cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of endoscopic sphincterotomy on acute and chronic complications of biliary endoprostheses

Background: Endoscopically placed biliary stents have become routine therapy for bile duct obstruction and bile leaks. Controversy exists regarding the use of biliary sphincterotomy to facilitate placement of 10F plastic stents. Methods: We retrospectively studied the effect of sphincterotomy on acute and chronic complications of 10F stent therapy. Data for acute complications, 30-day mortality and stent migration were obtained for 130 patients undergoing placement of a single 10F plastic biliary stent. For 109 patients in whom prolonged stent therapy was undertaken, the occurence of and time to stent dysfunction were also analyzed. Sphincterotomy was performed in 48 cases (36.9%) based on physician preference. Results: There were no failures in stent placement. The incidence of acute complications was higher in patients undergoing sphincterotomy (8.3% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.04). Stent migration was more common in the no sphincterotomy group versus the sphincterotomy group (8.5% vs. 0, p = 0.03). Conclusions: Sphincterotomy is not necessary for placement of 10F plastic stents and increases acute procedural morbidity. Interestingly, a higher incidence of stent migration was seen in patients who did not undergo biliary sphincterotomy. (Gastrointest Endosc 1999;49:716-9.)
BREEDING PRODUCTIVITY DOES NOT DECLINE WITH INCREASING FRAGMENTATION IN A WESTERN LANDSCAPE

Fragmentation of breeding habitat may cause declines in many bird populations. Our perception of the demographic effects of habitat fragmentation comes primarily from studies in the midwestern and eastern United States and Scandinavia. We know very little about the demographic effects of anthropogenically caused habitat fragmentation in habitats prone to natural disturbance, as is typical of most forest types in the western United States. We located and monitored 1916 nests on eight sites located in mostly forested landscapes and eight sites located in primarily agricultural landscapes to study the effects of landscape-level fragmentation on nest predation and brood parasitism in riparian areas in western Montana. Patterns of nest predation were opposite those documented from more eastern locales; predation rates were higher in forested landscapes than in fragmented landscapes dominated by agriculture. This pattern probably reflects the importance of forest predators in these landscapes: red squirrels (Ta...
Profiling computer science master's programs

Master's level computer science programs have experienced significant and sustained growth during the past two decades. According to the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics [4], a total of 1,588 master's degrees were conferred in computer and information sciences in 1971. This figure increased 508% to 8,070 in 1986—a larger percentage increase than any other major discipline. The 1970s and 1980s have also been an era in which computer science has experienced major theoretical and technological advances. The period has been marked by severe faculty shortages which are only now beginning to ease. Complicating matters further, the discipline is so young that it is still in the process of defining its intellectual framework [3]. Considering all of these factors, it is not surprising that there is a considerable amount of diversity and flux among computer science master's programs. What is surprising, however, is that little data is available pertaining to this degree.
A parametric study of fiber volume fraction distribution on the failure initiation location in open hole off-axis tensile specimen

Abstract We present a model to study the effect of the spatial distributions in fiber volume fraction on the failure initiation location in the open hole off-axis tensile. These variations are introduced with a micromechanical enhancement dehomogenization process. Good agreement is obtained between our predicted failure locations and experimental results by considering a failure criterion based on the effective shear strain in the matrix. The predicted failure angle distribution is in good agreement with the experimental results when the variability in the fiber volume fraction is included in the simulations.
Stent-graft in the management of superior vena cava syndrome

We report the use of a Dacron-covered Gianturco-RoschZ (GRZ)-stent to treat malignant obstruction of the superior vena cava (SVC). Initial treatment with an uncovered GRZ-stent was suboptimal due to protrusion of tumor-thrombus through the stent struts into the SVC lumen. Placement of a coaxial Dacron-covered stent graft relieved the residual obstruction due to tumor within the SVC.
PKC-1 regulates secretion of neuropeptides.

The secretion of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides is mediated by distinct organelles—synaptic vesicles (SVs) and dense-core vesicles (DCVs), respectively. Relatively little is known about the factors that differentially regulate SV and DCV secretion. Here we show that protein kinase C-1 (PKC-1), which is most similar to the vertebrate PKC η and e isoforms, regulates exocytosis of DCVs in Caenorhabditis elegans motor neurons. Mutants lacking PCK-1 activity had delayed paralysis induced by the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor aldicarb, whereas mutants with increased PKC-1 activity had more rapid aldicarb-induced paralysis. Imaging and electrophysiological assays indicated that SV release occurred normally in pkc-1 mutants. By contrast, genetic analysis of aldicarb responses and imaging of fluorescently tagged neuropeptides indicated that mutants lacking PKC-1 had reduced neuropeptide secretion. Similar neuropeptide secretion defects were found in mutants lacking unc-31 (encoding the protein CAPS) or unc-13 (encoding Munc13). These results suggest that PKC-1 selectively regulates DCV release from neurons.
Clinical variables and primary tumor characteristics predictive of the development of melanoma brain metastases and post-brain metastases survival

