cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chemoembolization in patients at high risk: results and complications.

PURPOSE Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has become a standard treatment option for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is often used to palliate hepatic metastases. Many patients who are candidates for TACE present with poor hepatic reserve, advanced tumor stage with major portal vein (PV) invasion or thrombosis, and/or biliary dilation. These factors have been associated with a poor prognosis and increased complications after chemoembolization. Accordingly, these patients are classified as being at high risk and may not be considered for therapy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of TACE in these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Over a period of 5 years, 141 patients underwent 355 TACE procedures. Thirty-six patients (26%) were in the high-risk group as a result of major PV thrombosis, increased serum bilirubin level (>2 mg/dL), and/or intrahepatic biliary dilation. HCC was the underlying tumor in 60% of patients. Thirty-seven percent of patients had Child-Pugh class B/C disease. Patients in the high-risk group received more selective embolization with fewer particles and fewer procedures (2.0 vs 2.7; P RESULTS Patients in the high-risk group were more likely to have HCC (83% vs 51%; P P P = .12). The overall 30-day mortality rate was 2.3%, and no significant difference in 30-day mortality rate was observed between the highand low-risk groups (5.5% vs 1.4%; P = .11). A trend toward increased survival in the low-risk group did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION These data suggest that patients with advanced disease and decreased hepatic reserve who are treated with TACE exhibit no significant increase in morbidity or mortality and no significant decrease in survival. With variations in technique, TACE can be performed safely in patients with the relative risk factors that may classify them in high-risk groups.
Estimation of fault propagation distance from fold shape: Implications for earthquake hazard assessment

A numerical grid search using the trishear kinematic model can be used to extract both slip and the distance that a fault tip line has propagated during growth of a fault-propagation fold. The propagation distance defines the initial position of the tip line at the onset of slip. In the Santa Fe Springs anticline of the Los Angeles basin, we show that the tip line of the underlying Puente Hills thrust fault initiated at the same position as the 1987 magnitude 6.0 Whittier Narrows earthquake.
Plateau pressure in hypersonic turbulent boundary-layer interactions.

The preliminary results from this novel flow visualization technique are encouraging. To the authors' knowledge, this technique is unique in that both flow characteristics and front-lighted surface detail are recorded in a single photograph. It has been demonstrated that this method is practically immune to the effects of self-luminosity and strong density gradients which often hamper flow visualization with other, more sensitive systems, under conditions of the sort for which results are shown here. Utilization of the new dimension of laser photography should enhance the capability of aeroballistic ranges for conducting certain tests.
Characterization of Helix pomatia hemocyanin by transient electric birefringence

Rotational diffusion constants of Helix Pomatia hemocyanin in aqueous solution were determined from transient electric birefringence measurements. Two values were found, 15(±2)· 103 and 3.2(±0.2)·103 sec.−1. They correspond to the whole monomer and to an aggregate essentially double in length. The results are discussed in relation to other physicochemical properties, and an interpretation of the dielectric properties, observed by Jacobson and Wenner, is given.
Planar-surface charge densities and energies beyond the local-density approximation.

We present a self-consistent calculation of the ground-state properties of simple metallic planar surfaces using density-functional theory with nonlocal exchange-correlation effects included. Our calculational scheme closely follows the classic work of Lang and Kohn for the jellium model, except that the exchange-correlation energy and potential within the local-density approximation (LDA) are replaced by the corresponding nonlocal functionals of Langreth and Mehl (LM). We also include the discrete-lattice effects, following the variational scheme of Perdew and Monnier. The physical properties considered include the one-electron effective potential, charge-density profile, surface energy, and work function. For each of the most densely packed surfaces of seven simple metals with fcc or bcc structure, we find that, when compared with results in the LDA, the Friedel oscillation in the electron density near the surface is systematically depressed as a result of positive LM contributions to the effective potential at places where the LDA density oscillation is peaked. We find a systematic increase in surface energies, with bigger increases for higher-density metals. Increases are also found in the work functions. Our results and those from other density-functional calculations are compared with results from variational treatments of the ground-state wave function, and with experiment. We also comment upon the Fermi hypernetted-chain jellium surface energies and work functions.
Solid-State Matrix Effects on Near-Infrared Spectra: Interactions of Glucose and Sucrose with Amylose, Amylopectin, Cellulose, and Starch — Implications for Near-Infrared Calibrations

The objective of this work was to explore the question of how the interactions between carbohydrate monomers and polymers affect near-infrared spectra and to evaluate the implications of such effects with respect to the development of near-infrared calibrations. The effects of the presence of amylopectin, amylose, cellulose, and starch during the drying of glucose and sucrose on the resulting spectra were investigated. Sugars in various molar ratios with polymers were dried in a rotating mixer and then reground, and spectra from 10,000 to 4000 cm-1 were taken. In addition, spectra of identical mixtures prepared by mixing previously ground sugars and polymers were taken for comparison. Results on samples prepared either by simple mixing of sugars and carbohydrate polymers or by grinding mixtures produced by drying sugars in the presence of polymers indicated that interactions occur between the substances in question. Although simple mixtures of sugars with cellulose, amylose, amylopectin, or starch showed some spectral changes in the spectra of the sugars, in general, the spectra obtained by spectral subtraction were considerably more similar to those of the pure sugars than were those obtained for materials dried together.
NGOS AND UNEVEN DEVELOPMENT: GEOGRAPHIES OF DEVELOPMENT INTERVENTION

