cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A process for ensuring optimal cardiovascular intervention and identifying candidates for glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitor therapy

Data from trials with glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitors have led to a new standard of care for patients with unstable angina or non-wave myocardial infarction (MI) who are undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Additional data are necessary to compare patient responses to various GP IIb/IIIa agents in a nontrial setting with results from clinical trials. Seton Medical Center has designed a database to accommodate this task. Data from >20,000 patients have been collected since 1979 and the interventional experience from the years 1997 through 1999 has been analyzed for patients who were candidates for receiving these agents. The data are being used to evaluate the outcomes of therapy and to devise models that can stratify patients according to risk, thereby ensuring optimal cardiovascular intervention and choice of the most cost-effective GP IIb/IIIa inhibitor agent.
Affiliative behavior of adult female sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys)

A 14-month study of 30 adult female members of a captive group of sooty mangabeys investigated their affiliative interactions with group members of varying age and sex. The adult females preferentially affiliated with other adults and interacted less than expected with immature group members. Dyadic frequencies suggested especially frequent affiliation with the three resident adult males, although the pattern of interaction with each male was distinct and apparently was related to age and dominance status of the males. Females of the alpha matriline showed significantly greater affiliation with the males than did those of other matrilines, but this preference was not reciprocated by the males. A preference for grooming older group members (some of the matriarchs and the oldest adult male) was also suggested. In consideration of the taxonomic distinctness of the sooty mangabey from the gray-cheeked mangabey, comparison of these results with those available for albigena were made. Few differences were apparent. Comparisons with the affiliative behavior of Papio females also suggested limited differences, despite the apparently isolated position of the sooty mangabey within the tribe Papionini.
Proposed growth mechanism of single-walled carbon nanotubes

Abstract Open-ended single-wall carbon nanotubes are investigated at finite temperature using an empirical potential and molecular dynamics simulations. These tubes are observed to flare open at their ends due to the change in the local environment at their boundaries. Total energy calculations reveal that this tendency constitutes a potential barrier to tube closure and that the magnitude of the barrier depends on the tube radius. It is argued that this barrier will set an upper limit on the temperature at which tubes of a given radius can form.
Characterization of ABCG2 gene amplification manifesting as extrachromosomal DNA in mitoxantrone-selected SF295 human glioblastoma cells

The human ABCG2 gene, located on chromosome 4, encodes an ATP-binding cassette half-transporter that has been shown to confer resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. Relatively little is known about the mechanisms controlling expression of ABCG2. In previous studies, we had shown that overexpression of ABCG2 can result from rearrangement or gene amplification involving chromosome 4. To better characterize the mechanisms of ABCG2 overexpression, SF295 glioblastoma cells were exposed to increasing amounts of mitoxantrone to generate the SF295 MX50, MX100, MX250, and MX500 sublines, maintained in mitoxantrone concentrations ranging from 50 to 500 nmol/L. Northern blot analysis confirmed overexpression of ABCG2 mRNA, and immunoblot analysis demonstrated increased protein expression in the selected cell lines. Efflux of BODIPY-prazosin confirmed a functional protein. ABCG2 gene amplification was observed in all resistant sublines, as determined by Southern blot analysis. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed amplification of ABCG2 via double minute chromosomes (dmins) detected in metaphase chromosome spreads in the SF295 MX50 and MX100 sublines. At higher levels of drug selection, in the MX250 and MX500 sublines, fewer dmins were observed but homogeneously staining regions (hsr) were visible with FISH analysis, revealing reintegration of the ABCG2 gene into multiple chromosomes. Spectral karyotyping (SKY) demonstrated multiple clonal and nonclonal rearrangements of chromosome 4, including hsrs. These results suggest that amplification of ABCG2 occurred initially in the form of dmins, followed by chromosomal reintegration of the amplicon at multiple sites. This occurred with increasing drug-selection pressure, generating a more stable genotype.
Asp804 and Asp808 in the Transmembrane Domain of the Na,K-ATPase α Subunit Are Cation Coordinating Residues

Abstract The functional roles of Asp804 and Asp808, located in the sixth transmembrane segment of the Na,K-ATPase α subunit, were examined. Nonconservative replacement of these residues yielded enzymes unable to support cell viability. Only the conservative substitution, Ala808 → Glu, was able to maintain the essential cation gradients (Van Huysse, J. W., Kuntzweiler, T. A., and Lingrel, J. B (1996) FEBS Lett. 389, 179-185). Asp804 and Asp808 were replaced by Ala, Asn, and Glu in the sheep α1 subunit and expressed in a mouse cell line where [3H]ouabain binding was utilized to probe the exogenous proteins. All of the heterologous proteins were targeted into the plasma membrane, bound ouabain and nucleotides, and adopted E1Na, E1ATP, and E2P conformations. K+ competition of ouabain binding to sheep α1 and Asp808 → Glu enzymes displayed IC50 values of 4.11 mM (nHill = 1.4) and 23.8 mM (nHill = 1.6), respectively. All other substituted proteins lacked this K+-ouabain antagonism, e.g. 150 mM KCl did not inhibit ouabain binding. Na+ antagonized ouabain binding to all the expressed isoforms, however, the proteins carrying nonconservative substitutions displayed reduced Hill coefficients (nHill ≤ 2.0) compared to the control (nHill ≤ 2.8). Therefore, Asp804 and Asp808 of the Na,K-ATPase are required for normal Na+ and K+ transport, possibly coordinating these cations during transport.
Liquid secondary ionization, tandem and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometric characterization of glycosphingolipid derivatives

