cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Subsemigroups and complexity via the Presentation Lemma

Abstract The Krohn-Rhodes Theorem shows that any finite semigroup S can be built by cascading (via wreath product) the simple groups which divide S with trivial combinatorial “flip-flops”. The complexity of a semigroup is essentially the length of a shortest such decomposition (counting alternations of groups). It is an important open question whether complexity of finite semigroups is decidable. In this paper, after reviewing some local and semi-local structure theory of finite semigroups which distills the insights of the Rees-Sushkevych Theorem, we prove the Presentation Lemma. The Presentation Lemma gives a characterization of complexity n in terms of semi-local mapping properties and relational morphisms to transformation semigroups of lower complexity. Thus the Presentation Lemma is a bridge linking the local Green-Rees-Sushkevych coordinate picture of a single J-class to the global properties of the semigroup. As an application, we derive sufficient conditions for complexity of a finite semigroup S to be effectively computable by examining its local subsemigroups (those of the form eSe where e2 = e GS). The Almost-Disjoint Semigroup Theorem, proved via the Presentation Lemma, and its corollaries enable one to determine the complexity of a large class of examples. A simple application of the Presentation Lemma also allows us to recover Tilson's theorem that the complexity of semigroups with two or fewer non-zero J-classes is effectively computable. Conditions, in terms of subsemigroups, guaranteeing parallelizability of computation are also obtained. A counterexample constructed using deep insights obtained from the Presentation Lemma shows that complexity need not be locally determined. Also a reformulation of the Presentation Lemma in the language of categories and functors is given. The Presentation Lemma will be used in future papers as a tool to attack the decidability of complexity and for constructing pseudo-varieties of semigroups with undecidable membership problem from those with decidable membership problem using the pseudo-variety operations, ∗, ∗ r , and m.
Mouse extrahepatic hepatoma detected on MicroPET using copper (II)-64 chloride uptake mediated by endogenous mouse copper transporter 1.

Purpose This study was conducted to assess the positron-emitting copper (II)-64 chloride (64CuCl2) as a probe for imaging mouse extrahepatic hepatoma expressing mouse copper transporter 1 (mCtr1) with positron emission tomography (PET).
Electrodeposition of Thermoelectric Superlattice Nanowires

tric superlattice nanowires have not yet been reported. In this study, we electrodeposited Bi2Te3/(Bi0.3Sb0.7)2Te3 superlattice nanowires by using a template-directed method, where the composition of the segments was controlled by manipulation of the deposition potential. BiTe/BiSbTe superlattice nanowires were chosen because BiTe and its derivative compounds are considered to be the best materials for thermoelectric refrigeration at room temperature. In the electrochemical deposition of alloys from aqueous electrolytes, the composition of the deposit can be manipulated by varying the applied potential, because the reduction potential of each ion in the solution is different. Therefore, a periodically modulated composition can be obtained, with two different phases forming the nanowire (e.g., Sb-rich BiSbTe and BiTe with minimal incorporation of Sb), by applying an alternating potential. Characterization of the composition and microstructure was performed to verify the synthesis of Bi2Te3/ (Bi0.3Sb0.7)2Te3 superlattice nanowires. Based on previous work, BiSbTe ternary alloys can be deposited from various acidic baths with the use of complexing agents such as tartaric acid [13,17] or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) [18] to solubilize Sb in water. In this study, tartaric acid (33 mM) was used as a complexing agent. Because of the low-pH operating conditions, the effect of tartaric acid on the electrodeposition was minimal. To successfully achieve compositional modulation in the BiTe/BiSbTe nanowires, the composition as a function of applied potential was first studied in order to determine the deposition potential necessary for obtaining BiSbTe alloys with different compositions. Initially, linear-sweep voltammetry (LSV) was performed to determine
Approach to Metastatic Carcinoma of Unknown Primary in the Head and Neck: Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Beyond

Metastatic carcinoma to cervical lymph nodes presenting as an unknown primary is quite common. In most cases, the primary site is ultimately identified. Carcinomas that remain of unknown primary after a thorough search are uncommon. This review will focus on those cases that initially present as unknown primaries, since this is the setting in which pathologists first encounter these cases and in which they play an important role in guiding patient management. Most are squamous cell carcinomas, the majority of which are human papillomavirus (HPV)-related and originate in the palatine tonsils and base of tongue. HPV-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas are increasing in incidence and have unique clinical and pathologic features that make them particularly likely to present as an unknown primary. Understanding these features has led to improved detection of the primary tumors. Further, even when the primary tumor is not found, prognosis is very dependent on characterization of the tumor HPV status. Papillary thyroid carcinomas may also initially present without a known or clinically detectable primary, either as a neck mass or incidentally in a neck dissection performed for another indication. The latter is a very indolent disease. Finally, primary salivary gland carcinomas may mimic an unknown primary and need to be distinguished from cutaneous metastases to the parotid gland, which may present without a recognized skin tumor. Here, we review the clinical and pathologic features of these entities and provide a systematic approach to their diagnosis.
Unreliability of hemodynamic indexes of left ventricular size during cardiac surgery.