BACKGROUND: Melanoma patients who develop brain metastases (B-Met) have limited survival and are excluded from most clinical trials. In the current study, the authors attempted to identify primary tumor characteristics and clinical features predictive of B-Met development and post-B–Met survival. METHODS: A prospectively accrued cohort of 900 melanoma patients was studied to identify clinicopathologic features of primary melanoma (eg, thickness, ulceration, mitotic index, and lymphovascular invasion) that are predictive of B-Met development and survival after a diagnosis of B-Met. Associations between clinical variables present at the time of B-Met diagnosis (eg, extracranial metastases, B-Met location, and the presence of neurological symptoms) and post-B–Met survival were also assessed. Univariate associations were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and the effect of independent predictors was assessed using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. RESULTS: Of the 900 melanoma patients studied, 89 (10%) developed B-Met. Ulceration and site of the primary tumor on the head and neck were found to be independent predictors of B-Met development on multivariate analysis (P = .001 and P = .003, respectively). Clinical variables found to be predictive of post-B–Met survival on multivariate analysis included the presence of neurological symptoms (P = .008) and extracranial metastases (P = .04). Ulceration was the only primary tumor characteristic that remained a significant predictor of post-B–Met survival on multivariate analysis (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: Primary tumor ulceration was found to be the strongest predictor of B-Met development and remained an independent predictor of decreased post-B–Met survival in a multivariate analysis inclusive of primary tumor characteristics and clinical variables. The results of the current study suggest that patients with ulcerated primary tumors should be prospectively studied to determine whether heightened surveillance for B-Met can improve clinical outcome. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Impact of Parenteral Treprostinil Dosing in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Purpose Data from a recent retrospective analysis (Benza et al, 2011) suggested that higher doses of treprostinil may be associated with better survival in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Here, we determined whether the dose of treprostinil influences time on therapy and survival of PAH patients in clinical practice. Methods and Materials Retrospective review of all patients in the United States started on intravenous (IV) and subcutaneous (SQ) treprostinil, using data from three specialty pharmacies between September 2009 and October 2011. Deaths from any cause were recorded. Impact of treprostinil dose on the patient’s survival in each month of therapy was analyzed using a Cox proportional hazard model and the ratio was calculated using dose increments of 10 ng/kg/min. Physicians were stratified by experience with parenteral treprostinil (≥5 vs Results 1877 patients (mean age, 51 years) were initiated on parenteral treprostinil. Experienced physicians tended to initiate patients at higher doses and uptitrate more rapidly than less experienced physicians, (P Conclusions Treprostinil dose may influence survival in PAH. More rapid uptitration to a higher dose may be beneficial in these patients. Table 1 Treprostinil Number of patients HR P Value Implications IV+SQ 1877 * 0.992 10 ng/kg/min increase in dose leads to a 7.7% decrease in hazard of death SQ 1032 0.990 0.002 10 ng/kg/min increase in dose leads to a 9.6% decrease in hazard of death IV 837 0.993 0.021 10 ng/kg/min increase in dose leads to a 6.8% decrease in hazard of death * Data pertaining to route of delivery were not available for 8 patients.
Intraventricular hemorrhage expansion in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage

Objective: To evaluate whether delayed appearance of intraventricular hemorrhage (dIVH) represents an independent entity from intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) present on admission CT or is primarily related to the time interval between symptom onset and admission CT. Methods: A total of 282 spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients, admitted February 2009–March 2014 to the neurological intensive care unit of a tertiary care university hospital, were prospectively enrolled in the ICH Outcomes Project. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine associations with acute mortality and functional long-term outcome (modified Rankin Scale). Results: A cohort of 282 ICH patients was retrospectively studied: 151 (53.5%) had intraventricular hemorrhage on initial CT scan (iIVH). Of the remaining 131 patients, 19 (14.5%) developed IVH after the initial CT scan (dIVH). The median times from symptom onset to admission CT were 1.1, 6.0, and 7.4 hours for the dIVH, iIVH, and no IVH groups (Mann-Whitney U test, dIVH vs iIVH, p Conclusions: In ICH patients, associated IVH on admission imaging is commonly encountered and is associated with poor long-term outcome. In contrast, dIVH on subsequent scans is far less common and does not appear to portend worse outcome.
Computer-Controlled System for Nondestructive Thickness Measurement of Corroded Steel Structures

Over a period of time, corrosion attacks the surface of offshore and waterfront steel structures and can cause catastrophic failures. To date, thickness measurement to determine loss from corrosion has been performed visually; however, this method provides only limited assessment. A computer-controlled ultrasonic system to more accurately measure corroded steel structure thickness is described. The system is based on an innovative concept using an ultrasonic focused transducer aligned directly over the center of corrosion pits. At each of these positions, a corrosion pit acts as an acoustic lens, collimating the beam inside the steel specimen. Using this approach, the reflection from the back surface of the steel specimen is strong. The time difference between the back surface and front-surface reflections is used to calculate the thickness of the plate. The prototype system developed for implementing this concept is capable of automatically locating the pit centers, acquiring waveforms, and determining the thickness. During this process, the system rejects waveforms with spurious signals using simple pattern recognition approaches. Results have shown that the thickness of corroded plates can be measured with an average error of 4 percent. The system not only is accurate for thickness measurement, but also is easy to operate.more » Commercially available equipment used for the system makes it simple to build and less expensive than a fully integrated custom system.« less
The Cdc42-interacting protein-4 (CIP4) gene knock-out mouse reveals delayed and decreased endocytosis.

