cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Joint Attention Mediated Learning for Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorders: An Initial Randomized Controlled Study.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine effects of the Joint Attention Mediated Learning (JAML) intervention on acquisition of joint attention and other early social communication competencies for toddlers with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Twenty-three parents and their toddlers were randomly assigned to JAML or a control condition. Observational assessments were collected at pretest, posttest, and follow-up sessions, while standardized developmental measures were collected at pre- and posttest. Significant intervention-×-time interactions, favoring the intervention group, occurred for the observational measures Focusing on Faces and Responding to Joint Attention, with both having large effect sizes that maintained at follow-up. In addition, significant intervention-×-time effects, also favoring the JAML group were found for receptive language on the Mullen Scales of Early Learning and the Communication sub-domain of the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale. The observational measures Turn-Taking and Initiating Joint Attention and the Expressive Communication measure on the Mullen, while not showing significant differences between groups, revealed moderate effect sizes favoring the JAML group, suggesting that a study with more power could well detect significant differences on all of the measures. Findings support a focused, developmentally sequenced, systematic, and family aligned approach that targets preverbal social communication development within parent–child relationships.
Induction of immediate early genes by cyclic AMP in primary cultures of neurons from rat cerebral cortex

In this paper, we tested whether physiological activators of the cAMP second messenger pathway in primary cultures of neurons from rat cerebral cortex directly induce c-fos and other immediate early gene (IEG) transcription factors. We have found that brief (30 s to 2 min) stimulation of neurons with vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and SKF-38393, a D1-dopaminergic receptor agonist, potently increased mRNA levels for the IEGs c-fos, jun-B, and NGFI-A, with weaker increases for c-jun. This action was mimicked by forskolin and dibutyryl cAMP. IEG induction by VIP and dibutyryl cAMP was not blocked by excitatory amino acid receptor antagonists or by blockers of dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channels. Moreover, calcium-free medium did not modify IEG induction by dibutyryl cAMP, suggesting that cAMP can directly regulate IEG expression in differentiated neurons independently of calcium.
N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide levels: correlation with echocardiographically determined left ventricular diastolic function in an ambulatory cohort.

Objectives To investigate the correlations of plasma N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels with echocardiographic measurements of left ventricular (LV) systolic and/or diastolic function. Background Plasma levels of NT-proBNP are increased in heart failure. The extent to which NT-proBNP levels increase in LV diastolic dysfunction has not been well characterized. Methods Plasma NT-proBNP levels were measured in 191 consecutive, clinically stable, ambulatory patients. Echocardiography was used to determine LV systolic (LV ejection fraction [LVEF]) and diastolic function by mitral E wave to Doppler tissue early diastolic lateral annulus velocity ratio (E/Em). Patients with a history, physical findings, and/or echocardiographic evidence of cardiovascular disease (n = 148) were grouped as: (1) normal LV systolic function (LVEF ≥ 55%, n=81); and (2) LV systolic dysfunction (LVEF Results NT-proBNP levels correlated negatively with LVEF ( P P = .001). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated a significant correlation of NT-proBNP levels with LVEF ( P P = .03). Conclusions In this clinically stable, ambulatory cohort of patients with cardiovascular disease and healthy control subjects, plasma NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in those with LV systolic dysfunction and/or elevated filling pressures, independent of the effects of LV mass, renal function, and age. These results suggest that NT-proBNP levels may be a useful adjunct in the characterization of patients presenting with history and/or symptoms compatible with LV systolic and/or diastolic dysfunction.
Book Review: RONIT RICCI, Islam Translated: Literature, Conversion, and the Arabic Cosmopolis of South and Southeast Asia

RONIT RICCI, Islam Translated: Literature, Conversion, and the Arabic Cosmopolis of South and Southeast Asia (Delhi: Permanent Black), 2011, pp. 336.
Combretastatin A4 Disodium Phosphate Forms Aggregates In Solution Leading To Exciton Transfer

Combretastatin A4 disodium phosphate (CA4P) has been effective in the treatment of solid tumors. The side effects of CA4P could be reduced using targeted delivery where CA4P loading/release can be studied using CA4P fluorescence. However, the fluorescence properties of CA4P are poorly characterized. This work reports the effects of drug concentration on the excitation and emission properties of CA4P. The excitation spectrum shows a broad peak with a maximum at 328nm. The spectrum becomes narrow and the emission maximum shifts to 356nm when the CA4P concentration is increased. The emission spectrum also shows a red shift from 398 to 406nm, in the same drug concentration range (0.1-5.0mM). This spectral shift is typical for exciton transfer probably due to the formation of J-aggregates, where an excited monomer in the aggregate transfers its electronic excitation energy through Coulombic interactions to a ground-state monomer in the same aggregate. When excited at 356nm, the emission intensity is proportional to [CA4P] up to ∼1.75mM; thereafter, the intensity decreases. When excited at 328nm, the biphasic change persists but occurs at 0.175mM. We propose that the emission upon excitation at 328nm and 356nm comes from CA4P monomers and aggregates, respectively. An increase in drug concentration leads to aggregation, decreasing the number of monomers in solution and therefore the fluorescence intensity due to 328nm excitation drops. The decrease in fluorescence intensity, due to 356nm excitation, observed at [CA4P]>1.75mM is probably due to some subtle changes in the optical properties of the aggregates. These results have been applied to develop an assay capable of following the leakage of the encapsulated CA4P from the liposomes in real time. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on optically active aggregates formed by CA4P.
Growth hormone and intestinal calcium transport in the rat

