cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New functions for the matrix metalloproteinases in cancer progression

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have long been associated with cancer-cell invasion and metastasis. This provided the rationale for clinical trials of MMP inhibitors, unfortunately with disappointing results. We now know, however, that the MMPs have functions other than promotion of invasion, have substrates other than components of the extracellular matrix, and that they function before invasion in the development of cancer. With this knowledge in hand, can we rethink the use of MMP inhibitors in the clinic?
Employee Crisis and Occupational Functioning

Abstract This study focuses on how employees respond to acute life events and chronic stressors that threaten the maintenance of effectual occupational functioning and productive activity. A profile of employees that experienced the most distress and job disruption is offered. Additionally, this study examines the type of event and how certain employee characteristics relate to post-crisis functioning. Implications of these findings for supervisory and/or managerial personnel fall into three categories: training, intervention and policy development.
Cell junctions in the early chick embryo—A freeze etch study☆

Abstract Cell junctions in the early chick embryo have been examined in freeze-etch specimen. Well developed zonulae occludentes are found in the epiblast as early as stage 4. Large gap junctions are also found in the epiblast at this stage. In those cells which have left the surface to form mesenchymal structures (Hensen's node, juxtanodal mesenchyme, primitive streak mesenchyme), one finds not only gap, but also tight, junctions. These junctions do not form continuous belts, but appear as fragments, often reduced to single strands, of typical tight junctions. They probably correspond to the focal tight junctions described earlier in sectioned material. The origin and possible significance of these contacts is discussed, and it is suggested that they represent remnants of junctions between neighboring cells in the epiblast. These junctional remnants slowly disappear by “dilution,” either through cell division and/or cell movement. The appearance of newly formed gap junctions is also described.
Simultaneous adenomatoid tumors of epididymis and tunica vaginalis

Abstract A review of the literature on adenomatoid tumors of the genital tract is presented, and a case is reported in which two separate primary adenomatoid tumors occurred simultaneously in the right epididymis and tunica vaginalis. Special attention is called to the fact that these tumors have a characteristic gross and microscopic appearance. Frozen section appearance is usually diagnostic and may prevent unnecessary orchiectomy.
Switching-Surge Results from Project UHV-Influence of Humidity and Grading Shields

This paper presents test results supplementing recently published information on the switching-surge performance of UHV transmission line insulation.
Effect of osmotic protection on nucleated cell killing by C5b-9: cell death is not affected by the prevention of cell swelling.

Abstract Formation of C5b-9 channels in the plasma membrane can lead to erythrocyte lysis or nucleated cell death. Lysis of erythrocytes by complement occurs as a result of colloid osmotic swelling and rupture of the plasma membrane, due to the unregulated flux of ions and water through C5b-9 channels. This colloid osmotic mechanism of lysis is largely based on the evidence that the extent of hemolysis is reduced, when macromolecules are placed in the medium to balance the osmotic gradient created by intracellular macromolecules, which are too large to diffuse through complement channels. The role of colloid osmotic deregulation, as a cause of nucleated cell killing by C5b-9, however, has been recently questioned [Kim S., Carney D.F. and Shin M.L. J. Immun . 138 , 1530 (1987)]. In the present study, we investigated the effect of osmotic protection, with an 81,000mol.wt dextran or bovine serum albumin, on Ehrlich cell killing by complement channels. The results indicated that prevention of cell swelling by dextran did not reduce the extent or rate of nucleated cell killing by either small (C5b-9 1 ), or large (C5b-9 m ), complement channels when assessed by vital dye stain. The release of cytoplasmic lactate dehydrogenase as an alternative measure of cell death, however, was retarded and/or reduced, in the presence of dextran or albumin, at concns that prevented cell swelling. These results indicate that C5b-9 can kill nucleated cells effectively, in the absence of colloidal osmotic cell swelling, and that release of cytoplasmic macromolecules may not be a reliable indicator of cell death, when osmotic protectants are employed.
On the role of thermoelectric heat transfer in the design of SMA actuators: theoretical modeling and experiment

A combined theoretical/experimental study of the heat transfer in thermoelectric shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators is undertaken in this paper. A one-dimensional model of a thermoelectric unit cell with a SMA junction is developed first and the transient temperatures in the SMA are evaluated for different applied electric current densities. As a first step towards the design of an actuator, a thermoelectric module is assembled in the laboratory for cooling/heating the SMA. Transient temperature profiles are recorded for the monotonic heating and cooling runs for two different materials-copper and SMA (with or without the phase transformation). These recorded profiles are then compared with the predictions from the model; the agreement is reasonable, particularly during the cooling process. Temperature profiles are also recorded for cyclic cooling and heating of copper at a frequency of 0.5 Hz and a good comparison is obtained. Theoretical predictions for thermal cycling of SMA show that it is possible to achieve a frequency of 2 Hz on full phase transformation and 17 Hz on partial transformation of 25%.
Isothermal oil shale pyrolysis. 1. Oil generation and composition at various pressures

