cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Constructing Hydraulic Robot Models Using Memory-Based Learning

Hydraulic machines used in mining and excavation applications are nonlinear systems. Apart from the nonlinearity due to the dynamic coupling between the different links there are significant actuator nonlinearities due to the inherent properties of the hydraulic system. Optimal motion planning for these machines, i.e., planning motions that optimize a user-selectable combination of criteria such as time, energy, etc., would help the designers of such machines, besides aiding the development of more productive robotic machines. Optimal motion planning in turn requires fast (computationally efficient) machine models in order to be practically usable. This work proposes a method for constructing hydraulic machine models using memory-based learning. We demonstrate the approach by constructing a machine model of a 25-ton hydraulic excavator with a 10 m maximum reach. The learning method is used to construct the hydraulic actuator model and is used in conjunction with a linkage dynamic model to construct a complete excavator model that is much faster then an analytical model. Our test results show an average bucket tip position prediction error of 1 m over 50 sec of machine operation. This is better than any comparable speed model reported in the literature. The results also show that the approach effectively captures the interactions between the different hydraulic actuators. The excavator model is used in a time-optimal motion planning scheme. We demonstrate the optimization results on a real excavator testbed to underscore the effectiveness of the model for optimal motion computation.
Nonlinear Adaptive Vibration Absorber for Linear Uncertain Systems Experiencing Unknown Sinusoidal Disturbances

This paper describes the design and implementation of a nonlinear adaptive disturbance rejection approach for single-input-single-output (SISO) linear-time-invariant (LTI) uncertain systems subject to sinusoidal disturbances with unknown amplitude and frequency. The technique requires the construction of a set of stabilizing tuning functions utilizing a state estimate observer in a backstepping fashion to achieve asymptotic disturbance rejection. Utilizing only the system output, a virtual control input is used in place of non-measurable and unknown signals. The performance of the adaptation algorithm is demonstrated through simulations on a two-degree-of-freedom (2DOF) system, representing a mass-spring-damper vibration absorber setting appended on a single DOF (SDOF) primary system with unknown parameter.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
PFIESTERIA PISCICIDA GEN. ET SP. NOV. (PFIESTERIACEAE FAM. NOV.), A NEW TOXIC DINOFLAGELLATE WITH A COMPLEX LIFE CYCLE AND BEHAVIOR

The newly described toxic dinoflagellate Pfiesteria piscicida is a polymorphic and multiphasic species with flagellated, amoeboid, and cyst stages. The species is structurally a heterotroph; however, the flagellated stages can have cleptochloroplasts in large food vacuoles and can temporarily function as mixotrophs. The flagellated stage has a typical mesokaryotic nucleus, and the theca is composed of four membranes, two of which are vesicular and contain thin plates arranged in a Kofoidian series of Po, cp, X, 4′, 1a, 5″, 6c, 4s, 5″′, and 2″″. The plate tabulation is unlike that of any other armored dinoflagellate. Nodules often demark the suture lines underneath the outer membrane, but fixation protocols can influence the detection of plates. Amoeboid benthic stages can be filose to lobose, are thecate, and have a reticulate or spiculate appearance. Amoeboid stages have a eukaryotic nuclear profile and are phagocytic. Cyst stages include a small spherical stage with a honeycomb, reticulate surface and possibly another stage that is elongate and oval to spherical with chrysophyte-like scales that can have long bracts. The species is placed in a new family, Pfiesteriaceae, and the order Dinamoebales is emended.
Transitions and transversions in evolutionary descent: An approach to understanding

A quantitative theoretical groundwork is presented for determining the proportions of the possible types of base substitutions observed between 12 genes sharing a common ancestor and isolated from extant species. Three methods (direct count, regression, and informational entropy maximization) are described by which conditional base substitution probabilities that determine evolutionary descent can be estimated from experimental data. These methods are utilized to study the ratio of transversions to transitions during gene divergence. The limiting ratio is directly calculated from a knowledge of the 12 conditional probabilities for each type of base substitution and from a knowledge of the equilibrium base composition of the DNAs compared. An expression is developed for this calculation. It is concluded that multiple substitutions per se do not lead to a decrease in transition differences with increasing evolutionary divergence.
Effects of posthypnotic suggestion on perceived egocentric distance.