Permethylated, peracetylated and perbenzoylated derivatives of glycosphingolipids (GSLs) were prepared to compare their liquid secondary ionization mass spectrometric (LSIMS) and collision-induced dissociation tandem mass spectrometric (CID/MS/MS) fragmentation patterns and also to determine sensitivity improvement in LSIMS and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOFMS) relative to the native species. Permethylation was carried out in the liquid phase, whereas peracetylation and perbenzoylation could be effected using either liquid (bulk)-phase or gas-phase procedures. Lower amounts of starting material were required for the gas-phase derivatization (⩽ 100 pmol) compared with the bulk phase (⩽1 nmol), because the former method permits more efficient sample handling. All three types of derivatives yielded sensitivity improvements of at least two orders of magnitude over the native species in both LSIMS and MALDI-TOFMS. The behavior of the permethylated compounds was used as the benchmark for GSL structural information content in normal and tandem mass spectra. Fragments present in spectra of the three types of derivatives generated complementary information. Permethylated GSLs favored the formation of ions related to the ceramide moieties, whereas peracetylation enhanced the production of carbohydrate-related ions. The LSI mass spectra of perbenzoylated GSLs contained information on both ceramide and sugar portions of the molecules. Each of the LSIMS, MS/MS and MALDI-TOFMS techniques proved to be complementary to the others in this study; the use of all three is recommended for the generation of complete structural information.
Another option for separated plutonium management: Storage MOX

Abstract Currently there is no plan for the management of civilian plutonium that does not create a stockpile of separated plutonium. As a result, a number of nations with nuclear technology hold a large stockpile (about 240 tonnes) of separated plutonium. This paper suggests a timely, cost-effective solution for managing this material: storage MOX. A storage MOX plan would use existing MOX fuel fabrication facilities to make a simple MOX waste form suitable for long-term storage. Alternative waste forms to MOX are also possible, such as zirconia and pyrochlore, which provide more reliable durability and radiation damage control over thousands to hundreds of thousands of years.
Using vehicle dynamics simulations and finite-element results to generate ffatigue life contours for chassis components

Abstract This paper reports on an analytical study of the fatigue life of automobile chassis components using automotive proving ground load history results combined with recent computational advances. This work advances our knowledge in two ways: a vehicle dynamics model is used to generate the history of the load vectors acting on the components and the element stress equivalencing procedure used until now is improved. We conclude that the combination of vehicle dynamics modelling, finite-element analysis and fatigue analysis is a viable technique for the design of automotive components. However, before our durability process can be suitable for applied engineering work a number of improvements are required, which we outline.
Affinity purification of von Willebrand factor using ligands derived from peptide libraries

The chromatographic purification of vWF (von Willebrand Factor) from human plasma represents a challenge because it consists of multimers with molecular weights ranging from 0.5 to 10 million Daltons. Phage peptide library screening yielded a lead peptide (RLRSFY) that interacts with vWF. Conservative substitutions of terminal residues of the lead peptide led to a second peptide, RVRSFY, which was more efficient in the affinity chromatographic purification of vWF from protein mixtures. Adsorption isotherm measurements indicated multiple interactions between vWF and the immobilized peptide RVRSFY. Increases in peptide density on the chromatographic supports resulted in stronger association constants and higher maximum protein binding capacities. When the peptide density was lower than 32 mg/mL, there was no measurable interaction between vWF and immobilized peptide RVRSFY in HEPES buffer containing 0.5 M NaCl at pH 7. An increase in peptide density from 32 to 60 mg/mL increased the association constants from 0.9 x 10(6) to 2 x 10(6) (M-1). Divalent salts (calcium and magnesium chloride) were used to elute the retained vWF with 82.5% of the activity recovered. The interactions between vWF and the immobilized peptide RVRSFY are dominated by ionic attractions and also involve hydrophobic interactions at close contact. Finally, the purification of vWF from crude material PEG filtrate of a cryoprecipitate of human plasma is demonstrated using affinity chromatography with immobilized N-acetyl-RVRSFYK.
Nutritional folate deficiency in chinese hamster ovary cells I. Characterization of the pleiotropic response and its modulation by nucleic acid precursors

