cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Developing hyperpolarized silicon particles for advanced biomedical imaging applications

Silicon-based nanoparticles are ideally suited as biomedical imaging agents, due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and simple surface chemistry that is amenable to drug loading and targeting. A method of hyperpolarizing silicon particles using dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP), which increases magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signals by 4-5 orders of magnitude through enhanced nuclear spin alignment, has recently been developed and shown viable as a contrast agent for in vivo MRI. Naturally occurring electronic defects on the particle surface obviate the need for exogenous radicals, and the enhanced spin polarization lasts for significantly longer than other hyperpolarized agents (tens of minutes, instead of <1 minute for other species). We report our recent advances in determining the MR characteristics of hyperpolarized silicon particles, which could lead to non-invasive, non-radioactive molecular targeted imaging of various cancer systems. A variety of particle sizes (20 nm-2 μm) were found to have hyperpolarized relaxation times ranging from ~10-50 minutes. The addition of various functional groups to the particle surface, including biocompatible polymers, aptamers, and antibodies had no effect to the hyperpolarization dynamics or relaxation times, and appear to satisfactorily survive the harsh temperature conditions of DNP. Preliminary in vivo studies examined a variety of particle administration routes in mice, including intraperitoneal, tail vein, and rectal injections, as well as oral gavage. Ongoing experiments include targeted molecular imaging in orthotopic murine models of ovarian and colorectal cancers.
Multifunctional One-dimensional Phononic Crystal Structures Exploiting Interfacial Acoustic Waves

The present study demonstrates that interfacial acoustic waves can be excited at the interface between two phononic crystals. The interfacial wave existing between two phononic crystals is the counterpart of the surface electromagnetic wave existing between two photonic crystals. While past works on phononic crystals exploit the unique bandgap phenomenon in periodic structures, the present work employs the Bloch wave in the stop band to excite interfacial waves that propagate along the interface and decay away from the interface. As a result, the proposed structure can be used as a wave filter as well as a thermal barrier. In wave filter design, for instance, the incident mechanical wave energy can be guided by the interfacial wave to the lateral direction; thus, its propagation into the depth is inhibited. Similarly, in thermal barrier design, incident phonons can be coupled with the interfacial acoustic wave, and the heat will be localized and eventually dissipated at the interface between two phononic crystals. Consequently, the thermal conductivity in the direction normal to the layers can be greatly reduced. The advantage of using two phononic crystals is that the interfacial wave can be excited even at normal incidence, which is critical in many engineering applications. Since the proposed concept is based on a one-dimensional periodic structure, the analysis, design, and fabrication are relatively simple compared to other higher dimensional material designs.
Computational analysis of missense mutations causing Snyder‐Robinson syndrome

The Snyder-Robinson syndrome is caused by missense mutations in the spermine sythase gene that encodes a protein (SMS) of 529 amino acids. Here we investigate, in silico, the molecular effect of three missense mutations, c.267G>A (p.G56S), c.496T>G (p.V132G), and c.550T>C (p.I150T) in SMS that were clinically identified to cause the disease. Single-point energy calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, and pKa calculations revealed the effects of these mutations on SMS's stability, flexibility, and interactions. It was predicted that the catalytic residue, Asp276, should be protonated prior binding the substrates. The pKa calculations indicated the p.I150T mutation causes pKa changes with respect to the wild-type SMS, which involve titratable residues interacting with the S-methyl-5'-thioadenosine (MTA) substrate. The p.I150T missense mutation was also found to decrease the stability of the C-terminal domain and to induce structural changes in the vicinity of the MTA binding site. The other two missense mutations, p.G56S and p.V132G, are away from active site and do not perturb its wild-type properties, but affect the stability of both the monomers and the dimer. Specifically, the p.G56S mutation is predicted to greatly reduce the affinity of monomers to form a dimer, and therefore should have a dramatic effect on SMS function because dimerization is essential for SMS activity.
SU-FF-T-307: Determination of Optical Properties in Semi-Infinite Media

Purpose: To develop a method to quickly determine tissue optical properties(absorption coefficient μa and transportscattering coefficient μs') in a semi‐infinite medium. Method and material:Optical properties where determined by measuring the ratio of light fluence rate to source power along a linear channel at a fixed distance (4 mm) from an isotropic point source. The light detection system consists of two parallel light transmitting catheters placed 4mm apart. Diffuse light, from a 2mm cylindrical diffusing tip, is collected by an isotropic detector with a 0.5mm scattering bulb whose position is determined by a computer controlled step motor, with a positioning accuracy of better than 0.1 mm. The system automatically records and plots the light fluence rate per unit source power as a function of position. The result is fitted with a diffusion equation to extrapolate μa and μs'. Measurements where made in liquid tissue simulating phantoms, with known reduced scattering coefficient (μs') and absorption coefficient (μa). A theory based on light source on semi‐infinite medium has been developed to interpret the measured data. To test the ability of this algorithm to accurately recover the optical properties of the tissue, we made measurements in tissue simulating phantoms consisting of Liposyn concentration of 0.53% (μs' = 3.68cm−1) in the presence of Higgins black India ink at concentrations of 0.002, 0.012 and 0.023% (μa = 0.1 – 1 cm−1). For comparison, the optical properties of the phantom were determined independently using broad‐beam illumination. Results: We find that μa and μs' can be determined by this method with a standard (maximum) deviation of 24% (27%) and 29% (42%) for μa and μs', respectively. Conclusion: We developed a model for quick and accurate determination of tissue optical properties in semi‐infinite medium, which is theoretically suitable for determination of optical properties for esophagus PDT.
NMDA Receptor Transmembrane Domain: Structure and Mechanism of Ion Selectivity