The effects of posthypnotic suggestion on the perception of egocentric distance were evaluated by two methods, one direct and the other indirect. The direct method was the verbal report of the perc...
A medium and simplified procedure for growing single cells from Solanum species

Abstract A nutrient medium that allows rapid growth of calli from individual cells of several Solanum species has been developed. The medium is based upon that of Kao and Michayluk (Planta, 126 (1975) 105–110). Modifications that improve plating efficiencies at low density include omission of pyruvate, malate, citrate and fumarate and increasing the phosphate level from 1.25 to 5 mM. The inclusion of 0.1–0.2% bovine serum albumin was essential for growth at low density. At a plating density of 80 protoplasts/ml, plating efficiencies of 1.5—2.0% for Solanum tuberosum L. and S. cardiophyllum Lindl. are often obtained. Single cells of these species were mechanically isolated after 48 h of culture at 800 or 8000 protoplasts/ml and plated singly on fresh medium. The single cells divided and formed rapidly-growing celli with plating efficiencies of 37–75%. Plants have been regenerated from these calli.
Susceptibility of Selected Shade and Flowering Trees to Gypsy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)

Twenty-one shade and flowering trees were planted in a cultivated opening surrounded on three sides by gypsy moth-infested forest stands. Three Malus cultivars, Salix babylonica, Acer platanoides ‘Royal Red’ and ‘Crimson Sentry,’ and Prunus cerasifera ‘Thundercloud’ were the most heavily defoliated (30-70%) each year. Acer rubrum ‘Northwood’ and ‘October Glory,’ Tilia cordata ‘Greenspire,’ and Tilia americana suffered low to moderate defoliation (4-20%). Acer platanoides ‘Emerald Queen,’ Acer saccharinum, Fraxinus pennsyloonica ‘Marshall Seedless,’ Platanus × acerifolia ‘Bloodgood,’ Pyrus calleryana ‘Redspire,’ Acer platanoides ‘Deborah,’ Prunus serrulata ‘Kwanzan,’ Gledttsia triacanthos var. imermis ‘Sunburst,’ and Magnolia × soulangtana lost <4.0% of their foliage because of gypsy moth feeding injury. A wide range of host plant resistance levels among cultivars of A. platanoides and species of Acer and Prunus indicates a need for evaluating cultivars of shade trees susceptible to gypsy moth. In a separate study at the same site, Acer rubrum ‘Northwood’ planted in the cultivated opening was more heavily defoliated (14.4%) by gypsy moth larvae than similar trees planted in the adjacent forest stand (6.6%).
Behavioral bioethics: Notes of a behavioral economist

Abstract Modern American bioethics is built on the assumption that the patient is fully rational. That is a very strong assumption and has made modern bioethics difficult to apply. Bioethics ought to adopt the more nuanced notion of rationality from behavioral economics. I go through several major bioethical principles, assuming that the patient is less than fully rational.
Distribution of radioactive colchicine in some organs of normal and tumor-bearing mice.

Summary1. Labelled colchicine was detected only in some organs of normal and tumor-bearing mice. 2. The uptake of colchicine in sarcoma 180 is as high as the uptake of liver. 3. Spleen is one of the organs having the highest concentration of colchicine in normal mice. 4. It was found that there was no colchicine in the spleen of tumor-bearing mice.
Using Externalization as a Means to Regulate Emotion in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

The use of the narrative therapy technique of externalization (White, 2007) is one that psychotherapists have employed in working with a diversity of populations in therapy, including children (Fre...
Quasi-static capacitance and ultra slow relaxation of linear and non-linear dielectrics

Abstract The time dependence of quasi-static capacitance of linear and non-linear materials can be measured using a constant voltage ramp method. The measured data are consistent with a theoretical equation derived from a superposition theorem. The capacitance of fast polarization, saturated polarization and the time constant of the relaxation process can be obtained using a non-linear least squares method. Ultra slow relaxation for linear dielectrics and ferroelectrics are reported.
(Re)Mix, (Re)Purpose, (Re)Learn: Using Participatory Tools for Media Literacy Learning Outcomes in the Classroom

This article explores how participatory online tools can enable media literacy learning outcomes premised on production, participation, and collaboration. In Spring 2009, 218 students enrolled in media literacy courses at Hofstra University and the University of Maryland remixed news from major news networks around the world using LinkTV's (n.d.) Know the News remix tool. The participants were then asked to complete a series of questionnaires detailing their experiences with remix, media literacy, and learning about bias, perspective, and ethics in news. The study investigated how the remixing process influences new understandings of bias, perspective, and ethics in the context of digital technologies and participatory web tools. The results of this study show that by allowing students to actively remix and (re)create their own media scripts, they were able to better grasp the storytelling process and its limitations. These outcomes recommend that students in P–12 education may better utilize new media te...
Gentamicin is Primarily Localized in Vestibular Type I Hair Cells after Intratympanic Administration

