cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neoadjuvant gemcitabine and cisplatin: Another step on the path toward improving the outcomes of patients with high-risk, invasive bladder cancer

I nvasive bladder cancer is a common and dangerous disease that is becoming only more prevalent as the population ages. Radical surgical therapy with curative intent has been and continues to be a mainstay in the management of this condition; however, approximately half of clinically localized cases go on to develop distant metastases postoperatively. Platinum-based combination chemotherapy (methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin [MVAC]) emerged more than 20 years ago in studies pioneered by Dr. Alan Yagoda and associates at Memorial Sloan-Kettering as the first effective systemic therapy for metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Despite this major advance, as well as concomitant improvements in surgical and perioperative care, bladder cancer mortality rates have not seen a dramatic improvement in recent years. A review of survival outcomes of contemporary versus historical cystectomy series (before and after 1985) stratified by pathologic stage revealed only modest improvements in survival in the modern era, with 5year survival rates of 60% versus 67% for pT2, 33% versus 35% for pT3, and 21% versus 27% for pT4. The casual observer could be forgiven for a less than sanguine view of the state of the art in this setting; in 2008, there is clear room for improvement in the outcomes of patients with high-risk, muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The observation of responses in the primary tumor among patients with metastatic disease led to the evaluation of MVAC given before cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. A body of literature has emerged over the past 2 decades supporting neoadjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy as a particularly promising strategy to improve patient outcomes. A recent meta-analysis of over 3000 patients, representing 98% of all patients in relevant randomized controlled trials, demonstrated a significant benefit associated with neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy, equivalent to a 5% improvement in See referenced original article on pages 2471–7, this issue.
Automated Algorithmic Error Resilience for Structured Grid Problems Based on Outlier Detection

In this paper, we propose automated algorithmic error resilience based on outlier detection. Our approach exploits the characteristic behavior of a class of applications to create metric functions that normally produce metric values according to a designed distribution or behavior and produce outlier values (i.e., values that do not conform to the designed distribution or behavior) when computations are affected by errors. For a robust algorithm that employs such an approach, error detection becomes equivalent to outlier detection. As such, we can make use of well-established, statistically rigorous techniques for outlier detection to effectively and efficiently detect errors, and subsequently correct them. Our error-resilient algorithms incur significantly lower overhead than traditional hardware and software error resilience techniques. Also, compared to previous approaches to application-based error resilience, our approaches parameterize the robustification process, making it easy to automatically transform large classes of applications into robust applications with the use of parser-based tools and minimal programmer effort. We demonstrate the use of automated error resilience based on outlier detection for structured grid problems, leveraging the flexibility of algorithmic error resilience to achieve improved application robustness and lower overhead compared to previous error resilience approaches. We demonstrate 2 × --3× improvement in output quality compared to the original algorithm with only 22% overhead, on average, for non-iterative structured grid problems. Average overhead is as low as 4.5% for error-resilient iterative structured grid algorithms that tolerate error rates up to 10E-3 and achieve the same output quality as their error-free counterparts.
Surveillance of Prescription Drug-Related Mortality Using Death Certificate Data

Background: The prescription drugs or drug classes that are most frequently associated with death in the US might be identifiable from death certificate data. Objective: To identify the drugs/drug classes associated with the greatest numbers of deaths in the US that might be considered as possible targets for prevention. Study design: US vital statistics data were accessed in order to identify International Classification of Diseases (10th Revision) [ICD-10] codes indicating that prescription drugs had caused or contributed to death and diseases with significant drug-related mortality. Main outcome measure: ICD-10 codes for primarily prescription drugs that were listed as the underlying cause or as ‘total mentions’ on death certificates and were implicated in ≥1000 deaths in any one year were selected. The annual number of deaths by ICD-10 code was obtained from the Division of Vital Statistics, National Center for Health Statistics. Codes for diseases with significant drug-related aetiologies and involvement in ≥1000 deaths in any one year were also identified and analysed separately. Results: For the selected ICD-10 codes, a total of 25 031 deaths were listed as having a prescription drug as the underlying cause in 2003, compared with 16 135 in 1999, a 55% increase. Total mentions of these codes increased from 46 523 in 1999 to 72 080 in 2003, also a 55% increase. Most codes involved ‘poisonings’ (overdose or the wrong substance given or taken in error that is accidental, intentional or with undetermined intent). Drugs associated with poisoning deaths had central nervous system effects. Among the codes associated with specified drug classes, poisonings and accidental poisonings involving narcotics, hallucinogens, psychoactive substances and opioids (other than opium and heroin) were associated with the largest numbers of deaths. Drug-related codes associated with the largest percentage increases in deaths between 1999 and 2003 included poisoning due to methadone (275%); poisoning by other and unspecified antidepressants (primarily selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) [130%]; and poisoning by psychostimulants with potential for abuse (amfetamines and drugs for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) [117%]. Anticoagulants were associated with the largest numbers of deaths with codes involving “adverse effects in therapeutic use”. Among diseases with significant drug-related aetiologies, Clostridium difficile enterocolitis (associated primarily with antibacterials) had the largest percentage increase in total mentions, with a 203% rise between 1999 and 2003. Conclusions: Deaths due to overdoses are the most prominent cause of drug-related mortality in death certificate data. Certain drugs and drug classes, especially the opioids (e.g. narcotics, methadone), psychoactive drugs (e.g. antidepressants, amfetamines), anticoagulants and antibacterials (which cause or contribute to C. difficile enterocolitis) are associated with large and increasing numbers of deaths and preventive strategies should be considered.
Seventeen-GHz directional coupler optical modulator