Nutritional folate deficiency in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)-K1 cells inhibited population growth rate and caused growth arrest within 3 days of culture in Fol- medium [without folate, hypoxanthine (Hx), and thymidine (TdR)]. Coincident with impaired population growth was a transient delay in cell cycle progression through S phase and an increase in cell size. The growth-arrested population of predominantly G1 phase cells exhibited an increased adhesion to the culture substratum. There was a time-dependent loss of cell reproductive capacity. All these various perturbations of cellular phenotype induced by folate deficiency were prevented by the addition of folate or a combination of TdR and Hx to the Fol- medium. However, the singular presence of each nucleotide precursor differentially affected the pleiotropic response. The addition of Hx to Fol- medium exacerbated the aforementioned abnormalities, producing a threefold increase in mean cell volume, a 72 hr accumulation of cells in the S phase of the cell cycle, and a rapid demise in cell clonogenicity. Unexpectedly, we found reduced cell adhesion in these cultures. In contrast, folate-deficient cells supplemented with TdR exhibited a general amelioration of cell perturbations with respect to cell size, cell cycle distribution, and reproductive viability. Notably, such populations were not released from growth inhibition or subsequent growth arrest, and the cells became elongated and highly adherent with time. When cell populations from each of the three conditions of folate-deficient culture were released from growth arrest by addition of complete medium, the respective profiles of synchronous cell cycle progression were distinctive.
In-plane dynamic behavior of cable networks. Part 2: prototype prediction and validation

Abstract An analytically based and numerically implemented method for the prediction of the behavior of cable networks has been developed for the analysis of the in-plane free-vibration problem of a set of interconnected taut cable elements. The methodology has been extended to large systems with complex configurations and applied to the study of the oscillation mitigation of a real case on an existing cable-stayed bridge. Validation of the model has been performed through the comparison of the predictions with experimental data derived from an extended ambient survey on an actual structural system. In addition, the study includes a sensitivity analysis related to the introduction of design modifications to the original configuration. The observations deduced from this research have contributed to the definition of preliminary criteria for the selection of an optimized system.
Helical, non-cellulosic microfibrils from Acetobacter xylinum and Acetobacter suboxydans.

Abstract Helical, non-cellulosic microfibrils are formed in water from substance(s) soluble in 80% ethanol, which are concentrated in (or close to) the cell walls of Acetobacter xylinum and Acetobacter suboxydans but not in those of Acetobacter acetigenum or Acetobacter aceti . The microfibrils, which are variable in diameter and pitch, aggregate readily to form bundles. They appear to be formed spontaneously by packing of non-polymeric material to form extended threads, without formation of covalent bonds. Formation of the helices may be prevented or destroyed by the addition of either oxidizing or reducing agents to the ethanol extracts. The microfibrils do not appear as such in the bacterial cell wall. The monomeric unit of the microfibrils may be a long-chain aliphatic ester or ketone with hydroxyl groups attached.
The integrated approach—Regulating private human spaceflight as space activity, aircraft operation, and high-risk adventure tourism

Abstract One of the overriding issues concerning private human spaceflight concerns how to properly regulate this specific new type of activity. Noting that in the discussion regarding regulation thereof usually the three distinct regimes of space law, air law and high-risk adventure tourism law are drawn upon to look for solutions, the present paper addresses the key elements of each of these approaches as they are to some extent already currently being applied and where, as a consequence, gaps and overlaps arise, as well as presents an effort to address the latter in a sensible, coherent, efficient and feasible manner.
Biology of a new virus isolated from Lupinus nootkatensis plants in Alaska

A new virus named Nootka lupine vein-clearing virus (NLVCV) was isolated from Lupinus nootkatensis plants that were confined to a relatively small area in the Talkeetna mountains of south-central Alaska. Annual surveys (2000‐03) consistently found leaf symptoms of pronounced vein clearing and mosaic on 3- to 4-week-old plants in late June. Spherical particles ≈ 30 nm in diameter were isolated from these leaves. Virions contained a single-stranded RNA of ≈ 4·0‐4·2 kb and one species of capsid protein estimated to be ≈ 40 kDa. The double-stranded RNA profile from naturally infected leaves consisted of three major bands ≈ 4·2, 1·9 and 1·5 kbp. Protein extractions from either sap or virions of diseased plants reacted to polyclonal antiserum made against the virions in Western blot assays. A predicted PCR product ≈ 500 bp was synthesized from virion RNA using primers specific to the carmovirus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RDRP) gene. The nucleotide sequence of the amplified DNA did not match any known virus, but contained short regions of identity to several carmoviruses. Only species belonging to the Fabaceae were susceptible to NLVCV by mechanical inoculation. Based on dsRNA profile, size of virion RNA genome and capsid protein, and similarity of the RDRP gene to that of other carmoviruses, it is suggested that NLVCV is a member of the family Tombusviridae , and tentatively of the genus Carmovirus . As the host range, RDRP gene and dsRNA profile of NLVCV are different from those of known viruses, this is a newly described plant virus.
Factors influencing the ascending limb of the sarcomere length‐tension relationship in rabbit skinned muscle fibres.