The newly described F-BAR (Fer/CIP4 and Bin, amphiphysin, Rvs) family of proteins includes Cdc42-interacting protein-4 (CIP4), formin-binding protein-17 (FBP-17) and transactivator of cytoskeletal assembly-1 (Toca-1), and drives membrane deformation and invagination. Membrane remodeling affects endocytosis, vesicle budding, and cargo selection. The F-BAR family presents a novel family of proteins, which little is known about their in vivo function. We investigated the physiological role of CIP4, by creating Cip4-null mice through homologous recombination. Compared with their wild-type littermates, the Cip4-null mice displayed lower early post-prandial glucose levels. Adipocytes isolated from Cip4-null mice exhibited increased [14C]2-deoxyglucose uptake compared with cells from wild-type mice. The enhanced insulin sensitivity was not due to higher levels of insulin or phospho-Akt, a critical player in insulin signaling. However, higher glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) levels were detected in muscle membrane fractions in Cip4-null mice under insulin stimulation. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts from Cip4-null mice demonstrated decreased transferrin uptake, fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran, and horseradish peroxidase uptake, indicating that CIP4 affects multiple modes of endocytosis. These studies demonstrate a physiological role for CIP4 in endocytosis leading to a whole animal phenotype.
Diagonally dominant matrices for the finite element method in hydrology

The finite element method provides a powerful new instrument in the solving of problems of flow in the subsoil by means of a numerical processor. This new technique may be reinforced, without complicating its numerical aspect, by an appropriate choice of the sub-regions into which the original region is divided. In two-dimensional confined flows particular types of triangular meshes may be adopted which ensure the final matrices to be diagonally dominant both in steady-state and transient conditions, in heterogeneous and anisotropic fields. This will allow the utilization of rapidly converging iterative processes in the solution of the final linear systems with a notable saving of processing time.
Tools for a Document Image Utility.

This project demonstrates three specific applications for integrating paper‐based information into the electronic environment. The first allows users to interactively select and view portions of page‐images, such as illustrations, subtitles, or text paragraphs, when either the screen resolution of their workstations or low transmission rates prevent viewing the bitmap of the entire page. The second application automates the selection of suitable portions of the document (e.g., abstracts) for subsequent optical recognition for full‐text searching of journals and reports in paper form. The third application automatically links pixel maps of illustrations with ASCII text files.
Abandonment value and capital budgeting under uncertainty

Abstract The objective of this article is to provide a solution to the capital deepening (optimal economic life) problem encountered in capital budgeting under conditions of uncertainty. Specifically, we address the capital deepening problem where project cash flows, the terminal value of the asset, and the opportunity cost of funds are all random variables. In addition, we consider the impact of risk averse behavior on the solution to the problem, much as Sandmo has done with respect to the capital widening decision.
A Low-Cost LAN Implementation for the Factory

As the factory environment becomes increasingly automated, the need for data organization, data integrity, and data access will be a requirement. A local-area network for the factory is an option capable of solving data requirements. In addition, factory operation complexity can be reduced by centralizing data and developing robust applications; these applications should fulfill data organization, integrity, and access requirements and be an operator's interface to the automated factory.
Interpreting tone of voice: Musical pitch relationships convey agreement in dyadic conversation

Previous research has found that the musical intervals found in speech are associated with various emotions. Intervals can be classified by their level of consonance or dissonance—how pleasant or unpleasant the combined tones sound to the ear. Exploratory investigations have indicated that in an agreeable conversation, the pitches of the last word in an utterance and the first word of a conversation partner’s utterance are consonantly related; in a disagreeable conversation, the two pitches are dissonantly related. The present results showed that the intervals between the tonics of the utterances in a conversation corresponded to the agreement between interlocutors.
Intrinsic Brain Connectivity Related to Age in Young and Middle Aged Adults

Age-related variations in resting state connectivity of the human brain were examined from young adulthood through middle age. A voxel-based network measure, degree, was used to assess age-related differences in tissue connectivity throughout the brain. Increases in connectivity with age were found in paralimbic cortical and subcortical regions. Decreases in connectivity were found in cortical regions, including visual areas and the default mode network. These findings differ from those of recent developmental studies examining earlier growth trajectories, and are consistent with known changes in cognitive function and emotional processing during mature aging. The results support and extend previous findings that relied on a priori definitions of regions of interest for their analyses. This approach of applying a voxel-based measure to examine the functional connectivity of individual tissue elements over time, without the need for a priori region of interest definitions, provides an important new tool in brain science.
Sodium Salicylate Inhibits Macrophage TNF-α Production and Alters MAPK Activation☆

