cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient State Estimation with Constrained Rao-Blackwellized Particle Filter

Due to the limitations of the robotic sensors, during a robotic manipulation task, the acquisition of the object's state can be unreliable and noisy. Combining an accurate model of multi-body dynamic system with Bayesian filtering methods has been shown to be able to filter out noise from the object's observed states. However, efficiency of these filtering methods suffers from samples that violate the physical constraints, e.g., no penetration constraint. In this paper, we propose a Rao-Blackwellized Particle Filter (RBPF) that samples the contact states and updates the object's poses using Kalman filters. This RBPF also enforces the physical constraints on the samples by solving a quadratic programming problem. By comparing our method with methods that does not consider physical constraints, we show that our proposed RBPF is not only able to estimate the object's states, e.g., poses, more accurately but also able to infer unobserved states, e.g., velocities, with higher precision.
Levetiracetam inhibits SV2A-synaptotagmin interaction at synapses that lack SV2B

Abstract Epilepsy remains a difficult-to-treat neurological disorder prompting the need for new therapies that work via alternate mechanisms. Levetiracetam (LEV) is the first in a series of anti-epilepsy drugs that target presynaptic functioning. LEV binds the synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, and has been shown to decrease neurotransmitter release in hippocampal slices. The molecular basis of LEV action is unknown, however, and direct effects of LEV on SV2A function remain to be determined. SV2A is the most widely expressed paralog of a three-gene family (SV2A, B, C) that is variably co-expressed throughout the CNS. All three SV2s bind the calcium sensor protein synaptotagmin and SV2 plays a crucial role in synaptotagmin stability and trafficking. Here we addressed the action of LEV at the cellular and molecular level asking whether the presence of non-LEV binding SV2 paralogs influences drug action and whether LEV impacts SV2A’s role in synaptotagmin function. We report that LEV altered short-term synaptic plasticity in isolated neurons from SV2B knockout but not wild-type mice, mimicking the loss of SV2 function. Similarly, LEV reduced SV2A binding to synaptotagmin only in the absence of SV2B. Furthermore, LEV reduced and slowed the internalization of synaptotagmin in neurons cultured from SV2B KO but not WT mice. Taken together, these findings suggest that LEV alters synaptic release probability by disrupting SV2’s regulation of synaptotagmin selectively in neurons that express only SV2A. Neurons that meet this requirement include most inhibitory neurons and the granule cells of the dentate gyrus, two classes of neuron implicated in epilepsy.
Elastic Scheduling for Parallel Real-Time Systems

The elastic task model was introduced by Buttazzo et al.~in order to represent recurrent real-time workloads executing upon uniprocessor platforms that are somewhat flexible with regards to timing constraints. In this work, we propose an extension of this model and apply it to represent recurrent real-time workloads that exhibit internal parallelism and are executed on multiprocessor platforms. In our proposed extension, the elasticity coefficient - the quantitative measure of a task's elasticity that was introduced in the model proposed by Buttazzo et al. - is interpreted in the same manner as in the original (sequential) model. Hence, system developers who are familiar with the elastic task model in the uniprocessor context may use our more general model as they had previously done, now for real-time tasks whose computational demands require them to utilize more than one processor.
Profiling the mouse brain endothelial transcriptome in health and disease models reveals a core blood-brain barrier dysfunction module

Blood vessels in the CNS form a specialized and critical structure, the blood-brain barrier (BBB). We present a resource to understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate BBB function in health and dysfunction during disease. Using endothelial cell enrichment and RNA sequencing, we analyzed the gene expression of endothelial cells in mice, comparing brain endothelial cells with peripheral endothelial cells. We also assessed the regulation of CNS endothelial gene expression in models of stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury and seizure, each having profound BBB disruption. We found that although each is caused by a distinct trigger, they exhibit strikingly similar endothelial gene expression changes during BBB disruption, comprising a core BBB dysfunction module that shifts the CNS endothelial cells into a peripheral endothelial cell-like state. The identification of a common pathway for BBB dysfunction suggests that targeting therapeutic agents to limit it may be effective across multiple neurological disorders.
An Aroma Odyssey: The Promise of Volatile Fungal Metabolites in Biotechnology

All aroma compounds are volatile molecules. This review focuses on aroma and other volatile compounds made by fungi and gives brief highlights of what is known about their current and potential biotechnological applications. The chapter is divided into five sections: introduction and circumscription, biofuels, fumigation, plant growth promotion, and a brief summary. The biofuels section reviews the ability of certain fungi to biosynthesize hydrocarbons for biodiesel or secrete enzymes for bioethanol. The fumigation section covers the applications of fungal volatile organic compounds as antimicrobial agents. The section on plant growth promotion outlines how some fungal volatiles can enhance plant growth, including growth under conditions of abiotic stress. The full exploitation and commercialization of the multifaceted potential of volatile fungal metabolites constitute grand challenges in biotechnology.
Moche Mortuary Pottery and Culture Change

In this article, I investigate the Northern and Southern Moche archaeological cultures by evaluating the data gathered and theories developed since their first identification 25 years ago. I suggest that what was previously considered the Southern Moche tradition was the dominant one throughout most of the North Coast, with regional variations, prior to about AD 650. After that date, the “Classic Moche” tradition ended in both regions and was succeeded by distinct Northern and Southern ceramic and mortuary traditions and, inferentially, reorganized social, political, and religious systems as well. The relations between regional mortuary and other traditions and fineware styles are considered in light of pan-regional dynamics including the ascendancy of the Wari Empire.
IFNT, ISGs, PPARs, RXRs and MUC1 in day 16 embryo and endometrium of repeat-breeder cows, with or without subclinical endometritis.