Much research on nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) involved in international development has been case-study-based, with questions about the broader geographies of NGO intervention rarely asked....
Response-contingent positive stimulation of the part-word repetitions displayed by four stutterers

Abstract To assess the effect of response-contingent positive stimulation on the frequency of part-word repetitions displayed by stutterers, a single subject design was used. Four subjects were seen separately in an experimental session comprised of initial, experimental and final segments. During the experimental segment, money, the positive stimulus, was delivered contingent upon the occurrence of a part-word repetition. The data were analyzed statistically to determine the significance of differences in the frequency of part-word repetitions. This analysis did not demonstrate an effect of response-contingent positive stimulation on the part-word repetitions of any of the four subjects. The evidence obtained in this study supports the findings of previous research; some verbal behaviors of stutterers are unaffected by response-contingent stimulation. It appears necessary to investigate the effect of response-contingent stimulation on other separate behaviors as whole word repetition, phrase repetition, and hesitation for determination of their manipulability. The successful use of this procedure as a therapeutic treatment is dependent upon such a differential behavioral analysis.
Estimation of hydrocortisone dose and optimal gestation period for cleft palate induction in golden hamsters.

Thirty milligrams of hydrocortisone administered im to pregnant golden hamsters at gestation day 10:20 (i.e., 10 days, 20 h postconception), 11:00, or 11:04 produced 91, 100, and 100% cleft palate, respectively. Smaller doses (15, 20, or 25 mg) produced higher incidences of cleft palate at day 11:00 than 10:20 or 11:04, indicating that day 11:00 is the optimal time for yield of cleft palate with this system.
Pediatric Myopic Progression Treatments: Science, Sham, and Promise

Myopia is one of the most common human eye disorders and represents a significant global public health issue. Severe myopia is particularly concerning because of its association with vision-threatening co-morbidities such as retinal detachment, choroidal degeneration, premature cataract, and glaucoma. Numerous interventions have been proposed to slow the progression of myopia; however, few have been validated through randomized clinical trials. The purpose of this review is to evaluate optical, pharmacologic, and environmental interventions currently available to clinicians for the control of myopia progression in children.
Lifetimes and Mixing at DØ

We present results on b hadron lifetimes and mixing using large samples of single and dimuon data collected by the DO detector operating at the Fermilab Tevatron. We focus on the exciting possibilities available at hadron colliders due to the diversity in produced hadron species and the unprecedented production cross-sections. This is illustrated with benchmark measurements such as lifetime ratios and the B d mixing frequency. Expectations for key measurements such as the B s mixing parameters with larger data samples are also discussed.
Lipids of the antarctic sea ice diatom Nitzschia cylindrus

Abstract The sterol and neutral, glyco- and phospholipid fatty acid profiles of the sea ice diatom Nitzschia cylindrus , isolated from McMurdo Sound, Antarctica, are reported. Two sterols were detected, trans -22-dehydrocholesterol (66% of total sterols) and cholesterol (34%); no sterols containing alkyl groups at the C 24 position were present. The major fatty acids in N. cylindrus , 16:1Δ9c, 14:0, 16:0, 20:5Δ5,8,11,14,17 and 20:4Δ5,8,11,14, were typical of previous reports of diatom fatty acids. A number of long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids were also detected, with higher relative proportions present in the phospholipid fraction. GC-MS analysis of the dimethyldisulphide adducts of these monounsaturated components showed that 24: 1Δ13c, 24:1Δ15c, 26:1Δ15c and 26:1Δ17c were the major components. The distribution of these fatty acids suggests that chain elongation of monounsaturated fatty acids was occurring in N. cylindrus . The proposed chain lengthening occurring for N. cylindrus represents, to our knowledge, the first report of possible chain lengthening of monounsaturated fatty acids in microscopic algae. These features, the presence of long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids and the sterol profile, may allow the input of this alga into benthic marine sediments or food webs to be monitored.
Viruses, host responses, and autoimmunity

