cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A short history of the thyroid gland.

the period. However, in his book De Glandulis, Hippocrates (460-337 BC) states in relation to the glands:  when glands of the neck become diseased themselves, they become tubercular and produce struma . The term struma is still used in some European countries (e.g. Austria, Italy) as the medical designation of goiter. In addition, in the Hippocratic writings of the 4 century BC, we encounter the term choiron which was earlier used by Paul of Aegina (625-590 BC) and most probably signified goiter as well as the word gongroma, which, in 1561, Ambroise Pare declared also to refer to goiter. Littre in 1980 concurred with this conclusion.
Beyond drug effects and dependent variables: The use of the Poisson-Erlang model to assess the effects of d-amphetamine on information processing☆

Several studies have shown that d-amphetamine (DAMP) speeds mean reaction time (RT). However, the use of mean RT may obscure important aspects of the drug response. Therefore we applied the Poisson-Erlang (PE) stochastic model of choice reaction time proposed by Pieters (1985) to the RT distribution. This model proposes that the RT distribution is generated by two states: Processing (P) and Distraction (D). RT represents the sum of the time spent in each of these states. P is the time taken to complete a set of cognitive operations which are required to give a correct response. D represents the time taken by all other activities. RTs were collected using a task (SERS) in which stimulus and response complexity each had two levels, easy and hard. Subjects were tested pre- and postdrug. Drug conditions were: placebo, 10 mg d-amphetamine (DAMP), 4 mg of the dopamine agonist, pimozide, and a combination of DAMP and pimozide (COMBO). Parameters of the model were derived using methods described by Pieters. Four measures were analyzed: Processing Time (PT); Mean Time per distraction (XTD); Distraction Rate (DR); and Total Distraction Time per trial (TDT). Mean RT is also presented. Analyses of the effects of task conditions on the parameters of the model were made using the predrug sessions. Mean RT was increased by both stimulus and response complexities as was PT. TDT was increased by the task conditions. The PE measures did not change over days. DAMP speeded mean RT. However, this effect did not interact with the task factors. DAMP speeded processing and reduced distraction. Processing was speeded only in the hard response condition, distraction time was reduced only in the easy response condition. The results indicate that the PE model can be successfully applied to fast RT tasks. More importantly, the parameters of the model revealed important pharmacological effects that were not apparent in mean RT. DAMP speeds cognitive operations related to motor preparation and reduces the effects of distraction. Consistent with past studies there are no indications that DAMP interacted with stimulus processing. The distraction effect appears to be mediated by an increase in the rate of distraction and a decrease in the average time of these distractions. Language: en
Shared Attention in Pigeons: Retrieval Failure Does Not Account for the Element Superiority Effect

Abstract Matching-to-sample accuracy by pigeons is generally poorer on compound-sample trials (when only one of the elements is tested) than on element sample trials. This phenomenon, known as the element superiority effect (ESE), has been attributed to the pigeon's limited capacity to process the sample. Recently, a retrieval failure account has been suggested (Lamb, 1991): it takes the pigeon longer to retrieve the relevant element when there are two elements rather than one in memory. In the present research, little support for a retrieval failure account of the ESE was found. Neither extending the period of comparison responding by using a successive matching task (Experiment 1), nor examining normal variations in the magnitude of the pigeons’ comparison choice latency in a simultaneous matching task (Experiment 2), nor forcing the pigeon to delay its choice of comparisons (Experiment 3), significantly affected the magnitude of the ESE. The present results are consistent with an attentional (limited processing capacity) account of the ESE.
Association of substance-P-immunoreactive nerves with the murine olfactory mucosa

Location and distribution of nerve fibers immunoreactive to substance P were studied in the mouse olfactory mucosa. A moderately dense plexus of fibers is present at the interface of the olfactory epithelium and the connective tissue of the lamina propria. In addition, many immunoreactive nerve fibers are noted in close association with Bowman's glands and blood vessels in the lamina propria. However, such fibers were not observed in olfactory epithelium proper nor in the fila olfactoria. Substance-P-immunoreactivity is almost totally abolished by treatment of animals with capsaicin, an agent known to deplete substance P from primary sensory neurons. It is suggested that the substance-P-immunoreactive fibers are of sensory origin, with their perikarya most likely located in the trigeminal ganglia. Functionally, they might influence local blood flow and/or the secretion of Bowman's glands.
Optimization of an Optical Fiber Drawing Process under Uncertainty