Abstract The everted sac technique was used to determine if growth hormone (GH) can increase intestinal calcium transport Independently of its action on vitamin D metabolism. Rats maintained on a vitamin D deficient diet, low in calcium and phosphate, were divided into 6 groups : 2 groups received no vitamin D metabolites (one treated with bovine GH (bGH)) and 4 groups received either 25 hydroxyvitamin D 3 (250HD 3 ) or 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D 3 (1,25(OH) 2 D 3 ) in the presence or absence of bGH treatment. Calcium transport was reduced to a basal level after vitamin D depletion and was significantly increased by either a single dose (300 p-mole) of 250HD 3 or 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 . Pretreatment with bGH resulted in an increase in calcium transport under each of the vitamin D conditions studied. Factorial analysis of variance indicated a significant effect of GH treatment in addition to the effect of exogenous 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 and also suggested that there is a significant interaction between GH and 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 on calcium transport. A single dose of 3 H-25OHD 3 was administered intraperitoneally to the animals and the labeled metabolites in serum and intestinal mucosa were analyzed. The data indicated that bGH did not affect the concentration of endogenous 3 H-1,25(OH) 2 D 3 in serum or intestinal mucosa under the conditions of this study. Since vitamin D depletion minimized the availability of endogenous 250HD 3 and the synthesis of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 was shown not to be affected by bGH, GH stimulation of intestinal calcium transport does not appear to be solely mediated by an alteration of vitamin D metabolism but also by some other mechanism.
A fast distributed deadlock-detection algorithm for hypercube

There have been several distributed algorithms for deadlock detection. These algor­ithms are genera) and detect deadlocks for all topologies. In this paper, we have developed a fast distributed deadlock-detection algorithm for hypercube where a node waits for at most one message ai a time. Non-waiting nodes participate in deadlock detection by assisting in signal passing. For analysis purpose, the algorithm is 3 described for synchronous mode of computation. This algorithm terminates in O(n 3) time with overwhelming probability for a n-dimensional binary cube.
Reconciling lithospheric deformation and lower crustal flow beneath central Tibet

A viscous region with deformable boundaries is used to model simultaneous crustal flow and lithospheric coupling in northern Tibet. This model suggests that (1) the deformation of northern Tibet is different from that of southern Tibet because of structural differences between the regions; (2) the viscosity contrast between the crust and the mantle lithosphere is relatively small beneath northern Tibet; and (3) crustal flow is compatible with crust-mantle coupling under these conditions.
Type 1 and type 2 responses to Leishmania major.

Leishmania major is a protozoan parasite that is transmitted to the mammalian host by its sand fly vector when the fly probes in the host's skin for a blood meal and injects the parasite within its saliva. In mice experimentally infected with L. major, outgrowth of CD4 type 1 (Th1) cells leads to resolution of the infection, but outgrowth of type 2 (Th2) cells exacerbates disease. To design an effective vaccine against the parasite (and other pathogens that induce polarized Th1 and Th2 responses), we must determine the mechanism underlying this phenomenon so that we can design the vaccine to elicit the appropriate (i.e., protective) Th cell. Recent work indicates that Th bias is influenced by a number of signals delivered by antigen-presenting cells, including cytokines and co-stimulatory molecules. Moreover, recent work also suggests that sand fly saliva influences the immune response to L. major and Th polarization. Determining the mechanisms that lead to polarized Th responses should expand our knowledge regarding immunity to L. major, and should add to our understanding of immunoregulation in general.
The indicator performance estimate approach to determining acceptable wilderness conditions

Using data from a study conducted in the Cranberry Wilderness Area of West Virginia, United States, this paper describes how a modified importance—performance approach can be used to prioritize wilderness indicators and determine how much change from the pristine is acceptable. The approach uses two key types of information: (1) indicator importance, or visitor opinion as to which wilderness indicators have the greatest influence on their experience, and (2) management performance, or the extent to which actual indicator conditions exceed or are within visitor expectations. Performance was represented by calculating indicator performance estimates (IPEs), as defined by standardized differences between actual conditions and visitor preferences for each indicator. The results for each indicator are then presented graphically on a four-quadrant matrix for objective interpretation. Each quadrant represents a management response: keep up the good work, concentrate here, low priority, or possible overkill. The technique allows managers to more systematically and effectively utilize information routinely collected during the limits of acceptable change wilderness planning process.
Network flow based datapath bit slicing