Conceptually, the initiation of autoimmune disease can be described as a three-stage process involving both genetic and environmental influences. This process begins with the development of an autoimmune cellular repertoire, followed by activation of these autoreactive cells in response to a localized target and, finally, the immune system's failure to regulate these self-reactive constituents. Viruses have long been associated with inciting autoimmune disorders. Two mechanisms have been proposed to explain how a viral infection can overcome immunological tolerance to self-components and initiate an organ-specific autoreactive process; these mechanisms are molecular mimicry and bystander activation. Both pathways, as discussed here, could play pivotal roles in the development of autoimmunity without necessarily excluding each other. Transgene technology has allowed us and others to examine more closely the roles of these mechanisms in mice and to dissect the requirements for initiating disease. These results demonstrate that bystander activation is the most likely explanation for disease development. Additional evidence suggests a further role for viruses in the reactivation and chronicity of autoimmune diseases. In this scenario, a second invasion by a previously infecting virus may restimulate already existing autoreactive lymphocytes, and thereby contribute to the diversity of the immune response.
Actions Can Speak as Loud as Words: Measuring Behavior in Psychological Science

It has been argued that there is a growing trend in personality and social psychological science concerning the preference of self-report measures over the use of direct observations of behavior for the outcome variables of interest. Augmenting the use of self-reports with measures of behavior helps achieve methodological pluralism that allows researchers to triangulate on the phenomenon of interest and have increased confidence in understanding the phenomenon. To facilitate this process, we discuss a sample of social psychological and personality studies published during APA’s ‘Decade of Behavior’ that use straightforward and innovative ways of measuring behavioral outcome variables. Specifically, we identify three different strategies for incorporating behavior in a study: behavioral traces, behavioral observations, and behavioral choice. In each case, we show how measures of behavior complement self-report measures. By making a conscientious effort to include more behavior measures in our research, we can broaden the appeal of psychological science by enhancing our understanding of the causes and antecedents of human behavior.
Estimation of interpolation errors in scalp topographic mapping

Topographic maps are commonly constructed from electrical scalp recordings (such as EEGs and ERPs) using several different interpolation methods. It is important to determine the accuracy of such maps. Previous assessments of interpolation methods have been based on global error measures and the visual appearance of the topographic maps. However, the relationship of interpolation error to local contributing factors requires a more detailed analysis. In this paper, we use simulations to explore and quantify the relationship of error to global and local factors for different interpolation methods. We find that among the best interpolation methods, adequate electrode density is more important than the method used. For shallow sources, we show that local interpolation error is most correlated with potential gradient, and has a lesser correlation with distance to nearest electrode. The greatest correlation, however, is with the product of gradient and distance. Thus, interpolation error can be controlled locally by making the interelectrode distance inversely proportional to the expected potential gradient. With shallow sources, areas far from any electrode and having high apparent gradient are likely to have high interpolation error. Moreover, all areas far from any electrode may contain high interpolation errors, and should be interpreted with caution.
Globalization and the Logic of Participation: Unions and the Politics of Coalition Building

Global liberalization is driving a ‘logic of participation’, for firms and unions alike. Economic pressures drive managers to innovate across a range of possibilities, from outsourcing and union busting to work reorganization and labor-management partnership. Those same pressures, reflected largely through the strategic choices of employers, also force unions to innovate - from concession bargaining and cooperation to coalition building and international solidarity. Because employers are increasingly tempted by strategies that seek to weaken or marginalize unions, sustained participation for unions arguably requires a new period of activist mobilization.This article explores one significant component of renewed labor mobilization: union coalition building. Based on a case study of coalition efforts in the United States between the United Steelworkers and the Sierra Club from 1999-2004, concepts and causal linkages are suggested for broader analysis. Research findings presented here indicate the following ...
Insights into transcriptional regulation and σ competition from an equilibrium model of RNA polymerase binding to DNA

To explore scenarios that permit transcription regulation by activator recruitment of RNA polymerase and sigma competition in vivo, we used an equilibrium model of RNA polymerase binding to DNA constrained by the values of total RNA polymerase (E) and sigma(70) per cell measured in this work. Our numbers of E and sigma(70) per cell, which are consistent with most of the primary data in the literature, suggest that in vivo (i) only a minor fraction of RNA polymerase (<20%) is involved in elongation and (ii) sigma(70) is in excess of total E. Modeling the partitioning of RNA polymerase between promoters, nonspecific DNA binding sites, and the cytoplasm suggested that even weak promoters will be saturated with Esigma(70) in vivo unless nonspecific DNA binding by Esigma(70) is rather significant. In addition, the model predicted that sigmas compete for binding to E only when their total number exceeds the total amount of RNA polymerase (excluding that involved in elongation) and that weak promoters will be preferentially subjected to sigma competition.
Effects of Biological and Psychological Gender, Age Cohort, and Interviewer Gender on Attitudes toward Gender-Inclusive/Exclusive Language.