Abstract Pulmonary artery diastolic (PADP) and wedge pressures (PAWP) and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) are commonly used to estimate left ventricular (LV) preload. To assess the ability of hemodynamic indexes of preload to estimate anatomical preload, or LV volume, we studied 45 patients during a coronary (18 patients) or aortic valve (27 patients) procedure and compared epicardial two-dimensional echocardiographic LV cavity area with simultaneous measurements of PADP, PAWP, and high-fidelity LVEDP. Pulmonary artery diastolic pressure, PAWP, and their percent change after bypass did not correlate with absolute values (before or after bypass) or percent change in LVEDP. Percent change in LV area correlated weakly with percent change in PADP ( r = .34, p In conclusion, both PADP and PAWP were poor guides to LVEDP and neither reflected changes in LV size. Thus, hemodynamic indexes of preload should be used with caution during cardiac operations.
Emergency preparation and mobile notification through cluster computing

This paper aims to modify and improve the Helbing model to simulate urban settings during emergencies. Using a cluster computer, mass numbers of pedestrians can be modelled as they flee a virtual urban environment. A mobile system is proposed for informing pedestrians of the safest and quickest exit routes.
Gender Disparity in Structured Physical Activity and Overall Activity Level in Adolescence: Evaluation of Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Data

Background. Adolescent girls are less likely to meet physical activity recommendations than boys. This study examined the relative contribution of structured physical activity opportunities including physical education (PE) class and sports teams to overall activity levels for girls and boys. Methods. Data from 591 9th–12th grade students who completed the 2009 Philadelphia Youth Risk Behavior Survey were examined. Logistic regression was used to estimate the relationship between PE and sports teams and physical activity levels. Models were stratified by gender to estimate gender differences. Results. Girls were less likely to be active than boys: 27.9% of girls were sedentary as compared to 10.6% of boys. PE class was not related to activity levels among boys, while highly active girls were seven times more likely to participate in daily PE than were sedentary girls. Playing on one or more sports teams was associated with low-moderate and high activity in girls; among boys, sports team participation was only associated with high activity. Conclusions. The structured physical activity opportunities of PE and sports teams may contribute more to overall activity levels in girls than boys. A more rigorous assessment of this hypothesis is warranted to inform efforts to promote activity levels in girls.
Production and characterization of monoclonal antibodies against recombinant human tumor necrosis factor/cachectin.

Abstract Tumor necrosis factor is a monokine, which causes cytolysis of many transformed cells. In this study we have found that in addition to cytotoxicity recombinant Escherichia coli -derived human tumor necrosis factor, like cachectin, inhibited the lipoprotein lipase of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Both effects were inhibited by monoclonal anti-tumor necrosis factor antibodies. Monoclonal antibodies against recombinant human tumor necrosis factor were produced by fusing splenocytes of immune mice with P3X63Ag8 653 myeloma cells. The monoclonal antibodies, namely BG 2–4, were of IgG2a, IgG1, and IgG2a subclasses. These monoclonal antibodies neutralized the cytotoxicity of natural and recombinant human tumor necrosis factor but not that of rabbit or mouse tumor necrosis factor. They also neutralized the cachectin activity of human tumor necrosis factor in the 3T3-L1 embryonic cell assay. These results indicate that the functional structure(s) of human tumor necrosis factor responsible for the cytotoxicity and cachectin activities are likely to be closely related.
Where is the ‘Women’s Community?’ Voices of Lesbian, Bisexual, and Queer Women and Heterosexual Sisters

Sixty women (28 lesbian, 19 bisexual, three queer, and 10 heterosexual) were interviewed about their definition of and connection to ‘community’. Women across sexual identities defined community according to support, similarity to others, physical proximity, and interlocking circles of closeness from family, friends, and lovers outwards to acquaintances and organizations. Regarding women’s connection to community, founders started their own groups and organizations. The majority of lesbian and bisexual women were finders who joined organizations and identified community. Yet bisexual women often felt marginalized within lesbian organizations. Heterosexual women were more connected to family and religious organizations but also more likely to be flounderers, those who felt isolated or marginalized from community. Whereas there are now extensive organizations and activities in the USA for women who identify as lesbian, bisexual, or queer, many women were also part of ‘mainstream’ organizations. Nevertheless...
Expression of Calmodulin‐Dependent Phosphodiesterase, Calmodulin‐Dependent Protein Phosphatase, and Other Calmodulin‐Binding Proteins in Human SMS‐KCNR Neuroblastoma Cells