Intratympanic (IT) gentamicin injections are effective in the control of episodic vertigo due to Meniere’s disease. Histological studies in animals have found that the loss of type I vestibular hair cells far exceeds that of type II cells after IT gentamicin treatment. The objective of this study was to determine whether this selective toxicity for type I hair cells might be due to selective concentration of the drug by these cells. Gentamicin was localized within the vestibular epithelium by both direct and indirect methods. Gentamicin conjugated to Texas Red® was used as a direct tracer, and anti-gentamicin antibody provided an indirect means of localization. Conjugated or unconjugated gentamicin was injected into the left tympanic space of chinchillas. The animals were killed and fixed 1 or 3 weeks post-treatment. Confocal fluorescence microscopy was used to determine the localization of gentamicin in semicircular canal cristae. Results from the animals killed within 1 week of administration showed that numerous type I hair cells still remained throughout the epithelium. The mean intensity in grayscale units (0–255) of anti-gentamicin labeling for type I hair cells was 28.14 (95% CI 24.60–31.69), for type II hair cells was 17.09 (14.99–19.20), and for support cells was 5.35 (5.34–5.46; p < 0.001, ANOVA). Anti-gentamicin antibody labeling appeared in the majority of type I hair cells throughout their cytoplasm, but with greater intensity at the apex (p < 0.001). Intensity of fluorescence with Texas-Red conjugated gentamicin was 25.38 (22.83–27.94) in type I hair cells, 15.60 (14.73–16.48) in type II cells, and 12.62 (12.06–13.17) in support cells (p < 0.001, ANOVA). These results suggest that type I hair cells are more susceptible to gentamicin because they more avidly take up or retain the drug in the early period after administration.
Developments in plasma source/mass spectrometry

Abstract The field of plasma source/mass spectrometry is critically reviewed and its current status assessed. An overview of PS/MS applications is provided and a discussion is offered of key problem areas that currently exist in the field. Areas that are now receiving strong research attention are outlined and a view is offered for future prospects of plasma source/mass spectrometry as a technique for the determination of elements.
Therapeutic factors in spouse-abuse group treatment

Abstract Spouse abuse has been identified as a prevalent and devastating phenomena in American society. Group work with batterers is the treatment of choice for attempting to end abusive behavior. Therapeutic factors available to participants in group counseling could help batterers reverse abusive tendencies. This study examined 38 men's experiences of therapeutic factors in educational groups for batterers. Two factors, imparting of information and development of socializing techniques, were found to be predominant in the groups. Other factors thought to be important for abuse treatment (hope, universality, catharsis, family reenactment, altruism, interpersonal learning, modeling, and existential factors) were found to be minimally present in these groups. Chi-square analysis demonstrated a relationship between number of group meetings attended and the factors of group cohesion and universality, with group cohesion developing later and universality present earlier in the group process.
Economic valuation of amitriptyline, desipramine, nortriptyline, and sertraline in the management of patients with depression

Abstract The high prevalence of depression and its associated morbidity, mortality, and economic consequence to the health care delivery system and society mandate the selection of both efficacious and effective treatment. Recent pharmacotherapeutic advances in the treatment of patients with depression have included the development of selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The present study was designed to contrast direct health service expenditures for the treatment of depression among pateins enrolled in a health maintenance organization (HMO) and prescribed either the SSRI sertraline or one of three tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) (amitriptyline, desipramine, or nortriptyline). Information regarding health service utilization was derived from the computer archive of a network-model MHO system serving 500,000 beneficiaries. A total of 823 HMO beneficiaries were found to satisfy the study selection criteria. Multivariate regression analysis was used to discern the incremental influence of selected demographic, clinical, financial, and provider characteristics on 1-year post-period expenditures (PPE) for health care. Analysis-of-variance procedures with Duncan's multiple-range test or chi-square analyses revealed no significant baseline difference across antidepressant pharmacotherapy for age, 6-month prior-period expenditures for physician visits, psychiatric visits, laboratory tests, or psychiatric hospital services related to the treatment of depression (as defined via International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision, Clinical Modification or Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition code 296.2), or number of medications for concomitant disease state processes other than depression. Receipt of sertraline was associated with a significantly ( P ≤ 0.05) higher rate of initial prescribing by psychiatrists and an increase in the number of prescriptions for antidepressant pharmacotherapy obtained (30-day supplies). Multivariate findings indicate that receipt of a TCA resulted in an increase in the use of physician visits ($101.65; P ≤ 0.05), psychiatric visits ($31.20; P = NS), laboratory tests ($1.82; P = NS), hospitalizations ($207.43; P ≤ 0.05), and psychiatric hospitalizations ($223.82; P ≤ 0.05) related to the treatment of depression, and a reduction in expenditures for antidepressant pharmacotherapy (−$398.31; P ≤ 0.05), for a total increase in health service utilization of $167.61 ( P ≤ 0.05) 1 year post-initiation of antidepressant pharmacotherapy. These findings revealed there existed a 21% reduction in total health service expenditures with receipt of sertraline relative to a TCA.
Spatial and seasonal variations in mercury methylation and microbial community structure in a historic mercury mining area, Yolo County, California