NMDA receptors (NMDARs) are iGluR subfamilies that are activated during synaptic transmission. The voltage dependence of NMDARs differentiates them from other iGluRs: at typical neuronal resting voltages, NMDAR channels are mostly blocked by Mg2+, but when membrane voltage is depolarized, Mg2+ block is relieved, resulting in Ca2+ influx through NMDAR at postsynaptic sites. The mechanisms, by which NMDARs select Ca2+ for permeation over all other physiological ions, while binding Mg2+ and restricting its permeation, are not well understood.Recently, partially resolved medium-resolution structures of an NMDAR tetramer were published. The structures tremendously improve our knowledge and understanding of the architecture and design of the NMDARs. Yet, one of the key structural features, namely the ion selectivity filter and parts of the pore region of the ion channel itself, are missing from these structures. This region of the protein has not been resolved also in the earlier high-resolution structure of an AMPAR, a closely related iGluR family member.Previously a successful homology model of the NMDAR TMD using one of the potassium channel family members, NaK channel as a template, was shown to have good agreements with available experimental data [Siegler et. al., Nat Neurosci 15: 406–13]. Given recently released NMDAR structures and our previously developed homology model, we are now in position to propose a high resolution NMDAR TMD model that is based on a hybrid structure. We performed extensive molecular dynamics (MD) and targeted MD simulations of our NMDAR TMD domain model in lipid bilayer and water. We demonstrate that our proposed structure is stable in simulations and has a well-formed binding site for Mg2+ and Ca2+.
Six-month follow-up after thermal balloon angioplasty in canine iliac arteries.

We performed thermal balloon angioplasty in 10 iliac arteries in 5 mongrel dogs. By perfusing a modified angioplasty balloon with hot (100°C) saline, a mean balloon temperature of 84°C was obtained. Angiographic and histologic follow-up at 6 months revealed no thrombosis or aneurysm formation but it did reveal fibrotic transformation of the media. Initial overdilatation was maintained in 9 of 10 arteries. We conclude that medial sclerosis induced by thermal balloon angioplasty does not result in aneurysm or thrombosis in dogs.
Energy sustainability: consumption, efficiency, and environmental impact

One of the critical challenges in achieving sustainability is finding a way to meet the energy consumption needs of a growing population in the face of increasing economic prosperity and finite resources. According to ecological footprint computations, the global resource consumption began exceeding planetary supply in 1977 and by 2030, global energy demand, population, and gross domestic product are projected to greatly increase over 1977 levels. With the aim of finding sustainable energy solutions, we present a simple yet rigorous procedure for assessing and counterbalancing the relationship between energy demand, environmental impact, population, GDP, and energy efficiency. Our analyses indicated that infeasible increases in energy efficiency (over 100 %) would be required by 2030 to return to 1977 environmental impact levels and annual reductions (2 and 3 %) in energy demand resulted in physical, yet impractical requirements; hence, a combination of policy and technology approaches is needed to tackle this critical challenge. This work emphasizes the difficulty in moving toward energy sustainability and helps to frame possible solutions useful for policy and management.
Impact of a Targeted Typhoid Vaccination Campaign Following Cyclone Tomas, Republic of Fiji, 2010

After a category 4 cyclone that caused extensive population displacement and damage to water and sanitation infrastructure in Fiji in March 2010, a typhoid vaccination campaign was conducted as part of the post-disaster response. During June-December 2010, 64,015 doses of typhoid Vi polysaccharide vaccine were administered to persons ≥ 2 years of age, primarily in cyclone-affected areas that were typhoid endemic. Annual typhoid fever incidence decreased during the post-campaign year (2011) relative to preceding years (2008-2009) in three subdivisions where a large proportion of the population was vaccinated (incidence rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals: 0.23, 0.13-0.41; 0.24, 0.14-0.41; 0.58, 0.40-0.86), and increased or remained unchanged in 12 subdivisions where little to no vaccination occurred. Vaccination played a role in reducing typhoid fever incidence in high-incidence areas after a disaster and should be considered in endemic settings, along with comprehensive control measures, as recommended by the World Health Organization.
Targeting of Acyl-CoA synthetase 5 decreases jejunal fatty acid activation with no effect on dietary long-chain fatty acid absorption