Abstract A rich (250 I (59 gal) per ton) Green River oil shale was retorted in a helium atmosphere. Isothermal retort experiments from 375 to 500 °C were carried out at 78 kPa and 765 kPa. Oil was collected as a function of time and a comprehensive analytical procedure was developed and utilized to determine seven oil fractions: straight-chain pentane de-asphaltened dry whole oil (DDWO); solids; saturates (S); aromatics (A); olefins (0); ‘weak’ polars (WP); and polars (P). The objectives of this work were: (a) to develop data to show oil generation and composition at different temperatures and pressures under isothermal, isobaric conditions; (b) to determine the effect of pressure on total oil yield and product-oil composition. Total oil yield was reduced as the pressure was increased. Much of this reduction can be accounted for in the reduced amounts of polar compounds formed at higher pressure because the polar fraction comprises approximately 35–45 wt% of the DDWO. In general, the amounts of aromatics present increase, the amounts of olefins decrease, and the amounts of saturates and ‘weak’ polar compounds remain relatively constant with increased system pressure.
Laparoscopic Localization and Resection of Insulinomas

Hypothesis Laparoscopic localization and resection of insulinomas are feasible and safe and may decrease morbidity and the length of hospitalization. Design Case series identified through retrospective medical record review. Setting Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Ariz, and Rochester, Minn, a single-institution tertiary care medical center. Patients Nine patients (6 men and 3 women; mean age, 54 years) who underwent attempted laparoscopic insulinoma resection between September, 1997, and April, 2002. Interventions Laparoscopic localization and resection of insulinoma tumors of the pancreas. Main Outcome Measures Intraoperative complications, conversion to open laparotomy, and length of hospitalization. Results Preoperative localization was successful in 5 patients (56%). Four conversions to open exploration were required because of an inability to identify the tumor (n = 3) or to perform a safe laparoscopic resection owing to proximity to the portal vein (n = 1). Laparoscopic intraoperative ultrasonography facilitated identification of lesions (mean tumor size, 2.1 cm) in 4 (80%) of 5 patients; 3 patients underwent successful laparoscopic resection. Average hospital stay was shorter after laparoscopic resection (4.5 vs 7.0 days in uncomplicated cases). At follow-up (mean, 29 months; range, 3-57 months), 1 patient who underwent laparoscopic enucleation had recurrent hypoglycemia. Conclusions Laparoscopic localization and resection of insulinomas are feasible and safe. Laparoscopic ultrasound aids successful insulinoma localization and laparoscopic resection. Preoperative localization is not required, but previous knowledge of tumor location helps focus intraoperative ultrasound and limit pancreatic mobilization. Excluding patients with pancreatic leaks (observed in both groups), hospital stay and time to recovery may be shortened by using laparoscopic insulinoma resection.
How US Antitrust Can Go Astray: The Brand Name Prescription Drug Litigation

This paper analyzes the substantive issues in a US antitrust case under which retail pharmacists alleged that drug manufacturers conspired to avoid granting the retailers discounts that were offered to health maintenance organizations (HMOs). The HMOs are viewed as an innovative means of delivering health care to consumers at lower cost. They elicited discounts by credibly threatening to exclude manufacturers' drugs unless price concessions were offered — a strategy drug retailers were unable or unwilling to pursue. In challenging those discounts, the retail pharmacists pursued their traditional strategy of using governmental power to oppose innovations that squeezed their price/cost margins and reduced drug prices to consumers. The evidence of manufacturer conspiracy appears to have been ephemeral at best, and the litigation appears more likely to have reduced competition and consumer welfare than enhancing it
Surgical treatment of isolated abdominal wall metastasis in colorectal cancer.

Isolated abdominal wall recurrence, following resection of a primary large bowel adenocarcinoma, is an infrequent finding. Over a ten year period, 22 patients were submitted to en bloc resection of such localized neoplastic foci. In 13 cases, recurrent tumor was located in a previous midline or para median incision. Nine patients underwent palliative radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy once the recurrent disease was identified, and were operated on when uncontrolled progression was clinically evident. In all cases, 4–5 cm disease-free margins were obtained. In eight patients it was possible to close the defect primarily and 14 patients required marlex mesh. Twelve patients were alive at two years and ten patients at fiveyears follow-up mark. Mucin-producing or poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma had the worse prognosis. Synthetic prosthesis allowed for adequate resections with little morbidity and acceptable cosmesis. Symptomatic relief and long-term palliation can be achieved with aggressive surgery. The role of adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy still needs to be evaluated. The aggressiveness of poorly differentiated and the mucin producing adenocarcinoma should temper radical surgical exercises. Cancer 50:1884-1887, 1982.
Microbial communities associated with human decomposition and their potential use as postmortem clocks