Abstract The relationships between soil parent lithology, nutrient concentrations, microbial biomass and community structure were evaluated in soils from a small watershed impacted by historic Hg mining. Upland and wetland soils, stream sediments and tailings were collected and analyzed for nutrients (DOC, SO4=, NO3−), Hg, MeHg, and phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA). Stream sediment was derived from serpentinite, siltstone, volcanic rocks and mineralized serpentine with cinnabar, metacinnabar and other Hg phases. Soils from different parent materials had distinct PLFA biomass and community structures that are related to nutrient concentrations and toxicity effects of trace metals including Hg. The formation of MeHg appears to be most strongly linked to soil moisture, which in turn has a correlative relationship with PLFA biomass in wetland soils. The greatest concentrations of MeHg (> 0.5 ng g− 1 MeHg) were measured in wetland soils and soil with a volcanic parent (9.5–37 µg g− 1 Hg). Mercury methylation was associated with sulfate-reducing bacteria, including Desulfobacter sp. and Desulfovibrio sp., although these organisms are not exclusively responsible for Hg methylation. Statistical models of the data demonstrated that soil microbial communities varied more with soil type than with season.
Electronic structure of LaRh3B2 and CeRh3B2

The electronic structures of LaRh3B2 and CeRh3B2 have been calculated using the self-consistent KKR method and are discussed in terms of recent experimental results.
A County-Level Assessment of Manure Nutrient Availability Relative to Crop Nutrient Capacity in Iowa: Analysis of Spatial and Temporal Trends

Abstract. During the twentieth century, agricultural production strived to achieve increased food production in order to satisfy both local and export demands. In many cases, this led to increased farm sizes and an operational separation of crop and livestock production. Society fears that the trend of increasing centralization and industrialization of agriculture, specifically animal agriculture, has resulted in concentration of waste products associated with their production (manures, wash-down water, process waters, etc.) over relatively small geographic regions that are spatially segregated from crop production areas. Since the distance that manure can be economically hauled for land application has practical limits, this could lead to over-application, of manures near animal feeding facilities, potentially increasing nutrient losses to ground and surface waters. A statewide analysis of crop and animal production in Iowa suggests that about 25% of current nitrogen and phosphorus requirements for crop production could be supplied from manures and litters, while around 40% of the required potassium could be provided. However, neither livestock nor crop production is uniformly distributed across all counties. This unequal distribution suggests that a more disaggregated analysis of crop nutrient requirements and manure nutrient supply is necessary to estimate the risks of excess nutrient loss to the environment. Results indicated that in general all counties had sufficient nutrient utilization capacities to value manure as a resource; however, counties in Northwest Iowa are becoming progressively more manure rich, while counties in Southwestern and Central Iowa are becoming progressively more manure poor. This separation of crop and livestock production is becoming more pronounced, indicating that solids separation and nutrient (especially phosphorus) recovery systems that can concentrate manure nutrients for transport could become more important to help counties maintain nutrient balance and to return manure nutrients to the soil if these trends persist.
Cosmos vs. chaos: Sense and nonsense in electronic contexts.

The growth of electronic information processing has, changed organizations in profound ways. One unexpected change is that elecl mic processing has made it harder, not easier, to understand events that are rep sented on screens. As a result, job dissatisfaction in the 1990s may not center on issues of human relations. It may involve the even more fundamental issue of meaning: Employees can tolerate people problems longer than they can tolerate uncertainty about what's going on and what it means.
Recent Advances in Application of Cerebral Oximetry in Adult Cardiovascular Surgery

Cerebral oximetry is a noninvasive technology that continuously monitors cerebral tissue oxygen saturation, which is a sensitive index of global cerebral hypoperfusion. On the basis of near-infrared spectroscopy technology, information is provided on the availability of oxygen in brain tissue at risk during numerous pathological conditions. Complementary to the arterial oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry, cerebral tissue oxygen saturation reflects regional cerebral metabolism and the balance of local cerebral oxygen supply/demand. Recently, patient management with the guidance of cerebral oximetry has resulted in improved patient outcomes. This review will briefly describe the physics behind cerebral oximetry and will provide an overview of the literature focusing primarily on articles published within the past 5 years.
Proteasome inhibitors in Waldenström macroglobulinemia

In this issue of Blood , Dimopoulos and colleagues report on a prospective multicenter clinical trial conducted by the European Myeloma Network (EMN) that evaluated the activity of bortezomib, dexamethasone, and rituximab (BDR) in patients with untreated, symptomatic Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM). 1
Tolerance of Juvenile Red Drum Sciaenops ocellatus to Rapidly Decreasing Water Temperatures

This study assessed the potential mortality of pond-reared juvenile red drum Sciaenops ocellatus subjected to rapid declines in water temperature simulating cold front activity. Fish acclimated in an earthen pond at ambient temperature and photoperiod were introduced into a recirculating aquarium and biofiltration system when pond water temperatures decreased to 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, and 10 C. Fish were stocked according to size group into 10 aquaria containing filtered pond water at 9 ± 1‰ salinity and temperature matching the acclimation temperature. Fish were acclimated to the aquaria for 3 d, subjected to a 6 C decrease over 24 h, and then held for 72 h. No mortalities were observed in any trial. The results suggest that if juvenile red drum are maintained in water with salinity around 9‰, they should survive the passage of most cold fronts.
Public risk perspectives on the geologic storage of carbon dioxide

