Showing papers on "Literature survey published in 1995"

A review and analysis of backpropagation neural networks for classification of remotely-sensed multi-spectral imagery

Abstract: A literature survey and analysis of the use of neural networks for the classification of remotely-sensed multi-spectral imagery is presented. As part of a brief mathematical review, the backpropagation algorithm, which is the most common method of training multi-layer networks, is discussed with an emphasis on its application to pattern recognition. The analysis is divided into five aspects of neural network classification: (1) input data preprocessing, structure, and encoding, (2) output encoding and extraction of classes, (3) network architecture, (4) training algorithms, and (5) comparisons to conventional classifiers. The advantages of the neural network method over traditional classifiers are its nonparametric nature, arbitrary decision boundary capabilities, easy adaptation to different types of data and input structures, fuzzy output values that can enhance classification, and good generalization for use with multiple images. The disadvantages of the method are slow training time, inconsis...

Phase III randomized trial of interleukin-2 with or without lymphokine-activated killer cells in the treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma.

Abstract: Background. Treatment with interleukin-2 (IL-2) and lymphokine-activated killer cells (LAK) resulted in responses in some patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, the relative therapeutic benefit of the addition of LAK to IL-2 was unknown. Methods. A randomized Phase III trial was conducted in patients with RCC comparing continuous intravenous infusion (CI) IL-2 alone with CI IL-2 plus LAK. Interleukin-2 was administered at 3 × 106 U/m2/day on days 1–5, 13–17, 21–24, and 28–31. Patients on the LAK treatment arm underwent leukapheresis on days 8–10 and LAK cell reinfusion on days 13–15. The results are reported with long-term follow-up. The published experience with IL-2 alone or with the addition of LAK was investigated in a quantitative literature survey. The response proportions were studied by schedule (high dose bolus, moderate dose, low dose) and by concomitant administration of LAK. Results. Seventy-one patients were treated, 36 on the IL-2 arm and 35 on the IL-2 plus LAK arm. Four patients (6%) had major responses (two complete, two partial). The median survival of all patients was 13 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 9–18 months). There were no differences between treatment arms with regard to response (P=0.61) and survival (P=0.67). More patients on the LAK arm experienced pulmonary toxicity (P=0.008). The overall weighted response proportion was 16% (95% CI, 8%-24%) for the 39 published series of 1291 patients treated with IL-2. The 95% confidence intervals for response proportion overlapped when compared by schedule and by administration of LAK. Conclusions. The dose and schedule of IL-2 used in this study resulted in a low level of antitumor activity and the addition of LAK did not improve the response rate against RCC. Given the infrequent, but reproducible, responses with IL-2 and interferon-based regimens, continued investigation of these agents is warranted as is the study of new cytokines. Alternative treatment strategies should be studied in RCC and new agents and treatment regimens that appear promising in Phase II studies must be studied in randomized tria.

Cell and tissue cultures of Catharanthus roseus: A literature survey

Abstract: The literature concerning the regulation and the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in cell and tissue cultures of Catharanthus roseus is reviewed. The aim of this review is to summarise the progress achieved since the previous review of this subject from 1988 to December 1993. Several factors influencing the production of indole alkaloids are discussed. Special attention is given to large-scale cultivation methods. Some economic considerations on the production of ajmalicine are also discussed.

Overview and literature survey of fuzzy set theory in power systems

Abstract: Increasing interest has been seen in applying fuzzy set theory to power systems problems from the number of publications on this topic. As a relatively new research topic a need is felt to pay more attention to the understanding of the basic principles of the theory and the identification of problems suitable for solving by this method. This paper presents a survey of publications on applications of fuzzy set theory to power systems and the basic procedures for fuzzy set based methods to solve specific power systems problems. Simple numerical examples are used to show the practical procedures of problem formulation and solution. Theses examples are: generator maintenance scheduling, dynamic programming, and power system stabiliser. >

Reliability of the Experimental Methods To Determine Equilibrium Constants for Surfactant/Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes

Abstract: A literature survey reveals that the values of the equilibrium constants for inclusion complexes involving surfactants and cyclodextrins can vary by several order of magnitude for the same system when different experimental methods are employed. In this paper we consider the problem of the reliability of binding constants. We report here our emf studies of the inclusion of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide with α- and β-cyclodextrin and compare these data with other independent studies. The potential of the isothermal titration calorimetry as a method to determine these constants is also examined. We conclude that techniques which yield direct measurements of «free» and «included» surfactant and also isothermal titration calorimetry appear to give results which are consistent

