehabilitation exercise (≥2 hours per week) and adherence to adequate antidepressant prescriptions. Results Low severity of dyspnea-related disability and adherence to antidepressants predicted subsequent improvement of depression. Exercise and low depression severity predicted improvement of dyspnea-related disability. Conclusions PID-C led to an interacting spiral of improvement in both depression and disability in a gravely medically ill population with a 17% mortality rate over 28 weeks and an expected deterioration in disability. The interrelationship of the course of depression and dyspnea-related disability underscores the need to target adherence to both antidepressants and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease rehabilitation. PID-C may serve as a care management model for depressed persons suffering from medical illnesses with a deteriorating course.
Gender roles, illness orientation and use of medical services☆

The study investigates illness orientation as a factor which may account for sex differences in the utilization of medical care. First, sex differences in the way symptoms are perceived, evaluated and acted upon (illness orientation) are analyzed. Then gender role factors which may account for sex differences in illness orientation are examined. Finally, the degree to which gender role factors and illness orientation account for sex differences in medical care utilization are assessed. The study population includes 1648 adults between the ages of 18 and 59. Medical record data covering 7 years of outpatient services are linked with survey data on the respondents. The findings show that while females are more likely to perceive symptoms than males, there is no apparent sex difference in a tendency to adopt the sick role when ill. In addition, results indicate that gender role factors such as level and type of role responsibility and concern with health are related to female though not male symptom reports. Illness orientation variables are related to rates of medical utilization for both sexes. However, it is primarily the perception of symptoms and an interest and concern with health which contributes to sex differences in utilization rates. When examining respondents who report either a very low or very high number of symptoms, sex differences in utilization rates fall below statistical significance.
Quality-adjusted life expectancy benefits of laparoscopic bariatric surgery: a United States perspective.

Objectives: The method of choice for bariatric surgery remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (L-RYGB) versus laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) using quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Methods: We developed a Markov model of the quality of life and survival of L-RYGB and LAGB in obese patients. Using census data, we estimated the probability of dying and quality of life for each year of each cohort. Results: For all cohorts, L-RYGB offers the highest advantage in QALYs compared with gastric banding. The youngest cohort showed the greatest discrepancy between the two surgical methods, with 7.8, 6.4, and 4.7 QALYs gained with L-RYGB over LAGB for the age groups 35, 45, and 55, respectively. Those with the highest presurgical body mass index (BMI) acquired the most advantage with L-RYGB, with 2.8, 6.4, and 9.6 QALYs gained with L-RYGB over LAGB for the BMI groups 40, 50, and 60. Males had a slightly higher advantage with L-RYGB, with 6.5 QALYs gained with L-RYGB over LAGB compared with 6.0 QALYs for females. Conclusions: For the cohorts studied, L-RYGB is the preferred surgical treatment for obesity if the sole metric is QALYs. The young and extremely obese are core groups who will gain the most QALYs following L-RYGB.
US government information: selected current issues in public access vs. private competition

Abstract Web information systems are having a profound effect on the way information is being disseminated today. Current technological advances have caused many government agencies to re-evaluate their practice of contracting with private sector vendors who have traditionally repackaged and marketed the agency's raw data. These new opportunities for government agencies wishing to make information publicly accessible have blurred the traditional distinctions between public and private dissemination activities. Low-cost public dissemination of information has resulted in private sector vendors arguing that public electronic distribution and publication creates unfair competition. New partnerships, such as the recent venture between the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) and the commercial search engine, Northern Light, in developing the “usgovsearch” product are also being explored. From another viewpoint, library associations are strongly supporting legislation that would broaden, strengthen, and enhance public access to electronic government information. Key issues to be discussed are: (1) the debate concerning public vs. private access to government information; (2) Does electronic access to government information eliminate the need for printed documents? and (3) Joint efforts — when should the government team up with private sector allies to charge for information services and access?
Mapping of concanavalin A binding sites on the surface of several cell types.

Hemocyanin labeled concanavalin A was used to study the distribution of sugar residues on the surface of various cell types.
Prediction of outcome in head-and-neck cancer patients using the standardized uptake value of 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose.