Abstract Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage (CCS) technology has the potential to enable large reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions, but one of the unanswered questions about CCS is to what extent it will be accepted by the public. To provide insight regarding risk perception as an important component that will influence the public acceptance of CCS, this study discusses different notions of risk and their varying uses by the public, who generally use a social constructivist risk perspective, and risk experts, who generally use a realist perspective. Previous studies discussing the public acceptance of CCS have relied on survey response data and/or focus groups. This study instead uses the psychometric theory of public risk perception to postulate how the public is likely to respond to efforts to use geologic storage of CO2, a component of the CCS architecture. Additionally this paper proposes further actions that could favorably impact the public's perception of risk from geologic storage projects. Through the psychometric analysis this study concludes that the risks of geologic storage are likely to eventually be considered no worse than existing fossil fuel energy technologies. However, since geologic storage of CO2 is a new technology with little operational experience, additional field tests and a demonstrated ability to mitigate problems should they arise will be necessary to improve the public's perception of risk from CCS technologies.
Linkage relationships of the Knockdown resistance gene (kdr) in larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae)

Linkage analysis of kdr (knockdown resistance) , the pyrethroid- and DDT-resistance gene, was conducted by performing a series of crosses involving marker genes for each chromosome. The kdr gene assorted independently of the organophosphate-resistance gene Est-2 , a marker for the 3rd chromosome, and of the sex-determining factor m , a marker for the 1st chromosome. The 2nd chromosome marker gene y, yellow larva, and kdr were found to be 35 ± 4 map units apart. A 3-point cross with ru (ruby eye), y, and kdr established the gene order as kdr-ru-y .
The Influence of Anxiety: Ephebes, Épées, Posterity, and Preposterity in the World of Stephen Brown

Abstract The author responds to a recent article in which Stephen Brown compares the work of Ted Levitt and Morris Holbrook, casts the two into a precursor-ephebe relationship, and concludes that they are “father and son, one and the same.” Although honored by this comparison, the author mentions certain ways in which Brown’s interpretations appear to distort his intentions as an author.
Observations of chemical and physical fine-structure in a strong pycnocline, Sea of Marmara☆

Abstract Chemical and physical observations within a strong pycnocline in the Sea of Marmara suggest the concurrent development of a thermohaline step structure and of spikes in the vertical distributions of chemical variables. Calculations based on a multivariate form of a two-component mixing model indicate a vertical mixing scale near 22 m.
Inefficient Proofreading and Biased Error Rates during Inaccurate DNA Synthesis by a Mutant Derivative of Saccharomyces cerevisiae DNA Polymerase δ

DNA polymerase δ (pol δ) is a high fidelity eukaryotic enzyme that participates in DNA repair and is essential for DNA replication. Toward the goal of dissecting its multiple biological functions, here we describe the biochemical properties of Saccharomyces cerevisiae pol δ with a methionine replacing conserved leucine 612 at the polymerase active site. Compared with wild type pol δ, L612M pol δ has normal processivity and slightly higher polymerase specific activity. L612M pol δ also has normal 3′ exonuclease activity, yet it is impaired in partitioning mismatches to the exonuclease active site, thereby reducing DNA synthesis fidelity. Error rates in vitro for L612M pol δ are elevated for both base substitutions and single base deletions but in a highly biased manner. For each of the six possible pairs of reciprocal mismatches that could arise during replication of complementary DNA strands to account for any particular base substitution in vivo (e.g. T-dGMP or A-dCMP for T to C transitions), L612M pol δ error rates are substantially higher for one mismatch than the other. These results provide a biochemical explanation for our observation, which confirms earlier genetic studies, that a haploid pol3-L612M S. cerevisiae strain has an elevated spontaneous mutation rate that is likely due to reduced replication fidelity in vivo.
Regulated expression of microRNAs in normal and polycythemia vera erythropoiesis

Objective Polycythemia vera (PV) is a myeloproliferative disorder, arising from the acquired mutation(s) of a hematopoietic stem cell. The JAK2 V617F somatic mutation is found in most PV patients; however, it is not the disease-initiating mutation. Because microRNAs (miRNAs) play a regulatory role in hematopoiesis, we studied miRNA expressions in PV and normal erythropoiesis. Methods Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were cultured in a three-phase liquid system resulting in synchronized expansion of erythroid progenitors. Using gene-expression profiling by CombiMatrix MicroRNArray, we searched for PV-specific changes at days 1, 14, and 21. Twelve miRNA candidates were then reevaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in a larger number of samples obtained from progenitors at the same stage of differentiation. Results A significant difference in miR-150 expression was found in PV. In normal erythropoiesis, three expression patterns of miRNAs were observed: progressive downregulation of miR-150, miR-155, miR-221, miR-222; upregulation of miR-451, miR-16 at late stages of erythropoiesis; and biphasic regulation of miR-339, miR-378. The miR-451 appears to be erythroid-specific. Conclusions We identified the miRNAs with regulated expression in erythropoiesis; one appeared to be PV-specific. Their miRNA expression levels define early, intermediate, and late stages of erythroid differentiation. The validity of our findings was confirmed in nonexpanded peripheral blood cells.
Comparison of Failure Patterns in Locally Advanced Oropharyngeal and Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinomas Treated with 3D Conformal Radiotherapy versus Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy

