cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
"From writing illegibly to composing fiction: The story of a blind man with 20/20 vision".

Illegible handwriting on the part of physicians and nurses in hospital and outpatient charts is often said to be the reason for the electronic medical record (EMR). The virtues of the EMR are extolled far and wide and various gimmicks are incorporated to facilitate charting. For example, templates can be utilized that go into great detail describing a normal examination. If the examination is not normal when the doctor sees the patient and uses the EMR “canned” note, then the doctor must change the template and enter positive the findings in the patient's history and physical examination. However, if the “standard” entry is not factual for the patient being seen at a particular time and goes uncorrected, then we may be left with absurdities and contradictions. For example, in a recent chart review, I read about a blind man with 20/20 vision. Even though the chief complaint for the office visit after craniotomy for a pituitary tumor was “blindness after surgery,” the note itself went on to document 20/20 vision in both the right and left eyes and a normal neuro eye examination for both eyes. In another chart review case, a patient who was treated in a halo orthosis for a cervical fracture was said to have a “supple” neck with “normal neck range of motion” while still in the halo during an outpatient encounter with his neurosurgeon. I have no doubt that neither of the physicians who made those entries were lying (making intentionally deceptive statements).[1] They told a story that could have been true but was not. I think we call that fiction or perhaps B.S. or balderdash as suggested by Frankfort.[2]
Does a replacement or revision of an inflatable penile prosthesis lead to decreased patient satisfaction

Does a replacement or revision of an inflatable penile prosthesis lead to decreased patient satisfaction?
Automated optical recognition of degraded handwritten characters

This paper reports on a new approach in the field of automated optical recognition of handwritten characters. The approach combines geometrical and topological features, distribution of points, and Alopex based neural network to achieve a high recognition rate. A considerable enhancement in speed is achieved by implementing the process on a compressed image. Distortion tolerant features along with noise removal and region merging permit the handling of degraded documents and characters. Software implementation of the system experimented on the NIST database yields to a recognition rate of 92.4 for numerals and upper-case letters.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Fiber optic sensors at Sandia National Laboratories

Sandia National Laboratories in Livermore, Calif. and the Mechanical Engineering Department of Stanford University are involved in fiber optic sensor research and development for manufacturing process monitoring, smart materials, and other applications. Projects at Sandia and Stanford involving both embedded and surface mounted fiber optic strain and temperature sensors have demonstrated the desirability of this technology. This paper presents an overview of the fiber optic sensing capabilities at Sandia and a summary of the projects currently in progress.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The effects of S-adenosyl methionine (AdoMet) and its analogues on the control of transcription and translation in vitro of the mRNA products of two cytoplasmic polyhedrosis viruses.

Abstract S-Adenosyl methionine (AdoMet) and several structurally related compounds were added to in vitro systems for the synthesis of single-stranded RNA by cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus (CPV) types 1 and 2. The effects of these compounds were examined on the level of transcription and methylation of the RNA products. Of the compounds tested, five increased the polymerise activity in both viruses, the most effective being the d - and l -stereoisomers of S-adenosyl homocysteine (AdoHcy), and the least effective, adenosine. l -AdoHcy, unlike d -AdoHcy, was also a competitive inhibitor of RNA methylation in the presence of [3H]AdoMet. The different response of both viruses to d - and l -AdoHcy suggests that CPV virions contain at least two functionally distinct sites to which AdoMet, or its analogues, bind. One of these is the transcription control site, while the other is the active site(s) for RNA methylation. CPV RNA synthesised in the presence of the methyl donor AdoMet was more efficiently translated in vitro in a wheat-germ translation system than RNA synthesised in the presence of methylation inhibitors. Type 2 CPV-RNA transcripts had a greater degree of methylation than type 1 CPV transcripts and were more effective in stimulating protein synthesis in the translation system. It seems likely that the allosteric control of CPV polymerase by AdoMet and its analogues, and the methylation of the transcripts, ensures the effective transcription and translation of the CPV genome and the stability of the viral messenger RNA.
Some inverse problems with a 'partial' point source

Let x Rk and y Rn. Let L(x, Dx) and L(y, Dy) be the elliptic operators of the second order in Rk and Rn respectively, and L(x, y, Dx, Dy) = L(x, Dx) + L(y, Dy). The forward problem is the Cauchy problem for either the parabolic equation ut = Lu with the initial data u(x, y, 0) = ?(x)f(y), i.e. with the 'partial' ?-function or for the hyperbolic equation utt = Lu. The inverse problem consists in the recovery of an unknown y-dependent coefficient given the data depending on n variables. An essentially new element here is the presence of the ?(x)-function in the initial condition 'at the expense' of the assumption that the unknown coefficient is independent of x. It is shown that the global uniqueness can be proven using a combination of an incomplete separation of variables in the parabolic case, an analogue of the Laplace transform connecting solutions of hyperbolic and parabolic Cauchy problems and the method of Carleman estimates. A convolution theorem is obtained for that analogue of the Laplace transform. It enables one to prove both global uniqueness theorems and stability estimates for the hyperbolic case with a finite time interval.
Are sexual activity and satisfaction affected by pelvic floor disorders? Analysis of a community-based survey.