The absorption of dietary long chain fatty acids (LCFA) largely occurs in the jejunum. LCFA are activated via conjugation with Coenzyme A (CoA), a reaction catalyzed by Acyl-CoA synthetases (ACS). Acyl-CoA sythesis is critical for dietary LCFA absorption; yet, the jejunal ACS enzymes that catalyze the reaction are largely unknown. High throughput mRNA sequencing of the mouse jejunum revealed that the expression of acyl-CoA synthetase 5 (Acsl5) and fatty-acid transport protein 4 (Fatp4) largely exceeded all other annotated ACS genes that activate LCFA. Interestingly, Acsl5 knockout (KO) mice displayed a decrease of 60% in jejunal total long chain acyl-CoA synthesis rate. Nevertheless, and despite of this decrease, dietary LCFA absorption and body-weight gain in response to high fat diet remained unaffected. Acsl5 is a major activator of dietary LCFA, yet in Acsl5 KO mice residual ACS activity is sufficient for maintaining a normal LCFA absorption. Our findings provide further evidence for a robust small intestine LCFA absorption capacity.
Reaction network of pyridine hydrodenitrogenation over carbide and sulfide catalysts

Abstract A series of carbide and sulfide catalysts comprising NbMo 2 C, Mo 2 C, NbC and MoS 2 /SiO 2 was used to study the pyridine hydrodenitrogenation (HDN) network below at high pressure (3.1 MPa) as a function of temperature. pyridine → k 1 piperidine → k 2 n- pentylamine → k 3 hydrocarbons All the catalysts showed the same trend in activities for the three molecules: the reactivity of n -pentylamine was high, while those of piperidine and pyridine were relatively low, especially at low temperatures. The carbide catalysts showed higher selectivity towards HDN products than the sulfide catalyst at the same conversion levels. The higher selectivity was related to the higher ratio ( r = k 2 / k 1 ) between the rate constants of the two consecutive reactions, hydrogenation of pyridine ( k 1 ) and ring opening of piperidine ( k 2 ). The order of activity of the carbides and sulfide differed considerably depending on the substrate. At the same temperature, the sulfide was more active for pyridine HDN when compared to the carbide catalysts, but it was much less active for quinoline HDN, suggesting that the HDN reaction mechanism depends greatly on the structure of the N-containing molecule. However, for the pyridine reaction network the similarity in product distribution suggested that the active surface of the carbides and sulfide was similar at reaction conditions.
A Charge-Based CMOS Parallel Analog Vector Quantizer

We present an analog VLSI chip for parallel analog vector quantization. The MOSIS 2.0 µm double-poly CMOS Tiny chip contains an array of 16 × 16 charge-based distance estimation cells, implementing a mean absolute difference (MAD) metric operating on a 16-input analog vector field and 16 analog template vectors. The distance cell including dynamic template storage measures 60 × 78 µm2. Additionally, the chip features a winner-take-all (WTA) output circuit of linear complexity, with global positive feedback for fast and decisive settling of a single winner output. Experimental results on the complete 16 × 16 VQ system demonstrate correct operation with 34 dB analog input dynamic range and 3 µsec cycle time at 0.7 mW power dissipation.
"Who Are You Wearing?" Using the Red Carpet Question Pedagogically

This paper presents an active learning module design and implementation strategy for use in an undergraduate course on globalization, world politics, international political economy, or international relations. Students are first asked to conduct research on their wardrobe and its origins by country, allowing for classroom discussion of research methods and designs. Results are submitted, along with a short response essay. This is evaluated in conjunction with a case-study short reading and shared discussion, followed by a short video/multimedia presentation on free trade and labor issues. Drawing on literature on active learning, I argue that this presents a more cohesive approach for engaging students in the material on a substantive level, while at the same time allowing them to actively appreciate and understand such diverse concepts as commodity chains, free trade zones, fair trade versus free trade, gendered divisions of labor, consumer responsibility, research methodologies, and macroeconomic shifts in employment across nations. This also serves as a rubric for instructors to use in creating their own topical “modules.” Preliminary data and classroom results are discussed, as are additional strategies for lesson development.
Retirement of Mrs. Jean Lawe, Managing Editor of the Journal of Neurosurgery

✓ On June 30, Mrs. Jean Lawe will step down as Managing Editor of the Journal of Neurosurgery. She has worked on the Journal since 1965, when Dr. Louise Eisenhardt retired as the first Editor. Since that time the Journal has grown in size and circulation, and production has become fully computerized. In her valedictory, Mrs. Lawe summarizes her years with the Journal and her approach to scientific editing.
Does DSM-IV Asperger's Disorder Exist?