: Calmodulin (CaM)-dependent enzymes, such as CaM-dependent phosphodiesterase (CaM-PDE), CaM-dependent protein phosphatase (CN), and CaM-dependent protein kinase II (CaM kinase II), are found in high concentrations in differentiated mammalian neurons. In order to determine whether neuroblastoma cells express these CaM-dependent enzymes as a consequence of cellular differentiation, a series of experiments was performed on human SMS-KCNR neuroblastoma cells; these cells morphologically differentiate in response to retinoic acid and phorbol esters [12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA)]. Using biotinylated CaM overlay procedures, immunoblotting, and protein phosphorylation assays, we found that SMS-KCNR cells expressed CN and CaM-PDE, but did not appear to have other neuronal CaM-binding proteins. Exposure to retinoic acid, TPA, or conditioned media from human HTB-14 glioma cells did not markedly alter the expression of CaM-binding proteins; 21-day treatment with retinoic acid, however, did induce expression of novel CaM-binding proteins of 74 and 76 kilodaltons. Using affinity-purified polyclonal antibodies, CaM-PDE immunoreactivity was detected as a 75-kilodalton peptide in undifferentiated cells, but as a 61-kilodalton peptide in differentiated cells. CaM kinase II activity and subunit autophosphorylation was not evident in either undifferentiated or neurite-bearing cells; however. CaM-dependent phosphatase activity was seen. Immunoblot analysis with affinity-purified antibodies against CN indicated that this enzyme was present in SMS-KCNR cells regardless of their state of differentiation. Although SMS-KCNR cells did not show a complete pattern of neuronal CaM-binding proteins, particularly because CaM kinase II activity was lacking, they may be useful models for examination of CaM-PDE and CN expression. It is possible that CaM-dependent enzymes can be used as sensitive markers for terminal neuronal differentiation.
Opportunistic adoption of orphaned nests in paper wasps as an alternative reproductive strategy.

Abstract Adoption of abandoned or orphaned nests by adult females occurs commonly during the colony-founding period of the primitively eusocial paper wasp, Polistes dominulus. Our evidence indicates that adoption reflects: (1) ‘making the best of a bad situation,’ for queens who have lost their nests; (2) subordinates leaving multiple-foundress associations; and (3) possibly, a ‘sit-and-wait’ strategy, in which non-nesting females wait for nests to be orphaned. A ‘it-and-wait strategy’ implies that wasps facultatively delay personal reproduction rather than that the delay in reproduction is due to physiological constraints (sensu Gadagkar, 1991a). Orphaned nests with related brood are not more attractive than those bearing unrelated brood, suggesting that nest-adoption has not evolved primarily as a strategy to rescue non-descendant kin. Instead, all wasps tend to adopt nests that theoretically maximize their selfish genetic interests: the most attractive nests were large combs at an advanced stage of development. These nests can produce more workers and are closer to worker emergence, at which time colony survival per unit time dramatically rises. The primary proximate cue for adoption seems to be whether nests contain later-instar larvae or pupae. Since developmental stage of brood correlates with nest size, preferred nests thus tend to be relatively mature and large.
ON TRANSIENT DEVELOPMENT OF SHIP WAVES ON A RUNNING STRATIFIED OCEAN

A theoretical study is made of the linearized problem of transient development of waves created by the free surface pressure disturbances on a running stratified ocean which is composed of two layers of fluids of different densities with the infinitely deep bottom layer. With the aid of the same method of the author (1969c), asymptotic solutions for the free and interfacial surface elevation functions are obtained explicitly. Solutions of the corresponding steady state problem of ship waves in a stratified ocean due to Crapper (1967) are recovered in the limit t→∞ without having to resort to the use of the radiation condition at infinity or an equivalent device. The solution of the problem, in general, consists of two different classes of waves. The waves of the first class are the usual surface waves for the homogeneous ocean with a little modification in amplitude; and the waves in the second class are the internal waves with large amplitude for small differences in density between the upper and lower layer of the ocean. Some discussions about the internal wave motions related to the infinitesimal density stratification and shallow upper layer are made.
Robust stochastic dominance and its application to risk-averse optimization

We introduce a new preference relation in the space of random variables, which we call robust stochastic dominance. We consider stochastic optimization problems where risk-aversion is expressed by a robust stochastic dominance constraint. These are composite semi-infinite optimization problems with constraints on compositions of measures of risk and utility functions. We develop necessary and sufficient conditions of optimality for such optimization problems in the convex case. In the nonconvex case, we derive necessary conditions of optimality under additional smoothness assumptions of some mappings involved in the problem.
Structural and Functional Studies of the Phage Sf6 Terminase Small Subunit Reveal a DNA-Spooling Device Facilitated by Structural Plasticity.

In many DNA viruses, genome packaging is initiated by the small subunit of the packaging terminase, which specifically binds to the packaging signal on viral DNA and directs assembly of the terminase holoenzyme. We have experimentally mapped the DNA-interacting region on Shigella virus Sf6 terminase small subunit gp1, which occupies extended surface areas encircling the gp1 octamer, indicating that DNA wraps around gp1 through extensive contacts. High‐resolution structures reveal large-scale motions of the gp1 DNA-binding domain mediated by the curved helix formed by residues 54–81 and an intermolecular salt bridge formed by residues Arg67 and Glu73, indicating remarkable structural plasticity underlying multivalent, pleomorphic gp1:DNA interactions. These results provide spatial restraints for protein:DNA interactions, which enable construction of a three-dimensional pseudo-atomic model for a DNA-packaging initiation complex assembled from the terminase small subunit and the packaging region on viral DNA. Our results suggest that gp1 functions as a DNA-spooling device, which may transform DNA into a specific architecture appropriate for interaction with and cleavage by the terminase large subunit prior to DNA translocation into viral procapsid. This may represent a common mechanism for the initiation step of DNA packaging in tailed double‐stranded DNA bacterial viruses.
A system for music printing by computer