In deep sub-micro designs, more functions are integrated into one chip, and datapath has become a critical part of the design. Typical datapath consists an array of bit slices. The inherent high degree regularity of datapaths is especially attractive to the placement and routing to achieve regular layout with high density and high performance. However, the current design methodology may generate inferior datapath designs because the datapath regularity cannot be well understood by the traditional design tools. In previous works, several techniques are proposed to preserve/re-identify datapath structures. However, they either restrict the datapath optimization or have little tolerance on bit slice difference.In this work, we present a novel approach to re-identify datapath bit slices. Contrary to the previous template-based approach, we convert the bit slicing problem to the bit matching problem. Then a min-cost max-flow based algorithm is proposed to identify the main-frame of bit slices so that the datapath bit matching is achieved. An efficient two way search approach is developed to derive the full bit slices based on the bit matching results. We further improve the bit slicing solution with an iterative method. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of our approach.
A generalization of a theorem of Euler

(1994). A Generalization of a Theorem of Euler. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 101, No. 1, pp. 55-58.
Linking the Levels: Network and Relational Perspectives for Community Psychology

In this article, we assert that relationships and networks are of paramount importance for understanding and improving settings, neighborhoods, communities, and larger social systems. Despite previous acknowledgements of their relevance, relational and social network perspectives and analyses remain underrepresented in community psychological research and action. Here, we claim that network and relational perspectives can provide conceptual and empirical ‘links’ between levels of analysis, more fully reflecting a transactional view. We also describe some of the sophisticated methodologies that can be employed in empirical studies drawing on these perspectives. Additionally, we contend that core concepts in community psychology such as health promotion, empowerment, coalition building, and dissemination and implementation can be better understood when employing relational and network perspectives. As an introduction to this special issue of American Journal of Community Psychology, we draw out themes and key points from the articles in the issue, and offer recommendations for future advancement of these perspectives in the field.
Common swine leucocyte antigen (SLA) haplotypes in NIH and Sinclair miniature swine have similar effects on the expression of an inherited melanoma

Summary Mixed lymphocyte culture and serological typing of NIH and Sinclair miniature swine indicate that the two herds share a common SLA haplotype. NIH haplotype a (International Haplotype H10) appears identical to Sinclair haplotype B, which has significant effects on the penetrance of Sinclair swine cutaneous malignant melanoma (SSCM). Offspring of crosses between melanoma-bearing Sinclair swine homozygous for the B haplotype and non-melanoma NIH aa swine have tumour incidence identical to Sinclair melanoma BB× Sinclair non-melanoma BB offspring. Our results provide further support for the involvement of the swine leucocyte antigen (SLA) complex in the inheritance of SSCM, and identify a new source of non-tumour animals that have all of the genes for SSCM except those at the tumour-initiator locus.
Brain neurosecretion during ovarian development and after ovariectomy in adult Acheta domesticus L.

Abstract Paraldehyde fuchsin (PAF) stained serial sections of the brain were examined for neurosecretory material (NSM) during adult ovarian development and in 10-day-old ovariectomized adult Acheta domesticus L. Type I neurosecretory cells of the pars intercerebralis were relatively low in NSM for the first 3 days of adult life, including the period during which vitellogenin synthesis and uptake are initiated. As mature oocytes accumulate after Day 4, NSM accumulates in the brain, reaching a peak by about Day 10. Ten-day-old adults ovariectomized as last instar larvae contained dramatically less brain NSM than intact controls, and injection of 0.48 μg of ecdysterone into ovariectomized crickets partially restored the brain to a state resembling that of intact animals. Peptides from the brains and corpora cardiaca-corpora allata complexes of intact and ovariectomized animals were separated by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and their PAF stainability was analyzed. Ovariectomy resulted in a decrease in the amounts of 12 brain peptides, but these showed little or no preferential staining with PAF. The possibility of regulatory interactions between the brain and ovaries is discussed.
Two proteins are bound to most species of polysomal mRNA.

EUKARYOTIC polysomal mRNA occurs as ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complexes (see ref. 1 for review). Two proteins have been found bound to the mRNA of rabbit and duck reticulocytes2–4. The molecular weights are estimated to be 49,000–52,000 and 73,000–78,000, although one report claimed 68,000 and 130,0002. There is some evidence that at least one of these proteins is required for mRNA binding to the small ribosomal subunit2,5. Reticulocytes, which synthesize predominantly haemoglobin, contain mostly haemoglobin mRNA. Thus the experiments with reticulocyte mRNP leave unanswered the question of whether all polysomal mRNA species of a cell that synthesizes many different proteins are associated with the same mRNA-bound proteins. Using a convex exponential sucrose gradient in a zonal rotor we have separated mRNP from ribosomal subunits of dissociated chick embryo cerebral polysomes. The mRNP is isolated in three fractions: a 10–30S; b, 50S; c 70–200S. Electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gels revealed that two proteins, molecular weight 48,400 and 78,500, are common to all three fractions.
Alfalfa transposable elements and variegation