DSM-IV criteria for autistic and Asperger's disorders were applied to 157 children with clinical diagnoses of autism or Asperger's disorder. All children met the DSM-IV criteria for autistic disorder and none met criteria for Asperger's disorder, including those with normal intelligence and absence of early speech delay. The reason for this was that all children had social impairment and restricted and repetitive behavior and interests (required DSM-IV symptoms for both autistic and Asperger's disorders) and all had a DSM-IV communication impairment (which then qualified them for a diagnosis of autistic disorder and not Asperger's disorder). Communication problems exhibited by all children were impaired conversational speech or repetitive, stereotyped, or idiosyncratic speech (or both), which are DSM-IV criteria for autism. These findings are consistent with those of 5 other studies and indicate that a DSM-IV diagnosis of Asperger's disorder is unlikely or impossible.
Use of the finite element method for the modeling of multi-layered power/ground planes with small features

In this paper, a novel formulation for the modeling of multi-layer package power/ground planes has been proposed. The formulation is developed by first applying the finite element method (FEM) for a single plane-pair geometry, from which a SPICE-compatible equivalent circuit is extracted. Next, the admittance matrices obtained for individual plane-pairs are coupled together, to extend the technique, and to enable the modeling of multiple plane-pairs. This method, the mutli-layer finite element method (MFEM), uses an adaptive triangular mesh. This enables MFEM to capture the effects of small geometrical features that can affect the frequency response, with only a modest increase in computational cost as compared to methods that use regular square meshes. MFEM is able to correctly model the effect of apertures or voids in the planes, which cause vertical coupling of energy. Several examples have been shown to illustrate the efficacy of the method for both single and multiple plane-pair geometries.
Modeling DVD Preorder and Sales: An Optimal Stopping Approach

When a DVD title is announced prior to actual distribution, consumers can often preorder the title and receive it as soon as it is released. Alternatively, once a title becomes available i.e., formally released, consumers can obtain it upon purchase with minimal delay. We propose an individual-level behavioral model that captures the aggregate preorder/postrelease sales of motion picture DVDs. Our model is based on an optimal stopping framework. Starting with the utility function of a forward-looking consumer, and allowing for consumer heterogeneity, we derive the aggregate preorder/postrelease sales distribution. Even under a parsimonious specification for the heterogeneity distribution, our model recovers the typically observed temporal pattern of DVD preorder and sales, a pattern which exhibits an exponentially increasing number of preorder units before the release, peaks at release, and drops exponentially afterward. Using data provided by a major Internet DVD retailer, we demonstrate a number of important managerial implications stemming from our model. We investigate the role of preorder timing through a policy experiment, estimate residual sales, and forecast post-release sales based only on preorder information. We show that our model has substantially better predictive validity than benchmark models.
Trophoblast CD274 (B7-H1) Is Differentially Expressed Across Gestation: Influence of Oxygen Concentration

Modulation of the maternal immune system by the placenta is a mechanism by which the fetus ensures its own survival in a genetically foreign environment. The immunoinhibitor CD274 (also called B7-H1 or PD-L1) is highly expressed in the placenta, positioned to interact with maternal leukocytes. Further, immunoblot analysis of first- and second-trimester placental lysates showed that CD274 expression is low in the first trimester but dramatically rises around the onset of the second trimester. As this coincides with the expected onset of maternal blood flow to the placenta and a corresponding rise in local oxygen tension, we explored the possibility that oxygen regulates CD274 expression in trophoblast cells by culturing term trophoblast cells under oxygen concentrations similar to those found in vivo. Indeed, CD274 protein levels paralleled the in vivo situation: expression increased with rising oxygen concentrations. Furthermore, downregulation of CD274 mRNA by low oxygen was rapid, occurring within 4–12 h. We conclude that oxygen is a potential mediator of CD274 expression in vivo such that it is induced coincidentally on exposure of fetal tissues to maternal blood. Further, the regulation of this immunomodulator by oxygen may implicate its alteration during and involvement in the pathogenesis of complications of pregnancy such as preeclampsia.
Load balancing and switch scheduling

Packet switching remains one of the bottlenecks in building fast Internet routers. Load balancing and switch scheduling are two important algorithms in the effort to maximize the throughput and minimize the latency of these packet switches. A load balancing algorithm regulates the traffic to conform to the service rates while a switch scheduling algorithm allocates the service rates adaptive to the arrival patterns. Many existing load balancing and switch scheduling algorithms are very similar. We show that load balancing and switch scheduling systems are dual systems based on the linear queue dynamics approximation. This allows us to cast a load balancing problem as a scheduling problem, and vice versa. We further show an example of designing a new algorithm for load balancing using an existing scheduling algorithm based on the duality. The duality perspective also allows us to solve unknown problems. We find the entropy rate of the randomized bandwidth allocation system with linear queue dynamics based on the knowledge of the entropy rate of the randomized load balancing system. For the general case, we find both an upper and a lower bound on the entropy rate. The joint use of dual load balancing and switch scheduling algorithms leads to performance gains as we show using mean field analysis.
A Novel Algorithm for Fault Diagnosis of Analog Circuit with Tolerances Using Improved Binary-tree SVMs Based on SOMNN Clustering