along with S-1 therapy as an alternative to 5-FU infusion may result in more efficient treatment and improve the quality of life of patients. This study investigated the maximum tolerated dose of S-1 based on the frequency of its dose limiting toxicities (DLT) with concurrent radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer. Materials/Methods: S-1 was administered orally at escalating doses from 40mg/m b.i.d. on the day of irradiation during radiotherapy. Radiation therapy was delivered as a total dose of 60-70Gy in 30-35 fractions over 6-7 weeks. Results: Twelve patients (40 three; 60 six; 80mg/m three patients) were enrolled in this trial. At a dose of 80mg/m S-1, two of three patients demonstrated DLT involving grade 3 appetite loss, rhabdomyolysis caused by S-1, the maximum tolerance dose (MTD) was determined 80mg/m S-1. Among the 12 enrolled patients, 9(75%) showed a complete response and 3(25%) showed a partial response. Over all response rate was 100%. Conclusions: The recommended dose of S-1 therapy with concurrent radiotherapy is 60mg/m. Further clinical study assessment is warranted.
Birthweight by gestational age and sex at a rural referral center.

OBJECTIVE: Determine the distribution of birthweights in singleton births by gestational age and gender at Marquette General Hospital, a rural referral center in Michigan's upper peninsula. STUDY DESIGN: Birth log data were examined for prenatal factors and obstetrical outcomes. The birthweight distribution was compared to published values, and a linear regression model of prenatal factors was developed. RESULTS: Our median birthweights were significantly greater than published values. Males were 128 g heavier than female infants after adjusting for gestational age. In a multivariable linear regression model, birthweight was significantly associated with gestational age, sex of the infant, maternal age, primigravida status of mother, and maternal diabetes (all p<0.01). Using published standards resulted in an overdiagnosis of large for gestational age and an underdiagnosis of small for gestational age. CONCLUSION: Local birthweight distributions can differ significantly from historical or national distributions. The development of birthweight distributions accommodating for prenatal factors is needed.
Effect of Rainfall Excess Calculations on Modeled Hydrograph Accuracy and Unit-Hydrograph Parameters

: Two methods of computing rainfall excess in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’flood hydrograph package (HEC-1), the Initial and Uniform method and the Exponential method, are compared to evaluate the effects on modeled hydrograph accuracy. Two computed unit-hydrograph parameters, time of concentration and storage coefficient, were also compared. Rainfall and runoff data from 209 storms in 32 gaged basins in Illinois were used to calibrate the HEC-1 model. Three hydrograph characteristics - sum of incremental flows, peak discharge, and time of peak discharge - were used to evaluate modeled hydrograph accuracy. Mean percent error for each basin and hydrograph characteristic was computed. An evaluation of the mean errors indicates that, although some bias in modeled hydrograph accuracy is evident, rainfall excess computed using either method results in a computed hydrograph accuracy that is within generally accepted limits. Application of a linear-regression model shows no significant differences in computed values of unit-hydrograph parameters.
Respiration in Birds

Abstract INTRODUCTION TO THE SYMPOSIUM On August 8, 1979, a symposium entitled “Respiration in Birds” was presented to the 68th Annual Poultry Science Association Meeting held at the University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida. This symposium was sponsored by the physiology section; however, the purpose was not to exclusively consider the anatomic and physiologic aspects of the respiratory system, but also to integrate this knowledge with more applied concerns. Two of the four papers of the symposium dealt with the basic anatomy and physiology of the system, one paper concerned pathology of the respiratory apparatus, and the final paper concerned management of the climatic factors which constitute the environments of commercially reared birds. Roger Fedde of Kansas State University presented the first paper, “Structure of an Air Flow Pattern in the Avian Respiratory System”. Results were presented of numerous studies from laboratories in the US and especially those in West Germany concerned . . .
Wide-field fluorescence sectioning with hybrid speckle and uniform-illumination microscopy

We describe a method of obtaining optical sectioning with a standard wide-field fluorescence microscope. The method involves acquiring two images, one with nonuniform illumination (in our case, speckle) and another with uniform illumination (in our case, randomized speckle). An evaluation of the local contrast in the speckle-illumination image provides an optically sectioned image with low resolution. This is complemented with high-resolution information obtained from the uniform-illumination image. A fusion of both images leads to a full resolution image that is optically sectioned across all spatial frequencies. This hybrid illumination method is fast, robust, and generalizable to a variety of illumination and imaging configurations.
R5X4 HIV-1 coreceptor use in primary target cells: implications for coreceptor entry blocking strategies