Abstract Interferon-τ (IFNT), IFN stimulated genes (ISG15, CTSL1, RSAD2, SLC2A1, CXCL10, and SLC27A6), Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARA, D, and G), Retinoic acid receptors (RXRA, B, and G), and Mucin-1 (MUC1) play decisive roles in embryo elongation. The objective was to elucidate expressions of these genes in day 16 embryo [tubular (n = 4) vs. filamentous (n = 4)] and corresponding endometrium [without (n = 4) vs. with subclinical endometritis (SCE; n = 4)] of repeat breeder Holstein cows (2 × 2 factorial design). Results showed that the mRNA abundances (except PPARA and RXRB) were greater (P
Effect of Nonphosphorus Corrosion Inhibitors on Biofilm Pore Structure and Mechanical Properties

Understanding the effects of biofilm structural and mechanical properties, which can influence biofilm cohesiveness and detachment under physical stress, is critical for biofilm and biofilm-associated pathogen control. In this study, we used optical coherence tomography (OCT) and nanoindentation to determine the role of silicate and tin (two experimental nonphosphate corrosion inhibitors) on the porous structure and stiffness of three types of multispecies biofilms. These biofilms were grown from groundwater (a drinking water source), and this groundwater was amended with either tin or silicate corrosion inhibitor (0.5 mg/L as Sn and 20 mg/L as SiO2). Based on the elastic moduli of these biofilms, tin biofilms and groundwater biofilms were the stiffest, followed by silicate biofilms. The thickness normalized by the growth time for silicate biofilms was highest at 38 ± 7.1 μm/month, compared to 21 ± 3.2 and 11 ± 2.4 μm/month for tin biofilms and groundwater biofilms, respectively. The silicate biofilms had the greatest overall porosities and were thickest among the three biofilms. Based on the pore network modeling (PNM) of OCT images, larger pores and connections were found in the silicate biofilms compared to those in tin and groundwater biofilms. Our analysis showed that the thicker and more porous biofilms (silicate biofilms) were potentially less resistant to deformation than the thinner and denser biofilms (tin and groundwater biofilms).
Microglia depletion increase brain injury after acute ischemic stroke in aged mice.

Abstract Microglia are one of the first responders to ischemic injury. Aged microglia acquire a senescent phenotype and produce more inflammatory cytokines after stroke. Depletion of microglia in young mice worsens post-ischemic damage by increasing inflammation. However, young mice do not have dysfunctional microglia. Hence, we hypothesized that depletion of microglia in older mice will contribute to improved early recovery after ischemic stroke injury. Aged (18–19 month) mice were fed with either control chow diet (CD) or PLX5622 chow diet (PLXD) for 21 days. On day 22, a 60-min middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) surgery or sham surgery was performed. Twenty-four and 72 h after stroke immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry were performed. AFS98, a monoclonal antibody against CSF1R was used to specifically deplete brain macrophages by injection into the right hemisphere. Two days after AFS98 injections, mice underwent one-hour MCAo. Twenty-four hours later mice were euthanized and flow cytometry was performed. An increase in infarct volume (p
Interviewing and History Taking

In this chapter, we review the topic of psychiatric interviewing with a focus on pertinent adaptations for the older adult.
Crossing Borders: Partnerships and the Story of UTRGV

This chapter analyzes how leaders in the Rio Grande Valley of south Texas use the story of the creation of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) to deborder the region. The UTRGV story epitomizes a borderlands model of partnerships, working across interregional, language, cultural, industry and nonprofit, and national differences to address educational, economic, and health care inequalities imposed by state and federal policies. UTRGV builds on the Valley’s unique strengths as a neighbor to Mexico, with national and international attention for its successes as a bicultural, binational, and bilingual university. Leaders use UTRGV as a model of collaboration instructive for the nation to challenge discourse that peripheries adjacent to the Global South are failed modernity projects. The UTRGV story brings together two scholarly approaches to borders and borderlands, flows and friction, to suggest a new way that borderlands are productive spaces: partnerships across communities historically inscribed in opposition.
Teaching Video NeuroImage: Unique Ipsilateral Manual Automatism in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: Conducting the Orchestra.