SOME SEVENTEEN YEARS have passed since Lejaren Hiller' and others made the first efforts at composing music with a digital computer. Hiller's work in the middle and late 1950s was an experiment as shown even by the title of his book rather than an attempt to create music of aesthetic value. Since then work of considerable aesthetic as well as theoretical importance has been done by several composers, most notably lannis Xenakis.2 But one problem has severely hampered almost all work in the area so far: outputting the computer's results in a useful form. What constitutes a useful form depends on the method used to realize the work in sound: 1. direct realization by a digital-to-analog converter, 2. performance on synthesizers and other electro-acoustic instruments, or 3. performance on (more-or-less) conventional instruments.
Magnetopiezotransmission Studies of the Indirect Transition in Germanium

The indirect transition in germanium at $T\ensuremath{\sim}20\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$K has been examined with magnetic fields up to 90 kG, using the high-sensitivity piezotransmission technique. Samples were in the Voigt configuration in which the Poynting vector of the radiation field is perpendicular to the applied magnetic field. The spectra recorded with light polarized either parallel or perpendicular to the magnetic field applied along a [001], [111], or [110] direction exhibit a series of sharp peaks, in contrast to the corresponding series of less distinct steps which are observed in the conventional magnetoabsorption spectra for the indirect edge. At high magnetic fields the piezotransmission peaks have been resolved over a spectral range of more than 0.1 eV which extends from the zero-field edge at 0.77 eV to photon energies at which the direct transition dominates. From the energy spacings of the peaks, we have deduced the cyclotron effective mass ${m}_{c}$ for the ${L}_{1}$ conduction band and its variation as a function of the energy $\mathcal{E}$ measured from the bottom of the band. For large $\mathcal{E}$, ${m}_{c}$ is found to vary linearly with $\mathcal{E}$, in agreement with the results of the $〈k\ifmmode\cdot\else\textperiodcentered\fi{}p〉$ perturbation analysis. But the observed slope of the ${m}_{c}$-versus-$\mathcal{E}$ curve is greater than that expected from theory. Linear extrapolation of the experimental curve gives for the effective mass at the bottom of the band ${m}_{c}(0)=(0.129\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.002){m}_{0}$ for H\ensuremath{\parallel}[001]. Similarly, for H\ensuremath{\parallel}[111] and [110], we obtain for the light electron mass at the bottom of the conduction band ${m}_{\mathrm{le}}(0)=(0.079\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001){m}_{0}$ and $(0.095\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001){m}_{0}$, respectively. Assuming that the ratio of the longitudinal to the transverse effective masses is $\frac{{m}_{l}(0)}{{m}_{t}(0)}\ensuremath{\simeq}20$, the above values for ${m}_{c}(0)$ and ${m}_{\mathrm{le}}(0)$ give the transverse effective mass ${m}_{t}(0)=(0.078\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.002){m}_{0}, (0.079\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001){m}_{0}, \mathrm{and} (0.079\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001){m}_{0}$ for H\ensuremath{\parallel}[001], [111], and [110], respectively. ${m}_{l}$ has been estimated from the series of peaks due to the heavy electron mass. Using an average value for $\frac{{m}_{\mathrm{he}}}{{m}_{0}}=0.352$ with H\ensuremath{\parallel}[110], we find that $\frac{{m}_{l}}{{m}_{0}}=1.54\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.06$.
Interference suppression characterisation for spectrally modulated, spectrally encoded signals

The interference suppression capability of spectrally modulated, spectrally encoded (SMSE) signals is characterised for multiple channels containing partial band interference. The recently-introduced SMSE analytic framework is well-suited for software defined radio applications where coexistence and interference suppression (avoidance) is essential. Performance improvement is demonstrated using adaptive interference suppression within the SMSE framework over a wide range of interference-to-signal power ratios.
The assay of radioactive antibody to bacteriophage T2

Abstract A specific, sensitive and highly reproducible assay for radioactive IgM and IgG antibodies to bacteriophage T2 is described. This assay depends upon the binding of the radioactive antibodies to a complex of non-radioactive antibody and phage. This assay is many-fold more sensitive than the neutralization assay. Moreover, the assay unequivocally reflects the de novo synthesis of antibody. The potentiality of the use of this type of assay for the determination of antibodies to other types of determinants, including other types of viruses, was indicated.
Population-density estimation using regression and area-to-point residual kriging