Optical fibers are used in a considerable number of applications ranging from ocean and terrestrial cables to remote sensors and to light guides in medical and other applications. They have also found wide usage in the information and communications industry. Because of the increased demand on bandwidth for transmitting large volumes of information faster, cheaper, and more reliably, manufacturing high-quality optical fibers that will guarantee reliability in performance at high production levels deserves much attention. In the manufacturing process, high fiber draw rates often result in inferior quality fiber with poor mechanical properties. On the other hand, low draw speeds lead to superior quality fiber with better mechanical properties at the expense of decreased rate of production. The realization of good quality fiber without unduly compromising the production throughput is accomplished through the solution of an optimization model. Naturally, since there are significant uncertainties in process and model parameters, there is a need to account for them in the optimization model. Accounting for uncertainty in chemical process design has been an area of active research in the past few years. Most engineering processes and designs are based on models having parameters which take on nominal values. However, in real time, processes fluctuations abound. These variabilities arise because of varying process conditions (e.g., temperature instabilities) and inaccuracies in the experimental determination of model parameters (e.g., energy of activation, diffusion constants, and viscosity parameters). Hence, for a process to remain feasible (all process constraints are satisfied) at the operation stage, it is imperative that the effects of uncertainties are accounted for at the design stage. Infeasibilities during the operational stage lead to suboptimal and poor quality products. There are some instances where safety is a major concern. For instance, Rooney
3D object recognition using fully intrinsic skeletal graphs

ABSTRACT In this paper, we propose a new topology extraction approach for 3D objects. We choose a normalized robustand simplied geodesic-based Morse function to dene skeletal Reeb graphs of 3D objects. In addition to scaleinvariance, we ensure, by using a geodesic distance, the invariance of these graphs to all isometric transforms.In our Reeb graph construction procedure, we introduce important improvements and advantages over existingtechniques. We dene an ecient sampling rate based on the characteristic resolution intrinsic to each 3D object.Then, we provide a geometry preserving approach by replacing the traditional intervals of a Morse function byits exact level curves. Moreover, we take advantage of the resulting ordered adjacency matrices that describe ourReeb graphs, to introduce a new measure of similarity between the corresponding objects. Experimental resultsillustrate the computational simplicity and eciency of the proposed technique for topological Reeb graphsextraction. The experiments also show the robustness of this approach against noise and object remeshing.Keywords: 3D object, topological modeling, Morse theory, Reeb graph, GGF.
Decomposition approaches to modelling LAN contention and host computer performance

Abstract Networks consisting of special-purpose workstations connected by local area networks have become very popular. Their use may grow to the point where LAN contention degrades the performance of the application, e.g. in graphics workstations whose images must be updated frequently or in applications involving large file transfers. Methods of predicting the level of LAN contention and its effect on host performance are discussed, and the way in which this problem affects token rings and CSMA-type networks is examined.
Children's health and vulnerability in outdoor microclimates: A comprehensive review.

BACKGROUND: Children are routinely identified as a vulnerable population in environmental health risk assessments, experiencing adverse health outcomes due to exposure to a suite of atmospheric constituents. OBJECTIVE: To provide a substantive overview of the research literature pertaining to biometeorological effects on children. Key information areas within urban environmental health research related to atmospheric variables (heat, air pollution, radiation) are assessed and integrated to better understand health outcomes and vulnerabilities in children. Critical avenues for improvement and understanding of children's health related to such biophysical parameters are also identified. METHODS: This comprehensive review assesses past and current primary studies, organizational reports, educational books, and review articles. Emphasis is placed on the differential ambient exposures to temperature, air pollution, and radiation within urban microclimates commonly used by children (e.g., schoolyards, urban parks), and the resulting health impacts. DISCUSSION: Exposure to heat, air pollution, and radiation are often enhanced in urban areas, specifically under the current design of the majority of outdoor child play places. Many heat indices, energy budget models, and health outcome studies fail to adequately parameterize children, yet those that do find enhanced vulnerability to ambient stressors, particularly heat and air pollution. Such environmental exposures relate strongly to behavior, activity, asthma, obesity, and overall child well-being. Current research indicates that a changing climate, growing urban population, and unsustainable design are projected to pose increasing complications. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence-based research to link children's health, physiology, and behavior to atmospheric extremes is an important future research avenue, underscoring the fact that children are among the population groups disproportionately affected by ambient extremes. However, current methods and population-based models lack child-specific inputs and outputs, as well as designated thresholds for accurate predictions of child health impacts. More substantive evidence is needed for applicable child-specific policies and guidelines. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. KW: Hyperthermia in automobiles Language: en
A finite element approximation for the analysis of thin shells