The design of our high-speed directional coupler modulators at 0.83 /spl mu/m used a semi-vectorial finite difference solver to obtain the odd and even mode optical propagation constants in the AlGaAs waveguide structure and a quasistatic finite difference code to obtain the RF characteristics of the electrode structure, which was an asymmetric coplanar waveguide modified capacitance loading. The measured drive voltage of the modulators, for 10-90% response, varied between 22 and 27 V, compared with the theoretical value of 25 V. The 3 dB bandwidth of 17 GHz was obtained for this capacitive-loaded design, with 2500 mm interaction length, and is in good agreement with the predicted result. >
Using unknown input observers for robust adaptive fault detection in vector second-order systems

The purpose of this manuscript is to construct natural observers for vector second-order systems by utilising unknown input observer (UIO) methods. This observer is subsequently used for a robust fault detection scheme and also as an adaptive detection scheme for a certain class of actuator faults wherein the time instance and characteristics of an incipient actuator fault are detected. Stability of the adaptive scheme is provided by a parameter-dependent Lyapunov function for second-order systems. Numerical example on a mechanical system describing an automobile suspension system is used to illustrate the theoretical results.
Expected Failures and Unexpected Successes of Land Titling in Africa

Abstract The imposition of market-oriented economic reforms throughout Africa in the 1990s has sparked renewed debate over the desirability of state-sponsored land titling programs. Proponents argue that land titling is an essential foundation for economic growth. Opponents contend that titling programs are unnecessary and premature at best, or detrimental at worst. This paper addresses these concerns through an examination of Cameroon's 1974 Lands Ordinance. Using both quantitative and qualitative data, we find that the 1974 Lands Ordinance has not introduced Western-style private property rights in Cameroon's agrarian sector. Nevertheless, the ordinance is not irrelevant to rural farmers. Rural farmers have used the ordinance to obtain concrete boundary markers on their land, enhancing their tenure security. In addition, administrators have used the ordinance to register underdeveloped land, reducing the contradictions between state law and customary law. These findings suggest that policy-makers could fruitfully redesign their land tenure policies to render them more attractive to rural farmers, and thereby give the state a more constructive role in enhancing tenure security, and in promoting economic growth.
Instrument pointing control system for the Stellar Interferometry Mission: Planet Quest

This paper describes the high precision Instrument Pointing Control System (PCS) for the Stellar Interferometry Mission (SIM) - Planet Quest. The PCS system provides front-end pointing, compensation for spacecraft motion, and feedforward stabilization, which are needed for proper interference. Optical interferometric measurements require very precise pointing (0.03 as, 1-(sigma) radial) for maximizing the interference pattern visibility. This requirement is achieved by fine pointing control of articulating pointing mirrors with feedback from angle tracking cameras. The overall pointing system design concept is presentcd. Functional requirements and an acquisition concept are given. Guide and Science pointing control loops are discussed. Simulation analyses demonstrate the feasibility of the design.
Bile salts of spontaneously atherosclerosis-susceptible white Carneau pigeon.

Abstract The biliary bile acids of the White Carneau pigeon were analyzed by thin-layer chromatography on three specific solvent systems followed by gas-liquid chromatography on two liquid phases after derivatization. Bile acids were predominantly conjugated with taurine. Chenodeoxycholic acid was the major bile acid (76.6%); also present were cholic (8.0%), ursodeoxycholic (4.2%), lithocholic (4.7%), deoxycholic (2.5%), 3-keto-7α-hydroxycholanoic (2%), and allochenodeoxycholic (2%) acids. No significant difference was noted in conjugation or composition of bile acids from these pigeons and from atherosclerosis-resistant Show Racer pigeons.
A biochemical measure of monoamine oxidase type A and B inhibitor effects in man.

Abstract A method is described for the measurement of the effects of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI's) in human plasma. The procedure was used to estimate the levels of pargyline and clorgyline in plasma from patients with affective disorders. The results indicate that after an oral dose, pargyline is rapidly absorbed into the blood, reaches a maximum level in approximately 1 hr and has a half life of approximately 2 hr. After chronic administration, neither pargyline nor clorgyline attain steady state levels of MAO inhibiting potential which are higher than those seen 12 hr after a single dose of drug. A single 50 mg dose of pargyline causes greater than 90% inhibition of platelet MAO (in agreement with the observation that platelet MAO is MAO type B); this dose of pargyline does not significantly alter plasma amine oxidase. Clorgyline at the dose used (20 mg) does not alter platelet MAO activity.
INFLUENCE OF IMPACTOR MASS ON THE DAMAGE CHARACTERISTICS AND FAILURE STRENGTH OF LAMINATED COMPOSITE PLATES