Abstract Purpose Tumor uptake of 2-[ 18 F] fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) may relate to outcome in cancer patients. Pretreatment FDG uptake was evaluated as a predictor of local control (LC) and disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with head-and-neck cancer managed primarily either by radiotherapy (RT) or surgery. Patients and methods Tumor FDG uptake using the Standardized Uptake Value (SUV) was measured in 120 patients studied prospectively using positron emission tomography (PET). Treatment consisted of either radical RT with or without chemotherapy (73 patients) or radical surgery with or without postoperative RT (47 patients). Median follow-up of the surviving patients was 48 months. Results The median SUV was higher in 46 patients who failed treatment than in the remaining controlled patients (5.8 vs. 3.6, p = 0.002). In monovariate analysis, patients with tumors having high FDG uptake (SUV > median, 4.76) had poorer LC ( p = 0.003) and DFS ( p = 0.005). This difference was also observed when the RT and surgery groups were analyzed separately. In the multivariate analysis T-category ( p = 0.005) and SUV ( p = 0.046) remained independent adverse factors for LC, whereas N-category ( p = 0.004), T-category ( p = 0.02) and SUV ( p = 0.05) were independent determinants of DFS. Conclusion These results suggest that pretreatment tumor FDG uptake represents an independent prognostic factor in patients with head-and-neck cancers, whatever the primary treatment modality. Tumors having high FDG uptake are at greater risk of failure and should be considered for more aggressive multimodality therapy.
The Genetics of Depression: A Review

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is common and moderately heritable. Recurrence and early age at onset characterize cases with the greatest familial risk. Major depressive disorder and the neuroticism personality trait have overlapping genetic susceptibilities. Most genetic studies of MDD have considered a small set of functional polymorphisms relevant to monoaminergic neurotransmission. Meta-analyses suggest small positive associations between the polymorphism in the serotonin transporter promoter region (5-HTTLPR) and bipolar disorder, suicidal behavior, and depression-related personality traits but not yet to MDD itself. This polymorphism might also influence traits related to stress vulnerability. Newer hypotheses of depression neurobiology suggest closer study of genes related to neurotoxic and neuroprotective (neurotrophic) processes and to overactivation of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, with mixed evidence regarding association of MDD with polymorphisms in one such gene (brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF]). Several genome-wide linkage studies of MDD and related traits have been reported or are near completion. There is some evidence for convergence of linkage findings across studies, but more data are needed to permit meta-analysis. Future directions will include more intensive, systematic study of linkage candidate regions and of the whole genome for genetic association; gene expression array studies; and larger-scale studies of gene-environment interactions and of depression-related endophenotypes.
Using novel methods to examine stress among HIV-positive African American men who have sex with men and women.

Biomarker composites (BCs) that objectively quantify psychosocial stress independent of self report could help to identify those at greatest risk for negative health outcomes and elucidate mechanisms of stress-related processes. Here, BCs are examined in the context of existing disease progression among HIV-positive African American men who have sex with men and women (MSMW) with high stress histories, including childhood sexual abuse. Participants (N = 99) collected 12-h overnight and morning urine samples for assay of cortisol and catecholamines (primary BC) and neopterin (an indicator of HIV disease progression). Data on cumulative psychosocial trauma history (severity, types, frequency, age at first incident), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, sexual risk behaviors, and a secondary BC consisting of routine health indicators (heart rate, blood pressure, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio) were also collected. Lifetime trauma exposure was highly pervasive and significantly greater among those meeting a standard cutoff for PTSD caseness (24 %). After controlling for HIV factors (neopterin levels and years with disease), PTSD was a significant (p < .05) predictor of the primary, but not secondary BC. Those with PTSD also had significantly more sexual partners, sex without a condom, and exchange sex for money or drugs than those without PTSD. Specific trauma characteristics predicted PTSD severity and caseness independently and uniquely in regression models (p’s < .05–.001). A primary BC appears sensitive to cumulative trauma burden and PTSD in HIV-positive African American MSMW, providing support for the use of BCs to quantify psychosocial stress and inform novel methods for examining mechanisms of stress influenced health behaviors and disease outcomes in at-risk populations.
Wigner-distribution- and Green's-function approach to quantum corrections and implications for the melting temperature of two-dimensional Wigner crystals.