Abstract An approximate numerical analysis procedure is presented which is capable of solving thin shells of arbitrary shape, boundary conditions and loading. The shell is idealized as an assemblage of triangular finite elements representing both membrane and flexural stiffness properties, and the solution is carried out by digital computer. Five examples are presented which demonstrate the versatility of the procedure in treating different shell configurations, as well as the accuracy of the results which may be obtained.
Histedinaemia and Speech Disorders

The metabolic disorder of histidinaemia has been specifically associated with disorders of speech. This relationship is well recognised (Bakwin, 1968), but from published reports the evidence for it seems to be open to doubt. Histidinaemia was first reported by Ghadimi et al. (1961a, b, 1962) and there have been a number of cases recorded since then. (Auerbach et al., 1962; Andrews et al., 1962; Davies and Robinson, 1963; La Du et al, 1963; Shaw et al, 1963; Snyder et al., 1963; Gerritsen, 1964; Woody et al, 1965; Berlow et al, 1965; Clarance and Bowman, 1966; Van Sprang and Wadman, 1967; Massengil and Smith, 1967; Cain and Halton, 1968.) It was noted that the urine of these patients reacted with ferric chloride and with Phenistix strips to produce a green colour. The levels of histidine were increased in the blood and urine. This is due to a lack of the enzyme histidase which is necessary for the conversion of histidine to urocanic acid. Its lack leads to the break-down of histidine to imidazoleacetic ac...
Regulation of Potassium Channels in Coronary Arterial Smooth Muscle by Endothelium-Derived Vasodilators

Recent studies have suggested that coronary endo- thehal cells produce and release mtnc oxide (NO), prostaglandm Ilr and epoxyetcosatrtenotc acids (EETs) These endothelmm-de- rtved vasodtlators play an important role m the control of coro- nary vascular tone However, the mechamsm by which these en- dothehum-denved vasodtlators cause relaxation of coronary arterial smooth muscle has yet to be determined Thts study char- acterized and compared the effects of NO, prostaglandm IZ, and 11,12-EET on the two mam types of potassmm channels m small bovine coronary arterial smooth muscle the large conductance Ca'+-activated K+ channels (Kc,) and 4-ammopyndme-sensttrve delayed rectifier K' channels (K& In cell-attached patches, non- oate, an NO donor, acttvated both Kca and Grf channels The open probabthty of both Kca and kr, channels increased lo- to 25fold when nonoate was added to the bath at concentrattons of 10m6 to 10m4 mol/L 11,12-EET (lo-' to 10m4 mol/L) also m- creased the activity of the Kc, channels m a concentratton-de- pendent manner, but it had no effect on the activrty of the Kdrl channels, even m the hrghest concentratton studied (lo-" mol/L) In contrast to the effect of 11,12-EET, rloprost, a pros- taglandm IZ analogue ( 10m6 to lO-4 mom), produced a concen- tration-dependent increase m the acttvtty of I<drf channels without affectmg the Kca channels In conclusion, all three endothehum- dertved vasoddators act to open potassmm channels, however, the channel types that they affect are different NO activates both Kca and Kdrf channels, Il,lZEET activates only the Kc.% channels, and prostaglandm I2 acttvates only the Kdrf channels (Hypertensron. 1997;29(part 2):262-267.)
Rhythmic bursting in the pre-Bötzinger complex: mechanisms and models.