Abstract Introduction. Transcriptional activation of the TNF-α gene in LPS-stimulated macrophages is dependent upon nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) activity. Salicylates may interfere with NF-κB activity through a MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)-dependent process. These studies investigate the effects of sodium salicylate (NaSal) on TNF-α production and MAPK activation in macrophages. Methods. Rat peritoneal macrophages were pretreated or not with sodium salicylate or ibuprofen for 1 h and then stimulated with 100 ng/ml LPS. Six hours following stimulation, cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. At specified time intervals after LPS stimulation, supernatant TNF-α was measured by ELISA. Western blots of cell lysates were performed for analysis of total and activated (phosphorylated) MAPKs. Results. Salicylate and LPS, alone or combined, did not significantly alter macrophage viability. Salicylate, but not ibuprofen, significantly reduced TNF-α production in LPS-stimulated macrophages. LPS-stimulated activation of ERK and SAPK/JNK was inhibited by NaSal pretreatment. NaSal treatment of macrophages activated p38 MAPK independent of LPS stimulation. Pretreatment of samples with the specific p38 MAPK inhibitor, SB203580, did not significantly alter TNF-α production in either LPS or NaSal and LPS-treated samples. Conclusions. Salicylates alter MAPK signaling and suppress TNF-α production in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Salicylate-induced control of inflammatory mediator production in macrophages may, in part, underlie the clinically significant anti-inflammatory effects of these compounds.
Destruction of Trichloroethylene and Perchloroethylene DNAPLs by Catalyzed H2O2 Propagations

The destruction of trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE) dense nonaqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs) using catalyzed H2 O2 propagations (CHP), an in situ chemical oxidation process based on Fenton’s reagent, was investigated in batch, bench scale reactors. TCE and PCE masses were quantified over time in DNAPLs, aqueous phases, and off gasses, and the rate of DNAPL destruction was compared to the corresponding rate of gas purge dissolution. TCE and PCE DNAPLs were rapidly destroyed by CHP at 1.7 and 4.4 times the rate of gas purge dissolution, respectively. Use of reactions in which a single reactive oxygen species was generated demonstrated that both hydroxyl radical and superoxide were involved in TCE and PCE DNAPL destruction, with superoxide having the major role in the destruction of the DNAPLs. These results show that DNAPLs composed of contaminants highly reactive with hydroxyl radical, such as TCE and PCE, are destroyed primarily through reaction with superoxide.
Autoimmune thyroid dysfunction induced by interferon-alpha treatment for chronic hepatitis C: screening and monitoring recommendations.

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the proposed mechanisms of action of recombinant interferon-alfa (IFN-a) in causing autoimmune thyroid dysfunction, to identify pretreatment risk factors, and to provide recommendations for screening and monitoring of thyroid dysfunction during IFN-a therapy for chronic hepatitis C. Methods Selected publications were reviewed to analyze the proposed mechanisms of autoimmune thyroid disorders. In addition, we examined the interrelationship of the thyroid and the liver, the occurrence of thyroid dysfunction in patients with chronic hepatitis C before and after IFN-a therapy, and the presence or absence of antithyroid antibodies in association with thyroid disease. Case reports were selected to demonstrate various IFN-a- induced thyroid dysfunction. Results IFN-a induces thyroid dysfunction in 3 to 14% of all treated patients with chronic hepatitis C, leading to hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or thyroiditis. In a few patients, thyroid disease will develop in the absence of antithyroid antibodies, a scenario that suggests a non- immune-mediated mechanism. More frequently, patients develop antithyroid antibodies, which may progress to overt thyroid dysfunction. Through its immunomodulatory properties, IFN-a seems to act through major histocompatibility complex class I antigens to produce antithyroid antibodies and thyroid disease. Conclusion In patients receiving IFN-a therapy for chronic hepatitis C infection, identifiable risk factors for developing autoimmune thyroid dysfunction are preexisting overt thyroid or autoimmune disease, subclinical thyroid or autoimmune thyroid disease, and female gender. Pretreatment screening is recommended for all patients in whom IFN-a therapy is being considered, and periodic monitoring should be performed during such therapy. Thyroid disease need not be a contraindication to IFN-a therapy; early detection of subclinical or overt thyroid disease may allow uninterrupted continuation of IFN-a treatment. (Endocr Pract. 2001;7:52-58)
Patterned cracks improve yield in the release of compliant microdevices from silicon-on-insulator wafers