Quantum corrections to the behavior of a nearly classical system may be determined via the Green's-function formalism, or via the Wigner-distribution-function (WDF) method. Recently, it appeared that there is a serious discrepancy between the results obtained by these methods for the melting temperature of the two-dimensional Wigner crystal. We resolve this problem by showing that the ``effective-potential'' technique of implementing the WDF method is invalid, and we present a correct approach.
Kinetics of uranous iron and ferrous iron oxidation by thiobacillus ferrooxidans

Kinetic constants for the oxidation of uranous and ferrous ions byThiobacillus ferrooxidans were estimated. The kinetics indicate a direct biological mechanism for uranium oxidation. The complex interrelations of ferric, uranyl and uranous ion inhibition are considered.
WebSphere application server: a foundation for on demand computing

WebSphere® Application Server is the foundation for IBM's middleware software portfolio. It has evolved rapidly from a simple extension for Web servers and a server runtime for business objects to the IBM distributed operating system for mission-critical computing and the leading application server in the industry. WebSphere Application Server plays a central role in the transformation from a distributed operating system to a distributed on demand operating system. This transformation is achieved by forging extensions to the WebSphere Application Server foundation for the grid-computing infrastructure, rich Web-based interaction models, service-oriented architecture, autonomics, business process management, and dynamic provisioning and utility management. This paper describes elements of the WebSphere Application Server architecture and how this architecture provides a foundation for the on demand computing infrastructure and application environment.
Comparison of solvent models for characterizing stationary phase selectivity in gas chromatography

Abstract Two experimental approaches to the measurement of stationary phase selectivity using the thermodynamic models proposed by Rohrschneider-McReynolds and Golovnya-Poole are tested theoretically and experimentally to establish their reliability. The retention index difference of Rohrschneider-McReynolds is demonstrated to incorrectly determine selectivity since this difference is largely determined by the difference in solubility of the n-alkane retention index markers in the polar and non-polar phases. Also, the assumption that the contribution of dispersion to the index value is equivalent to the retention of a hypothetical n-alkane on squalane with the same retention time as the test solute on the polar phase fails to take account of the differences in the free energy of solution per index unit on the compared phases. These inconsistencies are not found when differences in the partial molar Gibbs free energy of solution for a series of test solutes are used to determine stationary phase selectivity. A general equation relating the free energy differences to retention index differences is derived and indicates that there is no simple relationship between the two models which, therefore, predict very different selectivity changes for the same test solutes for a group of compared phases. It is concluded that the ordering of stationary phases with respect to their ability to interact selectively with a particular test solute should be determined from free energies of solution (determined from gas-liquid partition coefficients corrected for interfacial adsorption) and that the use of the McReynolds phase constants be abandoned for this purpose.
MALIGNANT TRANSFORMATION OF RENAL ANGIOMYOLIPOMA

A 42-year-old man without tuberous sclerosis presented with a 1-year history of an abdominal mass, right flank pain and weight loss of 16 pounds. Computerized tomography (CT) revealed a large heterogeneous lower pole mass of the right kidney with tumor thrombus in the ipsilateral renal vein extending into the vena cava (fig. 1). There was no suggestion of a fatty component to the tumor on radiographic evaluation, and chest x-ray and CT were negative. The patient underwent right radical nephrectomy without tumor spillage or complication and was discharged home after an uneventful convalescence. The 3,870 gm. specimen contained a well circumscribed
Hyperoxia downregulates angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 in human fetal lung fibroblasts