Census population data are associated with several analytical and cartographic problems. Regression models using remote-sensing covariates have been examined to estimate urban population density, but the performance may not be satisfactory. This paper describes a kriging-based areal interpolation method, namely area-to-point residual kriging, which can be used to disaggregate the residuals remaining from regression. Compared with conventional cokriging, the area-to-point residual kriging is much simpler in that only a semivariogram model for the point residuals is required, as opposed to a set of auto-and cross-semivariogram models involving the dependent variable and all the covariates. In addition, area-to-point residual kriging explicitly accounts for any scale differences between source data and target values. The method is illustrated by disaggregating population from census units to the land-use zones within them. Comparative results for regression with and without area-to-point residual kriging show that area-to-point residual kriging can substantially improve interpolation accuracy.
Complexation of aryldiazonium ions by polyethylene glycols and their ethers

Abstract Complexation constants for interactions of p-tert -butylbenzenediazonium tetrafluoroborate with polyethylene glycols and their mono- and dimethyl ethers in 1,2-dichloroethane are reported. For polyethylene glycols of molecular weights 1000 and 1500 and their dimethyl ethers complexation constants with the aryldiazonium ion are 12–18% of that for the crown ether 18-crown-6.
Treatment of refractory ventricular tachysystole with hyperbaric oxygenation

Abstract A case of acute myocardial infarction in a 37 year old man resulting in severe ventricular tachyarrhythmias is reported. The patient's course was altered for the better after two exposures to hyperbaric oxygenation, each lasting seven hours. Hyperbaric oxygenation appeared to be successful in reducing the ventricular rate and in abolishing the requirement for vasopressors; during the first period of exposure, when the patient was critically ill, the number of ventricular ectopic beats was reduced during hyperbaric oxygenation. This experience indicates the need for further experimental trials of hyperbaric oxygenation in the control of refractory ventricular arrhythmias due to myocardial infarction.
A feedforward bidirectional associative memory

In contrast to conventional feedback bidirectional associative memory (BAM) network models, a feedforward BAM network is developed based on a one-shot design algorithm of O(p/sup 2/(n+m)) computational complexity, where p is the number of prototype pairs and n, m are the dimensions of the input/output bipolar vectors. The feedforward BAM is an n-p-m three-layer network of McCulloch-Pitts neurons with storage capacity 2/sup min{m,n}/ and guaranteed perfect bidirectional recall. The overall network design procedure is fully scalable in the sense that any number p/spl les/2/sup min{m,n}/ of bidirectional associations can be implemented. The prototype patterns may be arbitrarily correlated. With respect to inference performance, it is shown that the Hamming attractive radius of each prototype reaches the maximum possible value. Simulation studies and comparisons illustrate and support these theoretical developments.
ASK1 Regulates Cardiomyocyte Death but Not Hypertrophy in Transgenic Mice

Rationale: Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase (ASK)1 is a central upstream kinase in the greater mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade that mediates growth and death decisions in cardiac myocytes in response to diverse pathological stimuli. Objective: However, the role that ASK1 plays in regulating the cardiac hypertrophic response in vivo remains controversial. Methods and Results: Here, we generated mice with cardiac-specific and inducible overexpression of ASK1 in the heart to assess its gain-of-function effect. ASK1 transgenic mice exhibited no induction of cardiac hypertrophy or pathology at 3 and 12 months of age, and these mice showed an identical hypertrophic response to controls following 2 weeks of pressure-overload stimulation or isoproterenol infusion. Although ASK1 overexpression did not alter the cardiac hypertrophic response, it promoted cardiomyopathy and greater TUNEL following pressure-overload stimulation and myocardial infarction. Indeed, ASK1 transgenic mice showed a greater than 2-fold increase in ischemia reperfusion-induced injury to the heart compared with controls. Examination of downstream signaling showed a prominent activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4/6 and c-Jun NH 2 -terminal kinase (JNK)1/2 (but not p38 or extracellular signal-regulated kinases [ERKs]), inhibition of calcineurin-NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells), and induction of Bax in the hearts of ASK1 transgenic mice following 1 and 8 weeks of pressure-overload stimulation. Mechanistically, cardiomyopathy associated with ASK1 overexpression after 8 weeks of pressure overload was significantly reduced in the calcineurin Aβ–null ( CnA β −/− ) background. Conclusions: These results indicate that ASK1 does not directly regulate the cardiac hypertrophic response in vivo, but it does alter cell death and propensity to cardiomyopathy, in part, through a calcineurin-dependent mechanism.
Neuromuscular treatments for speech and swallowing: a tutorial.

Despite the proliferation of oral motor therapies, much controversy exists regarding the application and benefit of neuromuscular treatments (NMTs) such as strength training for alleviating dysarth...
American college of cardiology/american heart association clinical competence statement on stress testing : A report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/American College of Physicians-American Society of Internal Medicine Task Force on Clinical Competence

Developed in Collaboration with the American Society of Echocardiography, the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists, and the Society of Pediatric Echocardiography
A simple procedure for estimation of the spatial QRS/T angle from the standard 12-lead electrocardiogram