The safe release of compliant structures is an ongoing challenge in microfabrication. The buried oxide (BOX) layer of silicon-on-insulator wafers is useful as an etch stop or sacrificial layer. However, when freed during processing, the BOX layer can buckle and crack from compressive stress, and these cracks can threaten the survival of delicate devices above the BOX layer. This work reports on the use of cracks patterned lithographically into the BOX layer prior to device release in two separate microcantilever fabrication processes. In both processes, the patterned cracks were found to inhibit spontaneous cracking in critical regions near or under devices and improve device yield. In the first process, the average yield of ultrasoft silicon cantilevers for magnetic resonance force microscopy improved by more than 60%. In the second process, the yield of piezoresistive silicon cantilevers for high-frequency force detection improved by more than 95% with the use of patterned cracks.
Startup Modeling of the Receiver of NASA' s 2-Kilowatt Solar Dynamic Power System

A simplie ed approach to predict the thermal startup transient of the receiver of NASA’ s experimental 2-kW solar dynamic (SD) system, designed for the generation of power in space, is presented in this paper. This system is being tested at the NASA Lewis Research Center (NASA‐LeRC) under low-Earth-orbit simulated conditions as part of the SD ground test demonstration program, which aims to address technology issues, develop experience, and validate theoretical models for future use of solar dynamic technology in space. One important technical issue being studiedisthetheoreticalmodeling ofthetransient-modeperformanceofSDsystems,whichhasdirectimpact on off-design operation and control in an Earth-orbital environment. Preliminary correlation between experiment and existing theoretical predictions has suggested the need for improving existing models, such as the closed cycle engine program (CCEP), an in-house NASA computer code. Computational predictions based on the theoretical modelpresented in this papershowsignie cantimprovement in regardto startup receiverperformance. To validate this model, comparisons between the experimental results obtained from the tests performed at the NASA ‐LeRC, and the computational predictions, are presented and discussed. The predictions of the simplie ed model show a close match with experimental results for values of solar energy near those reported in the experimental tests. Some predictions from the CCEP and pertinent discussion are also presented.
Neural network parameter effects on object classification and wavelength selection

A back propagative neural network (NN) was used to select visible spectrum (400 to 700 nm) wavelengths and classify damaged and undamaged peanut kernels. Results showed kernel classifications were best, network errors were minimized, and speed of convergence was greatest when the NN was set up with 20 or more hidden nodes, a momentum of 0.45 or less, and using about 1,000,000 learning events. Reflectance data in the 620 to 700-nm range were most influential in classifying kernels followed by relative reflectance in the 400 to 480-nm range. The learning rate did not affect NN performance, but higher learning rates converged more quickly. The most accurate classification performance occurred when the NN had 40 hidden nodes and a momentum of 0.45. These settings resulted in correct classification of 87.8% of all kernels. When compared to statistical means of classifying kernels using data from specific wavelengths or data from a colorimeter, the NN correctly classified about 5% and 13% more kernels, respectively.
Correlated physiological and ultrastructural studies on specialised muscles. Ib. Ultrastructure of white and pink fibers of the levator of the eyestalk of Podophthalmus vigil (Weber)

The ultrastructure of the different kinds of muscle fiber found in the specialised eyestalk levator muscle of Podophthalmus vigil was determined by electron microscopy. Pink fibers have wide, 13 μ sarcomeres, an extensive cleft system, branching Z tubules and a thick layer of mitochondria. Their ratio of thin to thick filaments is 4–5:1. Two distinct kinds of white fiber were found, with sarcomere lengths of 7.9 μ and 9.8 μ. The former have a very well-developed SR, few mitochondria, a thin: thick filament ratio of 3–5:1 and numerous diads. The second kind have a 7:1 ratio, the thin filaments not being in orbits around thick ones. Their SR is quite well developed, but the cleft system only moderately so. There are more mitochondria in them than in the other white fibers.
An O(qn) algorithm to q-color a proper family of circular arcs

Abstract A family of arcs on a circle is proper if no arc is properly contained within another. While general minimal arc coloring is NP-complete, Orlin et al. recently obtained on O(n2) algorithm for q-coloring a proper family of arcs by modeling proper arc coloring as a shortest path problem in an associated network (with negative edges). This paper simplifies Orlin's shortest-path network to obtain an O(qn) time algorithm.
Rapid solidification and ordering of B2 and L21 phases in the NiAlNiTi system

Abstract Evidence is presented for the direct solidification of the B2 phase in the NiAlNiTi system at some compositions where the L21 phase is stable at the melting point. Subsequent continuous ordering produces the equilibrium phase. The metastable continuous ordering curve is used to discuss this result.
Development of a Force-path Prediction Model for the Assembly Process of o-ring Type Seals

Abstract O-ring type seals are the most commonly used seals worldwide. In spite of possible consequences (e.g. leakage and total machine failure) of a damaged seal-ring due to mechanical overstraining during the assembly process, detailed process expertise is barely existent. The aim of this contribution is to establish a basic understanding for the complex processes during assembly. Therefore contributing elements of elastomeric friction as well as their external influences are analyzed in depth. Finally an outlook on a generalized prediction model of the force-path as a function of relevant factors is given.
Ornithine transcarbamylase (OCT) in urease used as reagent in the OCT activity measurement in biological fluids.