1. The length dependence of Ca2+-activated tension within the ascending limb of the length-tension relationship, corresponding to sarcomere lengths below about 2.25 micron, was investigated in skinned fibres from rabbit psoas muscle. At high [Ca2+] a shallow phase and then a steep phase of tension decline were observed as sarcomere length was reduced, while at low [Ca2+] tension decreased monotonically with decreases in sarcomere length. The sarcomere length at which the ascending limb intersected zero tension was greater for lower concentrations of Ca2+. 2. The length tension relationship from maximally activated fibres changed when filament lattice spacing was reduced by osmotic compression. Relationships obtained in the presence of 5% (w/v) dextran T500 more distinctly demonstrated both the shallow and steep portions of the ascending limb than did relationships from untreated fibres. 3. As striation spacing was decreased a progressive decline in the Ca2+ sensitivity of tension development was observed. Tension-pCa relationships from both control and dextran-treated fibres underwent a rightward shift (i.e. to a higher [Ca2+]) by 0.23 pCa units as sarcomere length was reduced between 2.46 and 1.54 microns. 4. Fibre stiffness was studied by applying a 3.3 kHz sinusoidal length change at one end of the fibre and measuring the resultant tension change. At submaximal activation (pCa 5.8), stiffness increased relative to tension as sarcomere length was decreased below approximately 2.4 microns, suggesting that there is an activation-related internal load at low [Ca2+]. At maximal activation, a significant increase in this ratio occurred only at sarcomere lengths less than approximately 1.8 microns, and presumably involved collision of the thick filaments with the Z-lines. 5. Length-dependent changes in the Ca2+ sensitivity of tension development do not appear to be the result of shortening-induced dissociation of Ca2+ from troponin-C, the Ca2+ binding subunit of troponin. Fibres activated in the absence of Ca2+, by the partial removal of whole troponin complexes, produced length-tension relationships similar to those observed in the same fibres before troponin removal at a submaximal [Ca2+] yielding similar active tensions.
An Assessment of NCATE Rejoinders

(1993). An Assessment of NCATE Rejoinders. Action in Teacher Education: Vol. 15, No. 3, pp. 71-77.
Malignant Drosophila Tumors Interrupt Insulin Signaling to Induce Cachexia-like Wasting

Tumors kill patients not only through well-characterized perturbations to their local environment but also through poorly understood pathophysiological interactions with distant tissues. Here, we use a Drosophila tumor model to investigate the elusive mechanisms underlying such long-range interactions. Transplantation of tumors into adults induces robust wasting of adipose, muscle, and gonadal tissues that are distant from the tumor, phenotypes that resemble the cancer cachexia seen in human patients. Notably, malignant, but not benign, tumors induce peripheral wasting. We identify the insulin growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) homolog ImpL2, an antagonist of insulin signaling, as a secreted factor mediating wasting. ImpL2 is sufficient to drive tissue loss, and insulin activity is reduced in peripheral tissues of tumor-bearing hosts. Importantly, knocking down ImpL2, specifically in the tumor, ameliorates wasting phenotypes. We propose that the tumor-secreted IGFBP creates insulin resistance in distant tissues, thus driving a systemic wasting response.
A Defense of the Metaphysical Quest

T ODAY any philosopher who is bold enough to embark on the metaphysical quest is subject to attack from many quarters. There is, to begin with, the widespread belief, even among philosophers, that he lacks humility in venturing on such an undertaking. Philosophy must be content to be tame; it must clip its wings and not attempt such lofty flights into the vast unknown. Most insidious, however, are the attacks from both the extreme right and the extreme left. Chief among the former are, of course, those schools of modern theologians who, following in the wake of S6ren Kierkegaard, crucify reason in order to make way for faith. Most prominent among the latter are the Logical Positivists or Logical Empiricists who march under the banner of A. J. Ayer and Rudolf Carnap. One does not have to agree with them to admire their audacity in attempting to dispose of the whole metaphysical question by simply reducing it to a matter of linguistics. Within the limits of this brief paper four things shall be given consideration. First, the term metaphysics, as used here, must be defined as clearly as possible. Second, an endeavor will be made to show how inescapable the metaphysical quest really is; third, that it is possible in a meaningful and fruitful way; and fourth, that in view of man's present desperate dilemma, it is nothing short of imperative. 1. Meaning and Significance The metaphysical* quest signifies a serious atte pt to find a reasonable answer to the great question: what is the secret, the deeper meaning of this strange, mysterious, puzzling universe in which man finds himself? Or, to put it in another way, it is the search for wholeness in a very chaotic age when all too few rise above the dangers of mere fragmentary thinking. In other words, today as always, metaphysics is really the search for a principle or an hypothesis which may serve as the most reasonable explanation of the deeper or ultimate meaning of the whole of things. Yet in making this venture, the thinker must ever be on his guard against the illusion that philosophy in any sense furnishes him with a magic key that unlocks all mysteries. Still, to make any progress whatever, he must have enough faith to believe that reason, with the experience of the ages at its beck and call, can find some light to illuminate the dark drama of existence. Though the end result can never be the discovery of a principle which can be demonstrated and thus insure absolute certainty, it may be possible to find an hypothesis which seems probable enough to serve as a meaningful guide in the actual experiment of living.
DOBUTAMINE STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY PREDICTS LEFT VENTRICULAR REMODELING AFTER ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