In order to solving fault diagnosis of analog circuit with tolerances, noise, circuit nonlinearities and small sample sets, a novel multi-class classification algorithm which combined binary tree SVMs multi-classification based on self-organizing map nerve network (SOMNN) clustering roughly was proposed. The robustness characteristic of SOMNN based on the separability between pattern classes and support vector machine (SVM) based on the theory of statistic learning for the small sample set were integrated in the algorithm. The SOMNN was firstly applied to cluster layer by layer, by which structure of binary-tree SVMs multi-classifier for fault diagnosis was established, namely, the fault classes at each node of the tree were nailed down. Then according to the preprocess results of SOMNN, SVM were utilized to segment each decision node accurately. The simulation results show us that compared with the several existent multi-class classification methods, the current algorithm has high accuracy and speed.
The effects of MOSFET output capacitance in high frequency applications

In high-frequency power converters (those with switching frequencies >200 kHz) losses associated with charging and discharging the MOSFET's output capacitance begin to affect system efficiency. It is noted that knowing these losses improves predictions of the frequency at which zero-voltage-switched resonant topologies become more efficient than zero-current-switched converters or related square-wave devices. Ways to estimate these losses are shown. Emphasis is placed on determining the losses due to C/sub dg/, since they are especially troublesome to calculate. It is observed that the concept of gate charge greatly improved the understanding of the MOSFET's input characteristics, and there is some benefit to applying similar charge concepts to the output capacitances. A quick summary of gate charge concepts lays the foundation for an in-depth look at how gate charge data and losses due to C/sub dg/ are related. >
Romantic relationships and the physical and mental health of college students

This study tested the hypothesis that, analogous to married individuals, college students in committed romantic relationships experience greater well-being than single college students. In a sample of 1,621 college students, individuals in committed relationships experienced fewer mental health problems and were less likely to be overweight/obese. There were no significant differences between groups in frequency of physical health problems. Examination of 2 models suggested that being in a committed romantic relationship decreases problematic outcomes largely through a reduction in sexual partners, which in turn decreases both risky behaviors and problematic outcomes. These results are discussed in the context of how premarital dating relationships may contribute to understanding of the observed association between marriage and well-being.
Effects of Diabetes on Healthy Life Expectancy: Shorter Lives with More Disability for Both Women and Men

Given the unprecedented growth of older populations throughout the world, both in absolute numbers and as percentages of their respective populations, our societies will be challenged to provide accessible health care and other services of adequate quality at acceptable costs. Although mortality rates have declined for several major fatal diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, there has been a large increase in the prevalence of many chronic diseases. Diabetes ranks among the most serious chronic diseases. Its incidence and prevalence in many developed and developing countries have risen dramatically during the past several decades (Burke et al. 1999; King, Aubert, and Herman 1998; Mokdad et al. 2000). Researchers project that diabetes will reach epidemic proportions in many developing and developed countries by 2025, estimating that the largest number of people with diabetes will reside in China, India, and the United States (King et al. 1998). Among older people, health care utilization and costs are notably higher for those with diabetes than for those without the disease (Olsson et al. 1994). Even at younger ages, when the cumulative burden of diabetes has yet to take its full toll on health and functional ability, people with diabetes use substantially more hospital, outpatient, physician, and ancillary health care services (Laditka, Mastanduno, and Laditka 2001). Individuals with diabetes have a shorter total life expectancy (TLE) than those without the disease (Gu, Cowie, and Harris 1998). Yet active life expectancy researchers have only recently begun to specifically examine life course effects of diabetes (Belanger et al. 2002; Jagger et al. 2003).
A simple approach for building transliteration editors for Indian languages

Transliteration editors are essential for keying-in Indian language scripts into the computer using QWERTY keyboard. Applications of transliteration editors in the context of Universal Digital Library (UDL) include entry of meta-data and dictionaries for Indian languages. In this paper we propose a simple approach for building transliteration editors for Indian languages using Unicode and by taking advantage of its rendering engine. We demonstrate the usefulness of the Unicode based approach to build transliteration editors for Indian languages, and report its advantages needing little maintenance and few entries in the mapping table, and ease of adding new features such as adding letters, to the transliteration scheme. We demonstrate the transliteration editor for 9 Indian languages and also explain how this approach can be adapted for Arabic scripts.
EM-bubble generation by half-cycle pulses: multi-bubbles and shock waves

It has recently been proposed by us to attain very powerful, sub-cycle, near- and sub-femtosecond pulses by using two new principles, one of them based on the generation of powerful "EM-bubbles" (EMBs),1-2 unipolar solitons propagating in a gas of two-level or classically nonlinear atoms. One of the major avenues of EMB-generation is the use of existing HCPs to launch EMBs much shorter than originating HCPs.
Effects of Repeated Wet and Dry Swallows in Healthy Adult Females