Angiotensin (ANG) II is involved in experimental hyperoxia-induced lung fibrosis. Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) degrades ANG II and is thus protective, but is downregulated in adult human and experimental lung fibrosis. Hyperoxia is a known cause of chronic fibrotic lung disease in neonates, but the role of ACE-2 in neonatal lung fibrosis is unknown. We hypothesized that ACE-2 in human fetal lung cells might be downregulated by hyperoxic gas. Fetal human lung fibroblast IMR90 cells were exposed to hyperoxic (95% O2/5% CO2) or normoxic (21% O2/5% CO2) gas in vitro. Cells and culture media were recovered separately for assays of ACE-2 enzymatic activity, mRNA, and immunoreactive protein. Hyperoxia decreased ACE-2 immunoreactive protein and enzyme activity in IMR90 cells (both P < 0.01), but did not change ACE-2 mRNA. ACE-2 protein was increased in the cell supernatant, suggesting protease-mediated ectodomain shedding. TAPI-2, an inhibitor of TNF-α−converting enzyme (TACE/ADAM17), prevented both the decrease in cellular ACE-2 and the increase in soluble ACE-2 (both P < 0.05). These data show that ACE-2 is expressed in fetal human lung fibroblasts but is significantly decreased by hyperoxic gas. They also suggest that hyperoxia decreases ACE-2 through a shedding mechanism mediated by ADAM17/TACE.
The SIGCSE 2001 Maze Demonstration program

This article will describe the SIGCSE 2001 Maze Demo program that may be used as a CS2 laboratory exercise on traversal algorithms. The article will also describe the object-oriented design of the program and the Java Power Tools that were used to enable rapid development of its graphical user interface. Finally, the quality of the program and the speed of its development shows that it is now practical to teach freshmen using full graphical user interfaces rather than interfaces that use the console or a small restricted set of interface widgets.
Effects of Agitation on Size Distribution of Particulate Matter in Large-Volume Parenterals

The particle-size distributions of six types of large-volume parenterals subjected to different degrees of agitation were determined using an automatic particle counter. Data acquired from each solution, which had been maintained in a stored condition, subjected to agitation by inverting 20 times, and then mechanically shaken for 30 min, produced a linear relationship between log N greater than D and log D. Both the slope (K) and the number of particles per milliliter exceeding 1 micrometer in diameter (N greater than 1) exhibited a dependence on the degree of agitation. Their combined effect indicates that agitation by 20 hand inversions removed particulate matter from the surface of the container, which increased the total number of particles in solution (greater than 1 micrometer) but did not significantly alter the relative size distribution. Agitation for 30 min, however, disintegrated agglomerates and produced a particle-size distribution with a greatly increased number of particles whose diameters were less than 1 micrometer and a corresponding decrease in the number of particles exceeding 1 micrometer in diameter. The particle-size distribution of a parenteral solution determined by this in situ instrumental method was, therefore, dependent upon the degree of agitation to which the parenteral was subjected prior to examination.
Scaling the Critics: Uncovering the Latent Dimensions of Movie Criticism With an Item Response Approach

We study the critical opinions of expert movie reviewers as an item response problem. Building on earlier “unfolding” models, we develop a framework that models an individual’s decision to approve or disapprove of an item. Using this approach, we are able to recover the locations of movies and ideal points of critics in the same multidimensional space. We demonstrate that a three-dimensional model captures much of the variation in critical opinions. The first dimension signifies movie “quality” while the other two connote the nature and subject matter of the films. We then demonstrate that the dimensions uncovered from our “utility threshold model” are statistically significant predictors of a movie’s success, and are particularly useful in predicting the success of independent films.
Dynamics of learning in linear feature-discovery networks

In this paper I addresses the dynamics of learning in unsupervised neural feature-discovery networks. The models introduced incorporate feedforward connections modified by a Hebb law, and recurrent lateral connections modified by an anti-Hebb law. Conditions for stability of equilibria are derived, and bifurcation theory is used to explore the behaviour near loss of stability. Stability of the equilibria is shown to depend on the learning rates in the system, and on the statistics of the input signal. The bifurcation analyses reveal previously overlooked behaviours, including equilibria that consist of mixtures of the principal eigenvectors of the input autocorrelation, as well as limit cycles. The results provide a more complete picture of adaptation in Hebbian feature-discovery networks.
Radiation-induced apoptosis of endothelial cells in the murine central nervous system: protection by fibroblast growth factor and sphingomyelinase deficiency.