Most forensic research that is used to better understand how to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI) entails the study of the physiochemical characteristics of decomposition and the effects that environmental factors have on the decomposition process. Forensic entomology exploits the life cycles of arthropods like Diptera (blow flies or flesh flies) and Coleoptera (beetles) deposited on the decaying carcass to determine PMI. Forensic taphonomy, from the Greek word taphos meaning burial, studies the creation of the fossils of decomposed cadavers to ascertain information as to the nature and time of death. Compared to other areas of taphonomy, there have been relatively few forensic science studies that have investigated the impact of human decomposition on the microbial changes occurring on or in a corpse or in the soil communities underneath a body. Such research may facilitate the critical determination of PMI. Therefore, the scope of this review is to provide a concise summary of the current progress in the newly emerging field of microbial diversity and the next-generation metagenomic sequencing approaches for assessing these communities in humans and in the soil beneath decomposing human.
CpG-conjugated apoptotic tumor cells elicit potent tumor-specific immunity

The primary goal of cancer immunotherapy is to elicit an immune response capable of eradicating established tumors and preventing tumor metastasis. One strategy to achieve this goal utilizes whole killed tumor cells as the primary immunogen. Killed tumor cells provide a comprehensive source of tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), thereby eliminating the need to identify individual antigens. Unfortunately, killed tumor cells tend to be poorly immunogenic. To overcome this limitation, we covalently conjugated immunostimulatory CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) to apoptotic tumor cells and examined their ability to induce TAA-specific immune responses. Results indicate that CpG conjugation enhances the uptake of cell-based vaccines by dendritic cells (DCs), up-regulates co-stimulatory molecule expression, and promotes the production of immunostimulatory cytokines. Vaccination with CpG-conjugated tumor cells triggers the expansion of tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) that reduce the growth of established tumors and prevents their metastatic spread. Thus, conjugating CpG ODN to cell-based tumor vaccines is an important step toward improving cancer immunotherapy.
Task-switching costs promote the evolution of division of labor and shifts in individuality

From microbes to humans, the success of many organisms is achieved by dividing tasks among specialized group members. The evolution of such division of labor strategies is an important aspect of the major transitions in evolution. As such, identifying specific evolutionary pressures that give rise to group-level division of labor has become a topic of major interest among biologists. To overcome the challenges associated with studying this topic in natural systems, we use actively evolving populations of digital organisms, which provide a unique perspective on the de novo evolution of division of labor in an open-ended system. We provide experimental results that address a fundamental question regarding these selective pressures: Does the ability to improve group efficiency through the reduction of task-switching costs promote the evolution of division of labor? Our results demonstrate that as task-switching costs rise, groups increasingly evolve division of labor strategies. We analyze the mechanisms by which organisms coordinate their roles and discover strategies with striking biological parallels, including communication, spatial patterning, and task-partitioning behaviors. In many cases, under high task-switching costs, individuals cease to be able to perform tasks in isolation, instead requiring the context of other group members. The simultaneous loss of functionality at a lower level and emergence of new functionality at a higher level indicates that task-switching costs may drive both the evolution of division of labor and also the loss of lower-level autonomy, which are both key components of major transitions in evolution.
Attenuation of AMPA-induced neurotoxicity by a calpain inhibitor.

Abstract The effects of a membrane-permeable inhibitor of calpain, Cbz-Val-Phe-H, were examined in an in vitro model of neurotoxicity. Cerebellar slices from young rats were treated with the glutamate receptor agonist, amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoazole proionic acid (AMPA), and cytotoxicity was quantified using conventional histological techniques. Slices treated with AMPA exhibited damage to 83.0% of cerebellar Purkinje cells. In contrast, only 23.6% of Purkinje cells were damaged in slices treated with Cbz-Val-Phe-H and AMPA. These findings indicate that calcium-activated proteolysis is a critical event in AMPA-induced toxicity, and provide evidence that calpain inhibitors are capable of attenuating this form of excitotoxic damage in the central nervous system.
Non-Darcy Flow Pore Network Simulation: Development and Validation of a 3D Model

This validation study is part of a larger ongoing study to improve flow simulation in three dimensions in porous materials. Obtaining porous flow parameters such as permeability and Forchheimer’s coefficient is time consuming and expensive, and may be very sample dependent. This study is aimed at verifying a simulation technique that predicts flow parameters, including permeability and Forchheimer’s coefficient, by comparing simulation results to empirical results. The simulation technique used performs Monte Carlo trials by using statistical information about pore size distributions to generate random pore networks consisting of pipes and junctions, then simulating flow through the network. The validations have been performed for a packed bed of glass beads and for sandstone. For glass beads the relationship between permeability and Forchheimer’s coefficient follows an empirical relationship known as Ergun’s equation, while sandstone has been compared to measured data for the permeability versus Forchheimer coefficient relationship. The glass bead simulations resulted in a very close match to Ergun’s equation for the permeability versus Forchheimer coefficient. The sandstone simulations showed similar trends to the empirical data for permeability versus Forchheimer coefficient.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Multi-scale compositionality: identifying the compositional structures of social dynamics using deep learning.