Understanding changes that may occur in the swallow with repetitive use in healthy individuals is a prerequisite to evaluate and treat persons with compromised swallowing. To determine any systematic effect of use on swallow function, we attempted to tax the swallow mechanism in a rigorous sequence of dry and liquid swallow conditions. Oropharyngeal temporal measures were assessed videofluoroscopically for 12 healthy females aged 20-29 during 42 wet and 5 dry swallows. No significant effects were found for any temporal measures over a series of 21 1-mL and 21 cup swallows plus 5 dry swallows, indicating swallow efficiency and safety do not appear to decline over 47 swallows in this young adult population. Additionally, no significant effects were found over the dry swallows or when 1-mL liquid swallows were compared with the dry, indicating dry swallows do not demonstrate significant change over a 5-swallow series due to reduced available saliva. Ability of subjects to perform consecutive dry swallows varied greatly. Results of this study provide normative data regarding multiple, consecutive, wet and dry swallowing in a healthy female population.
Consensus and Ideology in American Politics

The belief that consensus is a prerequisite of democracy has, since deTocqueville, so often been taken for granted that it is refreshing to find the notion now being challenged. Prothro and Grigg, for example, have questioned whether agreement on “fundamentals” actually exists among the electorate, and have furnished data which indicate that it may not. Dahl, reviewing his study of community decision-makers, has inferred that political stability does not depend upon widespread belief in the superiority of democratic norms and procedures, but only upon their acceptance. From the findings turned up by Stouffer, and by Prothro and Grigg, he further conjectures that agreement on democratic norms is greater among the politically active and aware—the “political stratum” as he calls them—than among the voters in general. V. O. Key, going a step further, suggests that the viability of a democracy may depend less upon popular opinion than upon the activities and values of an “aristocratic” strain whose members are set off from the mass by their political influence, their attention to public affairs, and their active role as society's policy makers. “If so, any assessment of the vitality of a democratic system should rest on an examination of the outlook, the sense of purpose, and the beliefs of this sector of society.”
Methyiphenidate vs. amphetamine: Comparative review

This article compares the two most common medications for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), using data from controlled studies. Medline and Psychinfo searches were done for 1984-1996...
A 400-year tree-ring chronology from the tropical treeline of North America.

Abstract High-elevation sites in the tropics may be particularly sensitive to rapid climate change. By sampling treeline populations, I have developed the first extensive (> 300 years) tree-ring chronology in tropical North America. The site is Nevado de Colima, at the western end of the Mexican Neovolcanic Belt, and the species studied is Mexican mountain pine (Pinus hartwegii). Despite past logging in the area, 300 to 500-year old pines were found at 3600–3700 m elevation, about 300 m below the present treeline. The Nevado de Colima tree-ring chronology is well replicated from 1600 to 1997. Calibration with Colima climatic records points to summer monsoon precipitation as the strongest dendroclimatic signal. Most trees also exhibit extremely low growth in 1913 and 1914, following the January 1913 Plinian eruption of the Volcan de Colima. Because P. hartwegii is found on top of high mountains from Mexico to Guatemala, there is potential for developing a network of tropical treeline chronologies.
Playing to Win: The Surprising Power of Play in Innovation

Organizational teams are the primary mechanism by which ideas are birthed and recombined into innovations for maintaining or achieving competitive advantage. We know that resources of people, time and funding impact team effectiveness in innovating. We also know that factors such as individual traits of talent, expertise, and collaboration skills also matter greatly. What is less known, and less studied, is the role of team characteristics, in particular, team play and team playfulness on innovation results. Our two-part study examined 145 teams and discovered that team playfulness is present on all successful innovation teams and its forms emerge as divergence and deep engagement. These are two paradoxical forms of play both of which positively impact team innovation success. Findings support two emerging theories of play in organizations, and run counter to prevailing notions that plat serves no role in the serious and competitive work of organizations.
Fuzzy or Sharp Borders of Acute Myocardial Ischemia and Infarction

The sharpness of perfusion territories at the edges of infarcts was a controversial area of research in the 1980s. The advent of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) techniques that could determine the extent of myocardial infarction (MI) [(1)][1] and the ischemic area at risk [(2)][2] has reopened
Mining soil metagenomes to better understand the evolution of natural product structural diversity: pentangular polyphenols as a case study.

Sequence-guided mining of metagenomic libraries provides a means of recovering specific natural product gene clusters of interest from the environment. In this study, we use ketosynthase gene (KS) PCR amplicon sequences (sequence tags) to explore the structural and biosynthetic diversities of pentangular polyphenols (PP). In phylogenetic analyses, eDNA-derived sequence tags often fall between closely related clades that are associated with gene clusters known to encode distinct chemotypes. We show that these common “intermediate” sequence tags are useful for guiding the discovery of not only novel bioactive metabolites but also collections of closely related gene clusters that can provide new insights into the evolution of natural product structural diversity. Gene clusters corresponding to two eDNA-derived KSβ sequence tags that reside between well-defined KSβ clades associated with the biosynthesis of (C24)-pradimicin and (C26)-xantholipin type metabolites were recovered from archived soil eDNA librarie...
Robust sustainability management and maintenance using markov decision processes