Proposals for gender-inclusive language reforms have been institutionalized by many organizations, but a number of factors may affect individuals' own language behaviors and attitudes in this domain. Previous research has shown the influence of respondents' gender and social affiliations on their willingness to accept gender-inclusive language reforms. Study 1 builds upon those earlier surveys by adapting their questions for use in face-to-face interviews. Factors explored in Study 1 included interviewees' gender and age cohort and the situational variable of interviewer gender. Results showed that women were more concerned about sexist language than men, more likely to evaluate it negatively, and likely to use more gender-inclusive methods to avoid it. Older subjects were more attentive to gender-exclusive language than current college students. Interviewer gender also exerted effects such that female interviewers elicited more negative attitudes toward gender-exclusive language than did male interviewers. Young men interviewed by males reported using fewest gender-inclusive constructions, while older females interviewed by women used the most. Study 2 demonstrated the effect of psychological gender role types on attitudes toward gender-inclusive language. Androgynous individuals reported using more methods to avoid gender-exclusive reference than did either gender-neutral or instrumental (traditionally masculine) participants. Implications for diffusing gender-inclusive language reform are discussed.
Niobium incorporated mesoporous silicate, Nb-KIT-6: Synthesis and characterization

Abstract The direct incorporation of niobium into ordered cubic large pore mesoporous silicate with Ia3d structure, KIT-6, is demonstrated via hydrothermal synthesis using a Pluronic P123 triblock copolymer as the structure directing agent and n -butanol as additive. The synthesized materials, denoted as Nb-KIT-6, were characterized by analytical techniques such as XRD, elemental analysis, N 2 sorption, HR-TEM, 29 Si cross polarization (CP) magic angle spinning (MAS) NMR, Diffuse reflectance UV–Vis, NH 3 -TPD, pyridine-FTIR and H 2 -TPR. The Nb-KIT-6 materials, prepared with various Nb contents, possess high specific surface area (997–804 m 2 /g) and pore volume (1.46–1.12 cm 3 /g) with uniform pore diameter centered around 9.3 nm. The incorporation of most of the Nb in the framework was confirmed by Diffuse reflectance UV–Vis spectra, and contributes to an increase in total acidity. Pyridine FTIR measurements confirm the presence of both Bronsted and Lewis acidic sites, with the total acidity increasing nearly linearly with Nb content.
Genetic and physical mapping of the biglycan gene on the mouse X Chromosome

A human cDNA for biglycan (BGN) has recently been mapped to proximal Xq28. We have mapped the murine locus, Bgn, approximately 50 kb distal to DXPas8, using a combination of genetic mapping in an interspecific backcross of B6CBA-Aw-J/A-Bpa x Mus spretus and physical mapping using pulsed field gel electrophoresis and analysis of murine yeast artificial chromosomes (YACs) containing both DXPas8 and Bgn. Our mapping studies also appear to exclude Bgn as a candidate gene for the bare patches (Bpa) mutation and for the homologous human disorder X-linked dominant chondrodysplasia punctata (CDPX2).
Genetic variation in the incidence of pipped eggs in turkeys selected for low and high semen ejaculate volume.

Abstract Genetic variation in embryonic mortality, expressed as embryos that pip their eggshell but do not hatch, was investigated in turkeys selected for low and high semen ejaculate volume (SEV). Through five generations (Generations 10 to 14, inclusive) mean heritability estimates for pipped eggs were .21 and .08 in the low- and high-SEV lines, respectively. Estimates of sire, dam, and within-hatch components of variance suggest greater environmental and maternal effects than genetic influences on the incidence of pipped eggs in turkeys.
Arousal from sleep in response to intermittent hypoxia in rat pups is modulated by medullary raphe GABAergic mechanisms.

Arousal is an important defense against hypoxia during sleep. Rat pups exhibit progressive arousal impairment (habituation) with multiple hypoxia exposures. The mechanisms are unknown. The medullary raphe (MR) is involved in autonomic functions, including sleep, and receives abundant GABAergic inputs. We hypothesized that inhibiting MR neurons with muscimol, a GABAA receptor agonist, or preventing GABA reuptake with nipecotic acid, would impair arousal and enhance arousal habituation and that blocking GABAA receptors with bicuculline would enhance arousal and attenuate habituation. Postnatal day 15 (P15) to P25 rat pups were briefly anesthetized, and microinjections with aCSF, muscimol, bicuculline, or nipecotic acid were made into the MR. After a ∼30-min recovery, pups were exposed to four 3-min episodes of hypoxia separated by 6 min of normoxia. The time to arousal from the onset of hypoxia (latency) was determined for each trial. Latency progressively increased across trials (habituation) in all groups. The overall latency was greater after muscimol and nipecotic acid compared with aCSF, bicuculline, or noninjected controls. Arousal habituation was reduced after bicuculline compared with aCSF, muscimol, nipecotic acid, or noninjected pups. Increases in latency were mirrored by decreases in chamber [O2] and oxyhemoglobin saturation. Heart rate increased during hypoxia and was greatest in muscimol-injected pups. Our results indicate that the MR plays an important, not previously described, role in arousal and arousal habituation during hypoxia and that these phenomena are modulated by GABAergic mechanisms. Arousal habituation may contribute to sudden infant death syndrome, which is associated with MR serotonergic and GABAergic receptor dysfunction.
Tobramycin-adhesive in preventing and treating PTFE vascular graft infections.