Objective The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between pelvic floor disorders and sexual activity and satisfaction. Study Design Information on pelvic floor disorders, sexual activity, and satisfaction as measured by 100-mm visual analog scale was obtained by questionnaire from 4106 women. Proportions of sexually active women were compared by the presence of each pelvic floor disorder with the use of chi-square tests. Satisfaction was compared with the use of t -tests. Logistic and linear regression analyses were used to assess the association between each pelvic floor disorder and sexual activity and satisfaction. Results Eighty-six percent of women with a partner (n = 1486) were sexually active. Women with pelvic floor disorders were less likely to be sexually active and to have lower mean satisfaction scores than unaffected women ( P Conclusion In community-dwelling women, sexual activity and satisfaction are independent of pelvic floor disorders.
Letting go: Family willingness to forgo life support

Objective: To describe the process of family decision making about life support in the critical care setting. Design: Descriptive, exploratory. Setting: A northeastern United States university-affiliated medical intensive care unit. Sample: Thirty family members of 16 critically ill patients. Results: Letting go or becoming willing to forgo life support involved three interrelated and complex processes: (1) family members sought out, obtained, and tried to understand information about the critical illness; (2) they reviewed the life story of the patient, seeking meaning in the patient's life and the critical illness; and (3) they struggled to maintain family roles and relationships. For most families, interpersonal and intrapsychic work during each process created a reframing of the issues related to the critical illness: (1) they came to believe that they had done all that could be done and were able then to relinquish the goal of recovery for acceptance of a peaceful death; (2) they reviewed the patient's life, finding some meaning and a sense that, given the situation, the patient would not want to continue on life support, and then they moved toward closure; and (3) they were able to bring about (at least within a small group of the closest family members) a sense of doing the “right thing,” and they were able to develop some sense that forgoing life support for the ill relative would not destroy important family relationships. For a few other families this movement toward resolution did not occur, and although family members attempted to deal with the issues of life support, their efforts were fraught with conflict and prolongation of the end-of-life period. Conclusions: Little is known about the actual experience of family members as they are involved in life-support decision making. Identification of the needs of family members to work through the decision-making experience cognitively, emotionally, and morally is essential to communicating effectively about the ill relative's condition and to providing understanding and support to families involved in life-support decision making in the critical care setting.
Biologic and morphologic development of donated human ova recovered by nonsurgical uterine lavage

Using uterine lavage performed 5 days after the luteinizing hormone peak, we collected 25 uterine ova from five fertile donors who had had a single, periovular artificial insemination. After examination, all recovered ova were transferred to recipient uteri and resulted in three intrauterine and one tubal pregnancy. Morphologic development ranged from degenerating single-cell ova to mature blastocysts. Ages of the ova at recovery ranged from 93.5 to 130.0 hours postovulation. Mean age of the five blastocysts, 109.1 hours, was not significantly different from the mean age of the 20 less mature ova, 108.1 hours. Neither the mean interval from insemination to recovery for blastocysts nor the mean interval from insemination to ovulation for blastocysts was significantly different from the mean intervals of the other ova. The five blastocysts resulted in intrauterine pregnancies in three recipients. There were no intrauterine pregnancies from the other 20 transfers (p less than 0.004). A transferred 12-cell ovum with degenerating blastomeres was associated with tubal pregnancy in the recipient. The large variability in the state of intrauterine ova observed in the relatively fixed postovulatory interval of this study appears to be due to differences in viability and maturation, not differences in ovum age. Maturational state of the ova at the time of transfer appears to be a significant determinant of the likelihood of ensuring pregnancy.
DNA polymerase ϵ links the DNA replication machinery to the S phase checkpoint

Inhibition of DNA synthesis induces transcription of DNA damage-inducible genes and prevents mitotic entry through the action of the S phase checkpoint. We have isolated a mutant, dun2, defective for both of these responses. DUN2 is identical to POL2, encoding DNA polymerase epsilon (pol epsilon). Unlike sad1 mutants defective for multiple cell cycle checkpoints, pol2 mutants are defective only for the S phase checkpoint and the activation of DUN1 kinase necessary for the transcriptional response to damage. Interallelic complementation and mutation analysis indicate that pol epsilon contains two separable essential domains, an N-terminal polymerase domain and a C-terminal checkpoint domain unique to epsilon polymerases. We propose that DNA pol epsilon acts as a sensor of DNA replication that coordinates the transcriptional and cell cycle responses to replication blocks.
Practical Solutions to Improve Safety in the Obstetrics/Gynecology Office Setting and in the Operating Room