Abstract Background and Objectives: Left ventricular (LV) remodeling after acute myocardial infarction (MI) is strongly related to infarct size. The contribution of viability in the infarct zone and the presence of multivessel disease remains unknown. Because dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) can estimate infarct size and detect myocardial viability and multivessel disease, we postulated that DSE can accurately predict LV remodeling after acute MI. Methods: To test this hypothesis, 30 patients age 59 ± 15 years, 21 men, 14 with anterior MI, underwent multistage DSE (low dose, 5 to 10 μg, and peak dose) during the first week after MI occurred. Follow-up echocardiography was performed at ≥1 year. LV remodeling (2 SD increase in LV volume) occurred in 17 of 30 patients. Remodeling occurred in 12 (92%) of 13 patients with large nonviable infarct and in 1 (13%) of 8 patients with large viable infarct ( P P P P P Conclusion: DSE performed during the first week after acute MI predicts subsequent LV remodeling. Infarct size, nonviability of the infarct zone, and age are independent predictors of LV remodeling. Myocardial viability is a strong negative predictor of LV remodeling. (J Am Soc Echocardiogr 1999;12:777-84.)
Clinical pharmacists: Bridging the gap between patients and physicians

The clinical pharmacy has spread out drastically in terms of its professional services throughout the past few years. The clinical pharmacist become a crucial element of healthcare team and promotes patient care by interacting with physician and patient. The aim of this paper is to highlight the role of clinical pharmacists in various departments. It concludes that the features of interactions occurring between clinical pharmacists and physicians influence the teamwork between pharmacists and physicians and provide better patient care.
The three corrugated surfaces of 1,4-divinyltetramethylene diradical intermediates and their connections to 1,2-divinylcyclobutane, 4-vinylcyclohexene, 1,5-cyclooctadiene, and two butadienes.

The three potential energy surfaces of the trans-trans, cis-trans, and cis-cis divinyltetramethylene diradicals have been located with DFT calculations at the BPW91/6-311+G** levels. The three surfaces account well for the experimental results reported for the thermolysis of optically active trans-1,2-divinylcyclobutane and optically active and deuterated 4-vinylcyclohexene. The surfaces account also for the outcome of the dimerization of butadiene and the thermolysis of cis,cis-1,5-cyclooctadiene. The three diradical intermediates are connected to the cyclization and dissociation products through conformations that are explored fully here.
What Molecular Phylogenies Tell Us about the Evolution of Larval Forms

SYNOPSIS. There is interest in assembling a robust hypothesis of animal relationships based on molecular and other character-based evidence, but even if a high degree of phylogenetic resolution is available, there remain challenging problems for postulating ancestral larval traits. This distinction between hypotheses of genealogies and our knowledge of specific traits is illustrated with specific examples of the portion of variable larval traits that are homoplastic (i.e., they require convergences, parallelisms, or character reversals) with respect to specific molecular-based genealogical hypotheses. Corresponding molecular studies suggest (1) maximal incongruity in larval form and metamorphosis for extant echinoderm classes, (2) convergences in larval size and form associated with coloniality in ascidians, (3) multiple losses of the locomotory larval tail in molgulid ascidians, (4) multiple losses of larval feeding and gain of apomictic parthenogenesis within a genus of bivalves, (5) multiple losses of larval feeding in echinoids, (6) alternative explanations of the distribution of feeding and non-feeding larvae among gastropods, and (7) recent modifications in embryonic and larval development of echinoids following prolonged stasis. These examples show that inferences from phylogenetic studies will ultimately be limited by the extent to which homoplasy and polarity can be unambiguously assessed for larval traits. These limitations are illustrated by alternative hypotheses for larval trait synapomorphies among phyla, evolution of feeding with opposed prototrochal and metatrochal ciliary bands, and the retention or reacquisition of the locomotory nauplius of the Euphausiacea and Dendrobranchiata. Inferences on the evolution of larval traits require other sorts of evidence, perhaps including information on the evolution of genes that play important roles in morphogenesis and their sites of expression
Finding redundant paths in hypermedia

Web page prerequisites can be used to constrain how a user can explore a web site. This can be used in a number of ways, but plays an especially important role in educational sites. If disjunctive and conjunctive constraints are used to describe the preferences, some pages may become redundant given the user's previous path and the user may not want to visit them. The redundancy of a page is not a local property and may depend on many preferences. This paper describes an efficient algorithm that finds these redundant pages and discusses some applications of the approach.
Parallel Algorithm for GPU Processing; for use in High Speed Machine Vision Sensing of Cotton Lint Trash