Objective Social media exhibit rich yet distinct temporal dynamics which cover a wide range of different scales. In order to study this complex dynamics, two fundamental questions revolve around (1) the signatures of social dynamics at different time scales, and (2) the way in which these signatures interact and form higher-level meanings. Method In this paper, we propose the Recursive Convolutional Bayesian Model (RCBM) to address both of these fundamental questions. The key idea behind our approach consists of constructing a deep-learning framework using specialized convolution operators that are designed to exploit the inherent heterogeneity of social dynamics. RCBM’s runtime and convergence properties are guaranteed by formal analyses. Results Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms the state-of-the-art approaches both in terms of solution quality and computational efficiency. Indeed, by applying the proposed method on two social network datasets, Twitter and Yelp, we are able to identify the compositional structures that can accurately characterize the complex social dynamics from these two social media. We further show that identifying these patterns can enable new applications such as anomaly detection and improved social dynamics forecasting. Finally, our analysis offers new insights on understanding and engineering social media dynamics, with direct applications to opinion spreading and online content promotion.
CMS endcap muon system cathode strip chambers

We describe the recent status of the CMS Endcap Muon System Cathode Strip Chambers (CSC), tests carried out and the performance of the system. Physical examples are given, stressing the importance of the subdetector both for first low luminosity physics and for the discovery potential of CMS.
The Tolerance of Light in Exophthalmic Goiter

The methods and apparatus used for investigating the tolerance of light in nonphotophobic individuals have been employed in a survey of a group of individuals clinically classified as having exophthalmic goiter. Comparative data show that persons with exophthalmic goiter are, in general, much less tolerant of light than normal persons. Glare-out measurements made on a group of persons before and after thyroidectomy show an increase in tolerance of light subsequent to operation. From the Division of Physics and Biophysical Research, The Mayo Foundation. Abridgment of thesis submitted by Dr. E. C. Albers to the Faculty of the Graduate School of the University of Minnesota in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Ophthalmology. Work done in the Division of Physics and Biophysical Research.
The anticonvulsant effects of diazepam and phenobarbital in prekindled and kindled seizures in rats.

Abstract The effects of various doses of diazepam (0.5–4 mg/kg) and phenobarbital (7.5–60 mg/kg) were determined on prekindled and kindled amygdaloid seizures in the same rats. Diazepam was ineffective against the prekindled focal seizures, but demonstrated profound and statistically significant control of the kindled seizures. In the kindled state, diazepam reduced the afterdischarge duration and seizure rank score to prekindled levels. Only the largest sedating dose of phenobarbital produced a reduction of both prekindled afterdischarge duration and seizure rank score. Against the kindled seizure, phenobarbital showed a marked and statistically significant increase in effectiveness in all but the smallest dose tested. The afterdischarge duration of kindled seizures was reduced to prekindled levels by 15–60 mg/kg of phenobarbital, while seizure rank score was reduced to prekindled levels by 30 and 60 mg/kg phenobarbital. The effects of two doses of diazepam (0.5 and 2.5 mg/kg) and phenobarbital (7.5 and 30 mg/kg) were tested against prekindled and kindled pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizures. Preliminary work with 3 doses of pentylenetetrazol (30, 40 and 60 mg/kg) demonstrated that repeated doses of 30 mg/kg readily kindled seizures without the significant mortality seen with larger doses. Both diazepam and phenobarbital were less effective against seizures kindled with 30 mg/kg pentylenetetrazol compared to prekindled seizures. The comparative lack of effect that was seen with diazepam and phenobarbital against the pentylenetetrazol kindled seizure at doses associated with control of the kindled amygdaloid seizure may reflect an underlying difference in the pathogenesis of kindling between these seizure models. Further, the lack of suppression of the prekindled amygdaloid afterdischarge duration by large doses of diazepam, in contrast to large doses of phenobarbital, may also reflect differences between the mechanisms of action of these two drugs. This paradigm provides a model for testing the effectiveness of anticonvulsants during the progressive development of various epileptogenic seizures.
Coming and going: Explaining the effects of residential and school mobility on adolescent delinquency