There are great opportunities to enhance patient safety in office practice, but the pattern of medical errors and techniques to reduce their frequency appears to differ from the hospital environment. A focus on decreasing the risks of prescribing errors and tracking errors may be particularly fruitful in the office setting, such as electronic prescribing, electronic medical records, the use of detailed patient instructions, unambiguous prescribing, and meticulous follow-up of test results. The surgical environment presents its own unique set of risks to patient safety, particularly because of the catastrophic consequences that may result from even infrequent events. Vigilance against stress and fatigue is particularly important. Patient safety in surgery is promoted by routine use of the "universal protocol," antibiotic prophylaxis, thromboprophylaxis, open communication among all members of the surgical team, and clear guidelines for introducing new procedures and technology.
Early Spelling Acquisition: Does Writing Really Beat the Computer?:

This research evaluated the efficacy of handwriting, letter tiles, and computer-based instruction on the early spelling acquisition of normal achieving (NLD) and learning disabled (LD) elementary students. The study replicated and extended the Cunningham and Stanovich (1990) study. Forty-eight primary-grade students (24 non-learning disabled; 24 learning disabled) received spelling training under three experimental conditions that involved different types of instructional activity: writing, sorting letter tiles, or typing on the computer. Results indicated no significant differences between the LD and NLD groups on words spelled correctly for any of the three conditions. Since the number of spelling words learned was low across conditions and groups, the number of correctly learned bigrams was examined. No within-group differences emerged for condition (writing, tile, computer); however, significant differences between the groups were found on number of bigrams learned for writing, tile, and computer, wit...
The Persistence of Whiteness: Race and Contemporary Hollywood Cinema, edited by Daniel Bernardi. London: Routledge, 2008

This wide-ranging anthology of new essays in whiteness studies is the third in a series of collections on race edited by Daniel Bernardi, Director of Film and Media Studies at Arizona State Univers...
A method for search for nucleon resonances using internal beam during acceleration

Abstract A novel application of the missing mass method is proposed which renders it possible to investigate the nucleon isobar mass spectrum using a variable energy proton beam during acceleration.
Harmonic Composition of Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Emissions Associated with High-Voltage Transmission

Electric-field-strength measures of the spectrum between 10 and 200 kHz were obtained under dry conditions near a 500-kV transmission line. Comparison of the magnitudes of electric field strength between the odd and even harmonics of 60 Hz revealed a marked asymmetry. The ratio of odd to even harmonic field strength ranged from 19 to 3.3. A primary source of these emissions may be produced by components within the power systems with nonlinearities that are best described by odd functions.
A MOLECULAR PHYLOGENY OF KINGFISHERS (ALCEDINIDAE) WITH INSIGHTS INTO EARLY BIOGEOGRAPHIC HISTORY

Abstract The phylogeny of kingfishers was reconstructed by comparing mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences representing 38 ingroup species. Analysis of the combined data and the nuclear data alone recovered the Alcedininae as the basal lineage in the family. This basal arrangement, and support for many relationships within the three subfamilies, allows discussion of biogeographic issues. The Australian region and Pacific islands display the highest diversity of kingfishers, but this diversity is not a reflection of a long history in the region. Rather, high diversity and endemism in the Australian region is inferred to result from relatively recent radiations from southern Asia. The most parsimonious explanation for the origin of New World taxa is two dispersal events from the Old World. Within the large Halcyon radiation, the phylogeny is well resolved and allows evaluation of generic assignments. The phylogeny supports splitting Todiramphus from Halcyon. Todiramphus and Syma are sister taxa, as are Ha...
Goal-oriented error estimation in the analysis of fluid flows with structural interactions

Abstract We present some developments for the extension of goal-oriented error estimation procedures to the analysis of Navier–Stokes incompressible fluid flows with structural interactions. Particular focus is given on error assessment of specific quantities of interest defined on the structural part. The goal is to establish relatively coarse meshes to model the fluid flow but achieve acceptable accuracy in the quantities of interest. A nonlinear goal-oriented error estimation procedure is presented which is applicable to general nonlinear analyses. Some illustrative solutions using ADINA are given.
Treatments for back pain: Can we get past trivial effects?

Two articles in this issue address “alternative” treatments for spinal disorders: manipulation for acute low back pain and acupuncture for chronic neck pain. Both studies suggest that the patient's...
Throughput maximizing games in the two-hop relay channel with energy cooperation

In this paper, we study a two-hop network where the source and the relay have data that the destination wishes to receive. The source node is not directly connected to the destination; it can send its data only via the relay. The relay node, on the other hand, does not have an external source of energy, and needs to perform RF energy harvesting from the source to send its and the source's data. Both nodes wish to send as much of their data to the destination as possible. For this setup, we first formulate a noncooperative game and improve upon its equilibrium by using a pricing scheme. Next, we model the communication setup as a Stackelberg game with the relay node as the leader and the source node as the follower of the game. We analyze the resulting equilibrium and interpret how the leader of the game chooses its strategy in order to influence the follower's decision. We provide numerical examples which compare the payoffs achieved by these equilibria. We investigate the impact of the model parameters on the decisions of the two players and the achieved payoffs. We observe that at the Stackelberg equilibrium, the leader of the game can manipulate the follower in order to achieve a higher payoff than it would at the social optimum.
Short and long sleep duration and risk of drowsy driving and the role of subjective sleep insufficiency