The results of an experimental study of the effect of impactor mass on the low-speed impact response of laminated flat composite plates is presented. Dropped weight impact response, damage characteristics, and residual strengths of quasi-isotropic flat plates are presented for a range of energy levels by systematically varying the mass of the impactor. Measured contact forces and damage areas are also presented. The results indicate that the contact force and damage area are nonlinear functions of the impactor mass and vary considerably over the entire range of energy levels considered. The different damage levels induced in a plate specimen when impacted at a given energy level with impactors of different masses significantly influence its compressive residual strength. The results provide clear and consistent trends in contact force, damage area, and compression-after-impact strength when the data are expressed as a function of the impactor momentum.
Determination of Glycation Crosslinking by the Sugar-Dependent Incorporation of [14C]Lysine into Protein

A simple, quantitative assay has been established to determine the glycation-dependent crosslinking ability of any sugar by measuring the incorporation of [14C]-lysine into protein. The assay was shown to be both sugar-dependent and protein-dependent and was completely inhibited by sodium cyanoborohydride, 2-aminoguanidine, and semicarbazide. A typical 1.0-ml reaction mixture contained 5 mg lysozyme, 20 mumol threose, and 5 microCi of [14C]lysine and exhibited an incorporation of 8 x 10(5) cpm (1.6 nmol of lysine) after 7 days of incubation. A comparison of the crosslinking ability of a variety of sugars showed glyceraldehyde and dihydroxyacetone to be twice as active as erythrose and threose and eight times more reactive than ribose. Little or no crosslinking could be demonstrated with three different hexoses as well as their phosphorylated derivatives. The dicarbonyl sugars 3-deoxyglucosone and xylosone were at least as effective as ribose in crosslinking, as were the oxidation products of ascorbic acid. Several amine-containing compounds were tested as inhibitors of crosslinking; however, 2-aminoguanidine was the most effective. The rate of synthesis of Lys-Lys, Lys-Arg, and Lys-His crosslinks was determined by measuring the incorporation of [14C]lysine into specific amino acid homopolymers. The relative incorporation was polylysine > polyarginine > polyhistidine with threose, but polyarginine > polyhistidine > polylysine with dehydroascorbic acid, suggesting a different crosslinking mechanism for these two compounds.
Eigenchannel theory for electron scattering

Abstract The eigenchannel theory of nuclear reactions has been generalized to the case of electron scattering. The generalization is twofold: First, the spinorcharacter of the electron wavefunctions has been incooperated into the theory and, second, the special features arising from the long-range Coulomb interaction are carefully discussed. The dispersion effects in electron scattering are easily formulated in this framework. Formulas for elastic and inelastic electron scattering cross sections including these second- and higher-order effects are derived. It is shown that the eigenphases are not very different from the potential phases and, consequently, the computer search procedure for eigenphases is considerably simplified.
A classification of substance-dependent men on temperament and severity variables.

This study examined the validity of classifying substance abusers based on temperament and dependence severity, and expanded the scope of typology differences to proximal determinants of use (e.g., expectancies, motives). Patients were interviewed about substance use, depression, and family history of alcohol and drug abuse. Self-report instruments measuring temperament, expectancies, and motives were completed. Participants were 147 male veterans admitted to inpatient substance abuse treatment at a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical center. Cluster analysis identified four types of users with two high substance problem severity and two low substance problem severity groups. Two, high problem severity, early onset groups differed only on the cluster variable of negative affectivity (NA), but showed differences on antisocial personality characteristics, hypochondriasis, and coping motives for alcohol. The two low problem severity groups were distinguished by age of onset and positive affectivity (PA). The late onset, low PA group had a higher incidence of depression, a greater tendency to use substances in solitary contexts, and lower enhancement motives for alcohol compared to the early onset, high PA cluster. The four-cluster solution yielded more distinctions on external criteria than the two-cluster solution. Such temperament variation within both high and low severity substance abusers may be important for treatment planning.
The joint coordination in reach-to-grasp movements

Reach-to-grasp movements are widely observed in activities of daily living, particularly in tool manipulations. In order to reduce the complexity in redundancy resolution and facilitate upper-limb exoskeleton control in reach-to-grasp tasks, we studied joint coordination in the human arm during such movements. Experimental data were collected on reachto-grasp movements in a 3-dimensional (3D) workspace for cylinder targets of different positions and grasping orientations. For comparison, reaching movements toward the same targets are also recorded. In the kinematic analysis, the redundant degree of freedom in human arm is represented by the swivel angle. The four grasping-relevant degrees of freedom (GRDOFs), including the swivel angle and the three wrist joints, behave differently in reach-to-grasp movements comparing to how they behave in reaching movements. The ratio of active motion range (R-AMR) is proposed for quantitatively comparison the task-relevance of the GR-DOFs. Analysis on the R-AMR values shows that the task-relevant GR-DOFs are more actively used, while the task-irrelevant joints are left uncontrolled and maintain their neutral positions. Among the task-relevant GR-DOFs, the smaller joints (micro-structure) are more actively used than the larger joints (macro-structure). The coordination of the task-relevant GR-DOFs is shown to be synergistic. Analysis of the acceleration/deceleration at the GR-DOFs indicates different levels of voluntary control in three phases of the movements. The study of the characteristics of the joint coordination in reach-to-grasp movements provides guidelines for simplifying the control of the upper limb exoskeleton.
Impurity control in TFTR