Alfalfa with unstable anthocyanin pigmentation has been independently discovered on six occasions since 1958. Genetic studies showed that each of the six unstable stocks was due to an allele mutable at the basic anthocyanin locus C2 in alfalfa. The alleles are designated c2-m1 through c2-m6. Variegated phenotypes of m1, m2, and m3 are similar and express reversion from the recessive to the dominant state. This reversion produces streaks and sectors of pigment in flower petals and seeds that are otherwise white. Reversion occurs at various times in development and may result in periclinal chimeras. The c2-m4 allele is unique in that it arose during tissue culture, whereas the other mutables were discovered in plant populations. Interestingly, m4 is very stable in planta and only rarely produces a sectored flower, but is very unstable in vitro as measured by about 23% revertant plants regenerated from tissue cultures. Most m4 reversion occurs relatively early in development and results in completely pigmented in vitro revertants, and in large sectors on in planta revertants. Alleles m5 and m6 are phenotypically and genetically similar. Their flowers are basic purple with white streaks thus representing mutation from dominant purple to recessive white. White progeny of m5 and m6 are very stable both in planta and in vitro; reversion of white to purple was never observed. Thus, the loss of function of the dominant allele results in a stable recessive or a deficiency. The absolute stability of m5 white derivatives favors the deficiency model, because transposable element mutations might show reversion. Finally, several mutations are described that reoccur in the mutable populations. It is speculated that they are recent mutations due to transposition of transposable elements.
New Understanding of Pt Surface Area Loss in PEMFC's: Temperature Effects

Loss of nanoparticle surface area under polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) operating conditions is an important barrier to the practical application of PEMFCs. We have developed an electrochemical rate theory model to better understand a number of aspects of Pt surface area loss, including the effects of particle size distribution, crossover molecular hydrogen, and Pt oxidation. As a specific example we here discuss some initial efforts to understand the effects of temperature on Pt nanoparticle stability. We compare our results to a previously developed first-order kinetic model and use this comparison to evaluate the role of the kinetic activation enthalpy for Pt dissolution and precipitation on overall surface area loss.
Effect of Lamb Wave Excitation Frequency on Detection of Delamination in Composite Plates

This paper presents experimental investigations of the effect of Lamb wave excitation frequency on detection of a given delamination in composite plates. Typical aerospace type composite plates are used and integrated piezoelectric transducers function as both actuator and sensor. Also, a scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV) is used for preliminary sensing of structural responses when excited by a single PZT actuator. Results in time domain are quantified by a damage index calculation based on modified L2 error norm. Phase difference calculations based on complex continuous wavelet transform (CWT) and Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) are presented. Experimental results show a significant effect of incident Lamb waves on delamination signature.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
The Foot-Reading Cult of Japan

Ho-no-Hana-Sanpogyo was a Japanese new religious movement referred to as the “foot-reading cult” in the media. Its founder, Fukunaga Hogen, claimed to have divine authority and the ability to diagnose physical illness by studying the soles of an individual’s feet. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the history of Ho-no-Hana-Sanpogyo and Fukunaga’s practice of foot reading.
Comparison of the water transporting properties of MIP and AQP1.

In this paper we compare the water-transport properties of Aquaporin (AQP1), a known water channel, and those of the 28 kD Major Intrinsic Protein of Lens (MIP), a protein with an undefined physiological role. To make the comparison as direct as possible we measured functional properties in Xenopus laevis oocytes injected with cRNAs coding for the appropriate protein. We measured the osmotic permeability, Pf, (using rate of swelling) and the surface density of plasma membrane proteins (using freeze-fracture electron microscopy) in the same oocytes. Knowing both Pf and the number of exogenously expressed proteins in the membrane, we estimated the single-molecule permeability to be 2.8 × 10−16 cm3/sec for MIP and 1.2 × 10−14 cm3/sec for AQP1. As a negative control, a mutant MIP, truncated at the carboxyl-terminal, was shown by western blotting to be expressed, but this protein resulted in no increase in either water permeability or particle density. (Interestingly, the truncated protein was glycosylated, while the complete MIP transcript was not.) Water transport by MIP had a higher activation energy (∼7 Kcal/mole) than water transport by AQP1 (∼2.5 Kcal/Mole) but a substantially lower activation energy than water flux across bare oolemma (∼20 Kcal/mole). Though the water-transport properties of MIP and AQP1 differ quantitatively, they are qualitatively quite similar. We conclude that MIP, like AQP1, forms water channels when expressed in oocytes. Thus water transport in the lens seems a plausible physiological role for MIP.
Role of structured treatment interruption in HIV infection