Abstract The present study was designed to determine the effectiveness of N -butyl-2-cyanoacrylate as a vehicle to deliver antibiotics locally to contaminated vascular graft sites and to grafts with established infections. Phase I—Contaminated wound model: Sixteen dogs had a 1-cm section of infrarenal aorta replaced with a PTFE graft. Prior to placement, the graft was immersed in solutions of Escherichia coli 3×10 8 CFU/ml and then Staphylococcus aureus 3×10 8 CFU/ml. After anastomosis, 1 cc of each solution was placed directly over the graft. Eleven dogs served as controls and 5 as treatment dogs. Parenteral cefonecid was given preoperatively and daily until sacrifice. Treatment animals had the anastomoses and graft sealed with a suspension of N -butyl-2-cyanoacrylate and 1.2 g tobramycin powder (antibiotic glue, ANGL) after contamination. All dogs were reoperated on the third postoperative day. Results: Eleven of 11 control dogs had positive cultures for S. aureus and 9 of 11 had positive cultures for E. coli. Seven of 11 had pseudoaneurysms, 1 exsanguinated. None of the 4 treatment dogs had positive cultures ( P = 0.0002), pseudoaneurysms ( P = 0.017), or local signs of sepsis. Phase II—Infected graft model: The 10 surviving infected control dogs served as the established graft infection model. These dogs were randomized into two groups; Group 1 control ( N = 5) had the graft replaced; Group 2 treatment (N = 5) had the graft replaced and ANGL treatment. Dogs were sacrificed after 2 weeks. Results: Graft cultures were positive in all 4 control dogs and negative in the 4 treatment dogs ( P = 0.005). One dog in each group was eliminated secondary to failure to obtain graft culture. The data show that ANGL can be effective in the prevention and treatment of prosthetic graft infection.
Fire as a Long-Term Stewardship Issue for Soils Contaminated With Radionuclides in the Western U.S.

On both U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and U.S. Department of Defense sites in the southwestern United States (U.S.), significant areas of surface soils are contaminated with radionuclides from atmospheric nuclear testing, and with depleted uranium, primarily from military training. At DOE sites in Nevada, the proposed regulatory closure strategy for most sites is to leave contaminants in place with administrative controls and periodic monitoring. Closure-in-place is considered an acceptable strategy because the contaminated sites exist on access-restricted facilities, decreasing the potential risk to public receptor, the high cost and feasibility of excavating contaminated soils over large areas, and the environmental impacts of excavating desert soils that recover very slowly from disturbance. The largest of the contaminated sites on the Tonopah Test Range in Nevada covers over 1,200 hectares. However, a factor that has not been fully investigated in the long-term stewardship of these sites is the potential effects of fires. Because of the long half-lives of some of the contaminants (e.g., 24,100 years for {sup 239}Pu) and changes in land-cover and climatic factors that are increasing the frequency of fires throughout the western U.S., it should be assumed that all of these sites will eventually burn, possibly multiple times,more » during the time frame when they still pose a risk. Two primary factors are contributing to increased fire frequency. The first is the spread of invasive grasses, particularly cheat grass (Bromus tectorum and Bromus rubens), which have out-competed native annuals and invaded inter-spaces between shrubs, allowing fires to burn easier. The second is a sharp increase in fire frequency and size throughout the western U.S. beginning in the mid-1980's. This second factor appears to correlate with an increase in average spring and summer temperatures, which may be contributing to earlier loss of soil moisture and longer periods of dry plant biomass (particularly from annual plants). The potential risk to site workers from convective heat dispersion of radionuclide contaminants is an immediate concern during a fire. Long-term, post-fire concerns include potential changes in windblown suspension properties of contaminated soil particles after fires because of loss of vegetation cover and changes in soil properties, and soil erosion from surface water runoff and fluvial processes. (authors)« less
The priority ceiling protocol: A method for minimizing the blocking of high priority Ada tasks

Abstract : The priority ceiling protocol is a new technique that addresses the priority inversion problem, i.e., the possibility that a high-priority task can be delayed by a low-priority task. Under the priority ceiling protocol, a high priority task can be blocked at most once by a lower priority task. This paper defines how to apply the protocol to Ada. In particular, restrictions on the use of task priorities in Ada are defined as well as restrictions on the use of Ada tasking constructs. An extensive example illustrating the behavior guaranteed by the protocol is given. This paper was presented at the 2nd International Workshop on Real-Time Ada Issues in May 1988.
Detection of salmonella using a real-time PCR based on molecular beacons

Molecular beacons are oligonucleotide probes that become fluorescent upon hybridization. We developed a new approach to detect the presence of Salmonella species using these fluorogenic reporter molecules and demonstrated their ability to discriminate between similar E. coli species in real-time PCR assays. A detection limit of 1 CFU per PCR reaction was obtained. The assays were carried out entirely in sealed PCR tubes, enabling fast and direct detection in a semiautomated format.
Effect of deuterium oxide on junctional membrane channel permeability.