Abstract The control of impurities in TFTR will be a particularly difficult problem due to the large energy and particle fluxes expected in the device. As part of the TFTR Flexibility Modification (TFM) project, a program has been implemented to address this problem. Transport code simulations are used to infer an impurity limit criterion as a function of the impurity atomic number. The configurational designs of the limiters and associated protective plates are discussed along with the consideration of thermal and mechanical loads due to normal plasma operation, neutral beams, and plasma disruptions. A summary is given of the materials-related research, which has been a collaborative effort involving groups at Argonne National Laboratory, Sandia Laboratories, and Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Conceptual designs are shown for gettering systems capable of regenerating absorbed tritium. Research on this topic by groups at the previously mentioned laboratories and SAES Research Laboratory is reviewed.
H-Infinity Based Identification of Stiffness in the Presence of Uncertainty

The authors propose the identification of stiffness using the H∞ performance criterion and a nominal state-space model of the flexible system. The parameter estimator takes the form of an Extended H∞ Filter, which is robust to uncertainties such as modeling error.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Shoot and root organogenesis of Camellia sasanqua.

In vitro-derived shoot tips, (10 mm) taken from primary cultures of Camellia sasanqua L., were evaluated for organogenesis when cultured on a half-strength MS medium supplemented with various concentrations of NAA, IBA, BA and GA3. Maximum shoot proliferation and growth for juvenile and mature tissue was obtained when 0.54 μM NAA, 8.8 μM BA plus 14.4 to 28.9 μM GA3 was added to the culture media, with a pH between 4.5 and 5.0. In vitro-derived shoots (20 mm) from mature C. sasanqua ‘Day Dream’ and juvenile C. sasanqua cultures initiated roots in vitro after immersion in 2.5 mM IBA for 30 min. Sixty percent of the mature shoots and 90% of the juvenile shoots initiated roots within 3 weeks of treatment with IBA.
Chaotic particle dynamics in free-electron lasers.

The motion of a relativistic test electron in a free-electron laser can be altered significantly by the equilibrium self-field effects produced by the beam space charge and current and by the transverse spatial inhomogeneities in a realizable magnetic wiggler field. In a field configuration consisting of an ideal (constant-amplitude) helical-wiggler field and a uniform axial-guide field, it is shown in a model that the inclusion of self-field effects destroys the integrability of the particle equations of motion. Consequently, the group-I orbits and the group-II orbits become chaotic at sufficiently high beam density. An analytical estimate of the threshold value of the self-field parameter ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\epsilon}}}_{\mathit{s}}$=${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\omega}}}_{\mathit{p}\mathit{b}}^{2}$/${\mathit{c}}^{2}$${\mathit{k}}_{\mathit{w}}^{2}$ for the onset of chaos is obtained and found to be in good agreement with computer simulations. In addition, the effects of transverse spatial gradients in a realizable helical-wiggler field with three-dimensional spatial variations are investigated in the absence of an axial-guide field, but including self-field effects. For a thin electron beam (${\mathit{k}}_{\mathit{w}}^{2}$${\mathit{r}}_{\mathit{b}}^{2}$\ensuremath{\ll}1) and small wiggler field amplitude (${\mathit{a}}_{\mathit{w}}^{2}$\ensuremath{\ll}${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\mathit{b}}^{2}$), it is shown that the motion is regular and confined radially provided ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\epsilon}}}_{\mathit{a}}$${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{\mathit{b}}$${\mathit{a}}_{\mathit{w}}^{2}$/(1+${\mathit{a}}_{\mathit{w}}^{2}$). However, because of the intrinsic nonintegrability of the motion, the regular region in phase space diminishes in size as the wiggler amplitude is increased. The threshold value of the wiggler amplitude for the onset of chaos is estimated analytically and confirmed by computer simulations for the special case where self-field effects are negligibly small. Moreover, it is shown that the particle motion becomes chaotic on a time scale comparable with the beam transit time through a few wiggler periods.
Insolvency and Division of Cleanup Costs

Abstract A group of firms dump hazardous waste into a landfill and eventually, due to leakage, the waste must be cleaned up. Under Superfund liability rules the government can take the dumpers to court to make them pay for the cleanup. Unfortunately, by the time firms are asked to pay for the cleanup some firms may be insolvent. The cost attributed to the insolvent dumpers can be paid by the remaining solvent dumpers (joint and several liability) or by taxpayers (nonjoint liability). The efficiency of these two liability rules is compared.
Minimum power requirements for efficient four-wave mixing and self-focusing of electromagnetic beams in glasses and fluids.