Abstract Experimental sleep restriction increases sleepiness and impairs driving performance. However, it is unclear whether short sleep duration in the general population is associated with drowsy driving. The goal of the present study was to evaluate whether individuals in the general population who obtained sleep of 6 h or less are more likely to report drowsy driving, and evaluate the role of perceived sleep sufficiency. Data exploring whether subgroups of short sleepers (those who report the most or least unmet sleep need) show different risk profiles for drowsy driving are limited. From the 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (N = 31,522), we obtained the following self-reported data: (1) sleep duration (≤5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or ≥10 h/night); (2) number of days/week of perceived insufficient sleep; (3) among drivers, yes/no response to: “During the past 30 days, have you ever nodded off or fallen asleep, even just for a brief moment, while driving?” (4) demographics, physical/mental health. Using 7 h/night as reference, logistic regression analyses evaluated whether self-reported sleep duration was associated with drowsy driving. Overall, 3.6% reported drowsy driving. Self-identified short-sleepers reported drowsy driving more often, and long sleepers, less often. Among those who perceived sleep as always insufficient, drowsy driving was reported more often when sleep duration was ≤5 h, 6 h, or ≥10 h. Among those who perceived sleep as always sufficient, drowsy driving was reported more often among ≤5 h and 6 h sleepers. Overall, drowsy driving was common, particularly in self-identified short-sleepers as a whole, as well as subgroups based on sleep insufficiency.
Group locomotion of PtK1 cells.

PtK1 cells were found to form groups of variable size which locomoted in unison. A continuous spectrum of net displacements during two days of observation ranged from no displacement to about 150 μm/day. The majority of single cells migrated less than 50 μm/day. The phenomenon demonstrates in tissue culture the existence of a form of cellular migration which appears intermediary between single cell locomotion and the deformations of extended sheets of cells [8] in the sense that more than one single cell but less than an entire sheet displace themselves. It also suggests coordination of locomotion between individual cells.
Optimization of multiphoton excitation microscopy by total emission detection using a parabolic light reflector.

Summary We have constructed a device that maximizes the probability of collecting all of the scattered and ballistic light isotropically generated at the focal spot of multiphoton excited emissions (MPE) to optimize the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for micro-imaging. This was accomplished by optically coupling a parabolic reflector (that surrounds the sample and top of the objective) to a pair of collimating lenses (above the sample) that redirects emitted light to a separate detector. These additional optics, combined with the objective, allow the total emission detection (TED) condition to be approached. Numerical simulations suggest an approximately 10-fold improvement in SNR with TED. Comparisons between the objective detection and TED reveal an enhancement of 8.9 in SNR (77% of predicted) for GFP-labelled brain slices and similar results for fluorescent beads. This increase in SNR can be used to improve time resolution, reduce laser power requirements/photodynamic damage, and, in certain cases, detection depth, for MPE imaging techniques.
Static properties of spin-12 Ising and classical Heisenberg magnetic chains with alternating exchange☆

Abstract The static properties of one-dimensional magnetic chains with alternating exchange are derived for the cases of S = 1 2 Ising and classical Heisenberg systems. Particular attention is given to the susceptibility and to the quasi-elastic neutron scattering cross section.
N,C-bonded β-diketiminato phosphenium cations

The first examples of N,C-bonded β-diketiminato phosphenium cations have been isolated as their triflate or tetrachloroaluminate salts, both of which have been structurally characterized.
Progress in cardiac arrhythmia ablation: potential for broader application and shorter procedure time

Catheter ablation is a very effective form of therapy for cardiac arrhythmias. Using present techniques, however, its application is limited only to a select type of arrhythmia involving discrete areas of the heart. The more common arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, remain difficult to treat. It seems likely that deeper and larger ablations would be necessary for abolishing reentry substrates of VT and that long linear ablations would be needed for preventing propagation of atrial fibrillation. Improvements in energy delivery techniques and the use of alternative energy modalities are promising developments that may yield a broader scope of lesion generation. Cooling mechanisms have allowed for more effective RF delivery and the generation of larger lesions. Laser, ultrasound, and microwave ablations have also been shown to produce deeper lesions. Linear lesions could be accomplished with RF ablation using multiple electrode configurations or with MW using long antennae. Future ablation procedures are likely to include complex arrhythmias and use one of these newer modalities. The more powerful and versatile modalities may become the most useful ones as they, coupled with parallel improvements in mapping technology, would facilitate the procedures by minimizing morbidity and improving patients' tolerance. At present, the more simple procedures do not require anesthesia or intensive cardiorespiratory monitoring, but because the procedures are being applied to include more complex arrhythmias, such monitoring may become necessary.
Preparation of conjugated erythrocytes for long term use in hemolytic plaque assays, complement fixation studies, or passive hemagglutinations: a comparative study of several methods.