Surprising results have been reported recently on the use of structured treatment interruptions (STIs) in two different situations in the management of HIV-1 infection. Interrupting therapy when the CD4+ T-lymphocyte count is below 350 cells/mm3 in order to reduce drug exposure was found to increase not only the risk of AIDS-related clinical events, but also the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic toxicities. This study called into question the use of the CD4+ T-cell-guided treatment interruption approach in this patient population. On the other hand, evidence was presented of the ability of STIs to enhance anti-HIV-specific immunity in patients with chronic HIV-1 infection. This resulted in a small, but significant, fraction of patients gaining the ability to maintain low plasma levels of HIV-1 RNA without the need for antiretroviral chemotherapy.
College Students’ Dietary Intake and Quality According to Their Myers Briggs Type Indicator Personality Preferences

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate differences in college students’ dietary intake and quality in relation to their Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality preferences. Students from three large introductory nutrition classes and 26 other classes were recruited to participate. Students (n = 302) completed a scannable version of the food frequency portion of the National Cancer Institute's Health Habits and History Questionnaire (NCI-HHHQ) and the MBTI. Dietary intake was compared using an adapted version of the Diet Quality Index (DQI), a multidimensional indicator of quality, and the recommended servings from the Food Guide Pyramid. Differences were determined by grouping the students according to their personality preferences and applying analysis of variance. Students preferring Extraversion, Intuition, or Judgment had tendencies for better dietary habits. Although some differences existed between men and women, Extraverts, in general, in comparison to Introverts, had higher intakes of grain, fruit, and dairy servings, with an overall superior DQI and a lower percentage of kcalories from fat; however, they also had a higher percentage of kcalories from alcohol. Intuitive women, in comparison to Sensing, had a superior DQI, consumed more fruit servings and breakfasts per week, and had a lower percentage of kcalories from sweets. Women preferring Judgment, as compared to those preferring Perception, consumed a significantly lower percentage of kcalories from alcohol and more frequent breakfasts. Suggestions for future research and for improving nutrition education are made based upon the link between certain personality preferences and dietary quality.
Rapid Verification of Candidate Serological Biomarkers Using Gel-based, Label-free Multiple Reaction Monitoring

Stable isotope dilution-multiple reaction monitoring-mass spectrometry (SID-MRM-MS) has emerged as a promising platform for verification of serological candidate biomarkers. However, cost and time needed to synthesize and evaluate stable isotope peptides, optimize spike-in assays, and generate standard curves quickly becomes unattractive when testing many candidate biomarkers. In this study, we demonstrate that label-free multiplexed MRM-MS coupled with major protein depletion and 1D gel separation is a time-efficient, cost-effective initial biomarker verification strategy requiring less than 100 μL of serum. Furthermore, SDS gel fractionation can resolve different molecular weight forms of targeted proteins with potential diagnostic value. Because fractionation is at the protein level, consistency of peptide quantitation profiles across fractions permits rapid detection of quantitation problems for specific peptides from a given protein. Despite the lack of internal standards, the entire workflow can be highly reproducible, and long-term reproducibility of relative protein abundance can be obtained using different mass spectrometers and LC methods with external reference standards. Quantitation down to ~200 pg/mL could be achieved using this workflow. Hence, the label-free GeLC-MRM workflow enables rapid, sensitive, and economical initial screening of large numbers of candidate biomarkers prior to setting up SID-MRM assays or immunoassays for the most promising candidate biomarkers.
Cyclin B Destruction Triggers Changes in Kinetochore Behavior Essential for Successful Anaphase

Abstract Successful mitosis requires that anaphase chromosomes sustain a commitment to move to their assigned spindle poles. This requires stable spindle attachment of anaphase kinetochores. Prior to anaphase, stable spindle attachment depends on tension created by opposing forces on sister kinetochores [1]. Because tension is lost when kinetochores disjoin, stable attachment in anaphase must have a different basis. After expression of nondegradable cyclin B (CYC-B S ) in Drosophila embryos, sister chromosomes disjoined normally but their anaphase behavior was abnormal [2]. Chromosomes exhibited cycles of reorientation from one pole to the other. Additionally, the unpaired kinetochores accumulated attachments to both poles (merotelic attachments), congressed (again) to a pseudometaphase plate, and reacquired associations with checkpoint proteins more characteristic of prometaphase kinetochores. Unpaired prometaphase kinetochores, which occurred in a mutant entering mitosis with unreplicated (unpaired) chromosomes, behaved just like the anaphase kinetochores at the CYC-B S arrest. Finally, the normal anaphase release of AuroraB/INCENP from kinetochores was blocked by CYC-B S expression and, reciprocally, was advanced in a CycB mutant. Given its established role in destabilizing kinetochore-microtubule interactions [3], Aurora B dissociation is likely to be key to the change in kinetochore behavior. These findings show that, in addition to loss of sister chromosome cohesion, successful anaphase requires a kinetochore behavioral transition triggered by CYC-B destruction.
Fiber optics in laser light-scattering spectroscopy, spatial coherence considerations