The effect of deuterium oxide on junctional membrane permeability to dichlorofluorescein was examined to determine the mode of transfer of the dye from one cell interior to another in the septate giant axon of earthworm. Dichlorofluorescein was shown to diffuse through the nexus passively and in a hydrated form. Additionally, evidence suggested an alteration of the cell-to-cell channel structure by deuterium/ hydrogen exchange. Dichlorofluorescein was rendered impermeant at 6°C in D2O and 4°C in H2O. Action potentials, however, were capable of propagation from cell to cell at 4°C in D2O and H2O. The results are consistent with a hydrophilic channel where solute molecules diffuse through the junction (nexus) in a hydrated form. The temperature blocks are presumably brought about by increasing hydration shells around solute and channel proteins with cooling until the solute is rendered too large to diffuse.
Computer-based decision support system: Visual mapping of featured database in computer-aided diagnosis

As a strategic move toward improving the utility of computer- aided diagnosis (CAD) in breast cancer detection, this work aims to develop a computer-based decision support system, through a visual mapping of featured database, to explain the entire decision making process jointly by the computer-encoded knowledge and the user-interaction. The main purpose of the work is twofold: enhance the clinical utility of CAD and provide a mechanism for optimal system design. We adopt a mathematical feature extraction procedure to construct the featured database from the suspicious mass sites localized by the enhanced segmentation. The optimal mapping of the data points is then obtained by learning a hierarchical normal mixtures and associated decision boundaries. A visual explanation of the decision making is further invented through a multivariate data mining and knowledge discovery scheme. In particular, using multiple finite normal mixture models and hierarchical visualization spaces, new strategy is that the top-level model and projection should explain the entire data set, best revealing the presence of clusters and relationships, while lower-level models and projections should display internal structure within individual clusters, such as the presence of subclusters, which might not be apparent in the higher-level models and projections. We demonstrate the principle of the approach on several multimodal numerical data sets, and we then apply the method to the visual explanation in CAD for breast cancer detection from digital mammograms.
The Structure of the Job Responsibilities Scale: a Multimethod Analysis:

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the psychometric characteristics of the Job Responsibilities Scale (JRS). This article illustrates how factor analysis, cluster analysis, multidimensional scaling, and item response theory may be viewed as related data analyses, each capable of shedding insight into the structural dynamics of items designed to function as a measurement scale. Results of the analyses show that (a) the JRS measures a continuum of increasingly greater job responsibility tasks, and (b) each method of statistical analysis provides unique, yet complementary, evidence in support of the JRS continuum.
Atherosclerosis in the Bantu.

The aortic lesions of atherosclerosis in Bantu, aged 1 to 40 years, have been studied in 241 autopsied cases from Durban, South Africa. The findings are compared with those from a similar study of white and Negro cases in New Orleans, La. The relationship of incidence and quantitative extent of aortic fatty streaks and fibrous plaques to race, environment, blood lipid levels, coagulation factors, and clinical manifestations of atherosclerosis is discussed.
Low Loss, Cu damascene interconnects and passives compatible with GaN MMIC

We report a Cu damascene process on multi-layer benzocyclobutene (BCB) dielectrics compatible with GaN MMICs that enables the creation of low-loss, high power handling and high current carrying interconnects. The reported process uses two thick Cu traces (7 μm and 3 μm) and two supplemental Au layers. 7 μm thick Cu traces with width and pitch of 4 μm were realized. Reported circuits showed 0.11 dB/mm loss at 50 GHz, inductor Q-factors of 30 and 57, 3:1 planar balun with less than 2 dB insertion loss, 100% yielding RF and DC via chains.
CD8+ Lymphocyte Depletion without SIV Infection does not Produce Metabolic Changes or Pathological Abnormalities in the Rhesus Macaque Brain

Background Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection and persistent CD8+ lymphocyte depletion rapidly leads to encephalitis and neuronal injury. The objective of this study is to confirm that CD8-depletion alone does not affect brain pathology in the absence of SIV infection.
Altered synaptic and non‐synaptic properties of CA1 pyramidal neurons in Kv4.2 knockout mice

Back-propagating action potentials (bAPs) travelling from the soma to the dendrites of neurons are involved in various aspects of synaptic plasticity. The distance-dependent increase in Kv4.2-mediated A-type K+ current along the apical dendrites of CA1 pyramidal cells (CA1 PCs) is responsible for the attenuation of bAP amplitude with distance from the soma. Genetic deletion of Kv4.2 reduced dendritic A-type K+ current and increased the bAP amplitude in distal dendrites. Our previous studies revealed that the amplitude of unitary Schaffer collateral inputs increases with distance from the soma along the apical dendrites of CA1 PCs. We tested the hypothesis that the weight of distal synapses is dependent on dendritic Kv4.2 channels. We compared the amplitude and kinetics of mEPSCs at different locations on the main apical trunk of CA1 PCs from wild-type (WT) and Kv4.2 knockout (KO) mice. While wild-type mice showed normal distance-dependent scaling, it was missing in the Kv4.2 KO mice. We also tested whether there was an increase in inhibition in the Kv4.2 knockout, induced in an attempt to compensate for a non-specific increase in neuronal excitability (after-polarization duration and burst firing probability were increased in KO). Indeed, we found that the magnitude of the tonic GABA current increased in Kv4.2 KO mice by 53% and the amplitude of mIPSCs increased by 25%, as recorded at the soma. Our results suggest important roles for the dendritic K+ channels in distance-dependent adjustment of synaptic strength as well as a primary role for tonic inhibition in the regulation of global synaptic strength and membrane excitability.
Pharmacokinetics of a combined oral contraceptive in obese and normal weight women