The quantitative sustainability assessment of urban systems relies on available predictive models for these complex systems of systems. Markov chains and Markov Decision Processes are among the mostly used tools to integrate the stochasticity in decisions related to infrastructure management. In the present paper, we investigate the effects of uncertainties in the characterization of these decision models and make the case for the development of rationales that can differentiate between them. We will explain the extension of the theory of random transition matrices developed by the authors to Markov Decision Processes and illustrate, using a numerical example, that the policies obtained by solving the deterministic transitions is not necessarily robust to the potential variabilities of transition rates. The resulting probabilistic framework for Markov Decision Processes will also enhance the maintenance of urban systems by rigorously quantifying the confidence in the sustainability assessment metrics.
The sectional anatomical study of superior temporal sulucs based on MRI

Objective: To explore the morphology rule of cerebral superior temporal sulucs( STS) on the MRI cross section and the sagittal plane image of brain. Methods: In the eFilm2. 1 workstation,29 normal adult volunteer head continuously MRI scanning data which will gain,uses the continuous tracking method and the 3D-Cursor technology,STS carries on the recognition,the observation to continuously on the MRI cross section and the sagittal plane image,to count its morphological character. Results: The STS may appear in Z =- 36- 48 mm on the sector MRI cross fault image( 95% distributes in the Z =- 30- 42 mm stratification plane),and after the stratification plane uppers shift the sulci move backward. STS can be divided into anterior horizontal part and posterior ascending part in the sagittal plane. In the Z =- 6- 6 mm stratification plane STS can assume the big obtuse angle backward obviously the inflection point; STS may present the multi-ditch performance in the Z =- 21- 12 mm cross section( 95% to distribute in the Z =- 18- 9 mm stratification plane). Conclusions: This article result may help STS fast recognition and around the ditch the important structure accurate localization.
Atriopeptin stimulates chloride secretion in cultured shark rectal gland cells.

Monolayer cultures of shark rectal gland (SRG) epithelial cells were treated with atriopeptin (AP), and the effects on Cl- secretion and intracellular guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) accumulation were examined. Basolateral or apical exposure to 10(-7) M AP markedly stimulated (8-fold) Cl(-)-dependent, bumetanide-sensitive, short-circuit current (Isc). The AP-stimulated Isc exhibited transient oscillations before reaching a steady state. This behavior is not observed when Isc is activated by other secretagogues such as vasoactive intestinal peptide, 2-chloroadenosine, forskolin, or ionomycin. Intracellular cGMP was concomitantly elevated (10-fold) by 10(-7) M AP. Both Isc stimulation and cGMP accumulation responses exhibited a similar dose dependency beginning at an AP concentration of 1 nM. The bilateral response to AP suggests the presence of receptors on both apical and basolateral plasma membranes. These results are the first demonstration of a direct effect of AP on Cl(-)-secreting epithel...
Access to treatment for hepatitis C virus infection: time to put patients first

Summary Sound health policy puts patients first. Antiviral regimens approved in 2014 revolutionised treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Most patients can now be cured. These new regimens, however, were priced at US$83 320–150 000 for a 3-month course. Public and private payers in the USA responded by limiting coverage to patients with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis, keeping the drugs from being used to prevent those stages. These restrictions defy medical guidelines, lack scientific justification, and undermine public health efforts to stem transmission. Instead of reducing barriers to care, the system has erected new ones. As drug makers and payers battle over billions of dollars, the needs of patients have been cast aside. Physicians and governments have a duty to make sure health policy is driven by the needs of patients and public health. In this Personal View, I call upon these groups to lead the creation of a national consensus among all stakeholders that will allow the advances in therapeutics for HCV infection to be put to work to end the epidemic.
Towards decolonial praxis: reconfiguring the human and the curriculum

ABSTRACTThis theoretical inquiry applies threads of Sylvia Wynter’s intellectual project to scholarship in curriculum studies to consider how Wynter’s insights might urge new potential in educational theorising and practice. The central concern driving Wynter’s intellectual project is that our present understanding about what it means to be human is entrenched in epistemological legacies of colonialism that preserve a Western bourgeois genre of Man. This essay begins by detailing Sylvia Wynter’s rigorous and innovative intellectual project that reworks the category of the human. We argue that contemporary curriculum is based upon this Western genre of the human and explore the limits of multicultural curricula. Synthesising Wynter’s interrelated lines of thought – how the notion of being hybridly human calls forth a conceptualisation of humanness as a collective act – we argue that her revised category of the human is a necessary means to radically reimagine and decolonise curriculum.
Skin Care Products Used During Radiation Therapy

At this time there is no standard of care for the prevention and management of skin reactions in the radiation oncology patient population. A multitude of prescription and nonprescription skin care products are currently available for patients undergoing radiation therapy. At present, there is limited and insufficient evidence, with the exception of prophylactic topical steroid creams, to support the use of any specific topical agent over another for the prevention of radiation dermatitis. Trials focused on the effectiveness of products are beginning to address the need and desire for more evidence-based practice in this population.
Jumpin’ Down the Rabbit Hole