We derive general expressions for the efficiency of cw phase conjugation by degenerate four-wave mixing and for the power ${P}_{\mathrm{cr}}$ for cw self-trapping of coherent electromagnetic beams in fluids and glasses in which these effects arise predominantly from driven nuclear motions (molecular vibrations, molecular reorientation, elastic deformations, etc.). Apart from their dependence on beam frequency \ensuremath{\omega}, medium temperature T, and refractive index n, these expressions are functions only of the integrated (polarized and depolarized) light scattering strengths versus scattering angle in the medium and the attenuation coefficient \ensuremath{\alpha}. There is no other dependence on the scattering mechanism. When attenuation is entirely due to scattering, the expressions simplify and suggest that unprecedented low powers (in the microwatt regime for microwaves) can produce self-focusing and strong phase conjugation, as well as other beam mixing effects, when beam geometries are optimized in the scattering medium. In this case we find, for example, ${P}_{\mathrm{cr}}$\ensuremath{\sim}${\mathrm{nk}}_{B}$T${\ensuremath{\omega}}^{2}$/c\ensuremath{\alpha} (${\mathrm{k}}_{\mathrm{B}}$ is Boltzmann's constant and c is the velocity of light) provided that there is significant beam diffraction in length ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$. Our results also apply to some other media such as electron plasma.
Pelvic fibromatosis: Case report and review of literature

The case report of a patient with pelvic fibromatosis is described. Excision of the tumor without sacrificing organs or major vessels was performed. Although not malignant, this tumor can be life-threatening due to its locally invasive properties. A variety of therapeutic options are discussed.
Biochemistry and physiology of overwintering in the mature larva of the red sunflower seed weevil, Smicronyx fulvus LeConte (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Abstract The red sunflower seed weevil, Smicronyx fulvus LeConte, overwinters in the soil as a mature fifth-instar larva. A strong correlation exists between minimum daily soil temperatures and trehalose accumulation. Larvae buried in the field in September 1988 showed a two-fold increase in whole-body trehalose levels by January (21.0±0.6 vs 40.1 ± 0.6 μg/mg wet wt). During this period of trehalose accumulation, glycogen levels fell from 17.9 ± 1.4 to 2.7 ± 0.6 μg/mg wet wt. There is a partial reconversion of trehalose to glycogen with the onset of spring; trehalose levels dropped while glycogen levels increased. Trehalose accumulation does not affect the supercooling capacity of the larvae. The mean temperature of crystallization of the larvae remained constant at about −24°C from September to June and was also unchanged with temperature acclimation. Respiratory rates fell from 0.65 μl/h/mg in September to 0.29 μl/h/mg in January. Larvae collected in September 1989 and acclimated to 0°C for 7 days also had increased trehalose levels with a concomitant reduction in glycogen. Early autumn larvae subjected to −5°C for 7 days had a survival of 96%. However, only 28% of the larvae collected from containers buried in the field in November survived 1 day at −15°C and none survived 1 day at −20°C. Under the conditions tested the larvae do not appear to be freeze-tolerant.
Intercultural communication competence: Some perspectives of research

This analysis synthesizes the various strands of theory buiding on intercultural communication competence (ICC). Focused propositions are advanced to guide future ICC research.
Comparative 5-HT4 receptor antagonist activity of LY353433 and its active hydroxylated metabolites

LY353433 is a selective, potent, and orally active 5-HT4 receptor antagonist with a long duration of pharmacological activity following its oral administration to rats. After oral administration of LY353433 (100 mg/kg) to rats, peak plasma concentration of the parent material was approximately 25 ng/ml and rapidly declined such that 4 h after administration, plasma concentration of the parent material was barely detectable. However, two additional peaks (LY343031 and LY343032) were observed in plasma via HPLC and subsequently identified as hydroxylated metabolites of LY353433. Peak plasma concentrations of LY343031 (approximately 50 ng/ml) and of LY343032 (approximately 150 ng/ml) were achieved within 1 h after the oral administration of LY353433. Furthermore, plasma concentrations of these metabolites were maintained for several hours and declined more slowly than plasma concentrations of the parent material. Both metabolites inhibited esophageal 5-HT4 receptors in a concentration range similar to that observed with LY353433. In addition, the receptor selectivity profiles for LY343031 and LY343032 were similar to that of LY353433 at α1, α2, β, Dopamine D1, Dopamine D2, benzodiazapine, histamine H1, GABAA, 5-HT2, and muscarinic receptors. Thus, these hydroxylated derivatives of LY353433 were potent and selective 5-HT4 receptor antagonists in vitro. Lastly, using ex vivo esophageal relaxation to serotonin to assess 5-HT4 receptor antagonism, these compounds were less active after oral administration to rats than LY353433. Thus, the long duration of pharmacological activity observed after oral administration of LY353433 is likely related not only to the 5-HT4 receptor antagonist activity of the parent molecule, but also to the 5-HT4 receptor antagonist activity associated with its two hydroxylated metabolites. Drug Dev. Res. 43:193–199, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Periprosthetic fractures complicating total knee arthroplasty

Abstract Periprosthetic fractures complicating total knee arthroplasty (TKA) occur in rare cases. However, the rate of TKA continues to rise. Given the increase in demand, orthopedists, more than ever, will be responsible for evaluating and treating these fractures. In order to properly treat periprosthetic fractures, a level of comfort with the basic principles on this topic is critical. This article will discuss fractures affecting the femoral, tibial and patellar components along with the respective classification systems. The potential patient risk factors and post-operative rehabilitation guidelines are also discussed.
Determination of Optimal MR&R Policies for Retaining Life-Cycle Connectivity of Bridge Networks