Abstract A variety of conjugation procedures, with and without glutaraldehyde stabilized erythrocytes, was employed to couple human IgG to sheep erythrocytes. The efficiency of conjugation, the recovery of cells, and the extent of labeling are noted. These conjugated erythrocytes were then tested for suitability in the hemolytic plaque assay, in a passive hemagglutination test, in a complement assay, and in the detection of rheumatoid factor. Although several methods were useful in a variety of situations, it was found that conjugation using a water soluble carbodiimide (1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide) at low temperature (4°C) produced a uniformly acceptable product that was stable and reproducible over a seven week period. The use of this method for a diversity of antigens or haptens is discussed.
Preliminary results of a new determination of the rms charge radius of the proton

Abstract New absolute and relative cross sections for elastic scattering of electrons from the proton have been measured using the linac facilities at NIST. The data were obtained using a high-pressure, flowing-gas target cell alternately filled with H 2 and CH 4 gas. The measurements span a momentum transfer range from 0.22 to 0.73 fm −1 . These new results have been combined with an extensive set of existing elastic electron scattering data in a Fourier-Bessel analysis to obtain the charge density parameters and the rms radius of the proton. Some selection among the available data was necessary because of inconsistencies between published data sets. We obtain an rms radius of 0.865 ±0.020 fm.
Energetics of Na+-dependent amino acid co-transport in Ehrlich ascites tumor cells.

The energy available from the Na+ electrochemical potential gradient (ΔμNa) has been evaluated in Ehrlich ascites tumor cells during accumulation of 2-aminoisobutyric acid. Cells were incubated in media of varying [Na+] (25–154 mM) in the presence of 0.25 mM 2-aminoisobutyric acid to establish maximum steady-state accumulation of the amino acid. Membrane potential (Vm) and intracellular Na+ activity (aNa) were estimated using standard electrophysiological techniques. In physiological saline ([Na+] = 154 mM) aNa is 4.4 ± 0.6 mM, giving an apparent Na+ activity coefficient (γapp) in the cytoplasm of 0.17 ± 0.02. Vm under these conditions is −20.8 ± 2.1 mV. From these values, ΔμNa = 9.9 ± 0.8 kJ/mol. Concomitant determinations of 2-aminoisobutyric acid (AIB) accumulation show an energy requirement (ΔμAIB) of 8.5 ± 0.5 kJ/mol. Stepwise reductions in extracellular [Na+] give parallel reductions in aNa, Vm and 2-aminoisobutyric acid accumulation. However, under all conditions tested the energy available from the Na+ electrochemical potential gradient exceeds that needed to drive 2-aminoisobutyric acid uptake. The effects of 2-aminoisobutyric acid on Vm have also been determined. Addition of AIB (10 mM) to steady-state cells leads to membrane depolarization (resting Vm = −22.1 ± 1.3 mV; plus AIB Vm = −16.2 ± 1.2 mV) within 1 min. Subsequent repolarization of the membrane to resting levels occurs within 10 min. The repolarization phase is blocked in the presence of ouabain (2 mM). The results establish that the energy available from the Na+ gradient is sufficient to serve as a source for 2-aminoisobutyric acid accumulation.
Using Evidence-Based Human Resource Practices for Global Competitiveness

The purpose of this paper is to show that the use of evidence-based information from academic research regarding HRM practices can have a positive impact on an organization's degree of competitiveness. This article explains how the use of academic information sources results in greater organizational performance. Some supporting empirical research findings are briefly reviewed. We then propose how the use of evidence-based information in HRM practices can improve global operations. Different sources of academic research information are identified and described. Some specific recommendations for accessing and using academic research information are offered. Finally, a brief summary and some general conclusions are provided.
Distortion Management in Slow-Light Pulse Propagation

Slow light based devices require large delay compared to pulse width and small distortion. We describe methods for characterizing delay-induced pulse distortion and distortion management in slow-light systems.
Laboratory Testing in Monitoring the Effects of Brown Recluse Spider Bites

Brown recluse spiders are endemic to the central United States and are highly venomous. Although most brown recluse spider bites do not cause dangerous wounds or systemic symptoms, severe cases can occur. Changes in laboratory values may include hemolysis, thrombocytopenia, coagulopathy, and altered chemistry and urinalysis results. Neutrophil involvement in wound progression and white blood cell changes can be observed. If blood products are indicated, fresh frozen plasma and cryoprecipitate should be avoided. There is no single clinical lab test that can be used to diagnose a brown recluse spider bite, but laboratory involvement in monitoring progression and treatment may be significant. * ELISA : enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; CBC : complete blood count; DAT : direct antiglobulin test; ALT : alanine transaminase; AST : aspartate aminotransferase; LDH : lactate dehydrogenase; CK : creatine kinase; DIC : disseminated intravascular coagulation; PT : prothrombin time; PTT : partial thromboplastin time; ESR : erythrocyte sedimentation rate; G6PD : glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase
Electrostatic effects on protein partitioning in size-exclusion chromatography and membrane ultrafiltration