Dynamic analysis of large 3-D underground structures by the bem

Abstract: An up to date literature survey on the dynamics of underground structures is presented briefly. The dynamic response of large three-dimensional underground structures to external or internal dynamic forces or to seismic waves is numerically determined by the frequency domain boundary element method. This method is used to model both the structure and the soil medium, which are assumed to behave as linear elastic or viscoelastic bodies. The full-space dynamic fundamental solution is employed in the formulation and this requires a free soil surface discretization, confined to a finite portion around the area of interest, in addition to soil—structure interface and free structural surface discretizations. The dynamic disturbances can have a harmonic or a transient time variation. The transient case is treated with the aid of numerical Laplace transforms with respect to time. Various numerical examples involving lined cavities and long lined tunnels buried in the full- or the half-space subjected to harmonic or transient external forces or seismic waves are presented to illustrate the method and demonstrate its advantages.

Low-dose alcohol effects on human behavior and performance

Abstract: This literature survey reviews the effects of alcohol on human behavior and performance, especially low alcohol dose effects. This review consisted of 155 empirical studies dating from 1985 to mid-1993, using the alcohol effect schema of Kruger. Several general conclusions that were largely in agreement with previous reviews on this topic were reached. First, sensitivity to the subjective intoxicating effects of alcohol was greater than that for all other performance classes and appeared to display a "threshold" with respect to blood alcohol concentration (BAC), rather than the linear relation evident in performance data. Second, sensitivity to performance impairment in "controlled" performance and simulator tasks was greater than that for psychophysical function or "automatic" performance. Finally, a variety of task-, subject-, and environmental-characteristics or conditions were found to mediate the magnitude and sensitivity to alcohol effects, particularly at lower doses. This review concluded that since alcohol sensitivity can vary from time to time, person to person, and situation to situation, the setting of a "safe" BAC will always be arbitrary, being based on a low, but non-zero, incidence of effects below that level.

Substructure methods in vibration

Abstract: When the response of a structural system to dynamic excitation must be analyzed, a substructure coupling method (or component-mode synthesis method) is frequently employed to reduce the order of the finite element model of the structure This paper reviews procedures used to formulate component modes for substructures and to assemble substructure models to form reduced-order models of the original system A brief literature survey covering several applications of substructure coupling is also presented

Use of information sources by family physicians: a literature survey

Abstract: Analysis of the use of information sources by family physicians is important for both practical and theoretical reasons. First, analysis of the ways in which family physicians handle information may point to opportunities for improvement. Second, such efforts may lead to improvements in the methodology of literature research in general. This article reports on a survey of the literature on information use by family physicians. Eleven relevant research publications could be found. The data showed that family physicians used colleagues most often as information sources, followed by journals and books. This outcome corresponded with results in other professions. Several factors influenced the use of information sources by family physicians, including the physical, functional, and intellectual accessibility of the source; the physician's age; participation by the physician in research or education; the social context of the physician; practice characteristics; and the stage of the information-gathering process. The publications studied suggested ways to improve information gathering in the areas of computerization, education, library organization, and journal articles.

Neuropeptide Y: a possible role in hypertension?

Abstract: Purpose To evaluate whether neuropeptide Y (NPY) is likely to be relevant as a regulator of cardiovascular function in general and of blood pressure control in arterial hypertension in particular, based on a literature survey. Results of data analysis NPY is a putative cotransmitter of many central and peripheral sympathetic neurons. It and its receptors are present in brain areas and peripheral tissues involved in cardiovascular regulation, and administration of exogenous NPY to these sites can elicit functional cardiovascular responses by acting on specific pre- and postsynaptic receptors. Moreover, NPY may act as a growth factor for the development of vascular and cardiac hypertrophy. The release of NPY and postsynaptic vasoconstriction responses to NPY may be enhanced in hypertension, whereas presynaptic inhibitory responses may be attenuated. Some of these alterations may precede the development of blood pressure elevations in the spontaneously hypertensive rat model of genetic hypertension. Conclusions NPY might be an important physiological and pathophysiological modulator of cardiovascular function, but further studies using specific high-affinity antagonists are required.