Abstract The spatial QRS/T angle has been identified as a strong predictor of adverse cardiac events. Mean QRS and T amplitudes from X, Y, and Z leads generated by a matrix transformation method are often used to calculate the QRS/T angle (QRS/T matrix ). Many investigators find this procedure cumbersome. We used electrocardiographic data files of 14881 men and women aged 45 to 65 years from the Atherosclerosis in Communities study to derive a simple formula for estimated spatial QRS/T angle (QRS/T simple ). QRS/T simple is calculated as the inverse cosine between the mean QRS and T vectors, which are approximated by 3 QRS net and T net amplitudes for each vector. QRS/T simple explained 79% of the variance of QRS/T matrix ( r = 0.89) . Using sex-specific thresholds, QRS/T simple detected abnormally wide QRS/T matrix values with a sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 88%. It is concluded that this simple method may provide a satisfactory substitute for QRS/T from the matrix transformation method.
Cholesterol Solubility in Organic Solvents

The 37 degree cholesterol solubilities in over 50 solvents, including the homologous n-alkanols through dodecanol and homologous ethyl carboxylates through the undecanoate, and the 37 degree beta-sitosterol solubilities in the n-alkanols through decanol are reported. Additionally, solubility data for cholesterol at 7, 17, and 27 degrees in the alcohol series were obtained. These measurements allowed the calculation of heats of solution for cholesterol in the alkanols, which range from 7.5 kcal for methanol to 4.3 kcal for decanol and which tend to decrease, although irregularly, with increasing alkanol chain length. A solubility maximum in all of these series for both solutes was observed between a chain length of six and seven. A surprisingly irregular, odd-even alternating solubility pattern was noted for cholesterol in the alkanols at all four temperatures. Experimental evidence indicated that this pattern was due to solvent-induced crystalline changes, presumably solvate formation, in each alkanol solvent through C10. Overall, the solubility studies screened solvents for their utility in dissolving cholesterol and, thus, cholesterol gallstones. To these ends, some limited dissolution experiments were performed, which indicated that the solution rate is directly related to the measured solubility in organic solvents. The dissolution behavior is thus different from micellar bile salt solutions, in which a significant interfacial barrier controls kinetics.
Echoes of the Past, Epics of Dissent: A South Korean Social Movement

Echoes of the Past, Epics of Dissent:. South Korean Social Movement. NANCY ABELMANN. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1996. xviii. 306 pp., illustrations, appendixes, notes, bibliography, index.
TCDB: the Transporter Classification Database for membrane transport protein analyses and information

The Transporter Classification Database (TCDB) is a web accessible, curated, relational database containing sequence, classification, structural, functional and evolutionary information about transport systems from a variety of living organisms. TCDB is a curated repository for factual information compiled from >10,000 references, encompassing approximately 3000 representative transporters and putative transporters, classified into >400 families. The transporter classification (TC) system is an International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology approved system of nomenclature for transport protein classification. TCDB is freely accessible at http://www.tcdb.org. The web interface provides several different methods for accessing the data, including step-by-step access to hierarchical classification, direct search by sequence or TC number and full-text searching. The functional ontology that underlies the database structure facilitates powerful query searches that yield valuable data in a quick and easy way. The TCDB website also offers several tools specifically designed for analyzing the unique characteristics of transport proteins. TCDB not only provides curated information and a tool for classifying newly identified membrane proteins, but also serves as a genome transporter-annotation tool.
Remembering Simplified Hanzi 1: How Not to Forget the Meaning and Writing of Chinese Characters. by HEISIG, JAMES, & TIMOTHY W. RICHARDSON

The article reviews the books "Remembering Simplified Hanzi: How Not to Forget the Meaning and Writing of Chinese Characters" and "Remembering Traditional Hanzi: How Not to Forget the Meaning and Writing of Chinese Characters," each being volume 1 of 2, by James Heisig and Timothy W. Richardson.
Co-Targeting Insulin-Like Growth Factor I Receptor and HER2: Dramatic Effects of HER2 Inhibitors on Nonoverexpressing Breast Cancer

The insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGFIR) and HER2 display important signaling interactions in breast cancer. We examined the effect of combinations of antagonists of these receptors using two human breast cancer cell lines: BT474 (HER2+, IGFIR low) and MCF7 (HER2 low, IGFIR high). In BT474 cells, growth was inhibited by HER2 antagonists but not by IGFIR antagonists; however, IGFIR antagonists enhanced the effect of HER2 inhibitors. In MCF7 cells, growth was inhibited by IGFIR antagonists but not by HER2 antagonists; however, HER2 antagonism enhanced the effect of IGFIR inhibitors. Synergistic inhibition of soft agar growth was also observed. Although HER2 and IGFIR antagonists individually only minimally affected cell cycle, their combination gave a small enhancement of their effects. No single receptor-targeting drug was capable of inducing apoptosis, but combining antagonists of both receptors induced a dramatic degree of apoptosis in both cell lines. Induction of apoptosis was most striking in MCF7 cells using a Herceptin/IGFIR antagonist combination despite these cells being HER2 nonoverexpressing. Toward understanding the mechanism of these effects, we detected coassociation IGFIR and HER2 in both cell lines. Specific inhibitors of one of these receptors could cross-inhibit the activity of the other. Targeting both receptors gave the maximal inhibition of their downstream extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and AKT signaling pathways. Hence, such drug combinations may be clinically useful and may be beneficial even in tumors in which single drugs are inactive, as exemplified by the effect of the HER2/IGFIR inhibitor combination in HER2 nonoverexpressing MCF7 cells.
OBSERVED VARIABILITY OF THE SOLAR LUMINOSITY