One of the main hurdles standing in the way of optimal cleaning of cotton lint isthe lack of sensing systems that can react fast enough to provide the control system withreal-time information as to the level of trash contamination of the cotton lint. This researchexamines the use of programmable graphic processing units (GPU) as an alternative to thePC’s traditional use of the central processing unit (CPU). The use of the GPU, as analternative computation platform, allowed for the machine vision system to gain asignificant improvement in processing time. By improving the processing time, thisresearch seeks to address the lack of availability of rapid trash sensing systems and thusalleviate a situation in which the current systems view the cotton lint either well before, orafter, the cotton is cleaned. This extended lag/lead time that is currently imposed on thecotton trash cleaning control systems, is what is responsible for system operators utilizing avery large dead-band safety buffer in order to ensure that the cotton lint is not undercleaned.Unfortunately, the utilization of a large dead-band buffer results in the majority ofthe cotton lint being over-cleaned which in turn causes lint fiber-damage as well assignificant losses of the valuable lint due to the excessive use of cleaning machinery. Thisresearch estimates that upwards of a 30% reduction in lint loss could be gained through theuse of a tightly coupled trash sensor to the cleaning machinery control systems. Thisresearch seeks to improve processing times through the development of a new algorithm forcotton trash sensing that allows for implementation on a highly parallel architecture.Additionally, by moving the new parallel algorithm onto an alternative computing platform,the graphic processing unit “GPU”, for processing of the cotton trash images, a speed up ofover 6.5 times, over optimized code running on the PC’s central processing unit “CPU”, wasgained. The new parallel algorithm operating on the GPU was able to process a 1024x1024image in less than 17ms. At this improved speed, the image processing system’s performance should now be sufficient to provide a system that would be capable of realtimefeed-back control that is in tight cooperation with the cleaning equipment.
The market response to product safety litigation

This paper examines the stock market impact of 29 product liability lawsuits reported in the Wall Street Journal from 1970–1985, an additional series of Agent Orange events, and a set of regulatory events involving product risks. If these events and the costs associated with them were fully anticipated, then there would be no effect on the stock market price. Adverse stock market effects increase if the event involves a product liability action, bodily injury, or a court decision. Lengthy newspaper coverage and initial reports also have a strong effect. If there are multiple defendants, the market cost per firm is reduced. One widely publicized “good news” event—the final Agent Orange decision—led to a dramatic increase in stock prices.
Increased morbidity in low-birth-weight survivors with severe retrolental fibroplasia.

Fourteen (2.2%) of 645 survivors with birth weight ≤1500 gm cared for in the Special Care Nursery between 1975 and 1981 were identified as having stage III–IV retrolental fibroplasia (RLF) in one or both eyes. These 14 survivors and 14 controls matched for birth weight have been observed for 2 to 7 years. There were no differences between survivors with RLF and controls in birth weight, gestation, multiple neonatal risk factors, or Hollingshead socioeconomic status. The only significant difference was in prolonged O 2 requirements (> 2 weeks) (13 of 14 patients vs 7 of 14 control infants (P
Non‐Hodgkin Lymphoma of the Breast: Clinical and Radiologic Presentations

: We reviewed the clinical presentations, radiologic findings, and histopathologic findings in 18 women with 21 non-Hodgkin lymphomas involving the breast. Eight patients had primary breast lymphoma, 10 had secondary involvement. Three had bilateral lesions. Thirteen lymphomas (62%) presented as palpable breast masses, and one (5%) as a palpable axillary mass with ipsilateral breast peau ďorange. Seven (33%) were clinically occult and detected on routine mammography. Masses ranged from well-circumscribed to ill-defined mammographically, and were all hypoechoic at sonography. Histopathologic diagnoses included diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in six patients (33%), follicle center lymphoma in five patients (28%), small lymphocytic lymphoma in three patients (17%), nodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma in two patients (11%), high-grade B-cell, Burkitt-like lymphoma in one patient (5.5%), and Burkitt's lymphoma in one patient (5.5%). The radiologic appearance of breast lymphoma is nonspecific, possessing no pathognomonic or distinguishing features. No correlation was noted between radiologic appearance and histopathologic subtype.?
Project and program diagnostics: A systemic approach

Abstract This paper focuses on the theory and application of diagnostic concepts to assess the health of large projects or programs at any point in their life relative to the desired targets. The author presents a comprehensive project health check methodology. Project diagnostics is not to be confused with project progress measurement and control or project management maturity models as the objective is to see if the project team applies a systemic approach to the planning and management of the project. Its purpose is not to assess the project progress achieved at a given time and compare that to plans. Nor does it aim to assess the maturity of the application of a particular project management methodology/standard. The health of a project/program at a given time is found by evaluating the actual practices applied to manage a raft of variables which collectively characterise the management practice on that project. The technique – referred to as project health check or ‘PH-Check’ – has been computerised for ease of application. It provides a graphical picture of the heath of a project at the time of assessment. The results of the project health check can then be correlated with the results obtained from traditional project progress measurement tools. This correlation will yield greater understanding of the management of the enabling factors and their influence on project behaviour and results. This paper presents the PH-Check methodology and its underpinning concepts.
Trace element partitioning between plagioclase and melt: investigation of dopant influence on partition behavior