Two women aged 21 and 19 years presented with lesional drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) (table) with focal impaired awareness seizures (FIAs) (figure). Inpatient video EEG monitoring captured habitual FIAs accompanied by predominant ipsilateral upper extremity automatisms that mimicked a conductor leading an orchestra (video).
Multifaceted intra-city water system arrangements in California: Influences and implications for residents

Abstract Some cities directly provide drinking water and other utility services to their residents, whereas others contract out these responsibilities in full or in part, with considerable implications for service and non-service outcomes. There is a robust literature considering reasons for city-private provider binaries, as well as a growing number of studies assessing the rise in special district service provision, mixed service delivery arrangements, and inter-municipal service delivery within metropolitan contexts. On the other hand, there are few studies assessing city-level prevalence of these three main provider types jointly, as well as fully accounting for the diversity of institutional arrangements in drinking water service within individual cities. In this study, we construct an empirical profile of and analyze influences on diverse city-level water service provider arrangements using a dataset compiled for all 482 cities in California. Our analysis shows that 80% of cities are served by either a municipality, a private, investor-owned utility or a special district, with special districts being more common than private providers. Moreover, 20% of cities had more than one service provider, and 68% of these cities were served by more than one system type, including many where municipal and private providers co-existed. Using multivariate regression techniques, we analyze influences on different types of city-level drinking water service arrangements. We find that city incorporation date most profoundly influences the mix of water systems in cities, especially arrangements involving special districts or multiple system types. We also find that cities which run their own water system exclusively are more likely to institute conservation policies, and provide suggestive evidence that residents living in cities served by multiple water systems are exposed to wide variance in water rates. Water system fragmentation within city boundaries thus has implications for resource management policy and equity in intra-city resident essential service outcomes.
Altered central and peripheral haemodynamics during rhythmic handgrip exercise in young adults with SARS-CoV-2.

NEW FINDINGS: What is the central question of this study? Are central and peripheral haemodynamics during handgrip exercise different in young adults 3-4 weeks following infection with of SARS-CoV-2 compared with young healthy adults. What is the main finding and its importance? Exercising heart rate was higher while brachial artery blood flow and vascular conductance were lower in the SARS-CoV-2 compared with the control group. These findings provide evidence for peripheral impairments to exercise among adults with SARS-CoV-2, which may contribute to exercise limitations. ABSTRACT: The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can have a profound impact on vascular function. While exercise intolerance may accompany a variety of symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on exercising blood flow (BF) remains unclear. Central (photoplethysmography) and peripheral (Doppler ultrasound) haemodynamics were determined at rest and during rhythmic handgrip (HG) exercise at 30% and 45% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) in young adults with mild symptoms 25 days after testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2: n = 8M/5F; age: 21 ± 2 years; height: 176 ± 11 cm; mass: 71 ± 11 kg) and were cross-sectionally compared with control subjects (Control: n = 8M/5F; age: 27 ± 6 years; height: 178 ± 8 cm; mass: 80 ± 25 kg). Systolic blood pressure, end systolic arterial pressure and rate pressure product were higher in the SARS-CoV-2 group during exercise at 45% MVC compared with controls. Brachial artery BF was lower in the SARS-CoV-2 group at both 30% MVC (Control: 384.8 ± 93.3 ml min-1 ; SARS-CoV-2: 307.8 ± 105.0 ml min-1 ; P = 0.041) and 45% MVC (Control: 507.4 ± 109.9 ml min-1 ; SARS-CoV-2: 386.3 ± 132.5 ml min-1 ; P = 0.002). Brachial artery vascular conductance was lower at both 30% MVC (Control: 3.93 ± 1.07 ml min-1 mmHg-1 ; SARS-CoV-2: 3.11 ± 0.98 ml min-1 mmHg-1 ; P = 0.022) and 45% MVC (Control: 4.74 ± 1.02 ml min-1 mmHg-1 ; SARS-CoV-2: 3.46 ± 1.10 ml min-1 mmHg-1 ; P < 0.001) in the SARS-CoV-2 group compared to control group. The shear-induced dilatation of the brachial artery increased similarly across exercise intensities in the two groups, suggesting the decrease in exercising BF may be due to microvascular impairments. Brachial artery BF is attenuated during HG exercise in young adults recently diagnosed with mild SARS-CoV-2, which may contribute to diminished exercise capacity among those recovering from SARS-CoV-2 like that seen in severe cases.
Association Between Preoperative Mental Health and Clinically Meaningful Outcomes After Osteochondral Allograft for Cartilage Defects of the Knee: A Machine Learning Analysis.

Background:Fresh osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) is an effective method of treating symptomatic cartilage defects of the knee. This cartilage restoration technique involves the single...
Effective Use Of Dry Erase Boards/Walls In Active Learning Spaces

Location: JC Room G With the age of digital revolution, institutions of higher education have to constantly come up with meaningful ways to engage students in learning within the classroom using traditional or dry erase boards. To successfully accomplish this, we must learn to make the classroom place of teaching both academic and social; to make the profession of teaching both instruction and facilitation and; to make the role of students not just as consumers of education but producers of information. Taking advantage of physical resources, such as a writable whiteboard space can provide us an unobtrusive way to engage with students while also offering a way to understand their use of the physical space. The goal of this teaching activity is to engage the participants in a quick teaching activity showcase whereby we can not only learn together and share best practices to enhance our pedagogical practices but also support 21st century thinking in the material classroom. Through a shared experience we hope to engage the participants in this session in an inquiry-based approach to problem solving. Come and learn how one can use the dry erase boards effectively to engage student learning.
Health values of patients with bipolar disorder.