Data on solar luminosity variations are compiled in graphs and analyzed, with a focus on the SMM satellite bolometric measurements and other observations made since 1983. Consideration is given to total irradiance measurements in integrated light; emission-line variability in the visible, UV, and IR; mechanisms contributing to the solar variability (sunspots, faculae, rotation, oscillations, granulation, and active networks); the role of the solar magnetic cycle; and other observable parameters indicating variability. Also discussed are the effects of solar variations on the earth climate and the implications of the observations for theoretical models of convective-envelope processes (thermal diffusion near the surface and magnetic pressure in the interior).
Weighted Model-Based Clustering for Remote Sensing Image Analysis

We introduce a weighted method of clustering the individual units of a segmented image. Specifically, we analyze geologic maps generated from experts’ analysis of remote sensing images and provide geologists with a powerful method to numerically test the consistency of a mapping with the entire multidimensional dataset of that region. Our weighted model-based clustering method (WMBC) employs a weighted likelihood and assigns fixed weights to each unit corresponding to the number of pixels located within the unit. WMBC characterizes each unit by the means and standard deviations of the pixels within that unit and uses the expectation-maximization algorithm with a weighted likelihood function to cluster the units. With both simulated and real data sets, we show that WMBC is more accurate than standard model-based clustering. Specifically, we analyze Magellan data from a large, geologically complex region of Venus to validate the mapping efforts of planetary geologists.
Realization of stress detection using psychophysiological signals for improvement of human-computer interactions

It has been suggested that effectively detecting the stress level of a computer user could possibly develop the computers' ability to respond intelligently and help the user relax from negative emotional states during human-computer interaction. Our research focuses on the use of three physiological signals: blood volume pulse (BVP), galvanic skin response (GSR) and pupil diameter (PD), to automatically monitor the stress state of computer users. This paper reports on the hardware and software instrumentation development and signal processing approach used to detect changes in the stress level of a subject interacting with a computer, within the framework of a specific experimental task. For this experiment a computer game was implemented on the basis of a clinical mental stress test, called the 'Stroop Test', adapted to make the subject experience two different levels of stress, while his/her BVP, GSR and PD signals were continuously recorded Several data processing techniques were applied to extract effective attributes of the 'stress' state of the subjects. Current results indicate that there exists a strong correlation among changes in those three signals and the shift in the emotional states when stress stimuli are applied to the interaction environment.
Property rights theory, transaction costs theory, and agency theory: an organizational economics approach to strategic management

Property rights theory has common antecedents with contractual theories of the firm such as transaction costs and agency theories, and is yet distinct from these theories. We illustrate fundamental theoretical principles derived from these three theories by analyzing the business case of oil field unitization. Theoretical principles and application of theory to oil field unitization are each summarized. From this, it is possible to see how property rights theory is well suited to explain business situations where inefficient economic outcomes persist. Additionally, property rights theory forges new theoretical connections with other branches of organizational economics, in particular, resource-based theory. Copyright # 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human cytomegalovirus infection induces adipocyte-like lipogenesis through activation of Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 1

Sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) are essential transcriptional factors that control expression of lipogenic genes and adipocyte differentiation. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection has been shown to require the induction of lipogenesis. Here we show that the induction of lipogenesis and expression of key lipogenic enzymes in human fibroblasts occurs by 24 h post-HCMV infection. This activation correlates with increased cleavage of the SREBP1 precursors to form the mature active transcription factors that enter the nucleus to transcriptionally activate lipogenic genes. SREBP1 cleavage is normally inhibited by increased sterol levels; however, our data show that this level of control is overridden in infected cells to allow constitutive activation of lipogenesis. This process requires viral protein synthesis, since UV-irradiated HCMV cannot activate SREBP cleavage. The cleavage of SREBP1 requires it to be in complex with SREBP cleavage activation protein (SCAP). Depleting SCAP using short hairpin RNA (shRNA) showed that SREBP1 cleavage and the induction of lipogenic genes and lipid synthesis are all inhibited in HCMV-infected cells. As a result, production of infectious virions is reduced in SCAP-depleted cells. Thus, the SCAP-mediated mechanism for SREBP cleavage is utilized by HCMV during infection. Our studies suggest that HCMV induces adipocyte-like lipogenesis and overrides normal sterol feedback controls in order to maintain high levels of constitutive lipid synthesis during infection.
Biological Approaches to Spinal Fusion