AbstractBridge management problems are computationally difficult to solve when considering network connectivity, because all bridges must be analyzed together. Past research has usually adopted simulation-based numerical methods, which are inaccurate and time-consuming. In this paper, an analytical and efficient approach is presented to determine the optimal maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement (MR&R) plan. The objective is to ensure an adequate level of network reliability at the lowest possible life-cycle maintenance cost. Instead of considering the evolution of network reliability over the whole life cycle, the optimization is formulated with a constraint on the lower bound of network reliability, which reduces the network-level problem to one of optimizing the set of reliability levels for individual bridges. For simple decomposable networks, the network-level optimization can be tackled with standard techniques in polynomial time. For complex networks that are nondecomposable, an algorithm is...
Spatial and temporal pattern of purkinje cell degeneration in shaker mutant rats with hereditary cerebellar ataxia

Temporal-spatial patterns of surviving Purkinje cells were studied quantitatively in a rat mutant (shaker) with differential hereditary cerebellar ataxia and Purkinje cell degeneration. Shaker rat mutants are characterized behaviorally as mild if they are ataxic or as strong if they have ataxia and tremor. Purkinje cells degenerate in both mild and strong shaker mutants, but the temporal and spatial patterns of cell death are strikingly different. In mild shaker mutants, Purkinje cell death is temporally restricted, with 31-46% of the Purkinje cells in lobules I-IX dying by 3 months of age. Very few Purkinje cells degenerate after this age. Purkinje cell death is spatially random. In lobules I-IX, every second, third, or fourth Purkinje cell degenerates. Purkinje cells in lobule X do not degenerate. In strong shaker mutants, Purkinje cell degeneration is temporally protracted and spatially restricted. By 3 months of age, most Purkinje cells in lobules I-VIa, -b, and -d, and -d have degenerated. Numerous Purkinje cells in the paravermis of lobules VIIb-VIII have also degenerated. Surviving Purkinje cells in the vermis and lateral hemisphere of lobules VIIb-VIII are aligned in parasagittally oriented stripes or transversely oriented bands. Purkinje cells continue to degenerate in localized areas of the posterior lobe such that, by 18 months of age, surviving Purkinje cells are limited primarily to lobules VIc, VIIa, IXd, and X. Quantitative analysis indicates that none of the Purkinje cells in these lobules degenerate.
Does concurrent postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy in head and neck cancer improve patient outcome

Does concurrent postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy in head and neck cancer improve patient outcome?
The usefulness of the enzymatic tests in acute poisonings.

In the group of 107 patients poisoned by carbon monoxide (18 patients), ethanol (10), barbiturates (18), glutethimide (10), tranquilizers (19), organic solvents (10), salicylates (3), organochlorines (8), and sulfonamides (5) — the activities of 8 serum enzymes were determined for 6 consecutive days of treatment, the enzymes being as follows: aminotransferases, cholinesterase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate, α-hydroxybutyrate, glutamate, and sorbitol dehydrogenase. The antipyrine half-life was also assayed.
Nuclear Structure, Organization, and Oncogenesis

The genetic code has received a great amount of attention from investigators, and the media since its discovery, and then again with the sequencing of the human genome in 2000. A decade later, investigators are beginning to look beyond the raw sequence to other mechanisms that affect gene expression. The main function of the nucleus is to maintain the genome and regulate gene expression. Changes in the expression of genes can drastically change the properties of the cell therefore giving the nucleus a role as the cell's "command post." In the past few years, one of the most notable discoveries in the study of the nucleus is that this organelle is not homogeneous. It is also not randomly organized; everything within the nucleus has a specific location with a specific function. Chromosome location within the nucleus relative to its center is directly related to transcription level. Additionally, there are specific regions of the nucleus where content and function differ. The various structures of the nucleus such as the membranes and matrix that supply support to the well protected chromatin offer ever increasing layers of complexity to the nucleus. Here, we focus on the nuclear matrix and its possible effects on signaling and cellular transformation leading to cancer.
TV Antenna Performance Evaluation with RF Pulse Techniques

One of the most critical performance characteristics of a TV antenna system is its ability to transmit a ghost-free picture. RF pulse techniques have been developed to evaluate this performance characteristic. Such measurements can be made to simulate the actual operational conditions of the antenna system very closely. During the past years, several RF pulse-measuring methods have gained acceptance here and abroad. The principles of some of these techniques are presented here and their advantages and limitations are evaluated. Additionally, some instrumentation problems are presented and precautionary steps indicated.
Facilitated Transport of Two Model Steroids by Esters and Amides of Clofibric Acid