Over the past half century, a large body of theoretical and empirical work in sociology and other social sciences has emphasized the negative consequences of mobility for human development in general, and youth outcomes in particular. In criminology, decades of research have documented a link between residential mobility and crime at both the macro and micro levels. At the micro level, mobility is associated with delinquency, substance use, and other deviant behaviors among adolescents. However, it is possible that the relationship between mobility and delinquency may be due to selection on pre-existing differences between mobile and non-mobile youth in their propensity for delinquency, and prior studies have not adequately addressed this issue. Specifically, the families that are most likely to move are also the most disadvantaged and may be characterized by dynamics and processes that are conducive to the development of delinquency and problem behavior in their children. This study uses data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 to assess the impact of residential and school mobility between the ages of 12 and 17 on delinquency and substance use. Random effects models control for selection on both observed and unobserved differences. Results show that mobility and delinquency are indeed spuriously related. Implications for future research on mobility and outcomes are discussed.
The aging thyroid. Relationship between elevated serum thyrotropin level and thyroid antibodies in elderly patients

Abstract The relationship of thyroid antibodies and the serum level of thyrotropin in older adults (over age 60) was studied to determine whether thyroid antibodies were a good clue to thyroid failure in elderly persons. Of those with thyroid failure, evidenced by clearly elevated serum thyrotropin values (more than 10 μU/ml), 67 percent had positive antimicrosomal antibody levels, a prevalence much greater (p
Sibling competition and the evolution of prenatal development rates

Sibling competition has been proposed as an important evolutionary pressure driving interspecific variation in developmental rates. We tested this hypothesis using rates of extra-pair paternity and brood parasitism, as well as the degree of hatching asynchrony, as indices of sibling competition in a comparative analysis of 70 species of bird. We found mixed support for the influence of sibling competition on prenatal development. Brood parasitism was negatively correlated with the length of incubation, and hatching asynchrony was positively correlated with the length of incubation, but both correlations disappeared when phylogeny was controlled for. Extra-pair paternity, however, was negatively correlated with incubation length even when phylogeny was controlled for. The latter could represent support for the influence of sibling competition on prenatal development or indirect effects of correlated selection on both traits by adult mortality. The existence of these correlations demonstrates that life-history strategies include linkages among a larger suite of traits than previously recognized.
The application of stereological principles to morphometry of the microcirculation in different tissues

Abstract Topographical factors represent one of the major determinants of the hydrodynamic events in the microcirculation. The application of established stereologic techniques was found to be an efficient and accurate way to obtain quantitative information concerning the various microvascular structures. The omentum and mesentery have been analyzed as typical two-dimensional units by such morphometric techniques, and the rat spinotrapezius and cat tenuissimus muscles have been analyzed as examples of three-dimensional structures. In the cat mesentery, in addition to an analysis of the blood vessels, a study was made of the accompanying lymphatic vessels. The vascular morphometric data were classified on the basis of vessel diameter and length density, from which a number of important morphological parameters could then be calculated. The data indicate a remarkable similarity in morphometric features of the microcirculation in these different tissues of healthy laboratory animals.
Chronic Expression of RCAN1-1L Protein Induces Mitochondrial Autophagy and Metabolic Shift from Oxidative Phosphorylation to Glycolysis in Neuronal Cells

Expression of the RCAN1 gene can be induced by multiple stresses. RCAN1 proteins (RCAN1s) have both protective and harmful effects and are implicated in common human pathologies. The mechanisms by which RCAN1s function, however, remain poorly understood. We identify RCAN1s as regulators of mitochondrial autophagy (mitophagy) and demonstrate that induction of RCAN1-1L can cause dramatic degradation of mitochondria. The mechanisms of such degradation involve the adenine nucleotide translocator and mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening. We also demonstrate that RCAN1-1L induction can shift cellular bioenergetics from aerobic respiration to glycolysis, yet RCAN1-1L has very little effect on cell division, whereas it has a cumulative negative effect on cell survival. These results shed the light on mechanisms by which RCAN1s can protect or harm cells and by which they may operate in human pathologies. They also suggest that RCAN1s are important players in autophagy and such elusive phenomena as the mitochondrial permeability transition pore.
Respiratory function in the elasmobranch Squalus suckleyi G.