Background: Despite a growing number of studies of patients' health values (utilities), little is known about health values of patients with mental illness, particularly bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder. Methods: We administered a computerized rating scale, time tradeoff, and standard gamble to 53 patients. Patients were asked to rate or value their current state of health overall and then their current mental health. In addition, we administered the SF-36; Inventory of Depressive Symptoms (IDS-C); Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS); Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS); and Global Assessment of Functioning Scale. Results: The patients' median (25th, 75th percentile) age was 43 (37, 50); 62% were female. Mean (±SD) health ratings for current overall health were 68.0 (±20.3) vs. 61.0 (±25.7) for current mental health (p-value for difference = 0.02). On the time tradeoff, scores for current overall health averaged 0.71 (±0.37) vs. 0.61 (±0.39) for current mental health (p = 0.02); on the standard gamble, mean scores were 0.77 (±0.32) for current overall health vs. 0.70 (±0.35) for current mental health (p = 0.11). In univariate analyses, rating scale, time-tradeoff, and standard gamble scores for both current overall health and for current mental health were correlated with the SF-36 and all psychiatric scales (|r| = 0.22–0.76) except the YMRS (|r| ≤ 0.13). In multivariable analyses, health values for current overall health were related to factors different from those that were related to health values for current mental health (R2 = 0.38–0.65), and none of the health value measures was related to the YMRS. Conclusion: Health values of patients with bipolar disorder are higher for their current health overall than for their current state of mental health. Health values are related to certain health status attributes and to level of depression but perhaps not to level of mania.
Erik Erikson: Critical Times, Critical Theory

The work and legacy of Erik Erikson are described in this brief outline of his career, his theories, and his impact on psychoanalysis, psychology, history, and the broader culture. His conception of the adolescent task—weaving internal tastes, talents, and values together with elements of one's life history and the demands of one's culture into a coherent identity—has had profound effects on developmental psychology and the way in which sophisticated youth construct and describe their lives. His extension of development through adulthood and old age established the field of life course development. His emphasis on the impact of history and culture on development was a critical element in the developing field of ego psychology. Many of his major contributions can be fruitfully understood in the context of his personal history and individual qualities.
Mix and Match

Typically, in startup companies without a strong hierarchy, a small group of people kicks off projects quite informally. They simply begin to work and continue to evolve their ideas towards a common vision. Successful startups gain competitive advantages because they are able to adapt to customer needs in a nonbureaucratic way. They follow a lightweight, ad-hoc development approach and avoid too large a burden of processes, documentation, management control, or project planning. They operate extremely cost-effectively and focus on implementing customer value as quickly as possible, in order to generate some return of investment. The progress can be impressive, as the most relevant and attractive use cases will be implemented first. Teams are rather small, everybody knows each other, and everyone is in it together. People in startup companies also tend to have a strong passion for their work and show an entrepreneurial attitude. The future of each team member is strongly tied to the success of the project. Over time, the product they are developing may be a tremendous success. Things will change in such a startup company once the team starts growing rapidly. Different teams will be established to focus on different topics. This work-split happens naturally, without a master plan. Maybe there will be goals that define the overall direction. And maybe everything we wrote about management by objectives and self-organizing, horizontal teams will be nicely implemented in that company.
Presence of unsulfated heparan chains on the heparan sulfate proteoglycan of human colon carcinoma cells. Implications for heparan sulfate proteoglycan biosynthesis.

Abstract We provide direct evidence for the presence of unsulfated, but fully elongated heparan glycosaminoglycans covalently linked to the protein core of a heparan sulfate proteoglycan synthesized by human colon carcinoma cells. Chemical and enzymatic studies revealed that a significant proportion of these chains contained glucuronic acid and N-acetylated glucosamine moieties, consistent with N-acetylheparosan, an established precursor of heparin and heparan sulfate. The presence of unsulfated chains was not dependent upon the exogenous supply of sulfate since their synthesis, structure, or relative amount did not vary with low exogenous sulfate concentrations. Culture in sulfate-free medium also failed to generate undersulfated heparan sulfate-proteoglycan, but revealed an endogenous source of sulfate which was primarily derived from the catabolism of the sulfur-containing amino acids methionine and cysteine. Furthermore, the presence of unsulfated chains was not due to a defect in the sulfation process because pulse-chase experiments showed that they could be converted into the fully sulfated chains. However, their formation was inhibited by limiting the endogenous supply of hexosamine. The results also indicated the coexistence of the unsulfated and sulfated chains on the same protein core and further suggested that the sulfation of heparan sulfate may occur as an all or nothing phenomenon. Taken together, the results support the current biosynthetic model developed for the heparin proteoglycan in which unsulfated glycosaminoglycans are first elongated on the protein core, and subsequently modified and sulfated. These data provide the first evidence for the presence of such an unsulfated precursor in an intact cellular system.
Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation reverses vascular endothelial dysfunction and large elastic artery stiffness in old mice (698.10)

Reduced bioavailability of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a cofactor for the deacetylase sirtuin1 (SIRT1), may contribute to age-related vascular dysfunction via oxidative stress and red...
Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Nef protein inhibits NF-kappa B induction in human T cells.