Abstract Ornithine transcarbamylase (OCT) is demonstrated to be present in urease, used as reagent in the OCT activity measurements in order to destroy the interfering substance urea. Some kinetic properties of the OCT in urease have been compared with those of human liver OCT to consider the consequences of the use of urease for OCT studies in biological materials.
Improved Estimation of CSA Dipolar Coupling Cross-Correlation Rates from Laboratory-Frame Relaxation Experiments

Abstract We have investigated the underlying assumptions in estimating cross-correlation rates between chemical shift anisotropy (CSA) and dipolar coupling mechanisms in a scalar-coupled two-spin IS system, from laboratory frame relaxation experiments. It has been shown that for an arbitrary relaxation delay, the difference in relaxation rates of the individual components of an in-phase (or antiphase) doublet is not related to the CSA–dipolar coupling cross-correlation rate in a simple way. This is especially true in the case where the difference in the decay rates of the in-phase and antiphase terms of the density matrix becomes comparable to the magnitude of the scalar coupling between the two spins. Improved means of extracting cross-correlation rates in these cases are presented.
Hypercalcemia Induced by 13‐cis‐Retinoic Acid in a Patient with Neuroblastoma

Hypercalcemia is a potential dosage-related adverse effect of 13-cis-retinoic acid in patients with neuroblastoma. Severe hypercalcemia requiring dosage reduction has been reported in children receiving 13-cis-retinoic acid 200 mg/m2/day and in those with concurrent renal impairment receiving 160 mg/m2/day. A 12-year-old girl without renal dysfunction, diagnosed with neuroblastoma, developed severe hypercalcemia requiring several hospitalizations while receiving 13-cis-retinoic acid 160 mg/m2/day. Her hypercalcemia resolved with hydration, diuretic therapy, and temporary discontinuation of 13-cis-retinoic acid. Despite a 50% dosage reduction to 80 mg/m2/day, severe hypercalcemia recurred with the next treatment cycle. Further treatment with 13-cis-retinoic acid was made tolerable by shortening the duration of the remaining cycles. Serum calcium levels should be monitored in patients with neuroblastoma who receive 13-cis-retinoic acid.
Group Support Systems

One of our objectives in coordinating this year's Group Support System (GSS) mini-track was to encourage a wide range of papers that touched on a variety of important issues. As in the past, we used a strong reviewing process ? all papers were sent to at least three, sometimes four, reviewers. Our reviewers included scholars, practitioners, and developers, social psychologists, computer scientists, and MIS'ers. Integrating reviews from such a diverse set of reviewers can prove challenging, yet produce a group of papers that can speak to many different interests and issues. This year, we have four papers that include both the development of new systems as well as the testing of theory. The authors of these papers can summarize their conclusions far more eloquently than we can, so we will not repeat their words.Over the years, the GSS mini-track has included research from a broad range of perspectives. This year is no exception. HICSS has emerged as an important venue for the discussion, development, and refinement of research on the use of information technology to support group work. Many of the ideas and papers first presented and discussed here have found their way into major research journals, not to mention those projects first conceived in animated conversations outside the formal sessions. We hope you enjoy the papers and the discussions they generate.
Embeddings of bipartite graphs

If G is a bipartite graph with bipartition A, B then let Gm,n(A, B) be obtained from G by replacing each vertex a of A by an independent set a1, …, am, each vertex b of B by an independent set b1,…, bn, and each edge ab of G by the complete bipartite graph with edges aibj (1 ≤ i ≤ m and 1 ≤ j ≤ n). Whenever G has certain types of spanning forests, then cellular embeddings of G in surfaces S may be lifted to embeddings of Gm,n(A, B) having faces of the same sizes as those of G in S. These results are proved by the technique of “excess-current graphs.” They include new genus embeddings for a large class of bipartite graphs.
Diffraction of Light by Finite Amplitude Ultrasonic Waves

In the late 1950s the Ultrasonic Group at Michigan State University introduced light di raction to study distortion of ultrasonic waves in liquids under the direction of Prof. Egon Hiedemann. In this paper some results of these studies will be presented with detailed description of the author's measurements of B/A. The rate at which the harmonics are developed (the wave distortion is an indication of the harmonics present) during the propagation of the initially sinusoidal ultrasonic wave depends on the nonlinearity of the medium. The light which is di racted by the distorted wave results in asymmetric pattern contrary to the Raman Nath theoretical prediction. From the light intensity measurements due to the generated second harmonics ltered out by a metal plate the nonlinearity parameter B/A was determined. Developments in studying nite amplitude standing ultrasonic waves in a liquid lled cavity will be also discussed. Using light di raction measurements it was observed that above a threshold amplitude, fractional harmonics of the driver transducer are also generated in addition to the generated harmonics. It was recently observed that above a second threshold value of the driver amplitude the system undergoes chaotic behavior. Further increase of the driver amplitude returns the system from chaos to stable oscillation.
White Voters and African American Candidates for Congress