Entry coreceptor use by HIV-1 plays a pivotal role in viral transmission, pathogenesis and disease progression. In many HIV-1 infected individuals, there is an expansion in coreceptor use from CCR5 to include CXCR4, which is associated with accelerated disease progression. While targeting HIV-1 envelope interactions with coreceptor during viral entry is an appealing approach to combat the virus, the methods of determining coreceptor use and the changes in coreceptor use that can occur during disease progression are important factors that may complicate the use of therapies targeting this stage of HIV-1 replication. Indicator cells are typically used to determine coreceptor use by HIV-1 in vitro, but the coreceptors used on these cells can differ from those used on primary cell targets. V3 based genetic sequence algorithms are another method used to predict coreceptor use by HIV-1 strains. However, these algorithms were developed to predict coreceptor use in cell lines and not primary cells and, furthermore, are not highly accurate for some classes of viruses. This article focuses on R5X4 HIV-1, the earliest CXCR4-using variants, reviewing the pattern of coreceptor use on primary CD4+ lymphocytes and macrophages, the relationship between primary cell coreceptor use and the two principal approaches to coreceptor analysis (genetic prediction and indicator cell phenotyping), and the implications of primary cell coreceptor use by these strains for treatment with a new class of small molecule antagonists that inhibit CCR5-mediated entry. These are important questions to consider given the development of new CCR5 blocking therapies and the prognosis associated with CXCR4 use.
Photooxidant activity in natural waters

After exposure to sunlight or laboratory UV light, sterilized water samples (or their reconstituted concentrates) from California and Hawaii oxidized several common environmental contaminants, including ethylenethiourea, thiobencarb, DDE and aldrin, which do not absorb ultraviolet radiation appreciably in the sunlight wavelength region. Unirradiated controls were inactive. The generated oxidant remained active in the water samples for at least 60 min in the dark at ambient temperature. Tryptophan and tyrosine were isolated as causative agents but were not the actual oxidants. Such light-induced degradation reactions have important implications for the environmental fate of chemicals in water and for environmental modelling.
Postural Effects of the Horizon on Land and at Sea

Motion of a ship at sea creates challenges for control of the body. Anecdotal reports suggest that the body can be stabilized by standing on the open deck and looking at the horizon. This advice contrasts with land-based findings that looking at the horizon leads to increased body sway. We measured standing body sway in experienced maritime crew members on land and at sea. On land, body sway was greater when subjects looked at the horizon than when they did not—the classical effect. At sea, body sway was greater in a closed cabin than on the open deck. On the open deck, body sway when looking at the horizon was reduced relative to sway when looking at middistance targets on the ship. The results are consistent with centuries of anecdotal advice given to sea travelers and raise new questions about the referents that are used for the control of standing posture.
An externalized polypeptide partitions between two distinct sites on genome-released poliovirus particles.

During cell entry, native poliovirus (160S) converts to a cell-entry intermediate (135S) particle, resulting in the externalization of capsid proteins VP4 and the amino terminus of VP1 (residues 1 to 53). Externalization of these entities is followed by release of the RNA genome (uncoating), leaving an empty (80S) particle. The antigen-binding fragment (Fab) of a monospecific peptide 1 (P1) antibody, which was raised against a peptide corresponding to amino-terminal residues 24 to 40 of VP1, was utilized to track the location of the amino terminus of VP1 in the 135S and 80S states of poliovirus particles via cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and three-dimensional image reconstruction. On 135S, P1 Fabs bind to a prominent feature on the external surface known as the "propeller tip." In contrast, our initial 80S-P1 reconstruction showed P1 Fabs also binding to a second site, at least 50 A distant, at the icosahedral 2-fold axes. Further analysis showed that the overall population of 80S-P1 particles consisted of three kinds of capsids: those with P1 Fabs bound only at the propeller tips, P1 Fabs bound only at the 2-fold axes, or P1 Fabs simultaneously bound at both positions. Our results indicate that, in 80S particles, a significant fraction of VP1 can deviate from icosahedral symmetry. Hence, this portion of VP1 does not change conformation synchronously when switching from the 135S state. These conclusions are compatible with previous observations of multiple conformations of the 80S state and suggest that movement of the amino terminus of VP1 has a role in uncoating. Similar deviations from icosahedral symmetry may be biologically significant during other viral transitions.
Would a Type A Date Another Type A?: Influence of Behavior Type and Personal Attributes In the Selection of Dating Partners1