The pre-Botzinger complex (pre-BotC), a neural structure involved in respiratory rhythm generation, can generate rhythmic bursting activity in vitro that persists after blockade of synaptic inhibition. Experimental studies have identified two mechanisms potentially involved in this activity: one based on the persistent sodium current (INaP) and the other involving calcium (ICa) and/or calcium-activated nonspecific cation (ICAN) currents. In this modeling study, we investigated bursting generated in single neurons and excitatory neural populations with randomly distributed conductances of INaP and ICa. We analyzed the possible roles of these currents, the Na+/K+ pump, synaptic mechanisms, and network interactions in rhythmic bursting generated under different conditions. We show that a population of synaptically coupled excitatory neurons with randomly distributed INaP- and/or ICAN-mediated burst generating mechanisms can operate in different oscillatory regimes with bursting dependent on either current or independent of both. The existence of multiple oscillatory regimes and their state dependence may explain rhythmic activities observed in the pre-BotC under different conditions.
Rangsysteme im Amerikanischen Militär

Rangsysteme stellen den wahrscheinlich auffalligsten Aspekt der militarischen Organisation dar. Es ist daher erstaunlich, das sie in so unzureichender Weise untersucht wurden. Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, die schon vorhandenen Ergebnisse empirischer Untersuchungen uber Rangsysteme im amerikanischen Militar zusammenfassend darzustellen.
NHERF1/EBP50 is an organizer of polarity structures and a diagnostic marker in ependymoma

NHERF1/EBP50, an adaptor protein required for epithelial morphogenesis, has been implicated in the progression of various human malignancies. NHERF1-deficient mice have intestinal brush border structural defects and we report here that they also have disorganized ependymal cilia with development of non-obstructive hydrocephalus. Examination of mouse and human brain tissues revealed highest NHERF1 expression at the apical plasma membrane of ependymal cells. In ependymal tumors, NHERF1 expression was retained in polarized membrane structures, such as microlumens, rosettes and canals, where it co-localized with some of its ligands, such as moesin and PTEN. Analysis of a comprehensive panel of 113 tumors showed robust NHERF1 labeling of microlumens in 100% of ependymomas, subependymomas, and pediatric anaplastic ependymomas, and in 67% of adult anaplastic ependymomas. NHERF1 staining was present in 35% of ependymoma cases that lacked reactivity for EMA, the routine immunohistochemical marker used for ependymoma diagnosis. NHERF1 labeling of microlumens was either absent or rarely seen in other types of brain tumors analyzed, denoting NHERF1 as a reliable diagnostic marker of ependymal tumors. Anaplastic foci and a subset of adult anaplastic ependymomas showed complete absence of NHERF1-labeled polarity structures, consistent with a loss of differentiation in these aggressive tumors. These data highlight a role for NHERF1 in ependymal morphogenesis with direct application to the diagnosis of ependymal tumors.
Mycoplasma arthritidis-Derived Superantigen (MAM), a Unique Class of Superantigen That Bridges Innate and Adaptive Immunity

This chapter begins with an outline of the original observations that led to the discovery of Mycoplasma arthritidis-derived superantigen (MAM) and discusses the structural basis of its interaction with class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules and T-cell receptors (TCRs). It reviews recent work on the interaction of MAM with Toll-like receptors and their importance in control of innate and adaptive immunity and in disease expression. The chapter discusses the potential role of MAM-like superantigens (SAgs) in autoimmune disease and how this might relate to recent findings on Toll-like receptor (TLR) control of adaptive immunity. Antigen-induced activation of T cells leading to cytokine production and proliferation requires signals delivered by antigen-presenting cells (APC), i.e., macrophages or dendritic cells (DCs), through costimulatory molecules such as B7-1 (CD80) and B7-2 (CD86) that are related membrane-bound molecules. In view of the demonstrated allelic specificity of MAM for MHC molecules it is also tempting to project that these polymorphisms may influence the outcome of the MAM/TLR interactions. A recent observation that has relevance to the potential role of MAM-like SAgs in human rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is that in preliminary studies transgenic mice bearing the HLA-DR and HLA-DQ alleles that predispose to RA develop a type 1 adaptive cytokine profile in response to MAM, whereas cells from MAM-injected mice bearing those alleles that protect against RA develop a type 2 cytokine profile.
The simulation of time sharing systems

The development of new large scale time-sharing systems has raised a number of problems for computation center management. Not only is it necessary to develop an appropriate hardware configuration for these systems, but appropriate software adjustments must be made. Unfortunately, these systems often do not respond to changes in the manner that intuition would suggest, and there are few guides to assist in the analysis of performance characteristics. The development of a comprehensive simulation model to assist in the investigation of these questions is described in this paper. The resulting model has a general purpose design and can be used to study a variety of time-sharing systems. It can also be used to assist in the design and development of new time-sharing algorithms or techniques. For the sake of efficiency and greater applicability, the model was implemented in a limited FORTRAN subset that is compatible with most FORTRAN IV compilers. The use of the simulation is demonstrated by a study of the IBM 360/67 time-sharing system.
The Effect of Stem Design on the Prevalence of Squeaking Following Ceramic-on-Ceramic Bearing Total Hip Arthroplasty