Abstract Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) can establish a persistent and latent infection in CD4+ T lymphocytes (W. C. Greene, N. Engl. J. Med. 324:308-317, 1991; S. M. Schnittman, M. C. Psallidopoulos, H. C. Lane, L. Thompson, M. Baseler, F. Massari, C. H. Fox, N. P. Salzman, and A. S. Fauci, Science 245:305-308, 1989). Production of HIV-1 from latently infected cells requires host cell activation by T-cell mitogens (T. Folks, D. M. Powell, M. M. Lightfoote, S. Benn, M. A. Martin, and A. S. Fauci, Science 231:600-602, 1986; D. Zagury, J. Bernard, R. Leonard, R. Cheynier, M. Feldman, P. S. Sarin, and R. C. Gallo, Science 231:850-853, 1986). This activation is mediated by the host transcription factor NF-kappa B [G. Nabel and D. Baltimore, Nature (London) 326:711-717, 1987]. We report here that the HIV-1-encoded Nef protein inhibits the induction of NF-kappa B DNA-binding activity by T-cell mitogens. However, Nef does not affect the DNA-binding activity of other transcription factors implicated in HIV-1 regulation, including SP-1, USF, URS, and NF-AT. Additionally, Nef inhibits the induction of HIV-1- and interleukin 2-directed gene expression, and the effect on HIV-1 transcription depends on an intact NF-kappa B-binding site. These results indicate that defective recruitment of NF-kappa B may underlie Nef's negative transcriptional effects on the HIV-1 and interleukin 2 promoters. Further evidence suggests that Nef inhibits NF-kappa B induction by interfering with a signal derived from the T-cell receptor complex.
Africentric Theory as a Predictor of Adoption Among African Americans

Abstract A multiple logistic regression analysis examined Afri-centricity as a predictor of adoption among 92 respondents who labeled their racial or ethnic identity as Black or as African American. Forty-eight had adopted at least one child and 44 had inquired but did not adopt. Persons with high scores on the Self-Reinforcement Against Racism sub-scale of Baldwin and Bell's (1985) African Self-Consciousness Scale (as factor analyzed by Stokes, Murray, Peacock, & Kaiser, 1994) were significantly more likely to adopt, compared to those with lower scores, controlling for one's reason for contacting an adoption agency initially (i.e., parent-centered versus child-centered reason). Results are discussed in terms of the multidimensionality of Africentricity. Implications for social work research, practice, and policy are given.
The influence of occlusal design on simulated masticatory forces transferred to implant-retained prostheses and supporting bone

The influence of occlusal surface design on the longitudinal success of implant treatment is believed to be significant, but it is not well understood. It has been suggested that limiting lateral forces by reducing cuspal inclination is beneficial in the maintenance and preservation of osseointegration. This study used a method to apply quantified vertical forces to a food substance and record the forces and strain transmitted through cusped 33-degree and cuspless 0-degree occlusal design specimens to a simulated implant-retained prosthesis and the supporting bone. A series of five masticatory cycles were applied to each of the specimens with a universal testing machine. The data were analyzed to compare (1) forces required to cause initial breakage of the food, (2) maximum breakage forces applied before cycle termination, and (3) maximum strain registered by strain gauges at the bone level. Initial breakage forces for the cuspless specimen were 50% less than for the cusped specimen (p = 0.006). No significant differences were found between maximum breakage forces and maximum strain (p values 0.744 and 0.315, respectively). The results of this pilot study indicated that the occlusal configuration and cusp angulation of implant-retained prostheses play a significant role in force transmission and the stress-strain relationship in bone.
High-risk endometrial cancer subgroups: candidates for target-based adjuvant therapy

Abstract Objective. To identify patients with endometrial cancer at risk for hematogenous, lymphatic, or peritoneal recurrence (or combinations of them) who might potentially benefit from target-based therapies. Methods. During a 13-year period, 915 patients had endometrial cancer managed with hysterectomy and standard adjuvant therapy. On the basis of our previous regression analyses, depth of myometrial invasion predicted the risk for hematogenous recurrence; positive lymph nodes and cervical stromal invasion predicted lymphatic recurrence; stage IV disease or combination of nonendometrioid histology, cervical stromal invasion, positive lymph nodes, and positive peritoneal cytology was predictive of peritoneal recurrence. Median follow-up was 66 months. Results. Applying the above criteria to the population of 915 patients, 24% were considered at risk for hematogenous recurrence, 18% for lymphatic recurrence, and 16% for peritoneal recurrence. The respective relapse rates at 5 years were 28% for patients who were at risk for hematogenous recurrence, 31% for lymphatic recurrence, and 42% for peritoneal recurrence. This contrasted with less than a 5% recurrence rate in the corresponding subgroups not at risk for relapse ( P P Conclusion Patients at risk for relapse had a 46% probability of experiencing recurrence within 5 years despite management with standard therapy. New target-based algorithms for the 35% of endometrial cancer patients deemed at risk should be incorporated in the development of future prospective multimodality clinical trials predicated on site(s) of recurrence.
Dietary therapy of epilepsy in the nineties; renewed experience with the ketogenic diet