Abstract A series of novel dermal penetration enhancers, esters and amides of clofibric acid, was synthesized. The permeation parameters and skin retention of two steroids (hydrocortisone-21-acetate and betamethasone-17-valerate) in propylene glycol were studied with athymic nude mouse skin by in vitro diffusion cell techniques in the presence of the novel enhancer compounds. Isopropyl myristate, dimethyl lauramide, and 1 -dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one (laurocapram, Azone) were used as control enhancers. The most satisfactory enhancement of both the ester and amide series was observed with clofibric acid octyl amide; coadministration increased skin retention of hydrocortisone acetate after 24 h by 3.5-fold and that of betamethasone valerate by 2.9-fold. Diffusion cell receptor concentrations increased 51.6- and 10.3-fold, respectively, during the same time period. However, the enhancer compound in this case was applied to the skin 1 h prior to each of the steroids. The amide analogues were more effective than the equivalent ester compounds of the same carbon chain length. The best enhancer compounds (2c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) were nonirritating to athymic mouse skin in vivo.
3,3'-Bis(triphenylsilyl)biphenoxide as a sterically hindered ligand on Fe(II), Fe(III), and Cr(II).

The structural coordination chemistry of the sterically hindered 3,3‘-bis(triphenylsilyl)-1,1‘-bi-2-phenoxide ligand ([TPSLO2]2-), an isosteric homologue of a chiral binaphthoxide ligand used in asymmetric induction, has been investigated on Fe(II), Fe(III), and Cr(II). The ligand diol (TPSL(OH)2, 2) can be prepared on a multigram scale from 2,2‘-dimethoxybiphenyl via a convenient, two-step ortho-metalation/silylation/deprotection sequence; the sodium salt of the ligand dianion (Na2[TPSLO2], 3) can be obtained by NaH deprotonation and was crystallographically characterized with two THF ligands bound to each cation. Protonolysis of Fe[N(SiMe3)2]2 or Cr[N(SiMe3)2]2(THF)2 with biphenol 2 in arene solvent gives [Fe(μ-TPSLO2)]2 (4) or (TPSLO2)Cr(THF)2 (9), respectively, while anion metathesis of FeCl2 or FeCl3/bipy with biphenoxide salt 3 in THF yields (TPSLO2)Fe(THF)2 (8) or ferric monomer (TPSLO2)FeCl(bipy) (10), respectively. Dimer 4 reacts with exogenous ligands to form monomeric ligand adducts of Fe(II): ...
The African Private Sector and U.S. Policy

The Reagan Administration's approach to the economic development of the continent stems from a virtually unquestioned reliance on the African private sector, bolstered by multinational capital. This strategy has been outlined in the Department of State's Current Policy Memorandum, No. 348 , based on an address made by Chester A. Crocker, Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, to the United States Council on Foreign Relations on 19 November 1981, when he reminded his audience that the President had stressed the following two points at the Cancun Summit the previous month: freedom to choose, to own property, to work at a job of one's choice, and to invest in a dream for the future is an ingredient vital to economic success;…and individual farmers, laborers, owners, traders and managers are the heart and soul of development.
Generation of Rosary permutations expressed in Hamiltonian circuits

Systematic generation of a specific class of permutations fundamental to scheduling problems is described.In a nonoriented complete graph with n vertices, Hamiltonian circuits equivalent to 1/2(n - 1)! specific permutations of n elements, termed rosary permutations, can be defined. Each of them corresponds to two circular permutations which mirror-image each other, and is generated successively by a number system covering 3·4· ··· ·(n - 1) sets of edges. Every set of edges {ek}, 1 ≤ ek ≤ k, 3 ≤ k ≤ n - 1 is determined recursively by constructing a Hamiltonian circuit with k vertices from a Hamiltonian circuit with k - 1 vertices, starting with the Hamiltonian circuit of 3 vertices. The basic operation consists of transposition of a pair of adjacent vertices where the position of the pair in the permutation is determined by {ek}. Two algorithms treating the same example for five vertices are presented.It is very easy to derive all possible n! permutations from the 1/2(n - 1)! rosary permutations by cycling the permutations and by taking them in the reverse order—procedures which can be performed fairly efficiently by computer.
Mitochondrial DNA synthesis during the cell cycle of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Abstract Logarithmically growing cultures of Saccharomyces cerevisiae were separated into fractions of increasing average age by zonal centrifugation. Nuclear and mitochondrial DNA labeled for both long and short periods were examined at different times in the cell cycle following isolation of the DNA on CsCl gradients. The data thus obtained were used to determine the relative times of replication. In S. cerevisiae the synthesis of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA was found to occur at the same time in the cell cycle. Some data indicate that mitochondrial DNA synthesis was completed before nuclear DNA synthesis.
Crossflow membrane filtration of interacting nanoparticle suspensions

A model describing the structure, resistance, and flux decline associated with interacting nanoparticle cake layers formed during crossflow membrane filtration is used to interpret data from bench scale experiments using silica nanoparticles. Model predictions of permeate flux decline agree well with experimental flux data for all conditions tested and provide new insight into the delicate balance of interaction forces (van der Waals, acid–base, electrostatic, and permeate drag) that govern nanoparticle cake structures over a wide range of experimental conditions. At high flux and ionic strength, the porosity of nanoparticle cake layers was controlled by short-range acid–base and permeate drag forces, whereas at low ionic strength and flux, nanoparticle cake layer porosity was controlled by from electrostatic double layer and permeate drag forces. Use of an interfacial hydrodynamic drag correction suggests that colloidal cake structures may have a stronger than expected dependence on particle size, where smaller nanoparticles generally produce more porous cake layers. In addition, the model explains how microfiltration membranes can experience greater flux decline than ultrafiltration membranes without invoking pore blocking mechanisms.
On the complexity of belief network synthesis and refinement