Certain behavior type patterns in couples have been associated with heightened interpersonal distress and coronary heart disease risk. However, the factors that lead to such pairings seldom have been investigated. The present study examined the associations between personal behavior type and gender-role self-concept related to the selection of hypothetical dating partners. Eighty-one male and 116 female heterosexual college students completed questionnaires to assess behavior type (Jenkins Activity Survey) and gender-role self-concept (Personal Attributes Questionnaire, PAQ). Participants chose a preferred “dating partner” from vignettes differing in the degree of Type A-Type B behavior displayed. Results of CATMOD and chi-square analyses were generally consistent with the similarity theory of interpersonal attraction. Type A and B males as well as Type B females preferred hypothetical dating partners identical to their own behavior type. Type A females with high PAQ Masculinity scores selected Type A dates, whereas Type A females with low PAQ Masculinity preferred Type Bs. Implications for the selection of actual dating partners, spouses, potential interpersonal distress, and coronary heart disease risk are discussed.
Rational design in motion: Uncertainty and flexibility in the global climate regime

Recent International Relations scholarship offers valuable rational choice explanations for the design of international institutions. However, the rational design literature has relied heavily on institutional outcomes as evidence for testing models. Such studies must be complemented by research designs that analyze the decisions and bargaining that drive design choices in order to expose causal mechanisms and test a wider range of observable implications. I assess an important rational design hypothesis, that uncertainty leads to flexible institutions, by analyzing the negotiations behind the climate change regime and by considering two distinct institutional outcomes across time. While the hypothesis receives considerable support, significant behavior and outcomes do not conform to its logic. I propose refinements for rational design theory in general and work on uncertainty and flexibility in particular. Rational choice theory speaks to the process of institutional design and should not content itself ...
Theoretical background and prognostic modeling for benchmarking SHM sensors for composite structures

This paper reports on analytical as well as computer simulation of waves propagating in sandwich-type composite structures. Sandwich-type composites are being studied for use in NASA’s new heavy lift launch vehicle, and flaw detection is crucial for safety and for failure prognostics. Theoretical analysis, as well as numerical modeling, is needed for benchmarking of available technologies for structural health monitoring (SHM) sensors and sensor systems. This benchmarking activity is important for answering the basic question of what minimum flaw size can be detected by the existing SHM based monitoring methods. Sandwich panels with foam, WebCore and honeycomb structures were considered for use in this study. Eigenmode frequency analysis and Frequency Response Analysis of the panels were made to understand fundamental properties of the panel physics and limitations that may affect the application of current SHM sensors and methods. An analytical study of the transient wave propagation is considered based on Mindlin plate theory. The mathematical model, accompanied by numerical simulations, shows that small size defects can be recognized but the frequency of waves should be sufficiently high. It is concluded that a combination of analytical results coupled with the high-fidelity simulations should make it possible to analyze experimental data and to predict the applicability of SHM methods for this type of structure. *
The social security act: An appraisal

While comprehensive and containing much that might not have been expected, it omits many things which should be included in a social insurance act.
Correction to the Formula for the London Moment of a Rotating Superconductor

This paper gives a full quantum mechanical analysis of the magnetic field (first discussed by London) that appears spontaneously when a sample of superconductor is set into rotation. It is shown that, for slow rotation velocities and using certain approximations, the fieldB threading a cavity within a superconductor that rotates at angular velocityω is given byeB=2(mo−W/c2)ω, where — e is the charge on the electron,mo is the free electron mass,W is the work function of the superconductor, andc is the velocity of light. In this calculation effects that are second order in the rotation velocity have been ignored, and the result is only strictly valid at the zero of temperature. The application of this result to experiments using practical, nonideal apparatus is then illustrated for a simple geometry.
Assessment of Glucagon Immunoreactivity in Plasma

The measurement of glucagon in plasma by radioimmunoassay, even with so-called pancreatic specific antisera, is known to be fraught with complexities. A problem not widely appreciated is that significant numbers of diabetic subjects with a history of insulin therapy appear to have endogenous glucagon antibodies. Of particular importance is the finding that materials of varying size with glucagon immunoreactivity (160,000; 10–20,000; 9000; 3500; and less than 2000 daltons) can be found in plasma in various circumstances. The 3500 molecular weight form is felt to represent pancreatic A cell true glucagon. The other forms, however, have not been fully characterized and their contribution to metabolic regulation in health and disease remains to be determined.
COMPARATIVE ECOLOGY OF THE FLAMMULATED OWL AND NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL DURING FALL MIGRATION

ABSTRACT We compared the migration ecology of two owl species that exhibit different migration strategies: the Flammulated Owl (Otus flammeolus) and the Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus). During fall 1999–2004, we captured 117 Flammulated Owls and 1433 Northern Saw-whet Owls in the southern Boise Mountains of southwestern Idaho. These owl species exhibited contrasting seasonal timing and body condition. Flammulated Owl captures peaked in mid-September and Northern Saw-whet Owl captures peaked in early to mid-October. Flammulated Owls displayed greater body condition than Northern Saw-whet Owls and increasing condition scores during the season, whereas Northern Saw-whet Owls had no apparent seasonal condition patterns. Based on seasonal timing of captures, both species showed unimodal movement patterns characteristic of fall migrants. However, in 1999 both species' capture rates were at least double those in other years of this study. Flammulated Owls' earlier arrival and departure, coupled with su...