Abstract Respiratory properties of blood and dynamics of gas exchange have been studied in the dogfish, Squalus suckleyi. The O2-Hb dissociation curve shows a T50 = 17 mm Hg at 11 °C and PCO2 = 0.5 mm Hg. The affinity of Hb for O2 was not influenced by CO2 (no Bohr effect), nor was there a detectable loss in oxygen capacity (no Root effect). Oxygen capacity averaged 4.35 vol %. The CO2 dissociation curve shows a steep ascending part in the physiological range of PCO2. No Haldane effect could be demonstrated. The minor role of Hb in the buffer activity of dogfish blood is established. In free swimming animals SaO2 was 84%. The O2 utilization averaged 77%. The lack of a Bohr effect and the moderately high T50 value, may favor a bottom-living habitat deficient in O2 and high in CO2 in fairly active species like the dogfish requiring large blood to tissue diffusion gradients in O2. The average extraction of O2 from the water was 25 %. PaO2 values were widely scattered and showed no apparent relationship to Plo2, which varied from 114 to 152 in these experiments. The possible presence of a circulatory adjustment to keep PaO2 high in moderate O2 deficiency is discussed. High pH values in blood are presumably related to modest requirements for buffering in line with the low PCO2 in the blood of aquatic breathers. The data do not support and effective operation of a countercurrent arrangement in the respiratory exchange.
Identifying the status of genetic lesions in cancer clinical trial documents using machine learning

Many cancer clinical trials now specify the particular status of a genetic lesion in a patient's tumor in the inclusion or exclusion criteria for trial enrollment. To facilitate search and identification of gene-associated clinical trials by potential participants and clinicians, it is important to develop automated methods to identify genetic information from narrative trial documents. We developed a two-stage classification method to identify genes and genetic lesion statuses in clinical trial documents extracted from the National Cancer Institute's (NCI's) Physician Data Query (PDQ) cancer clinical trial database. The method consists of two steps: 1) to distinguish gene entities from non-gene entities such as English words; and 2) to determine whether and which genetic lesion status is associated with an identified gene entity. We developed and evaluated the performance of the method using a manually annotated data set containing 1,143 instances of the eight most frequently mentioned genes in cancer clinical trials. In addition, we applied the classifier to a real-world task of cancer trial annotation and evaluated its performance using a larger sample size (4,013 instances from 249 distinct human gene symbols detected from 250 trials). Our evaluation using a manually annotated data set showed that the two-stage classifier outperformed the single-stage classifier and achieved the best average accuracy of 83.7% for the eight most frequently mentioned genes when optimized feature sets were used. It also showed better generalizability when we applied the two-stage classifier trained on one set of genes to another independent gene. When a gene-neutral, two-stage classifier was applied to the real-world task of cancer trial annotation, it achieved a highest accuracy of 89.8%, demonstrating the feasibility of developing a gene-neutral classifier for this task. We presented a machine learning-based approach to detect gene entities and the genetic lesion statuses from clinical trial documents and demonstrated its use in cancer trial annotation. Such methods would be valuable for building information retrieval tools targeting gene-associated clinical trials.
Regulation of PKR and IRF-1 during hepatitis C virus RNA replication

The virus–host interactions that influence hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication are largely unknown but are thought to involve those that disrupt components of the innate intracellular antiviral response. Here we examined cellular antiviral pathways that are triggered during HCV RNA replication. We report that (i) RNA replication of HCV subgenomic replicons stimulated double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) signaling pathways within cultured human hepatoma cells, and (ii) viral RNA replication efficiency corresponded with an ability to block a key cellular antiviral effector pathway that is triggered by dsRNA and includes IFN regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1) and protein kinase R (PKR). The block to dsRNA signaling was mapped to the viral nonstructural 5A (NS5A) protein, which colocalized with PKR and suppressed the dsRNA activation of PKR during HCV RNA replication. NS5A alone was sufficient to block both the activation of IRF-1 and the induction of an IRF-1-dependent cellular promoter by dsRNA. Mutations that clustered in or adjacent to the PKR-binding domain of NS5A relieved the blockade to this IRF-1 regulatory pathway, resulting in induction of IRF-1-dependent antiviral effector genes and the concomitant reduction in HCV RNA replication efficiency. Our results provide further evidence to support a role for PKR in dsRNA signaling processes that activate IRF-1 during virus infection and suggest that NS5A may influence HCV persistence by blocking IRF-1 activation and disrupting a host antiviral pathway that plays a role in suppressing virus replication.
Management of the mucolabial fold when developing impressions for complete dentures

All patients have loose nonkeratinized unattached mucosa in the anterior labial vestibule. The degree of possible distortion varies with each patient and with different recording techniques. Some distortion is possible in all patients. Common errors made when manipulating this tissue during impression procedures for complete dentures have been described. An effort to compensate for the errors in the finished denture will not correct them. Manipulation of the mucolabial fold must be done correctly during the border molding procedure. If not, the only recourse may be to reline the denture, and care should be taken not to repeat the errors.
Automated detection of scallops in their natural environment

Automating the counting of marine animals like scallops benefits marine population survey efforts. These surveys are tools for policy makers to regulate fishing activities, and sources of information for biologists and marine ecologists interested in population statistics of marine species. In this paper we discuss some practical difficulties that arise in the scallop detection problem from visual data, and propose a solution based on top-down visual attention. We assess the performance of the proposed method against a comparable and related method which has recently been employed in literature, using a significant amount of ground truth data.
Intestinal absorption of vitamin E in experimental renal failure.