Abstract From a serendipitous observation that fasting temporarily suppresses epileptic seizures, arose the idea that a diet would mimic the metabolic effects of ketosis. The so named “ketogenic diet” has enjoyed a renewal of interest amongst physicians and the public in recent years, partly because of dramatic proclamation by the media that a miracle cure has been long ignored by the medical establishment. The efficacy of the ketogenic diet until recently has not been rigorously examined through scientific trials. We examine the historical precedent to the use of the ketogenic diet as treatment for epileptic seizures, and critically review previous and current research regarding its efficacy and mechanisms of action. Despite the efficacy of the diet in a wide variety of difficult to treat epileptic seizures in children and adults, there remain several limitations. Although a metabolic adaptation within the brain is thought to be responsible for its action, the precise mechanisms at a cellular level remain poorly understood. Further research on the ketogenic diet needs to focus on precisely defining indications, mechanisms of action, safety and impact on quality of life in epilepsy.
Varied Cardiac Abnormalities in Alcoholics

The toxic effects of acute or chronic use of alcohol on cerebral and hepatic function have long been recognized, but it has been thought that the heart was not similarly affected. This study reexamines this traditional thought and indicates that ethyl alcohol may have chronic toxic effects on the cardiovascular system.
Cooperative binding of dominant-negative prion protein to kringle domains.

Abstract Conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrP C ) to the pathogenic isoform (PrP Sc ) is a major biochemical alteration in the progression of prion disease. This conversion process is thought to require interaction between PrP C and an as yet unidentified auxiliary factor, provisionally designated protein X. In searching for protein X, we screened a phage display cDNA expression library constructed from prion-infected neuroblastoma (ScN2a) cells and identified a kringle protein domain using full-length recombinant mouse PrP (recMoPrP(23–231), hereafter recMoPrP) expressing a dominant-negative mutation at codon 218 (recMoPrP(Q218K)). In vitro binding analysis using ELISA verified specific interaction of recMoPrP to kringle domains (K(1+2+3)) with higher binding by recMoPrP(Q218K) than by full-length recMoPrP without the mutation. This interaction was confirmed by competitive binding analysis, in which the addition of either a specific anti-kringle antibody or l -lysine abolished the interaction. Biochemical studies of the interactions between K(1+2+3) and various concentrations of both recMoPrP molecules demonstrated binding in a dose-dependent manner. A Hill plot analysis of the data indicates positive cooperative binding of both recMoPrP(Q218K) and recMoPrP to K(1+2+3) with stronger binding by recMoPrP(Q218K). Using full-length and an N-terminally truncated MoPrP(89–231), we demonstrate that N-terminal sequences enable PrP to bind strongly to K(1+2+3). Further characterization with truncated MoPrP(89–231) refolded in different conformations revealed that both α-helical and β-sheet conformations bind to K(1+2+3). Our data demonstrate specific, high-affinity binding of a dominant-negative PrP as well as binding of other PrPs to K(1+2+3). The relevance of such interactions during prion pathogenesis remains to be established.
eLearn Enters a New Era

eLearn Magazine is entering a new era and will look and feel rather different in the coming months. The editor-in-chief shares a preview of what is new and what is coming.
Alterations in an indium-111 Fab' under conditions of utilization.

This study was conducted to investigate alterations that occur in an indium/111 Fab′ of a monoclonal antibody following its in vivo administration. Patients were infused with 111 In-Fab′ of the monoclonal antibody ZCE-025. Serum and urine specimens were collected from these patients. Starting materials, serum, urine and controls samples were studied by electrophoresis. Animal distribution studies were performed in normal Balb/c mice and, in some cases, nude mice bearing a carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)/producing human colon tumour since the antibody targets CEA. The studies indicated that the molecule circulated almost totally intact for at least 4 h and to a considerable extent for 24 h, with some evidence for in vivo fragmentation by 24 h. Evidence was also obtained suggesting the formation of a high molecular weight species in some patients. Shortly after infusion, some of the 111In in the urine appeared as the intact Fab′, but within hours the majority migrated electro-phoretically as low molecular weight species. We conclude that while the majority of the 111In-Fab′ of this particular antibody remains intact and immunoreactive following its administration, the molecule is structurally changed to some degree shortly after its infusion into humans. Since each monoclonal antibody is unique, the degree and rapidity of degradation of its Fab′ in vivo could vary markedly from the above and possibly adversely effect its utility as a radiopharmaceutical.
Remote real-time CNC machining for web-based manufacturing