Abstract Background This study was conducted to compare oral contraceptive (OC) pharmacokinetics (PK) in normal-weight [body mass index (BMI) 19.0–24.9] and obese (BMI 30.0–39.9) women. Study Design During the third week of the third cycle of OC use, we admitted 15 normal-weight and 15 obese women for collection of 12 venous specimens over 24 h. Using radioimmunoassay techniques, we measured levels of ethinyl estradiol (EE) and levonorgestrel (LNG). During the same cycle, women underwent twice-weekly sonography to assess ovarian follicular development and blood draws to measure endogenous estradiol (E2) and progesterone levels. Results Obese women had a lower area under the curve (AUC; 1077.2 vs. 1413.7 pg⁎h/mL) and lower maximum values (85.7 vs. 129.5 pg/mL) for EE than normal-weight women (p=.04 and C max ) were not statistically significant. While peak values differed somewhat, the LNG trough levels were similar for obese and normal-weight women (2.6 and 2.5 ng/mL, respectively). Women with greater EE AUC had smaller follicular diameters (p=.05) and lower E2 levels (p=.04). While follicular diameters tended to be larger among obese women, these differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion OC hormone peak levels are lower among obese women compared to normal-weight women, but their trough levels are similar. In this small study, the observed PK differences did not translate into more ovarian follicular activity among obese OC users.
Evolution of highly polymorphic T cell populations in siblings with the Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome.

Population level evolutionary processes can occur within a single organism when the germ line contains a mutation that confers a cost at the level of the cell. Here we describe how multiple compensatory mutations arose through a within-individual evolutionary process in two brothers with the immune deficiency Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome (WAS). As a result, both brothers have T lymphocyte populations that are highly polymorphic at the locus of the germ line defect, and no single allele achieves fixation. WASP, the gene product affected in this disease, is specific to white blood cells where it is responsible for regulating actin cytoskeleton dynamics in a wide range of cellular responses. The brothers inherited a rare allele predicted to result in truncated WASP lacking the carboxy-terminal VCA domains, the region that directly catalyzes actin filament generation. Although the brothers' T cell populations are highly polymorphic, all share a corrective effect relative to the inherited allele in that they restore the VCA domain. This indicates massive selection against the truncated germ line allele. No single somatic allele becomes fixed in the circulating T cell population of either brother, indicating that a regulated step in maturation of the affected cell lineage is severely compromised by the germ line allele. Based on the finding of multiple somatic mutations, the known maturation pathway for T-lineage cells and the known defects of T cells and precursor thymocytes in mice with truncated WASP, we hypothesize that the presence of truncated WASP (WASPΔVCA) confers an extreme disadvantage in early developing thymocytes, above and beyond the known cost of absence of full-length WASP, and that the disadvantage likely occurs through dominant negative competition of WASPΔVCA with N-WASP, a protein that otherwise partially compensates for WASP absence in developing thymocytes.
An information-theoretic approach to estimating ultrasound backscatter characteristics

Analysis of backscatter in the ultrasound echo envelope, in conjunction with ultrasound B-scans, can provide important information for tissue characterization and pathology diagnosis. Statistical models have often proven useful in modeling backscatter. In this paper, an innovative approach to backscatter analysis based on generalized entropies and neural function approximation is presented. Entropy measures are shown to provide accurate estimates of scatterer density, regularity, and SNR of the amplitude distribution. Specific scattering distributions need not be assumed. Experimental results on ground truth envelopes show that generalized entropies can be used to accurately estimate backscatter properties.
Parental defence of an empty nest after catastrophic brood loss

We studied parental care behaviour in a field population of convict cichlids, Amatitlania siquia, a fish with biparental care of its free-swimming young (fry). We simulated catastrophic brood loss by removing all of the young from 26 broods of various ages. We recorded parental defence behaviour for 5 min preremoval and three consecutive 5 min postremoval intervals. We then returned all of the young and recorded 5 min of parenteoffspring reunion behaviour. Following brood loss, both parents defended the empty territory and searched for missing young. Females spent more time in the empty territory and performed more attacks in defence of the empty territory than did males. Females searched and defended a significantly larger area than males did. During the 15 min fry-absent period, males increasingly spent more time away, whereas females maintained a constant level of investment in searching the brood area. Four of 26 males (15%) engaged in courtship with a new female within 15 min of brood loss. Attacks to repel potential predators from the brood area declined in frequency over the 15 min fry-absent period in both sexes. Standard length (age) of young was positively correlated with parental investment for females but not males. Number of young was positively correlated with parental investment for males but not for females. We conclude that post-brood-loss behaviours are search and recovery tactics that contribute to parental inclusive fitness in the event of incomplete brood predation.
The expression of Abl interactor 2 in leiomyoma and myometrium and regulation by GnRH analogue and transforming growth factor-β