We studied intestinal absorption of vitamin E in rats with experimental renal failure (RF) and in sham-operated normal and pair-fed controls using in vivo perfusion and in vitro everted sacs. The in vivo absorption rates per unit of intestine length were significantly reduced in RF and pair-fed groups. Expression of data per unit of intestine weight gave normal values in the pair-fed but depressed values in the RF animals. Vitamin E uptake in vitro was significantly increased in RF animals, suggesting enhanced permeability. We conclude: (i) vitamin E absorption in vivo is impaired in experimental RF; (ii) this is in part due to reduced nutrient intake; and (iii) disparity between in vivo and in vitro results suggests the presence of some inhibitory influence(s) in intact animals with RF. (P.S.E.B.M. 1990, Vol1931 itamin E (D-a-tocopherol) is an important lipid- soluble vitamin with potent antioxidant prop- V erties (I, 2). Its deficiency has been shown to cause reproductive dysfunction, muscular dystrophy, impaired nucleoprotein synthesis, hemolytic anemia, and peripheral neuropathy (3-6). Previous studies have shown a marked impairment of intestinal absorption of several other vitamins in experimental uremia (7-9). This study was intended to examine the effect of renal insufiiciency on intestinal transport of vitamin E. Materials and Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 335-400 g, fed Purina Rat Chow and tap water ad libitum, were ran- domly placed into three groups. Animals placed in the renal failure (RF) group underwent a concurrent right nephrectomy and a left two-thirds nephrectomy. The procedure was performed extraperitoneally through a single dorsal incision to avoid intra-abdominal adhe- sions. The mortality rate in the RF group was approx- imately 25%. Animals placed in the normal control group and pair-fed group (PF) were sham operated by exposing and manipulating the kidneys without per- forming the nephrectomy. All surgical procedures were conducted under general anesthesia employing an in- traperitoneal injection of sodium pentobarbital (40 mg/ kg body wt) and under aseptic conditions. Blood loss
On the representation and enumeration of trees

Scoins(1) has shown that if Π 1 = {(1), …, ( n )} and Π 2 = {( n + 1), …, ( n + m )} are two sets of points, there are exactly m n−1 n m−1 trees of alternate parity connecting the points of Π 1 ∪ Π 2 , where each tree consists of n + m − 1 segments and each segment joins a point of Π 1 to a point of Π 2 . Another proof based on the three following results is given here.
Machine learning methods for in vivo skin parameter estimation

The WHO estimates three million new cases of skin cancer each year. Therefore, there exists a need for prescreening tools that can estimate the biological parameters of human skin, as they can help detect cancers before metastasis. In this paper, we present a novel inverse modeling technique based on Kubelka-Munk theory and machine learning to estimate biological skin parameters from in vivo hyperspec-tral imaging. We use the k-nearest neighbors (k-NN) algorithm in order to estimate skin parameters from their hy-perspectral signatures. We test our methods on 241 hyper-spectral signatures obtained from both genders and three ethnicities, and find encouraging results.
The Cancer Patient Experiences Questionnaire (CPEQ): reliability and construct validity following a national survey to assess hospital cancer care from the patient perspective.

Objectives Patient experience questionnaires have been criticised owing to the lack of supporting psychometric evidence. The objective of this study was to describe the development and psychometric evaluation of the Cancer Patient Experiences Questionnaire (CPEQ) in Norway. Design Questionnaire development was based on a literature review of existing questionnaires, patient interviews, expert-group consultations, pretesting of questionnaire items and a national survey. Psychometric evaluation included exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and tests of internal consistency reliability and test–retest reliability. Setting Data were collected using a postal survey of cancer patients attending 54 hospitals in all 4 health regions. The subjects were 14 227 adult cancer patients who had attended an outpatient clinic or who had been discharged from an inpatient ward. Patients with all types of cancer were included. Data quality, internal consistency reliability and construct validity were assessed. Results Of the 13 846 patients who received the CPEQ, 7212 (52%) responded. Exploratory factor analysis identified six scales of outpatient experiences relating to nurse contact, doctor contact, information, organisation, patient safety and contact with next of kin, and seven scales of inpatient experiences, with the addition of hospital standard to the aforementioned scales. All but two of the scales met the criterion of 0.70 for Cronbach9s α testing, and test–retest correlations ranged from 0.57 to 0.85. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the interpretation of six and seven scales for outpatients and inpatients, respectively. Statistically significant associations based on explicit hypotheses provided evidence for the construct validity of the scales. One additional scale measuring the hospital level was identified (α=0.85). Conclusions The CPEQ is a self-report instrument that includes the most important aspects of patient experiences with cancer care at hospitals. The instrument was tested following a national survey in Norway; good evidence is provided herein for the internal consistency reliability, test–retest reliability and construct validity.
Networks of relations