Although size-exclusion chromatography and membrane ultrafiltration are generally viewed as size-based separation processes, there is considerable evidence for the importance of electrostatic interactions. Experimental studies of size-exclusion chromatography and membrane ultrafiltration were performed in parallel using both neutral dextrans and charged proteins. Data for protein retention time and membrane sieving clearly indicate that the effective protein size increases with decreasing ionic strength due to the reduction in electrostatic shielding. These results were quantified using available theoretical models for the partitioning of charged solutes. The data clearly demonstrate the similarity of the electrostatic interactions and partitioning effects in size-exclusion chromatography and membrane ultrafiltration.
Fluid heterogeneity during granulite facies metamorphism in the Adirondacks: stable isotope evidence

The preservation of premetamorphic, whole-rock oxygen isotope ratios in Adirondack metasediments shows that neither these rocks nor adjacent anorthosites and gneisses have been penetrated by large amounts of externally derived, hot CO2-H2O fluids during granulite facies metamorphism. This conclusion is supported by calculations of the effect of fluid volatilization and exchange and is also independently supported by petrologic and phase equilibria considerations. The data suggest that these rocks were not an open system during metamorphism; that fluid/rock ratios were in many instances between 0.0 and 0.1; that externally derived fluids, as well as fluids derived by metamorphic volatilization, rose along localized channels and were not pervasive; and thus that no single generalization can be applied to metamorphic fluid conditions in the Adirondacks.
Combining evolutionary algorithms with oblique decision trees to detect bent-double galaxies

Decision tress have long been popular in classification as they use simple and easy-to-understand tests at each node. Most variants of decision trees test a single attribute at a node, leading to axis- parallel trees, where the test results in a hyperplane which is parallel to one of the dimensions in the attribute space. These trees can be rather large and inaccurate in cases where the concept to be learned is best approximated by oblique hyperplanes. In such cases, it may be more appropriate to use an oblique decision tree, where the decision at each node is a linear combination of the attributes. Oblique decision trees have not gained wide popularity in part due to the complexity of constructing good oblique splits and the tendency of existing splitting algorithms to get stuck in local minima. Several alternatives have been proposed to handle these problems including randomization in conjunction wiht deterministic hill-climbing and the use of simulated annealing. In this paper, we use evolutionary algorithms (EAs) to determine the split. EAs are well suited for this problem because of their global search properties, their tolerance to noisy fitness evaluations, and their scalability to large dimensional search spaces. We demonstrate our technique on a synthetic data set, and then we apply it to a practical problem from astronomy, namely, the classification of galaxies with a bent-double morphology. In addition, we describe our experiences with several split evaluation criteria. Our results suggest that, in some cases, the evolutionary approach is faster and more accurate than existing oblique decision tree algorithms. However, for our astronomical data, the accuracy is not significantly different than the axis-parallel trees.
Will as power : Some remarks on its explanatory function

Retenant de l'analyse de V. Bourke sur la volonte («The will in western thought», 1964) l'idee selon laquelle les explications de l'action humaine font reference a la definition de la volonte comme pouvoir, l'A. etablit trois distinctions susceptibles d'eclairer la problematique scolastique contemporaine sur la volonte chez Saint thomas d'Aquin et Duns Scott: 1) la distinction entre le pouvoir comme phenomene et le pouvoir comme faculte chez C. S. Peirce, 2) la distinction entre la volonte comme source des desirs et la volonte comme source d'autonomie chez Saint Augustin, 3)la distinction entre le recours de l'action humaine au pouvoir, d'une part, et la conception de l'action humaine comme fonction sur l'action des pouvoirs ou facultes de l'intellect, d'autre part
MR imaging and spectroscopy for prognostic evaluation in soft-tissue sarcomas.