Abstract We present results from an ion microprobe study of REE-doped and natural concentration plagioclase-basalt run products of Drake (1972) that carries on from our earlier study (Bindeman et al., 1998) . The goals of this work are (1) to determine plagioclase/melt partition coefficients for all REE for four analyzed plagioclase compositions (An40–80); and (2) to determine whether doping with REE influences partition coefficients of other REE and other trace elements. In combination with our analyses of Sr-doped runs (Bindeman et al., 1998) , the new data allow us to compare partition coefficients (Dι’s) of trace elements at natural concentrations with those in REE-doped and Sr-doped runs. In these comparisons, runs have the same run temperature and compositions, but different doping element(s). We find that ln(DREE) decreases as a linear function of REE atomic number, in contrast to most plagioclase-melt partition experiments. The slopes of the ln(Dι) vs. %An and RT ln(Dι) vs. %An dependencies of REE and monovalent and divalent cations increase from smaller to larger ions of each valence group. DLa/DY and DLa/DLu increase by more than 5 times as plagioclase composition changes from An80 to An40. Within each valence group, slopes on ln(Dι) vs. %An and RT ln(Dι) vs. %An plots increase linearly with ionic radius, with the trivalent REE showing the steepest slope vs. ionic radius dependence. Application of the elastic modulus model of Blundy and Wood (1994) to our results yielded good results, confirming that elastic properties determine partition behavior. We also present Dι’s for U. We find no detectable effects of trace element doping on Dι’s of 30 trace elements of varying size and charge. This implies that coupling between different trace elements is not a significant process during partitioning in natural systems, even for the case of heterovalent substitutions (such as REE). However, DREE and DY in REE-doped runs are 30–100% higher than DREE in undoped runs and Sr-doped runs. Doping with thousands of ppm of three selected REE (it does not matter which three) affects Dι’s of Y and all REE in these runs, including those at natural concentration levels. We suggest that substituting trace cations largely compete for sites of substitution with the mineral-forming cations Na and Ca. We speculate that lower DREE in REE-doped runs are the result of a change in the REE substitution mechanisms at doped concentrations of all REE which leads to a different value of the Henry’s law constant.
DNA Of A Successful BPO

This paper identifies some of the critical elements of a successful BPO through a case study of an U.S. financial services firm that had BPO operations in India. The important dimensions of selection, training, motivation, respecting cultural differences, treating quality as paramount in all operations, and understanding how appropriate control has to be exercised in the area of knowledge-intensive services, were identified as being critical to success. Specific propositions are developed based on these critical elements, and provide a potentially new direction to service outsourcing research.
Should you cut retiree medical benefits

Are companies right in cutting retiree medical benefits? Although many cite a 1993 accounting rule as the reason, the author mostly blames rising health care costs and an increase in expected retirees. He reviews the methods companies have used to cut benefits, and analyzes whether it was really profitable—or prudent. Some conclusions: To avoid public relations and legal problems, the author suggests cutting benefits for future—not current—retirees. And if you want to improve your firm's financial statements, consider setting up a voluntary employee benefits trust (VEBA). © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Patterns of care in elderly glioblastoma patients.

Objective To evaluate the patterns of care in elderly glioblastoma (GBM) patients from a large population-based registry. Methods We identified a cohort of GBM patients 65 years or older from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry data linked with Medicare claims between 1994 and 2002. We assessed the impact of demographic characteristics and comorbidities on the probability of undergoing surgical resection, radiotherapy (RT), and chemotherapy within 3 months of diagnosis using multivariate logistic regression. Results A total of 4,137 patients with GBM were included, with a median overall survival of 4 months. Sixty-one percent of patients underwent resection at diagnosis; 65% received RT and 10% received chemotherapy within 3 months of diagnosis. In a multivariate regression analysis, age was the most significant predictor of resection, RT, or chemotherapy. Black race (odds ratio [OR], 0.64; p = 0.008) was associated with lower rates of surgical resection. Factors associated with decreased likelihood of receiving RT included unmarried marital status (OR, 0.64; p < 0.0001) and more comorbidities (OR, 0.55; p < 0.0001). Factors associated with decreased likelihood of receiving chemotherapy included unmarried marital status (OR, 0.59; p = 0.0002) and more comorbidities (OR, 0.56; p = 0.02). Interpretation Survival of elderly GBM patients was poor in this population-based study. Age, marital status, and comorbidities influenced the probability of receiving RT or chemotherapy in this cohort. Ann Neurol 2008;64:628–634
p41‐Arc subunit of human Arp2/3 complex is a p21‐activated kinase‐1‐interacting substrate