Abstract An analysis of the coherence angle required for efficient optical mixing by means of fiber optics in laser light-scattering spectroscopy is presented.
Numerical outflow boundary condition for Navier-Stokes flow calculations by a line iterative method

THIS study investigates the use of explicit/implicit, step/linear space extrapolation as numerical outflow boundary conditions for turbulent flow calculations. The emphasis is on the interplay between the use of curvilinear coordinate systems for complex flow calculation and the semiimplicit line iterative procedure. Both a planar singlechanneled and an annular multichanneled flow configuration were used as test models. It was found that implicit linear space extrapolation needs more computing time and may not yield a unique solution. On the other hand, explicit zero-order space extrapolation appears to be a robust outflow boundary condition since it has the largest stability limit with respect to underrelaxation factors and initial conditions. Contents The present study investigates the use of outflow boundary condition for subsonic viscous flow calculations. The emphasis is on the complex geometry configuration arising from, e.g., modeling gas turbine combustor flows. Modeling these flows requires the use of the curvilinear body-fitted coordinate system to allow proper treatment of the near-wall region as well as to reduce the skewness between the streamlines and the coordinate lines, as discussed in Refs. 1 and 2. This study concentrates on one category of outflow boundary condition, extrapolation in space, since it is easier to implement into a computer code. The merits between the explicit and implicit implementation with respect to the iteration level are investigated. Both single- and multichanneled geometry configurations are used for the numerical experiments. Four outflow boundary conditions have been implemented and tested: 1) Explicit step space extrapolation—using an explicit onesided difference to approximate a zero first derivative along the main flow direction, i.e.,
Effect of spatial trends on interpolation of river bathymetry

Continuous surface of river bathymetry (bed topography) is typically produced by spatial interpolation of discrete point or cross-section data. Several interpolation methods that do not account for spatial trend in river bathymetry produce inaccurate surfaces, thus requiring complex interpolation methods such as anisotropic kriging. Although isotropic methods are unsuitable for interpolating river bathymetry, issues that limit their use remain unaddressed. This paper addresses the issue of effect of spatial trend in river bathymetry on isotropic interpolation methods. It is hypothesized that if the trend is removed from the data before interpolation, the results from isotropic methods should be comparable with anisotropic methods. Data from six river reaches in the United States are used to: (i) interpolate bathymetry data using seven spatial interpolation methods; (ii) separate trend from bathymetry; (iii) interpolate residuals (bathymetry minus trend) by using all seven interpolation methods to get residual surfaces, (iv) add the trend back to residual surfaces; and (v) compare resulting surfaces from (iv) with surfaces created in (i). Quantitative and qualitative comparison of results through root mean square error (RMSE), semi-variograms, and cross-section profiles show that significant improvement (as much as 60% in RMSE) can be accomplished in spatial interpolation of river bathymetry by separating trend from the data. Although this paper provides a new simple way for interpolating river bathymetry by using (otherwise deemed inappropriate) isotropic methods, the choice of trend function and spatial arrangement of discrete bathymetry data play a vital role in successful implementation of the proposed approach.
Quantitative assessment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy with use of the clanging tuning fork test.

Objective: To describe the clanging tuning fork (CTF) test, a novel method for using the C 128-Hz tuning fork to test for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), to evaluate the accuracy and reproduc...
The Risks and Benefits of Thrombolytic Therapy in Acute Aortic and Mitral Prosthetic Valve Dysfunction: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature

Abstract A patient with acute thrombosis of a St. Jude mitral prosthesis was treated with streptokinase with initial success. Subsequent recurrent thrombosis and embolism prompted operative revision. Because the use of thrombolytic agents in this setting is somewhat controversial, we searched the literature for all reports of aortic or mitral prosthetic valve dysfunction treated this way. The cases of 58 patients treated 62 times were reviewed for efficacy of therapy and morbidity. Thrombolytic therapy may be useful in patients with prosthetic valve thrombosis causing critical hemodynamic compromise. It is frequently the only treatment needed. Further, it may help reduce operative risk for those patients in whom complete resolution is not possible. The incidence of systemic embolism is 18%; however, neurological events are usually limited and transient.
Quetiapine for Psychosis in Parkinson's Disease Versus Dementia With Lewy Bodies