Background: The ceramic-on-ceramic bearing for total hip arthroplasty has an extremely low wear rate and demonstrates minimal inflammatory response in comparison with other bearing choices. However, acoustic emissions such as squeaking and clicking are being reported as annoying complications related to its use. The cause or causes of this phenomenon have not been determined. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the possibility that design aspects of the femoral component may be a contributing factor to the etiology of squeaking associated with the ceramic-on-ceramic bearing total hip arthroplasty. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 266 consecutive patients (304 hips) who had undergone total hip arthroplasty with use of ceramic-on-ceramic bearings. The first 131 consecutive patients (152 hips) (Group 1) received a hydroxyapatite-coated stem composed of titanium-aluminum-vanadium alloy with a C-taper neck geometry and robust midsection with an anteroposterior diameter of 13 mm. The second 135 consecutive patients (152 hips) (Group 2) also received a hydroxyapatite-coated stem, but in that group the stem was composed of titanium-molybdenum-zirconium-iron alloy, with a V-40 neck geometry and a midsection with an anteroposterior thickness of only 10 mm. All 304 hips received the same cup, composed of titanium-aluminum-vanadium alloy. Demographic characteristics, such as age, sex, height, weight, and body mass index, were similar in both groups. Data regarding the presence of squeaking were obtained prospectively. Patients who were seen for clinical follow-up either expressed the squeaking phenomenon themselves or were asked about it by the physician. Patients who were not seen at a recent clinical follow-up visit were contacted by telephone and were asked specifically about squeaking that might be associated with the hip replacement. Only patients with confirmed squeaking noise were included in the present study. Postoperative radiographs, the Short Form-36 health survey, the Harris hip score, and office or telephone interviews of the patient were used to determine the overall outcome of the procedure. Results: The prevalence of squeaking was seven times higher for patients who received the titanium-molybdenum-zirconium-iron-alloy stem (twenty-seven patients, twenty-eight hips [18.4%]) than in those who received the titanium-aluminum-vanadium-alloy stem (three patients, four hips [2.6%]); this difference was significant (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our study suggests that different stem alloys, stem geometries, or neck geometries can have an impact on the frequency of squeaking following a ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Structure of a screeching rectangular jet: a stereoscopic particle image velocimetry study

The unsteady velocity field generated by an underexpanded jet has been investigated using stereoscopic particle image velocimetry (PIV). A 4:1 aspect ratio converging–diverging rectangular nozzle designed to operate at a fully expanded condition of was used. The nozzle was operated at off-design conditions to generate imperfectly expanded jets with intense screech tones. Phase-locked PIV measurements show the spatial and temporal evolution of the three-dimensional jet with high fidelity. In addition to the globally averaged mean and turbulence velocity field data, the phase-averaged data for the velocity and vorticity fields were also obtained. The turbulence quantities were resolved into contributions from the periodic and random motions. The deformation of the periodic spanwise structures results in the formation of strong streamwise vortices that appear to govern the mixing of the jet. It is shown that the presence of coherent vorticity of significant strength, in addition to the shock cell strength, is largely responsible for determining the screech intensity.
Transduction of Merodiploidy: Induced Duplication of Recipient Genes

Escherichia coli PB160, which carries a tandem duplication with the gene order metB+argH−su159+thi+: metB+argH+su159−thi+, was used to study the mechanism of P1 transduction of genes in the duplicated region. Transduction of the su159+ allele contained within the duplicated segment yields two kinds of su159+ recombinants: 91% are haploid su159+ and 9% are su159+/su159− merodiploids. The duplication in these merodiploid transductants includes the metB locus; however, both copies of the metB locus usually are derived from the recipient. Thus, the requirements for transduction of the “condition of merodiploidy” appear to be the cotransduction of the repeat point (the region where the duplication begins to repeat itself) and, of course, the selected marker (in this case su159+). A mechanism whereby two recipient chromosomes interact with the transduced “repeat point” region to regenerate the tandem duplication is implicated. It appears that a duplication much larger than the quantity of genetic material carried by a P1 phage can be produced in a transductant.
Crystallization in stretched polymer networks. II. Trans‐polyisoprene