BACKGROUND Abelson (Abl) interactor 2 (Abi-2) has been considered as a key regulator of cell/tissue structural organization and is differentially expressed in leiomyomas. The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression of Abi-2 in leiomyoma/myometrium during the menstrual cycle and following GnRH analogue (GnRHa) therapy, as well as regulation by transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 in leiomyoma and myometrial smooth muscle cells (LSMC and MSMC). METHODS We used real-time PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry to determine the expression of Abi-2 in paired leiomyoma and myometrium (n = 27) from proliferative (n = 8) and secretory (n = 12) phases of the menstrual cycle and from patients who received GnRHa therapy (n = 7). Time-dependent action of TGF-beta1 (2.5 ng/ml) and GnRHa (0.1 microM) on Abi-2 expression was determined in LSMC and MSMC. RESULTS Leiomyomas express elevated levels of Abi-2 as compared with myometrium from the proliferative but not the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, with a significant reduction following GnRHa therapy (P < 0.05). Western blotting showed a similar trend in Abi-2 protein expression in leiomyoma/myometrial tissue extracts, which was immunolocalized in LSMC and MSMC, connective tissue fibroblasts and arterial walls. The expression of Abi-2 in LSMC and MSMC was increased by TGF-beta1 (2.5 ng/ml) and was inhibited by GnRHa (0.1 microM) in a time- and cell-dependent manner, and pretreatment with Smad3 SiRNA and U0126, an MEK-1/2 inhibitor, respectively, reversed their actions. CONCLUSION Based on the menstrual cycle-dependent expression, the influence of GnRHa therapy, and regulation by TGF-beta in LSMC/MSMC, we conclude that Abi-2 may have a key regulatory function in leiomyomas cellular/tissue structural organization during growth and regression.
Organizations, Policy, and the Natural Environment: Institutional and Strategic Perspectives

The article reviews the book “Organizations, Policy and the Natural Environment: Institutional and Strategic Perspectives,” edited by Andrew J. Hoffman and Marc J. Ventresca.
Analysis of decentralized multi-product pull systems with lost sales

We study a pull-type, flexible, multi-product, and multi-stage production/inventory system with decentralized two-card kanban control policies. Each stage involves a processor and two buffers with finite target levels. Production stages, arranged in series, can process several product types one at a time. Transportation of semi-finished parts from one stage to another is performed in fixed lot sizes. The exact analysis is mathematically intractable even for smaller systems. We present a robust approximation algorithm to model two-card kanban systems with batch transfers under arbitrary complexity. The algorithm uses phase-type modeling to find effective processing times and busy period analysis to identify delays among product types in resource contention. Our algorithm reduces the effort required for estimating performance measures by a considerable margin and resolves the state–space explosion problem of analytical approaches. Using this analytical tool, we present new findings for a better understanding of some tactical and operational issues. We show that flow of material in small procurement sizes smoothes flow of information within the system, but also necessitates more frequent shipments between stages, raising the risk of late delivery. Balancing the risk of information delays vis-a-vis shipment delays is critical for the success of two-card kanban systems. Although product variety causes time wasted in setup operations, it also facilitates relatively short production cycles enabling processors to switch from one product type to another more rapidly. The latter point is crucial especially in high-demand environments. Increasing production line size prevents quick response to customer demand, but it may improve system performance if the vendor lead-time is long or subject to high variation. Finally, variability in transportation and processing times causes the most damage if it arises at stages closer to the customer. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2007
Symbolic simplification of digital signal processing software

The problem of automatically designing efficient implementations of digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms based on application-specific information is considered. A rule-based code simplification system is presented that is capable of performing code simplifications on a broad class of programs. Several types of symbolic processing rules and their uses in the problem of code pruning are discussed. The design of efficient radix-2 FFT programs is presented as an example, and it is shown that considerable operational savings can be obtained if certain properties of the input data are known. >
Introduction to the Symposium

Abstract The demand by consumers for color in poultry carcasses remains strong. Around the turn of the Twentieth Century, this concern about color was more important than it is today. In yellow-skinned birds, which made up a major part of the meat birds then, skin color was a true indication of health. Most consumers wanted a yellow bird because this told them that the bird was reasonably free of coccidiosis. Although the consumer may not have known what coccidiosis was, she knew that birds with poor color were not as healthy as ones with good color. The consumer also knew that when the bird laid eggs with a bright yellow yolk, the hen had been on a high corn diet or had been able to get outside, and being outside was “good.” The consumer probably did not know that large amounts of vitamin A could cause egg yolks to be pale. . . .