Injury to the central nervous system (CNS) by ionizing radiation may be a consequence of damage to the vascular endothelium. Recent studies showed that radiation-induced apoptosis of endothelial cells in vitro and in the lung in vivo is mediated by the lipid second messenger ceramide via activation of acid sphingomyelinase (ASM). This apoptotic response to radiation can be inhibited by basic fibroblast growth factor or by genetic mutation of ASM. In the CNS, single-dose radiation has been shown to result in a 15% loss of endothelial cells within 24 h, but whether or not this loss is associated with apoptosis remains unknown. In the present studies, dose- and time-dependent induction of apoptosis was observed in the C57BL/6 mouse CNS. Apoptosis was quantified by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end labeling, and specific endothelial apoptosis was determined by histochemical double labeling with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end labeling and Lycopersicon esculentum lectin. Beginning at 4 h after single-dose radiation, apoptosis was ongoing for 24 h and peaked at 12 h at an incidence of 0.7–1.4% of the total cells in spinal cord sections. Up to 20% of the apoptotic cells were endothelial. This effect was also seen in multiple regions of the brain (medulla, pons, and hippocampus). A significant reduction of radiation-induced apoptosis was observed after i.v. basic fibroblast growth factor treatment (0.45–4.5 μg/mouse). Identical results were noted in C3H/HeJ mice. Furthermore, irradiated ASM knockout mice displayed as much as a 70% reduction in endothelial apoptosis. This study demonstrates that ionizing radiation induces early endothelial cell apoptosis throughout the CNS. These data are consistent with recent evidence linking radiation-induced stress with ceramide and suggest approaches to modify the apoptotic response in control of radiation toxicity in the CNS.
456 EFFECT OF GROWTH HORMONE THERAPY ON SLEEP

Total sleep time, sleep difficulty (time spent awake and moving during sleep), REM latency (time to first REM period), number of REM periods, and time spent in sleep stages, REM,I, II, III and IV, were measured in four patients with growth hormone (GH) deficiency before and after GH therapy. Three patients adapted for 2 or more nights prior to the study and each patient had 2 or more studies. One patient had one study after GH. The percentage of time spent in stage II sleep increased in three patients while in the fourth patient it did not change. The mean percentages (minutes) of stage II sleep were 40.4% (223 min) and 43.2% (218 min) before and after respectively. The amount of time spent in slow-wave (III/IV) sleep was found to decrease in three patients. The mean percentages were 26% and 24% respectively. None of the above changes were statistically significant when the means were compared. Total sleep time (550±86 and 518±66 minutes respectively), sleep difficulty, REM latency periods and the number of REM cycles were not different before and after GH. While these data tend to suggest that there is a shift in the stage of sleep in these patients from slow wave III/IV to stage II sleep, they were not statistically significant. No other parameters are significantly effected. These data do not support the data found in animals who were shown to have increases in slow wave sleep after GH administration.
Characterization of additional novel immune type receptors in channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus

Mining of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) expressed sequence tag databases identified seven new novel immune type receptors (IpNITRs). These differed in sequence, but not structure, from previously described IpNITR1-11. IpNITR12a, 12b, 13, and 14 encode proteins containing a single variable (V)-like immunoglobulin (Ig) domain. IpNITR12a and 13 encode a transmembrane (TM) region and cytoplasmic tail (CYT) containing immunoreceptor tyrosine inhibition motifs (ITIMs). IpNITR14 contains a TM and short CYT devoid of signaling motifs and is similar in structure to IpNITR7. IpNITR12b lacks a TM and may represent an IpNITR12a splice variant. In contrast, IpNITR15a, 15b, and 16 encode two Ig domains (V-like domain 1 and V/C2-like domain 2). IpNITR15a and 15b contain TM and CYT with ITIMs. IpNITR16 appears to be a secreted form. The first V-like domains of IpNITR12-16 (except a/b pairs) share 17–32% amino acid identity with each other and with V domains of IpNITR1-11. They therefore represent five additional IpNITR V families (defined as possessing 70% or more amino acid identity). The V/C2 domains of IpNITR15a, 15b and 16 have 94–98% amino acid identity, but share 37–50% amino acid identity with corresponding V/C2 domains found in IpNITR1-4. Phylogenetic analyses indicate IpNITR12-16 are more closely related to other teleost NITRs than to IpNITR1-11. Gene mapping indicates that IpNITRs are linked, and members of the ten known IpNITR families are interspersed. IpNITR12-16 are differentially expressed in various catfish immune-type cells and preferentially up regulated in peripheral blood leukocytes by allogeneic stimulation.
Adaptations of fast mapping for vocabulary intervention with augmented language users