Abstract Belief networks are important objects for research study and for actual use, as the experience of the MUNIN project demonstrates. There is evidence that humans are quite good at guessing network structure but poor at settling values for the numerical parameters. Determining these parameters by standard statistical techniques often requires too many sample points (test cases) for larger systems, so knowledge engineers have sought direct algorithms to define or adjust the parameters by appeal to selected test cases. It is shown for both Dempster-Shafer networks and Bayesian networks that for very simple networks (trees), defining parameter values (synthesis) or refining expert-estimated values (refinement) can be computationally intractable. These unpleasant results hold even when we settle for approximate values or demand agreement on only a certain percentage of cases.
Thermal, electrical and mechanical response in Nb/sub 3/Sn superconducting coils

During a quench, significant temperatures can arise as a magnet's stored energy is dissipated in the normal zone. Temperature gradients during this process give rise to localized strains within the coil. Reactive forces in the magnet structure balance the electromagnetic and thermal forces and maintain on equilibrium. In this paper we present a complete 3D finite element analysis of a racetrack coil. Specifically, the analysis focuses on thermal, electrical and mechanical conditions in a 10 T Nb/sub 3/Sn coil built and tested as part of LBNL's Subscale Magnet Program. The study attempts to simulate time history of the temperature and voltage rise during quench propagation. The transient thermal stress after the quench is then evaluated and discussed.
Diabetes and Other Comorbidities in Breast Cancer Survival by Race/Ethnicity: The California Breast Cancer Survivorship Consortium (CBCSC)

Background:The role of comorbidities in survival of breast cancer patients has not been well studied, particularly in non-white populations. Methods:We investigated the association of specific comorbidities with mortality in a multiethnic cohort of 8,952 breast cancer cases within the California Breast Cancer Survivorship Consortium (CBCSC), which pooled questionnaire and cancer registry data from five California-based studies. In total, 2,187 deaths (1,122 from breast cancer) were observed through December 31, 2010. Using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression, we estimated hazards ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for overall and breast cancer-specific mortality associated with previous cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure (HBP), and myocardial infarction (MI). Results:Risk of breast cancer-specific mortality increased among breast cancer cases with a history of diabetes (HR=1.48, 95% CI=1.18, 1.87) or MI (HR=1.94, 95% CI=1.27-2.97). Risk patterns were similar across race/ethnicity (non-Latina White, Latina, African American and Asian American), body size, menopausal status, and stage at diagnosis. In subgroup analyses, risk of breast cancer-specific mortality was significantly elevated among cases with diabetes who received neither radiation nor chemotherapy (HR=2.11, 95% CI=1.32-3.36); no increased risk was observed among those who received both treatments (HR=1.13, 95% CI= 0.70-1.84) (P interaction= 0.03). A similar pattern was found for MI by radiation and chemotherapy (P interaction=0.09). Conclusion:These results may inform future treatment guidelines for breast cancer patients with a history of diabetes or MI. Impact:Given the growing number of breast cancer survivors worldwide, we need to better understand how comorbidities may adversely affect treatment decisions and ultimately outcome.
ON THE PHENOMENOLOGICAL THERMODYNAMICS OF HYDROPHOBIC BONDING

This paper is a review of the points of view of Frank and Evans, Shinoda and the author regarding the hydrophobic hydration of hydrocarbon molecules, with the emphasis on the contribution of the author. It is demonstrated that the enthalpic free energy change, due to the interactions between the hydrocarbon molecules and water, is compensated by the entropic free energy change, due to the ordering caused by the hydrocarbon molecules in the neighboring water molecules. Further, it is shown that the free energy change due to the iceberg formation is negative. Some simplifying assumptions make it possible to conclude that the absolute value of the free energy for iceberg formation can be as large as 1/3 of the free energy change associated with the formation of a cavity. The thermodynamic approach employed can also explain the existence of a minimum in the temperature dependence of the hydrocarbon solubility in water.
Comparative responsiveness of short-form 12 and Minnesota living with heart failure questionnaire in patients with heart failure

Abstract Background: The Short-Form 12 (SF-12) and Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire (LHFQ) are commonly used to measure quality of life (QOL) in heart failure outcomes research. Their comparative responsiveness, however, has not been documented. Methods and Results: A prospective cohort study was conducted among patients attending a university-based heart failure clinic between April 1997 and September 1998. All patients received comprehensive heart failure care management. QOL of patients was assessed by the SF-12 and LHFQ at baseline and 3 months. Of 87 patients completing follow-up, the mean change score was 10.1 for the LHFQ and 5.8 for the SF-12 (both Ps r = 0.61; P Conclusion: The LHFQ is more responsive than the SF-12 to changes in QOL. The SF-12 should not be used alone to measure the changes in QOL of patients with heart failure.