The formation of new branched actin filament networks at the cell cortex of migrating cells is choreographed by the actin-related protein (Arp) 2/3 complex. Despite the fundamental role of the Arp2/3 complex in actin nucleation and branching, upstream signals that control the functions of p41-Arc, a putative regulatory component of the mammalian Arp2/3 complex, remain unidentified. Here we show that p41-Arc interacts with p21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1) both in vitro and in vivo. Pak1 phosphorylation of p41-Arc regulates its localization with the Arp2/3 complex in the cortical nucleation regions of cells. Pak1 phosphorylates p41-Arc on threonine 21 in the first WD repeat, and its mutation has functional implications in vivo. Threonine 21 phosphorylation by Pak1 is required for both constitutive and growth-factor-induced cell motility. Pak1 regulation of p41-Arc activation status represents a novel mechanism by which signalling pathways may influence the functions of the Arp2/3 complex, leading to motility in mammalian cells.
PHYSICO-CHEMICAL COMPARISON OF THE MÁNAMO AND MACAREO RIVERS IN THE ORINOCO DELTA AFTER THE 1965 MÁNAMO DAM CONSTRUCTION

The consequences of the dam construction in the Manamo were reflected in dramatic changes in the hydrological regime of the river, whose seasonal flooding regime has been eliminated. The dam has altered the hydrodynamics of the Manamo. While the average flow of its channel was reduced from 10% to about 0.5% (200 m 3 /s) of the annual discharge of the Orinoco River, the adjacent Macareo distributary, which is not regulated, increased its discharge up to 11% (4,000 m 3 /s) annually (FUNINDES-USB, 1999). The flow reduction in the Manamo not only affected the accretion and erosive processes of the banks, but also the composition, distribution and diversity of aquatic plants in the region (Colonnello, 1996; Colonnello and Medina, 1998). Only few physico-chemical data have been published (Paolini et al., 1983; Monente and Colonnello, 1997 and Olivares and Colonnello, 2000) comparing this river and its sub-basin with non-regulated systems. The principal aim of this study is to document and compare the physical and chemical characteristics of the Manamo regulated system, with a natural system, the Macareo river. Methods Sampling strategy for water quality The periods of sampling were made to coincide with the water rising levels and associated increase in nutrients input. River regulation led to a diminution of the water flow and sediment load in the Manamo. This is particularly important in tropical rivers where the seasonal rain period is associated with a proportional increase in the erosive processes within the watershed and also with an increase in the nutrients transported by such rivers. The water quality sampling program and measurements of variables was arranged as follows: five samples during the period of rising river water levels from April to the beginning of August (1994), two samples during
Adnexal Torsion in Children and Adolescents: A Retrospective Review of 245 Cases at a Single Institution.

Abstract Study Objective Adnexal torsion (AT) requires urgent surgical intervention to preserve ovarian function. Historically, treatment for AT was oophorectomy because of concerns related to leaving a nonviable ischemic ovary. No published studies support these theoretical concerns and current literature supports conservative management. The aim of this study was to review the institutional outcomes for AT cases, including salvage rates and complications. Design, Setting, Participants, Interventions, and Main Outcome Measures This study was approved by the institutional review board at Baylor College of Medicine. A retrospective chart review on cases of AT from 2007 to 2016 at a single Children's hospital was performed on the basis of International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision and Current Procedural Terminology codes. A standardized chart review form was used in data extraction. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS version 9.4 (SAS Institute). Results Chart review identified 245 torsion cases in 237 patients. The mean age was 12.4 ± 3.29 years. Of the participants, 230 (94%) underwent minimally invasive laparoscopy with ovarian preservation in 233 (95%) of the cases. There were no complications due to detorsion of the affected adnexa. Intraoperatively, the right adnexa was affected in 134 (55%) cases and a lesion was noted in 193 (79%) cases, most commonly paratubal cysts and mature teratomas. The malignancy rate was low, noted only in 4/245 patients at (1.2%). Pediatric gynecology performed most of the cases (n = 214; 87%). Conclusion The findings of our study continue to support the conservative management of patients with AT.
Improved structure, function and compatibility for CellProfiler

Summary: There is a strong and growing need in the biology research community for accurate, automated image analysis. Here, we describe CellProfiler 2.0, which has been engineered to meet the needs of its growing user base. It is more robust and user friendly, with new algorithms and features to facilitate high-throughput work. ImageJ plugins can now be run within a CellProfiler pipeline. Availability and Implementation: CellProfiler 2.0 is free and open source, available at http://www.cellprofiler.org under the GPL v. 2 license. It is available as a packaged application for Macintosh OS X and Microsoft Windows and can be compiled for Linux. Contact: anne@broadinstitute.org Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Impact of Statins on Risk of Stroke: A Meta-Analysis

Background:Evidence from randomized, controlled trials suggests that reduction of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitor (statin) therapy in patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease reduces the incidence of ischemic stroke; however, data from large epidemiologic observational studies suggest an inverse relationship between risk of hemorrhagic stroke and cholesterol levels.Objective:To perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to assess the effect of statin therapy on all cerebrovascular events (CVEs), ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke.Methods:A systematic literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing&Allied Health Literature, and Web of Science citations from June 1975 through September 2006 was performed to identify randomized controlled trials of statin therapy. Trials were included if they met the following criteria: (1) controlled clinical trials of statin therapy versus placebo, (2) well-described p...