Over the past 20 years, a phenomenon called “fast mapping” has received considerable attention as a potential explanation for the rapid vocabulary expansion typically observed in the, preschool years. It has been proposed that children learn new words rapidly by sketching quick, incomplete maps of word meanings after only very few exposures to the word. Recently, several authors have suggested that adaptations of procedures used to explore fast mapping might be useful as an intervention tool for individuals with limited vocabulary associated with developmental delays. This article describes successful adaptation of fast mapping for teaching sight word recognition with two participants with cognitive and communication limitations. Important variations that were necessary to match teaching procedures to learning styles are highlighted across the two participants.
A gemcitabine sensitivity screen identifies a role for NEK9 in the replication stress response

The Replication Stress Response (RSR) is a signaling network that recognizes challenges to DNA replication and coordinates diverse DNA repair and cell-cycle checkpoint pathways. Gemcitabine is a nucleoside analogue that causes cytotoxicity by inducing DNA replication blocks. Using a synthetic lethal screen of a RNAi library of nuclear enzymes to identify genes that when silenced cause gemcitabine sensitization or resistance in human triple-negative breast cancer cells, we identified NIMA (never in mitosis gene A)-related kinase 9 (NEK9) as a key component of the RSR. NEK9 depletion in cells leads to replication stress hypersensitivity, spontaneous accumulation of DNA damage and RPA70 foci, and an impairment in recovery from replication arrest. NEK9 protein levels also increase in response to replication stress. NEK9 complexes with CHK1, and moreover, NEK9 depletion impairs CHK1 autophosphorylation and kinase activity in response to replication stress. Thus, NEK9 is a critical component of the RSR that promotes CHK1 activity, maintaining genome integrity following challenges to DNA replication.
Predicting Outcome in Patients With Asymptomatic Aortic Stenosis

Although the annual risk of cardiovascular mortality has been well described for individuals with symptomatic aortic stenosis, the morbidity and mortality for those with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis is not as well known. Currently the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology recommends a “watchful waiting” strategy for those with asymptomatic aortic stenosis.1 This involves clinical examinations every 6 to 12 months and annual echocardiograms; however, it is unclear what to do with these data in the patient who remains asymptomatic. The asymptomatic patient is generally not referred for aortic valve replacement surgery until the development of symptoms (unless concurrent coronary artery bypass grafting is required or if systolic dysfunction develops). Article see p 69 Approximately 30% of asymptomatic patients will develop symptoms (angina, heart failure, syncope) within 2 years of diagnosis.2,3 For those patients who do not develop symptoms, the risk of sudden cardiac death is less than 1% per year, assuming that patients are well monitored for the development of symptoms.2,3 Although angina and syncope are relatively easy symptoms to elicit, manifestations of heart failure may be subtle. This is particularly true because many of these patients are elderly and attribute reduced exercise capacity to be part of the normal aging process or “slowing down.” Vigilance and careful attention to a patient’s history are important components of the regular evaluation of patients with aortic stenosis. However, even careful attention to the history may not predict sudden death in patients with severe aortic stenosis. The reluctance to perform surgery earlier than necessary is driven by the morbidity of cardiac surgery and a mortality rate for aortic valve surgery of approximately 3% to 5%, even in patients younger than 70 years.4 Thus for truly asymptomatic patients, the risk of potential complications like sudden cardiac death and irreversible …
Vibrio cholerae Intestinal Population Dynamics in the Suckling Mouse Model of Infection