The vast majority of African American officeholders are elected from jurisdictions with sizable numbers of African Americans. The most common explanation for this phenomenon locates the cause among white voters who are reluctant to vote for black candidates, which thereby limits the electoral prospects of black candidates in white constituencies. This study analyzes exit poll data from the 1996 and 1998 House elections in order to test the notion that white voters are averse to black candidates. Despite theoretical expectations that predict the existence of white voter discrimination against African American candidates, remarkably little is apparent. Thus, other explanations for patterns of African American officeholding in the United States need to be pursued.
The track imaging Cerenkov experiment

We describe a. dedicated cosmic-ray telescope that explores a new method for detecting Cerenkov radiation from high-energy primary cosmic rays and the large particle air shower they induce upon entering the atmosphere. Using a camera comprising 16 multi-anode photomultiplier tubes for a total of 256 pixels, the Track Imaging Cerenkov Experiment (TrICE) resolves substructures in particle air showers with 0,086 deg resolution. Cerenkov radiation is imaged using a novel two-part optical system in which a Fresnel lens provides a wide-field optical trigger and a mirror system collects delayed light with four times the magnification. TrICE records well-resolved cosmic-ray air showers at rates ranging between 0.01-0.1 Hz.
Clinical and Biological Effects of Recombinant Human Interleukin-18 Administered by Intravenous Infusion to Patients with Advanced Cancer

Purpose: Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is an immunostimulatory cytokine with antitumor activity in preclinical animal models. A phase I study of recombinant human IL-18 (rhIL-18) was done to determine the toxicity, pharmacokinetics, and biological activities of rhIL-18 in patients with advanced cancer. Experimental Design: Cohorts of patients were given escalating doses of rhIL-18, each administered as a 2-hour i.v. infusion on 5 consecutive days. Toxicities were graded using standard criteria. Serial blood samples were obtained for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic measurements. Results: Twenty-eight patients (21 with renal cell cancer, 6 with melanoma, and 1 with Hodgkin9s lymphoma) were given rhIL-18 in doses ranging from 3 to 1,000 μg/kg. Common side effects included chills, fever, nausea, headache, and hypotension. Common laboratory abnormalities included transient, asymptomatic grade 1 to 2 neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, hypoalbuminemia, hyponatremia, and elevations in liver transaminases. One patient in the 100 μg/kg cohort experienced transient grade 3 hypotension and grade 2 bradycardia during the first infusion of rhIL-18. No other dose-limiting toxicities were observed. Plasma concentrations of rhIL-18 increased with increasing dose, and 2.5-fold accumulation was observed with repeated dosing. Biological effects of rhIL-18 included transient lymphopenia and increased expression of activation antigens on lymphocytes and monocytes. Increases in serum concentrations of IFN-γ, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor, IL-18 binding protein, and soluble Fas ligand were observed. Two patients experienced unconfirmed partial responses after rhIL-18 treatment. Conclusions: rhIL-18 can be safely given in biologically active doses to patients with advanced cancer. A maximum tolerated dose of rhIL-18 was not determined. Further clinical studies of rhIL-18 are warranted.
Health Promotion in Adolescents: A Review of Pender’s Health Promotion Model:

Adolescents have unique health considerations as they transition from parent-managed healthcare to personal responsibility for health behavior. One question to consider is the goodness-of-fit of available theoretical models for explaining and predicting adolescent health-promoting behavior. This integrative review explored Pender's health promotion model in relation to adolescent health. Specifically, this review summarizes the components of Pender's model and the supporting theoretical underpinnings based in the social cognitive theory. Research literature related to the health promotion model and various aspects of teen health is explored. Recommendations for further research and theory development are discussed.
Use of selected HOS information for low-variance estimation of bandlimited systems with short data records

Although the reconstruction of a nonminimum-phase system excited by a stationary non-Gaussian white input is only possible using higher-order statistics (HOS) of the system output, there has been a lot of criticism in the literature against the amount of data required for keeping estimation errors low, and the complexity involved. Several attempts for reducing the variance of the HOS estimates have appeared. In the case of bandlimited signals, we have demonstrated via simulations that the estimation variance can be reduced if "good" slices, instead of the whole bispectrum, are used. This suggests a potential reduction of the variance in the system estimates, without having to resort to long observations. We justify theoretically the dependence of the system estimate variance on the bispectrum slice, and the criterion of slice selection. We also present simulation results, where the selected-slices approach appears to result in much lower estimation variance, as compared to other entire-bispectrum based approaches, for data lengths as low as 64 samples.
The Nanoaquarium: A Platform for In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy in Liquid Media