Begins with a story of a young refugee, Tenderloin resident, and Tenderloin U student, illustrating the conditions of the neighborhood that many young people raised here normalize. A street encounter between students and “Big D” leads to a flashback to my ride-alongs with the police, who introduced me to neighborhood street youth. Thus began a long association with Big D, a Tongan giant, who runs the 200 block of Leavenworth Street. I hang out with the “Fish Stick” gang and learn that many children raised here actually like living here, feel safe here, and do well in spite of the conditions. The chapter concludes with questions related to why we, as a society, create such conditions, and how can studying there make our own lives more meaningful and purposeful?
The puncta enigma

This Editor's Corner may sound like the title of a mystery novel, but it actually reflects a question I have about the puncta articles that appear in Autophagy (or rather, the ones that do not appear). In particular, I am surprised by the number of solicitations sent out for puncta that are either ignored, or, less frequently, declined. It is not that I expect the principal investigator (PI) to find the invitation to write a punctum undeniably attractive. Rather, it is the unilateral decision that it is not worthwhile for graduate students or postdocs who performed the work-and likely wrote at least the first draft of the paper-to write the punctum. In fact, time spent drafting a punctum yields considerable benefits: puncta provide more exposure for the lab, offer opportunities for young scientists to gain additional writing experience, and make a nice (albeit small) addition to a curriculum vitae. It is for the latter reason that I find it particularly disappointing that PIs decide to dismiss the opportunity to write a punctum. I fully understand that for many PIs, adding a punctum will not have a significant impact on a curriculum vitae. Yet for a student or a postdoc who might have a relatively small number of publications at this stage of their career, a punctum (even though it is not a full-fledged research article) can have a more meaningful impact on their C.V.
QRD for Parallel Arithmetic Structures

We present a new organization of the QR decomposition (QRD), which is optimized for implementation on parallel arithmetic structures, such as found in current FPGAs. Data dependencies are hidden in the pipeline depths of the datapaths, allowing implementations to approach 100% sustained to peak throughput. The algorithm presented here is based on the Modified Gram-Schmidt (MGS) method, and is designed for floating point (FP) arithmetic, with a combination of separate dot product and multiply-add datapaths. In this short paper, we concentrate on the description of the algorithm and architecture, rather than the implementation, of the QRD.
The Value-Adding Connections Between the Management of Ecoinnovation and the Principles of Green Chemistry and Green Engineering

Abstract In today's business world, organizations are adopting the three pillars of sustainability—profit, people, and planet—as an accounting framework for measuring their performance. The adoption of sustainability into a company's business model can be guided by the Principles of Green Chemistry and Green Engineering (GCG then it explores the definition of ecoinnovation and the framework for managing ecoinnovation and how the Principles of GC&GE are relevant to ecoinnovation, and critically, to the management of sustainable innovation. This chapter should be of interest to civic and business leaders, department managers, innovation and sustainability officers, research and development personnel, product designers, engineers, and all others who share an interest in business sustainability.
DNA sequences and cactus classification — a short review

Summary: There are several pitfalls when using DNA sequence data in classification of cacti or any other plants or animals. DNA sequence data has not and will not result in the “ultimate” cactus classification; it only provides additional characters by which phylogenies can be reconstructed. Only limited sequence data is currently available. Even if complete DNA sequences of all cactus species were known, we still could not fully use this data until we understand the mechanisms and tempos with which DNA sequences evolve.
Choice of Trial of Labor after Cesarean and Association with Likelihood of Success.

Objective To investigate whether the predicted chance of success is associated with the choice to undergo trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC). Study Design Retrospective cohort study of women with a single prior nonelective cesarean delivering a term singleton in 2012 at a tertiary care hospital. A vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) score (likelihood of success) was estimated for each patient. The primary outcome was percentage of women choosing TOLAC among women with favorable (> 70% likelihood) and unfavorable VBAC scores. Other factors such as desired sterilization, provider type, and spontaneous labor were included in the analysis. Results In 2012, 434 women were eligible: 73 with VBAC score >70%, and 361 with score ≤70%. Of those with score >70%, 63% chose TOLAC, compared with 21% with score ≤70% (p Conclusion Almost four in ten women with a history of nonelective primary cesarean and a very high predicted likelihood of VBAC choose elective repeat cesarean. Spontaneous labor was strongly associated with the choice to undergo TOLAC.
THE DOLLAR, THE EURO AND THE ROLE OF EMERGING CURRENCIES

Since the collapse of the Bretton Woods Global International System in 1971, the world economy has experienced significant currency volatility. The major economies of the world have addressed such volatility differently. The EU has chosen to follow a monetary union and introduced successfully a new currency. The U.S. has paid less attention to the fluctuations of the dollar and has pursued an independent monetary policy to promote national economic stability. Japan has seen its currency appreciate significantly. This paper argues that while trade and growth across the globe are doing well, financial developments are intensifying the competition between the U.S. dollar and the euro. Four possible future scenarios are developed and discussed.