PURPOSE: To enable prediction of tumor response to a particular treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The authors studied the value of hydrogen-1 T2 and phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopic metabolic determinations as indicators of prognosis in 20 humans and 10 dogs with soft-tissue sarcomas. All patients underwent combined fractionated radiation therapy and hyperthermia. Surgical resection of the entire tumor in humans allowed comparison of pretherapy T2 and MR spectroscopic parameters with subsequent histologic findings. Long-term clinical follow-up (no surgical intervention) was available with the dogs and allowed comparison of pretherapy pH with the duration of local relapse-free survival. RESULTS: A relationship exists between pretherapy pH and T2 and ultimate tumor necrosis in humans and pretherapy pH and time elapsed until local failure in dogs. CONCLUSION: MR imaging and spectroscopy could be useful in the prognosis of patients with soft-tissue sarcomas before therapy is initiated.
A linear programming approach for aircraft boarding strategy

Abstract Airlines are going through very difficult times financially which has been triggered by fierce competition and current high fuel prices. To stay competitive, it is absolutely essential that they achieve high efficiency in the areas that have control over. Airlines start generating revenues while their aircraft are flying. Reducing aircraft turn-around times is an important goal with passenger boarding being a major metric. This paper examines the interferences among the passengers that cause delays in boarding times for a single aisle aircraft. It offers a new mixed integer linear program to minimize these interferences. We then apply this mathematical model to an Airbus-320 aircraft. Alternative efficient solutions are generated based on the rate of passenger boarding. A simulation model is adopted to identify appropriate boarding patterns. The recommended boarding patterns provide a lower number of interferences than other strategies as well as accommodating neighboring passengers to board together.
On Evaluation of Powers

Abstract xN is an important mathematical function. Perhaps the simplest way to evaluate x N is by successively multiplying by x which requires (N–1) multiplications. Since multiplication operations require a considerable amount of time, it is an interesting exercise to plan multiplications in such a way that total number of multiplication operations are minimised. In general, it is not known that how does one evaluate x N using the least number of multiplications. In this paper we will develop some bounds on the least number of multiplication operations required.
Structural features are as important as sequence homologies inDrosophila heat shock gene upstream regions

Pelham has shown that theDrosophila hsp 70 gene is not transcribed under heat shock conditions unless a given upstream region is present. Davidson et al. have recently compiled a list of sequences homologous to this region in otherDrosophila heat shock genes. They proposed that a set of unlinked genes, such as the heat shock genes, could be coordinately induced through an interaction in cis with a common regulatory molecule. That this interaction involves structural elements is suggested by the fact that these upstream regions share inverted repeats as well as areas of Z-DNA potential. Furthermore, using the Calladine-Dickerson rules for local helical parameters, we show that these regions share structural homology. This is significant because the presence of regions homologous to a derived consensus sequence does not necessarily imply structural similarity. Therefore, we suggest that these structural features are at least as important as the sequence homologies in enabling the heat shock response.
Cancer: A suppression switch

The status of the protein p53 determines whether inhibiting the cellular autophagy pathway promotes or inhibits pancreatic cancer in mice. This finding serves as a cautionary tale for clinical trials of autophagy inhibitors. See Letter p.296 Whether autophagy — the degradation of damaged or superfluous cellular material — promotes or suppresses tumorigenesis has long been a matter of controversy. Recent evidence suggests that both may be true depending on the context. Kevin Ryan et al. now show in a mouse model of pancreatic tumours driven by Kras mutations that the outcome of suppressing autophagy depends on the status of p53. If p53 is intact, deletion of key autophagy genes blocks the progression of low-grade tumours to aggressive carcinomas. But in the absence of p53, loss of autophagy accelerates tumorigenesis, accompanied by deregulation of cancer cell metabolism. This work has important implications for the idea of targeting autophagy in cancer.
Thermodynamic properties of (hydrocarbon + hydrocarbon) and of (hydrocarbon + tetrachloromethane): lattice interpretation

Abstract Experimental excess enthalpies and Gibbs free energies of (hydrocarbon + hydrocarbon) and of hydrocarbon + tetrachloromethane) were interpreted in terms of the lattice model. A table of internally consistent lattice constants was obtained for nine types of segments from molecules of tetrachloromethane, n-alkanes, branched alkanes, cycloalkanes, and benzene. The number of contact sites on a segment was determined empirically using 12 sites on CCl4 as a reference. Values for energies of interaction were then determined for 19 types of contacts. Several test systems, some of which included temperature dependence, were examined. The results show that the lattice model, when properly applied, has excellent potential for predicting and correlating thermodynamic properties of such non-electrolyte mixtures.
Evaluation of modified trypticase soy broth versus supplemented peptone broth in the detection of bacteremia and fungemia.

In vitro, 1.2% gelatin counteracts the inhibition of growth of bacterial species by sodium polyanetholsulfonate in blood culture media. Additionally, 1% yeast extract has been used to promote bacterial growth. We compared the performance of supplemented peptone broth and Trypticase soy broth, both of which contained sodium polyanetholsulfonate, gelatin and yeast extract. Trypticase soy broth with gelatin and yeast extract inhibited (p<0.001) and delayed growth, especially of gram-positive (p < 0.01) and gram-negative (p<0.005) anaerobic bacteria. Although the recovery of organisms usually inhibited by sodium poly-anetholsulfonate was similar in supplemented peptone and Trypticase soy broths, supplemented peptone broth clearly was superior in the recovery of other organisms commonly found in blood cultures.
Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy: Ready for Prime Time