Background Most clinicians perceive psychosis in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) as more difficult to treat than Parkinson's disease, yet there are no reports comparing the antipsychotic response between the 2 disorders. Method All charts of Parkinson's disease and DLB patients at our Movement Disorders Center, Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, Pawtucket, given quetiapine for psychosis were reviewed. Demographic data, including type and severity of psychosis, before and after Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS)-motor scores, motor worsening, and treatment response (recorded as poor/none, partial, or total), were obtained. The chi-square test was used to assess differences in efficacy and tolerability of quetiapine between Parkinson's disease and DLB patients. Results Eighty-seven Parkinson's disease and 11 DLB patients with psychosis were analyzed. No significant difference in mean age, levodopa dose, quetiapine dose, duration of quetiapine use, or baseline UPDRS-motor score was noted between Parkinson's disease and DLB patients. Eighty percent (70/87) of Parkinson's disease patients and 90% (10/11) of DLB patients had partial to complete resolution of psychosis using quetiapine (p = .40). Motor worsening was noted at one point in 32% (28/87) of Parkinson's disease and 27% (3/11) of DLB patients over the duration of quetiapine use (p = .74). Conclusion Long-term quetiapine use was generally well tolerated in this geriatric Parkinson's disease and DLB population. Mild motor worsening occurred in some patients. No significant difference in long-term efficacy and motor worsening associated with quetiapine treatment was noted between the 2 disorders.
Statistical structure learning of smart grid for detection of false data injection

Although synchronous PMUs are being deployed across the grid, it is not economical to place them at every node. Therefore, at some nodes in the system state estimators will be used. Both PMUs and state estimators are prone to false data injection attacks. Thus, it is crucial to have a mechanism for fast and accurate detection of malicious tampering; both for preventing the attacks that may lead to blackouts, and for routine monitoring and control tasks of smart grid. We propose a decentralized false data injection detection scheme based on Markov graph of bus phase angles. We utilize Conditional Covariance Test (CCT) to learn the structure of smart grid. Using the DC power flow model, we show that under normal circumstances, and because of walk-summability of the grid graph, the Markov graph of voltage angles matches the power grid graph; otherwise, a discrepancy should trigger the alarm. Local grid topology is available online from the protection system and we exploit it to check for mismatch. Our method can detect the most recent stealthy deception attack on power grid that assumes knowledge of bus-branch model of the system and is capable of deceiving the state estimator. Specifically, under the stealthy deception attack, the Markov graph of phase angles changes. To the best of our knowledge, our remedy is the first to comprehensively detect this sophisticated attack and it does not need additional hardware. Moreover, our detection scheme is successful no matter the size of the attacked subset. Simulation of various power networks confirms our claims.
Phase I Trial of Weekly Docetaxel, Total Androgen Blockade, and Image-Guided Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy for Localized High-Risk Prostate Adenocarcinoma

Abstract Background This was a phase I study to find the maximum tolerable dose (MTD) of weekly docetaxel combined with high-dose intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Patients and Methods Men with localized high-risk prostate cancer (HRPC) were treated with weekly docetaxel at 10 to 30 mg/m2 concurrent with IMRT of 77.4 Gy to the prostate and 45 Gy to the seminal vesicles. ADT consisted of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) and bicalutamide beginning 2 months before and during chemoradiation. GnRHa was continued for 24 months. Results Nineteen patients were enrolled. No dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) was seen with docetaxel doses up to 25 mg/m2. At the 30 mg/m2 level, 2 of 4 patients experienced DLTs of both grade 3 fatigue and dyspepsia. At 41 months' median follow-up, 2 patients had died—1 from metastatic prostate cancer and the other from heart failure. Two other patients experienced biochemical failure. One patient with bladder invasion at diagnosis experienced late grade 2 urinary hesitancy 9 months after completion of radiotherapy, requiring short-term intermittent catheterization. All patients had erectile dysfunction, but no late toxicities worse than grade 2 were identified. Conclusion Weekly docetaxel may be combined with high-dose IMRT and long-term ADT up to a MTD of 25 mg/m2. Acute toxicities and long-term side effects of this regimen were acceptable. Future studies evaluating the efficacy of docetaxel, ADT, and IMRT for localized HRPC should use a weekly dose of 25 mg/m2 when limiting the irradiated volume to the prostate and seminal vesicles.
A Lifestyle Program of Exercise and Weight Loss is Effective in Preventing and Treating Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Why Are Programs Not More Available?

There is substantial evidence that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can be prevented in high-risk individuals by a lifestyle program of regular exercise and weight reduction. Additionally, there is emerging evidence that new onset T2DM (<1year) can go into remission after weight loss and exercise in a majority of motivated individuals, obviating a need for glucose lowering medications. Yet, lifestyle programs to support such behavior change are not widely available. Moreover, health care insurance companies generally do not provide coverage for behavioral weight loss programs to prevent or treat T2DM. Consequently, physicians caring for individuals with T2DM may find it much easier to start a chronic glucose lowering medication rather than attempting to motivate and support patients through long-term behavior change. The cardiac rehabilitation model of disease management, with a network of over 2000 programs in the U.S., is well suited to deliver medically-supervised lifestyle programs. National organizations such as the American Diabetes Association and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation should support greater availability and use of lifestyle programs for T2DM treatment and prevention.
Production of a hybrid macrolide antibiotic in Streptomyces ambofaciens and Streptomyces lividans by introduction of a cloned carbomycin biosynthetic gene from Streptomyces thermotolerans.