Measurements are described of the rates of crystallization and crystal melting temperatures in stretched test pieces of trans-polyisoprene, crosslinked to various degrees. The increase in rate with extension are attributed to the corresponding increases in melting temperature and hence degree of supercooling. The rise in the melting temperature of both the α- and β-crystal forms is found to be in satisfactory agreement with Flory's treatment of oriented crystallization. The changes in tensile stress are also generally in accord with the formation of oriented crystallites. For the more lightly crosslinked materials, a pronounced rise in tensile stress occurred during the later stages of crystallization, at extensions below about 100%. Reasons are given for attributing this phenomenon primarily to the relatively large contraction in volume on crystallization, rather than to the formation of folded-chain crystallites.
Integrating embedded computing systems into high school and early undergraduate education

Early exposure to embedded computing systems is crucial for students to be prepared for the embedded computing demands of today's world. However, exposure to systems knowledge often comes too late in the curriculum to stimulate students' interests and to provide a meaningful difference in how they direct their choice of electives for future education and careers. This paper describes an experience with integrating embedded computing systems education into high school and early undergraduate curricula to give students that needed early exposure. It provides assessment data that illustrates the success and limitations of the efforts described as well as the lessons they hold for a reform of the undergraduate curriculum and its impact on high school education.
Feeling Better Separate Pathways for Targeted Enhancement of Spatial and Temporal Touch

People perceive spatial form and temporal frequency through touch. Although distinct somatosensory neurons represent spatial and temporal information, these neural populations are intermixed throughout the somatosensory system. Here, we show that spatial and temporal touch can be dissociated and separately enhanced via cortical pathways that are normally associated with vision and audition. In Experiments 1 and 2, we found that anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied over visual cortex, but not auditory cortex, enhances tactile perception of spatial orientation. In Experiments 3 and 4, we found that anodal tDCS over auditory cortex, but not visual cortex, enhances tactile perception of temporal frequency. This double dissociation reveals separate cortical pathways that selectively support spatial and temporal channels. These results bolster the emerging view that sensory areas process multiple modalities and suggest that supramodal domains may be more fundamental to cortical organization.
BOOK REVIEW: "Knowing Tomorrow? How Science Deals with the Future", Edited by Patrick van der Duin

Many scientific fields deal with the future. This book provides a good introduction to the futures research and includes applications in many different scientific fields. The book starts with an introduction to the terminology and the contents of the book. The next chapter explores our interest in the future. Following chapters provide different perspectives including human and social perspective, economics perspective, philosophical perspective, historical perspective, geographical perspective, astronomical perspective and environmental perspective. It is really eye opening experience to go through all these perspectives and it lets us see that there are so many perspectives we have to worry about when we are trying to forecast technologies. Although the book does not specifically focus on technology forecasting, I find it useful for researchers in the field of technology forecasting to have a copy of this book to enrich their approaches. The two most relevant chapters are the ones focusing on management and technology analysis sections. Many of our readers would find those chapters very relevant to innovation and technology management. Overall, the book is a must have for researchers and practitioners who are either developing decision making tools to address expected problems in the future or making decisions based on how they see the future.
Disentangling the Many Layers of Eukaryotic Transcriptional Regulation

Regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes is an extremely complex process. In this review, we break down several critical steps, emphasizing new data and techniques that have expanded current gene regulatory models. We begin at the level of DNA sequence where cis-regulatory modules (CRMs) provide important regulatory information in the form of transcription factor (TF) binding sites. In this respect, CRMs function as instructional platforms for the assembly of gene regulatory complexes. We discuss multiple mechanisms controlling complex assembly, including cooperative DNA binding, combinatorial codes, and CRM architecture. The second section of this review places CRM assembly in the context of nucleosomes and condensed chromatin. We discuss how DNA accessibility and histone modifications contribute to TF function. Lastly, new advances in chromosomal mapping techniques have provided increased understanding of intra- and interchromosomal interactions. We discuss how these topological maps influence gene regulatory models.
On pure structure of dynamic systems