Today's machining shop floors, characterized by large variety of products in small batch sizes, require dynamic control and real-time monitoring capabilities that are responsive and adaptive to the rapid changes of production capability and functionality. It is especially true when the shop floors are combined with the e-manufacturing concept. However, a highly efficient infrastructure that can integrate the pieces of automated equipment together and link them to the e-manufacturing is still missing. The objective of this research is to develop an appropriate methodology with open architecture for real-time monitoring and remote control of networked CNC machines. A framework named Wise-ShopFloor (Web-based-integrated sensor-driven e-ShopFloor) is designed for this purpose. Within the context, this paper presents a new enabling technology to bring traditional CNC machine tools on-line with combined monitoring and control capability. Issues such as architecture design, methodology development, and prototype implementation are addressed through a milling machine case study. It is expected that the developed technology can be readily applied to real shop floor environments with increased productivity, flexibility, and responsiveness.
The securities law implications of pooled income fund sales: Who is taking grandma’s money and why are they wearing suspenders?

A pooled income fund (PIF) is one of the methods created under the 1969 Tax Reform Act whereby a taxpayer may make a tax‐deductible remainder gift to a charitable organization. The fund, established by a charitable organization to receive irrevocable gifts from at least two donors, pays current income to the individual beneficiaries for life, but at the termination of each income interest, the allocable principal must revert permanently to the charitable organization. In recent years, a number of PIFs have been offered to the public by charitable organizations through broker‐dealers or related entities. There are numerous securities‐law issues implicated by the sales of these PIFs, including: (i) whether broker‐dealers may solicit donations to such funds and receive compensation for their solicitations; (ii) the effect of the broker‐dealers’ solicitation and receipt of compensation have on securities registration for the PIF or units offered therein under the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchang...
An immunocytochemical study of cytokeratin expression in human middle ear cholesteatoma.

An indirect immunofluorescent method with monoclonal anti-cytokeratin antibodies was used to localize various cytokeratins in human middle ear cholesteatoma. The 50 K/58 K and 56.5 K/65–67 K paired cytokeratins are markers of skin type and were found in the specimens of human middle ear cholesteatomas studied. In contrast, the 40 K and 45 K cytokeratins (markers of simple epithelia), the 48 K cytokeratin (marker of hyperproliferative epidermal disease) and the 51K cytokeratin (marker of internal organ epithelia) were absent in human middle ear cholesteatoma. These findings indicate that the pattern of cytokeratins in human middle ear cholesteatoma is similar to that of skin but is different from those of simple epithelium, internal organ epithelia, and hyperproliferative epidermal disease. These findings also support the skin type epithelial origin of cholesteatoma and strongly favor the migration theory in the genesis of cholesteatomas.
Cerebral ischemia revisited: new insights as revealed using in vitro brain slice preparations

The elucidation of the pathophysiological mechanisms of cerebral ischemia/hypoxia dictates the use of experimental models which mimic this disabling brain condition. In vivo experimental models have been available for many decades and are responsible for the bulk of, though incomplete, knowledge we have about these mechanisms. Since study in isolation of each postulated mechanism is impossible in vivo, the need for an in vitro experimental model has intensified in recent years. Consequently, rat and guinea pig hippocampal slice preparations have emerged as the models of choice. This review attempts to highlight some of the results obtained using brain slices in the study of cerebral ischemia/hypoxia and compare them to those obtained in vivo. Both the biochemical and the physiological correlates of energy metabolism, ion homeostasis, neurotransmission and neuromodulation of this brain condition are reviewed. The agreements, and especially the disagreements, between the in vivo and in vitro findings are emphasized. Details are given of the possible roles of both lactic acid, Ca2+ and excitotoxins in the neuronal damage inflicted by cerebral ischemia/hypoxia. Recent attempts to protect brain slices against experimental cerebral ischemic/hypoxic damage are also reviewed here briefly.
Establishing the Climate for a Successful Debriefing

Abstract Debriefing after a simulated clinical situation allows dissemination of active learning to every member of the group. The debriefing process enables participants to more fully think through and discuss what has transpired, gain a more in-depth understanding and appreciation of knowledge, and retain knowledge and skills for future application. The debriefing is also a means by which individuals can process their reactions and feelings related to clinical situations. A successful debriefing is one in which the participants do most of the talking. The facilitator's roles of creating a safe environment for the students to learn and of structuring a seemingly unstructured learning event are paramount to the effectiveness of the debriefing session. The focus of this article is how one can create a climate in which students will engage in meaningful discussion and how to stimulate focused discussions during a debriefing session.
Remarks on the quantization of conformal fields