Abstract The structurally related macrolide antibiotics carBomycin (Cb) and spiramycin (Sp) are produced by Streptomyces thermotolerans and Streptomyces ambofaciens, respectively. Both antibiotics contain 16-membered lactone rings to which deoxysugars are attached. There are three sugars m Sp (forosamine, mycaminose and mycarose) and two sugars in Cb (mycaminose and a derivative of mycarose containing an isovaleryl group at position 4). We have identified the gene from S. thermotolerans (designated carE), which appears to encode an enzyme that acylates this mycarose sugar, and have shown that recombinant strains containing carE can use Sp as a substrate and convert it to the hybrid antibiotic, isovaleryl Sp (ivSp). Expression of carE was demonstrated in two heterologous hosts: in S. ambofaciens, where endogenously synthesized Sp was converted to ivSp, and in Streptomyces lividans where exogenously added Sp was converted to ivSp. The carE gene was isolated on a cosmid that also encodes genes required for Cb-lactone formation. These genes reside on a DNA segment of about 70 kb and are part of a Cb biosynthetic gene cluster that is flanked by two Cb-resistance genes, carA and carB. Mapping studies and nucleotide sequence analysis revealed that carE is located at one end of this gene cluster, immediately adjacent to the carB gene. Genes carB and carE are transcribed convergently and may share a common transcriptional terminator sequence.
The Caenorhabditis elegans heterochronic gene lin-29 coordinates the vulval-uterine-epidermal connections.

Abstract Background: The development of a connection between the uterus and the vulva in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans requires specification of a uterine cell called the utse, and its attachment to the vulva and the epidermal seam cells. The uterine π cells generate the utse and uv1 cells, which also connect the uterus to the vulva. The uterine anchor cell (AC) induces the vulva through LIN-3/epidermal growth factor (EGF) signaling, and the π cells through LIN-12/Notch signaling. Here, we report that a gene required for seam cell maturation is also required for specification of the utse and for vulval differentiation, and thus helps to coordinate development of the vulval–uterine–seam cell connection. Results: We cloned the egl-29 gene, which is necessary for induction of uterine π cells, and found it to be allelic to lin-29 , which encodes a zinc finger transcription factor that is necessary for the terminal differentiation of epidermal seam cells. In the uterus, lin-29 functioned upstream of lin-12 in the induction of π cells and was necessary to maintain expression in the AC of lag-2 , which encodes a ligand for LIN-12. Conclusions: The lin-29 gene controls gene expression in the epidermal seam cells, uterus and vulva, and may help to coordinate the terminal development of these three tissues by regulating the timing of late gene expression during organogenesis.
A Bayesian approach to foreign exchange forecasting

Abstract This paper shows how the loss function approach of Bayesian statistics can be used to develop more useful forecasts in foreign exchange markets. These forecasts may be needed for a variety of applications such as speculation in forward markets, economic or accounting hedging, and estimating future costs or revenues. In the classical (i.e., mean squared error) method the same negative values are assigned to both positive and negative forecast errors, and, as a result, an unbiased forecast is seen as being optimal. The Bayesian approach proposed here, on the other hand, explicitly accounts for consequences of positive or negative forecast errors and for the possible presence of a bias in forward exchange rates. As a result, the optimal forecast is usually not equal to the conditional expected value of the future spot rate. The approach proposed here can be adopted regardless of the economic model used by forecasters. The International Fisher Effect is employed to illustrate how this paper's model can be used in practice and how its outcome may differ from the mean squared approach. The results show that for the sample period the forecasts based upon this paper's loss function slightly outperformed those based upon the mean squared errors approach.
An ℓ 1 based post-processing method with an application to ground penetrating radar imaging

In this paper, we present a method for postprocessing ground penetrating radar (GPR) images that were reconstructed using the well known delay-and-sum (DAS) algorithm. The method generates improved GPR images from DAS images by minimizing a cost function where a DAS image is viewed as the data and regularization is achieved through an l 1 penalty function. We use the majorize-minimize principle to develop an algorithm, which we refer to as the l 1 sparsity improvement restoration (l 1 -SIR) algorithm, with the property that it produces a decreasing sequence of cost function values. The l 1 -SIR algorithm is computationally efficient and only takes approximately 3% of the time required by the DAS algorithm. In studies using simulated data, the l 1 -SIR image was a significant improvement over the DAS image in that it had reduced clutter and improved sparsity without a loss of known scatterers. A recently developed fast l 1 least-squares estimation (l 1 -LS) algorithm had comparable performance as the l 1 -SIR algorithm but requires approximately 100 times the run-time. It should be mentioned that the popular "shooting algorithm" could not be used in the simulation study. The reason is because the high dimensionality of the GPR image reconstruction problem required the shooting algorithm to have a computing platform with memory resources that exceeds what is currently available in "standard computers".