Transmission electron microscopes (TEMs) and scanning transmission electron microscopes (STEMs) are powerful tools for imaging on the nanoscale. These microscopes cannot be typically used to image processes taking place in liquid media because liquid simply evaporates in the high-vacuum environment of the microscope. In order to view a liquid sample, it is thus necessary to confine the liquid in a sealed vessel to prevent evaporation. Additionally, the liquid layer must be very thin to minimize electron scattering by the suspending medium. To address these issues, we have developed a flow cell with a height of tens of nanometers, sandwiched between two thin silicon nitride membranes. The cell is equipped with electrodes for actuation and sensing. The cell is thin enough to allow the transmission of electrons and the real-time imaging of nanoparticles suspended in liquid. This paper details the fabrication process, which relies on plasma-activated wafer bonding. Some of the advantages of our nanoaquarium include the thinnest observation chamber of any reported in situ TEM/STEM device, integrated electrodes for sensing and actuation, and wafer-scale processing that allows bulk device production. Device performance was demonstrated by STEM imaging of gold and polystyrene nanoparticles suspended in water with excellent resolution. Potential applications of the device include imaging of colloidal crystal formation, aggregation, nanowire growth, electrochemical deposition, and biological interactions.
Prediction of microstructures for polydisperse block copolymers, using continuous thermodynamics

A generalization of an earlier theory (Leary–Henderson–Williams) developed for microphase separation in monodisperse block copolymers is made for copolymers having moderate degrees of polydispersity and illustrated for the Schultz molecular weight distribution (MWD). First, an explicit study is made of molecular weight (M) effects for monodisperse poly (styrene–butadiene) diblock (SB) and triblock (SBS) copolymers. For a fixed temperature, it is shown how the critical molecular weight (Mc)—above which the copolymer is phase-separated at equilibrium —varies with molecular composition (ϕS, volume fraction of S component) for both molecular architectures. Also predicted are the microstructural parameters ΔT(M) and f(M)—interphase thickness and volume fraction, respectively—and the high-M limiting functions ΔT ∝ Mα2, f ∝ Mα3, D ∝ Mα4 (D is domain repeat distance) and Ts ∝ Mα5 (Ts is separation temperature). Then, for polydisperse systems in the range 1 ≲ p ≲ 3 ( where \[ P = \bar M_w /\bar M_n \] ) corresponding predictions at constant \[ \bar M_n \] are made after identifying the mixture free-energy-minimum state with a weight average of the free energy minima of each fraction of the MWD. Calculations are made specifically for ϕS = 0.50 and Ts = 298 K. It is shown that, even when \[ \bar M_n < M_c \] , polydispersity can induce microphase separation if p is sufficiently large. Good success is obtained in comparisons of D predictions with data on blends of two polydisperse diblock samples.
A role for the carotid body in cardiovascular control in man

The carotid bodies play a role in the pressor response to hypoxemia in experimental animals. To determine the importance of the carotid bodies in cardiovascular control in man, we investigated eight subjects who had had (at other institutions) bilateral carotid body resection (CBR), without baroreceptor denervation, for bronchial asthma. Five normal subjects and three asthmatic patients served as controls. The subjects breathed air, 12 percent O2 in N2, and 5 percent CO2, 21 percent O2 in N2 at rest and during cycle ergometer exercise. During hypoxia (PaO2 = 40 mm Hg), the tachycardia was not affected by CBR; the heart rate increase averaged 15 beats per minute during rest and exercise. The systolic, diastolic and pulse pressures slowly decreased in the CBR subjects (avg systolic ↓ = 14 mm Hg), whereas it increased in the control subjects (avg systolic ↑ = 12 mm Hg). Following return to air breathing, blood pressure decreased in the control, whereas it increased in the CBR subjects. In contrast to the altered response of blood pressure in CBR subjects during hypoxia, the pressor response to hypercapnia was not different in the two groups. We conclude that in man, the carotid bodies are essential for normal pressor responses during hypoxia, but not for the tachycardia of hypoxia or the cardiovascular responses to hypercapnia.
Carruthers and the Argument from Marginal Cases

Peter Carruthers has argued that the present popular concern with animal rights is a sign of moral decadence. I argue against this conclusion by focusing on how Carruthers handles the notorious argument from marginal cases. I first explain what the argument from marginal cases is and how a theory can run foul of that argument. I then show that Carruthers must face this argument since he concludes that the marginal cases have, while animals lack, direct moral status. I then introduce a two-tiered moral theory as a way of accommodating the concept of direct moral status within Carruthers's framework. Although the concept of direct moral status that results from such a two-tiered theory has important differences from the standard conception, it does justify Carruthers's claim that the marginal cases have direct moral status. However, I argue that animals will likewise have direct moral status with this new conception, thus demonstrating that, even given Carruthers's theory, a concern for the rights of animals is no more a sign of moral decadence than a concern for the rights of the marginal cases is.
A Restricted Test of Circadian Rhythm

Abstract In medical applications there is interest in whether deaths or other events occur randomly throughout the day, as opposed to in a definite circadian pattern. At times, knowledge of the circadian phenomenon will suggest that a single cluster of events should occur during a specific period during the day, such as mid-morning. We propose a test that incorporates such knowledge. The test can be viewed as the likelihood ratio test for a restricted alternative for data from the von Mises (i.e., circular normal) distribution. The test's power is compared to a commonly used test of randomness that ignores when a peak is likely to occur. Methods for dealing with interval censored data are discussed, and an example is given. A Bayesian alternative is also explored.