Abstract Objectives To review the development, techniques, outcomes, and current status of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for renal tumours. Methods A Medline search (1996–2006) was performed using the following keywords: kidney, laparoscopic partial nephrectomy, renal, and tumour. Over 300 papers were identified. Of these, 47 papers were selected for review based on their contribution to evolution of concepts, development of techniques, and perioperative and oncologic outcomes after LPN. Results LPN provides perioperative results as well as intermediate and long-term oncologic and functional outcomes comparable to the reference standard (open partial nephrectomy [OPN]) with significantly decreased patient morbidity. The 5-yr oncologic data are available for 50 patients, with a mean tumour size of 3cm (range 1.4–7cm). Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) was confirmed in 64% with tumour stage pT1a in 91%. At a median follow-up of 5.2 yr, overall and cancer-specific survival rates were 84% and 100%, respectively. Conclusions As global experience and skills with this technique increase, the number of patients undergoing this procedure is increasing rapidly. In expert hands, cancer control and functional outcomes are comparable to OPN.
The effects of intralist cues, extralist cues, and category names on categorized recall

Two experiments are reported which attempt to clarify a procedural problem of Hudson & Austin (1970) and provide support for the hypothesis that context words as recall cues serve to mediate category names. The results regarding the procedural problem of Hudson & Austin (1970) indicate that exposure to context words during recall trials does not artifactually increase recall for context groups. The hypothesis that context cues serve to mediate the category name was supported in Experiment II but not in Experiment I.
Ribosomal subunits and MS2 phage RNA-directed protein synthesis.

In a cell-free system programmed with MS2 phage RNA, native 50S and 30S ribosomes are involved in initiation. After completion of a round of synthesis the ribosomes dissociate to yield 30S and 50S subunits capable of reinitiation. Reinitiation in vitro is associated with subunit exchange.
Dick Test Results: 1969–1971

A group of schoolchildren in four Nashville schools was tested for reactivity to Dick test toxin during school years 1969-1970 and 1970-1971. Combined results from the fall of both school years showed that 51.7% of the children five through 12 years of age were positive for the Dick test. The highest percentage of children (66.7%) with positive Dick tests was found among those five to six years old. There was a gradual decrease in positive reactors with increasing age. There were no significant differences in reactivity between black and white children. The percentage of children with positive tests in the three schools serving lower socioeconomic areas (43.3%) was significantly lower than that of children in the middle-class school, where 90.1% were positive. Rates of conversion from positive to negative were highest (12.1% ) among fiveto six-year-old kindergarten children attending the three lower socioeconomic schools. Slightly less than two-thirds (64.1% ) of children with a history of scarlet fever were still positive.
Fracture risk assessment: improved evaluation of vertebral integrity among metastatic cancer patients to aid in surgical decision-making

Failure of the spine's structural integrity from metastatic disease can lead to both pain and neurologic deficit. Fractures that require treatment occur in over 30% of bony metastases. Our objective is to use computed tomography (CT) in conjunction with analytic techniques that have been previously developed to predict fracture risk in cancer patients with metastatic disease to the spine. Current clinical practice for cancer patients with spine metastasis often requires an empirical decision regarding spinal reconstructive surgery. Early image-based software systems used for CT analysis are time consuming and poorly suited for clinical application. The Biomedical Image Resource (BIR) at Mayo Clinic, Rochester has developed an image analysis computer program that calculates from CT scans, the residual load-bearing capacity in a vertebra with metastatic cancer. The Spine Cancer Assessment (SCA) program is built on a platform designed for clinical practice, with a workflow format that allows for rapid selection of patient CT exams, followed by guided image analysis tasks, resulting in a fracture risk report. The analysis features allow the surgeon to quickly isolate a single vertebra and obtain an immediate pre-surgical multiple parallel section composite beam fracture risk analysis based on algorithms developed at Mayo Clinic. The analysis software is undergoing clinical validation studies. We expect this approach will facilitate patient management and utilization of reliable guidelines for selecting among various treatment option based on fracture risk.
The structure of lipoyl synthase, a remarkable enzyme that performs the last step of an extraordinary biosynthetic pathway

Lipoic acid is assembled on its cognate proteins (e.g. the E2 subunit of pyruvate dehydrogenase). An octanoyl moiety is transferred from the octanoyl-ACP of fatty acid synthetase to a specific lysine residue of the cognate protein followed by sulfur insertion at C6 and C8 of the octanoyl chain. The challenging chemistry of this last step is performed by the radical S -adenosylmethionine (SAM) enzyme lipoyl synthase (LipA). In this issue of the Biochemical Journal , Harmer et al. report the first crystal structure of a lipoyl synthase and demonstrate that it contains two [4Fe–4S] clusters, the canonical radical SAM cluster plus a second auxiliary cluster having an unprecedented serine ligand. The structure provides strong support for the model in which the auxiliary cluster donates the lipoate sulfur atoms.