Substructure Methods in Vibration

Abstract: When the response of a structural system to dynamic excitation must be analyzed, a substructure coupling method (or component-mode synthesis method) is frequently employed to reduce the order of the finite element model of the structure. This paper reviews procedures used to formulate component modes for substructures and to assemble substructure models to form reduced-order models of the original system. A brief literature survey covering several applications of substructure coupling is also presented.

Detection of Effects on Male Reproduction—A Literature Survey

Abstract: The 1CH (International Conference on Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use) Guideline for Detection of Toxicity to Reproduction for Medicinal Pro...

Antisnake Venom Botanicals from Ethnomedicine

Abstract: In medicinal folklore a plethora of plants are claimed to have antisnake venom activity. Rituals are also practiced along with herbal medicine treatment. This literature survey covers 430 such medicinal plants belonging to 319 genera and 92 families. The methods used in indigenous systems of medicine are also discussed.

A toxicologic risk for using manganese complexes? A literature survey of existing data through several medical specialties.

Abstract: This article summarizes data from the literature about biologic functions, toxicity, and biokinetics of manganese to help the reader assess the importance of complex stability of manganese-based contrast agents. Free manganese may present a greater risk than free gadolinium, especially because it has a physiologic role and can therefore trigger multiple functions. Of particular interest are the deleterious effects of manganese on the central nervous system (it can cross the intact blood-brain barrier) and on developing life (it penetrates the placental barrier as well and is teratogenic). After intravenous contrast injection, normal (enteral) regulation mechanisms for manganese homeostasis are bypassed, and there is a danger of individual overdosing. Excess manganese, for example in patients with chronic liver disease or with chronic parenteral nutrition, has already been detected by magnetic resonance imaging in the basal ganglia and was found to coincide with neurologic symptoms. Decomplexation with release of free manganese substantially prolongs the elimination of the metal because manganese can be excreted only slowly via the biliary system. This may be of particular importance in patients with impaired hepatic function. Although minimal amounts of free manganese ions are not considered harmful to the human body, significant decomplexation of manganese complexes will require careful analysis of the diagnostic benefit versus the potential risk posed by the free metal ions.

From Polyplacophora to Cephalopoda: comparative analysis of nitric oxide signalling in mollusca.

Abstract: The distribution of putative nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-containing cells has been analysed using NADPH-d histochemistry in the CNS and peripheral tissues in more than 2D ecologically and systematically different molluscan genera representing 3 main classes of the phylum MOLLUSCA: Polyplacophora (Lepidopleurus, Lepidozona, Katharina), Gastropoda (Littorina, Lymnaea, Aplexa, Physa, Planorbarius, Planorbis, Helisoma, Biomphalaria, Helix, Limax, Cepaea, Bulla, Aplysia, Phyllaplysia, Philine, Pleurobranchea, Tritonia, Armina, Flabellina, Cadlina) and Cephalopoda (Octopus, Sepia, Rossia, Loligo). Several species were used for more detailed immunohistochemical, biochemical, biophysical and physiological studies to further assay of NOS activity and to analyse functional roles of nitric oxide (NO) in these animals. The main conclusions of our comparative analysis and literature survey can be summarised as following: (i) There is strong evidence for the presence of NO-dependent signalling pathways in different molluscan species. (ii) We hypothesise that a general tendency in the evolution of NADPH-d-reactive cells in Mollusca is a migration of nitrergic function from periphery to the CNS. Also, different isoforms of NOS appear to be present in any one species. (iii) One of the main functional targets of NO signalling is the feeding system. However, there are obvious differences between predators (many labelled central motoneurons) and herbivorous species (many labelled peripheral putative sensory cells) as well as between land/freshwater and marine animals. Nevertheless, in all species tested NO-activated feeding-like motor patterns in the buccal ganglia. Additional functional and cellular targets for NO in molluscs are also considered. We briefly review neuromodulatory mechanisms of NO action and we consider molluscs as useful model systems for investigations of the roles of NO.

Perceptual-Motor Performance and the Social Development of Visually Impaired Children:

Abstract: This article presents a literature survey and conceptual model of the perceptual-motor performance of visually impaired children in relation to their social development. It examines the relationshi...