Bone grafting procedures are frequently performed for spinal applications in an attempt to promote successful arthrodesis. Autograft remains the gold standard grafting material. However, due to relatively limited supply and the morbidity associated with procurement of autograft, there has been a great deal of interest in developing alternative bone graft materials. Allograft and ceramic preparations are osteoconductive matrices that support bone formation, but these materials exhibit minimal osteoinductive potential. Recent research efforts have focused specifi cally on osteoinductive substances such as demineralized bone matrices, recombinant human bone morphogenetic proteins and autologous bone marrow aspirates. Since none of these materials deliver all of the elements required for bone formation when implanted alone, composite grafts, consisting of osteoinductive factors combined with an osteoconductive carrier, may prove to be more effective in stimulating spinal fusion than any single graft substitute.
New Model for Simulating the Dynamics of Pneumatic Heavy Truck Brakes with Integrated Anti-Lock Control

This paper introduces a new nonlinear model for simulating the dynamics of pneumatic-over-mechanical commercial vehicle braking systems. The model employs an effective systems approach to accurately reproduce forcing functions experienced at the hubs of heavy commercial vehicles under braking. The model, which includes an on-off type ABS controller, was developed to accurately simulate the steer, drive, and trailer axle drum (or disc) brakes on modern heavy commercial vehicles. This model includes parameters for the pneumatic brake control and operating systems, a 4s/4m (four sensor, four modulator) ABS controller for the tractor, and a 2s/2m ABS controller for the trailer. The dynamics of the pneumatic control (treadle system) are also modeled. Finally, simulation results are compared to experimental data for a variety of conditions.
The role of neoadjuvant therapy in the management of locally advanced renal cell carcinoma

In the past decade, the armamentarium of targeted therapy agents for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has significantly increased. Improvements in response rates and survival, with more manageable side effects compared with interleukin 2/interferon immunotherapy, have been reported with the use of targeted therapy agents, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (sunitinib, sorafenib, pazopanib, axitinib), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors (everolimus and temsirolimus) and VEGF receptor antibodies (bevacizumab). Current guidelines reflect these new therapeutic approaches with treatments based on risk category, histology and line of therapy in the metastatic setting. However, while radical nephrectomy remains the standard of care for locally advanced RCC, the migration and use of these agents from salvage to the neoadjuvant setting for large unresectable masses, high-level venous tumor thrombus involvement, and patients with imperative indications for nephron sparing has been increasingly described in the literature. Several trials have recently been published and some are still recruiting patients in the neoadjuvant setting. While the results of these trials will inform and guide the use of these agents in the neoadjuvant setting, there still remains a considerable lack of consensus in the literature regarding the effectiveness, safety and clinical utility of neoadjuvant therapy. The goal of this review is to shed light on the current body of evidence with regards to the use of neoadjuvant treatments in the setting of locally advanced RCC.
The Rhetoric of Expertise

E. Johanna Hartelius, The Rhetoric of Expertise (Lanham, MD: Lexington Books, 2010), ix + 193 pp. $65.00 (cloth). E. Johanna Hartelius argues that in a world of uncertainty and ambiguity, we look f...
Correlates of impaired cognitive performance in cocaine- and opioid-dependent patients

Aims: There is evidence for cognitive impairment in individuals with substance use disorders. The purpose of this analysis was to identify specific demographic and clinical characteristics associated with poorer cognitive performance in individuals dually dependent on cocaine and opioids who were stabilized on methadone for five weeks. Methods: A correlational analysis (Spearman’s rho) was conducted between outcome measures from a cognitive assessment battery and demographic and clinical variables for 77 participants. Results: The following variables were associated significantly (p<0.05) with poorer cognitive performance: higher age (worse psychomotor coordination, focused and divided attention, executive function, working memory, episodic memory), lower education (worse executive function), lower IQ as measured by Shipley’s Institute of Living Scale (worse focused attention, executive function, workingmemory, episodicmemory), greater lifetime and 30-day poly-drug use as assessed by the Addiction Severity Index (worse executive function), higher cocaine use severity ratings (worse focused and divided attention), more smoking urges as assessed by the Questionnaire on Smoking Urges (worse working memory, episodic memory), greater anxiety as measured by the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (worseworkingmemory, episodic memory), greater PTSD Symptom Scale score (worse focused and divided attention, episodic memory), higher pain ratings on a visual analog scale (worse working memory, episodic memory), and greater impulsivity on the Barrett Impulsiveness Scale (worse focused and divided attention, working memory, episodic memory). Conclusions:While conclusionsbasedoncorrelational analyses are limited, this information regarding the correlates of cognitive impairment may be useful in tailoring substance abuse treatment to specific cognitive abilities and in targeting cognitive remediation interventions to the most impaired individuals. Financial support: DA021808, DA023186, DA07209.
Migrant Farmworker Studentâ€™s Counterstories: Contradicting Immigration Myths and Stereotypes

Abstract Many events happened across the United States due to recent immigration reform policies. Different reactions resulted from these policies such as massive immigrant rallies, speeches, and demonstrations. Numerous anti-immigrant and xenophobic stories were also been published through different media outlets. At this same time, the participants in this study, eight Latino migrant farmworker students, were sharing with me several counterstories that were contradicting myths and stereotypes about immigrants. The article will focus on the counterstories that will contradict the myths that immigrants don’t want to learn English, that they are taking away jobs from Americans, and that they are getting a free ride in the United States.