The suckling mouse has been used as a model to identify Vibrio cholerae intestinal colonization factors for over two decades, yet little is known about the location of recoverable organisms along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract following intragastric inoculation. In the present study, we determined the population dynamics of wild-type and avirulent mutant derivatives of both classical and El Tor biotype strains throughout the entire suckling mouse GI tract at various times after intragastric inoculation. Wild-type strains preferentially colonized the middle small bowel with a sharp demarcation between more proximal segments which had manyfold-fewer recoverable cells. Surprisingly, large and stable populations of viable cells were also recovered from the cecum and large bowel. Strains lacking toxin-coregulated pili (TCP(-)) were cleared from the small bowel; however, an El Tor TCP(-) strain colonized the cecum and large bowel almost as well as the wild-type strain. Strains lacking lipopolysaccharide O antigen (OA(-)) were efficiently cleared from the small bowel at early times but then showed net growth for the remainder of the infections. Moreover, large populations of the OA(-) strains were maintained in the large bowel. These results show that for the El Tor biotype neither TCP nor OA is required for colonization of the suckling mouse large bowel. Finally, similar percent recoveries of wild-type, TCP(-), and OA(-) strains from the small bowel at an early time after infection suggest that TCP and OA are not required for strains of either biotype to resist bactericidal mechanisms in the suckling mouse GI tract.
Prognostic Significance of E-Cadherin Protein Expression in Pathological Stage I-III Endometrial Cancer

Purpose: Decreased expression of E-cadherin in endometrial cancer cells is associated with adverse prognostic features. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of decreased E-cadherin expression in patients with endometrial cancer. Experimental Design: Between 1992 and 1999, 102 endometrial cancer patients with stage I-III disease underwent primary surgery at the University of Chicago. Representative tissue specimens were immunostained with a monoclonal antibody to E-cadherin. A semiquantitative evaluation scale was developed based on the percentage of endometrial cancer cells with membranous E-cadherin staining. Tissue sections were scored as “3” if >75%, “2” if 25–75%, “1” if 5–25%, and “0” if <5% of cells stained. E-Cadherin staining was correlated with overall survival (OS), cause-specific survival (CSS), progression-free survival (PFS), and extrapelvic progression. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to estimate hazard ratios, controlling for clinicopathological characteristics and adjuvant treatment. Median follow-up for the study group was 58.5 months. Results: E-Cadherin staining was scored as 0, 1, 2, and 3 in 29.4%, 18.6%, 26.5%, 25.5% of cases, respectively. E-Cadherin expression was positively correlated with myometrial invasion (Kendall τ: 0.30, P < 0.01), and negatively correlated with grade (Kendall τ: −0.13, P = 0.15) and papillary serous or clear cell histology (Kendall τ: −0.14, P = 0.12). Five-year actuarial OS, CSS, PFS, and extrapelvic recurrence rates for negative (score = 0), heterogeneous (score = 1–2), and positive (score = 3) staining were as follows: OS, 69.2 versus 75.7 versus 81.0% ( P = 0.64); CSS, 78.8 versus 91.2 versus 95.5% ( P = 0.19); PFS, 69.1 versus 88.6 versus 92.2% ( P = 0.079), and extrapelvic progression, 20.8 versus 7.3 versus 4.0% ( P = 0.17). On multivariate Cox regression, a higher E-cadherin expression score was associated with decreased overall mortality [hazard ratio (HR), 0.59; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.34–1.03; P = 0.066), and statistically significant decreases in endometrial cancer mortality (HR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.055–0.94; P = 0.040), disease progression (HR, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.10–0.77; P = 0.014), and extrapelvic recurrence (HR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.062–0.97; P = 0.045). Conclusions: Decreased E-cadherin expression is an independent prognostic factor for disease progression and mortality in pathological stage I-III endometrial cancer. Evaluation of E-cadherin expression may aid in the selection of patients for more aggressive adjuvant therapy.