Ordovician acritarch genera Peteinosphaeridium, Liliosphaeridium, and Cycloposphaeridium: morphology, taxonomy, biostratigraphy, and palaeogeographic significance

Abstract: Lower to middle Ordovician marine strata of Oland, Sweden, contain abundant acritarch palynofloras especially notable for their diversity and excellent preservation. Quantitatively and qualitatively significant components include representatives of the peteinoid genera Peteinosphaeridium Staplin, Jansonius & Pocock, 1965, Liliosphaeridium Uutela & Tynni, 1991, and Cycloposphaeridium Uutela & Tynni, 1991. Process morphology - pivotal to peteinoid taxonomy at genus and special levels - is analyzed in detail. It provides the main basis for taxonomic revisions and innovations. A comprehensive and critical literature survey reveals that certain species previously attributed to Peteinosphaeridium are not, or may not be, so assignable. The geographic and stratigraphic distributions of all species judged to be authentic or likely representatives of the three genera are documented. -from Authors

Behavioural Patterns in Baboon Group Encounters: the Role of Resource Competition and Male Reproductive Strategies

Abstract: Female Between Group Contest BGC competition for limited and monopolizable ecological resources such as food and water is the conventional explanation for behaviour during primate intergroup encounters It is further advocated as an explanation for the evolution of social groups This paper tests this explanation (H1) against two competing hypotheses These are that patterns of intergroup interaction represent (H2) BGC mediated through males or (H3) male reproductive strategies Four predictions are generated from these hypotheses and tested with data from two sources: (1) a cross-population Papio baboon literature survey and (2) a population-specific chacma baboon Papio cynocephalus ursinus case study This population consisted of five groups (four habituated) in the semi-desert Pro-Namib region of Namibia The predictions were: (P1) female OR male aggression dominates encounters, (P2) the number of females OR males determines the outcome of encounters, (P3) there is frequent aggression OR tolerance at resources during encounters, and (P4) males chase females away from their group OR into their group through herding during group encounters Tests of these predictions using both databases failed to support H 1 or H2, but did provide evidence in favour of H3; namely female aggression was absent, male aggression was infrequent and directed towards either infants of other groups or females of their own group in herding episodes, and encounters with displacements tended to occur only rarely and mostly where resources were either non-monopolizable or absent These results imply that BGC is not currently a selective force maintaining baboon social groups in either the study population or other populations across Africa In order to further investigate the complex behavioural patterns observed in baboon intergroup encounters, data describing the demography and relatedness of groups and individuals are required

Development and experimental verification of momentum, heat and mass transfer model in spray drying

Abstract: A mathematical model of momentum, heat and mass transfer in the atomization zone was proposed. Uneven distribution of particles and entrainment effects were taken into account in the model. To verify the model an extensive experimental investigation was performed on water evaporation at different initial air temperatures, feed rates, flow rates of the drying agent and different parameters of atomization: spray cone angle and initial particle size distribution. Changes in air temperature inside the stream of sprayed material, material temperature, evaporation rate, and changes in Sauter diameter and distribution of particle diameters vs. their distance from the atomizer were determined experimentally. Damping screens allowed a flat profile of air flow rate in the tunnel to be obtained. Good agreement between experimental results and theoretical data was achieved. In the paper an attempt was made to apply the model to the calculation of spray drying in a pilot plant dryer. The air supplied to the dryer tangentially to the axis was characterized by a high swirl. The model of air flow in the dryer was determined theoretically using the Computational Fluid Dynamics CFX program. Results obtained in this way were used in our own model to determine particle trajectories in the dryer and to solve heat and mass balances for the continuous and dispersed phases. In order to consider swirl air flow pattern in the dryer, changes in heat and mass balance were made for the particle—drying agent system. The model was verified experimentally on the basis of results of investigations on drying of a 20% solution of sodium chloride. Additionally, our own results were compared with those obtained from the particle source in the cell type model for the drying system being studied. It was found that our model well described the process of drying in the analyzed system. Results obtained from our model were also very similar to the results obtained from the particle source in the cell type model. An extensive literature survey on spray drying, including unsteady state phenomena, is presented in the paper. Main sources of errors occurring in modelling of the spray drying process were discussed. A critical estimation of the existing mathematical models of the process was made and some of them were described in detail.