This thesis explores the composition of relations into larger relational structures. We define several forms of networks of relations, including exclusion networks, zipper networks, and matrix networks. We prove quick confluent convergence for exclusion networks, and present a parsimonious duality between relations and variables for networks of relations. Consideration of zipper networks makes it clear that "fan-out," i.e., the ability to duplicate information, is most naturally itself represented as a relation along with everything else. This is a notable departure from the traditional lack of representation for this ability. This deconstruction of fan-out provides a more general model for combining relations than was provided by previous models, since we can examine both the traditional case where fan-out (the equality relation on three variables) is available and the more interesting case where its availability is subject to the same limitations as the availability of other relations. As we investigate the composition of relations in this model where fan-out is explicit, what we find is very different from what has been found in the past. We examine the lower portions of the lattice of implementability among relations, and find that in contrast with Post's lattice of implementability among functions, the lattice is quite irregular and positive implementability results are rare. While portions of these lattices are known to be equivalent via a Galois connection, this is only a small portion of the relation lattice, even though it is most of the function lattice. We go on to prove undecidability of the general implementability question for relations, despite its decidability when fan-out is present. Looking at functions without fan-out, we are led to the study of finite chemical reaction networks, for which we find the implementability question turns out to be decidable. We show that certain computations in finite chemical reaction networks are limited to primitive recursive computation, but when standard chemical kinetic reaction rates are used to stochastically determine the next reaction, the system becomes capable of universal computation. This is the first example we know of where adding probabilistic behavior to a natural model of computation increases the range of deterministic functions it can compute.
Personality testing may improve resident selection in anesthesiology programs.

Background: Current methods of selecting future residents for anesthesiology training programs do not adequately distinguish those who will succeed from the pool of seemingly well-qualified applicants. Some residents, despite high exam scores, may struggle in the operating room (OR) in stressful situations.Aims: This study examined whether specific neuropsychological and personality measures can distinguish high competency residents from low-competency residents to aid in resident selection.Methods: Twenty-five residents enrolled in an anesthesiology program at a major academic institution were identified for participation. Thirteen were evaluated as “high competency” residents and 12 as “low competency” by the department's clinical competency committee. Groups were evaluated on measures of fine motor dexterity, executive functioning, processing speed, attention, and personality.Results: There were no significant differences between groups on measures of fine-motor dexterity, executive functioning, proces...
Correlating the EMC analysis and testing methods for space systems in MIL-STD-1541A

A study was conducted to improve the correlation between the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) analysis models stated in MIL-STD-1541A and the suggested testing methods used for space systems. The test and analysis methods outlined in MIL-STD-1541A are described, and a comparative assessment of testing and analysis techniques as they relate to several EMC areas is presented. Suggestions on present analysis and test methods are introduced to harmonize and bring the analysis and testing tools in MII-STD-1541A into closer agreement. It is suggested that test procedures in MII-STD-1541A must be improved by providing alternatives to the present use of shielded enclosures as the primary site for such tests. In addition, the alternate use of anechoic chambers and open field test sites must be considered. >
An Open Letter to a Colleague Preparing to Teach Remedies

The Remedies course is a capstone of the law school curriculum, but it is also a challenging course to teach. It cuts across contract, property, tort, and procedure law. It is usually taken by third-year students, who are notoriously difficult to motivate. The author draws on twenty-five years of teaching Remedies intermittently at three law schools, using a variety of texts. He explains his preference for teaching Remedies by the problem method, and offers pointers. Difficulties that other teachers have reported with the problem method are noted. Most students report a positive reaction to the problem method. They appreciate its similarity to law practice and the novelty of not having to read and recite cases.
Connections Between Topological and Group Theoretical Decision Problems

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses connections between topological and group theoretical decision problems. The chapter provides the logician with a brief survey concerning results and open questions on decision problems in topology and their relations to group theoretic decision problems. Usually topological decision problems are concerned with finite simplicia1 complexes. Such complexes can be described (up to isomorphism) by their incidence matrices that are finite matrices with integral entries. The chapter also discusses homeomorphism problems, isomorphism problems of fundamental groups, unsolvability results, solvability results, and some open decision problems. The chapter discusses the sufficiently largeness problem for 3-manifolds.