Abstract The quantization of a general (b, c) system in two dimensions is formulated in terms of an infinite hierarchy of modules for the Virasoro algebra that interpolate between the space of classical conformal fields of weight j and the Dirac sea of semi-infinite forms. This provides a natural framework in which to study the relation between algebraic geometry and representations of the Virasoro algebra with central charge cj=−2(6j2−6j+1). The importance of the construction is discussed in the context of string theory.
Interpreting IR Difference Spectra

From the evaluation of sample difference spectra based on Gaussian "model" peaks with known peak characteristics, it is shown that interpretation of some parameters from difference spectra, resulting from the ratioing or subtraction of a poor background spectra, may be inaccurate or misleading. Difference spectra of this type are commonly observed with the use of techniques such as subtractively normalized interfacial Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (SNIFTIRS), electrochemically modulated infrared reflectance spectroscopy (EMIRS), or similar infrared spectroelectrochemical techniques, as well as some microsample analyses, studies of biochemical processes, and infrared astronomical observations, to name just a few examples. A mathematical evaluation of the problem is offered to demonstrate what information may realistically be gained from the characteristics of difference spectra. It is shown that in the worst case, where frequency, intensity, and peak width are all changing due to some perturbation of the sample (e.g., from temperature, or surface potential changes between background and sample spectra, etc.), even a qualitative interpretation may not be possible. In many practical cases, however, we show that at least a qualitative interpretation of the data can be obtained from difference spectra. Spectroelectrochemical applications for the calculations shown here are presented as examples, although these results impact a wider range of applications.
Phase Conjugation Of Low Power Optical Beams Using Liquid Crystal Light Valves

A real time hologram generated in the liquid crystal layer of a leaky mirror silicon light valve is read by the same low intensity beams used to record it. For a particular geometry, one of the diffracted beams propagating away from the device is the optical phase conjugate of one of the original beams, thus enabling correction of path propagation aberrations. Experimental results show correction of tilt, focusing error, and random phase aberrations.
Possible control for tubulin synthesis during early development of an insect

Tubulin represents a major protein component synthesized during early embryogenesis of the chironomid midge Smittia spec. Both α- and β-tubulin were identified by immunoprecipitation and subsequent analysis by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis using purified Drosophila microtubule proteins as a marker. The synthesis of tubulin in Smittia embryos was not localized within regions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The messenger RNA for both α- and β-tubulin appeared to be maternal in origin (maternal mRNA). The in vivo ratio of [35S]-methionine incorporation into α-tubulin relative to β-tubulin was 1:2.1, and constant at least until the end of blastoderm stage. In a rabbit reticulocyte lysate, tubulin synthesis was directed by total RNA, poly(A)-containing RNA, and nonpoly(A)-containing RNA extracted from eggs immediately after deposition. However, the in vitro ratio of [35S]-methionine incorporation into α- and β-tubulin was 1:1. The results suggest that tubulin is synthesized in the early embryo using maternal mRNA. Therefore, posttranscriptional rather than transcriptional processess seem to regulate the synthesis of α-tubulin relative to β-tubulin.
Multinational Bank Credit in Less Industrialized Economies

Multinational bank loans have grown in emerging and transition economies in recent years. This paper looks at the determinants of multinational bank (MNB) loans for 72 countries from 1985 to 1998 using data from the Bank for International Settlements and the International Monetary Fund. We find that MNB loans are greater where MNB deposits are larger, where the past presence of MNBs has been larger, where better profit opportunities exist, where current account deficits are larger, where inflows of FDI are larger, and where the currency is more undervalued in real terms.
The geochemistry of mercury in sedimentary rocks and soils in Pennsylvania

Abstract The mercury contents of 11 sandstone, 11 shale and 6 limestone samples from Pennsylvania average 7, 23 and 9 ppb Hg, respectively, which is lower than the values for sedimentary rocks reported in the literature. The differences may arise because many of the reported high values are from regions characterized by more mineralization and volcanism than is present in central Pennsylvania. The lowest values found for shale and sandstone in Pennsylvania (0.4 and 0.5 ppb Hg, respectively) are lower by an order of magnitude than the lowest previously reported values. The mercury content of sedimentary rocks varies markedly due to the effects of volcanism, organic material and sulfur in reducing environments, iron and manganese oxides in oxidizing environments, diagenesis, hydrothermal processes, and the thermal history of the rock. Soils in Pennsylvania have much greater amounts of mercury than their parent rocks even after taking into account possible residual concentration, suggesting that mercury is added to the soils from an outside source. Rain is the major source of mercury absorbed by the soil. A portion of the absorbed mercury returns to the atmosphere, establishing a rain-soil-atmosphere mercury cycle. The general enrichment of mercury in soils and sediments compared to rocks is supported by the observation that the mercury content of rain is greater than freshwater. The much higher values of mercury in unconsolidated sediments compared to sedimentary rocks suggest that mercury is lost during diagenesis. Man's contribution of mercury to the surface environment is nearly equal to the natural contribution. Industrial loss contributes more than 65 per cent of man's total, and the contribution of fossil fuel consumption is small, although it may be locally important. The implications of mercury loss and absorption by soils may be an important factor in concentrating mercury in crops and other living matter, especially near industrialized areas.