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the pure structure of dynamic systems. It discusses the relationship between dynamic systems, directed graphs, and interconnection matrices. Inputs, states, and outputs of a system are represented by input, state, and output points of the corresponding digraph. The lines of the digraph and the entries of the related interconnection matrix are determined in the usual way by occurrence of inputs, states, and outputs in the system equations. The chapter discusses the notion of input and output truncated digraphs and the use of the reachability and antecedent sets to define input and output reachability of dynamic systems. Using the path matrix, it develops an algebraic criterion for input and output reachability that can be applied to dynamic systems using effective algorithms already available in the digraph studies of computer systems. The chapter discusses the partitions and condensations of digraphs as related to dynamic systems, which provide an appropriate setting for analyzing the important reachability properties of large-scale systems composed of interconnected subsystems.
Improving Summarization Performance by Sentence Compression --- A Pilot Study

In this paper we study the effectiveness of applying sentence compression on an extraction based multi-document summarization system. Our results show that pure syntactic-based compression does not improve system performance. Topic signature-based reranking of compressed sentences does not help much either. However reranking using an oracle showed a significant improvement remains possible.
The effect of depletion of nonprotein sulfhydryls by diethyl maleate plus buthionine sulfoximine on renal uptake of mercury in the rat

Rats pretreated with diethyl maleate (DEM, 3.37 mmol/kg, ip) and buthionine sulfoximine (BSO, 0.45 mmol/kg, ip) and subsequently given mercuric chloride (HgCl2, 0.014 mmol/kg, sc) had a significantly greater mortality rate over the 24 hr after injection than rats given only HgCl2 or HgCl2 following either DEM or BSO alone. Depletion of nonprotein sulfhydryls (NPSH) in the kidney significantly decreased mercury uptake in that organ. A similar effect was not seen in the liver despite marked depletion of NPSH. Similarly, there was a tendency for less in vitro mercury accumulation in renal cortical slices from rats made glutathione deficient by DEM + BSO compared to control, or rats made glutathione deficient by DEM or BSO alone. Depletion of nonprotein sulfhydryls by the combination of the depleting agents diethyl maleate plus buthionine sulfoximine (DEM + BSO) had a greater effect to alter organic ion accumulation in renal cortical slices than the agents alone. The higher mortality produced by mercuric chloride after DEM + BSO pretreatment may have been due to an increased availability of mercury in lethal concentrations at other organ sites. These data suggest the possible importance of NPSH in renal mercuric ion accumulation, but not in the liver.
An extended molecular mechanics (MM3(96)) force field for benzocrown ethers, calixarenes, and spherands

Abstract The X-ray crystal structures of 60 molecules containing aliphatic and conjugated ether functional groups were calculated with an extended version of the molecular mechanics MM3(96) force field. The structures fit well with overall deviations of 0.014 A in bond length, 1.1 ° in bond angle, and 3.2 ° in torsion angle.
Interconnect Failure Rate Estimation Based on the Extreme Value Distribution

Evaluating and predicting the failure rate of interconnect is a time consuming and expensive process. Non parametric techniques to analyze the qualification data, such as employing the Chi-square distribution require large sample sizes to achieve an accurate estimate. Recently there has been a resurgence in the use of extreme value theory (EVT). Increases in temperature records, the numbers of strong storms, and flooding events have fueled this interest. A novel method that is based on EVT and an accelerated degradation model for estimating the failure rate from a set of stress data is proposed and described. There are many advantages of this technique, and recommendations on sample size are discussed. Advice is given as to how the total sample should be sectioned before the maximum is taken of each subset. Interconnect examples are given, generated from Monte Carlo simulations of known distributions, and used for a comparison of the extreme value technique versus Chi-square and Johnson distribution methods.
Can Consumer Cooperation Correct Important Defects in Marketing

A CONSUMER cooperative enterprise is an ordinary merchandising institution distinguishable from private business chiefly by the character of its ownership. The singleness of purpose which results from this distinction of course may lead to many differences in business practice, each of which may be of some significance. The point I wish to emphasize, however, is that from an organization standpoint there is nothing new in consumer cooperation. In this respect it differs from the chain store, recently a revolutionary force in distribution. The chain store reorganized distribution through horizontal combination, with its resulting large-scale buying, and through vertical integration. As yet, no consumer cooperative has made a corresponding contribution to the organization of marketing, nor is any in view. Consumer cooperatives of course frequently have resorted to horizontal combination and vertical integration, but to the best of my knowledge, have discovered no new form of organization the use of which might render obsolete some of our present distributive institutions. This seems to me to be an important point because it means that the opportunity for cooperatives lies in improvement in marketing practices rather than in fundamental changes in the processes of distribution. The question is: Can cooperatives, using the same institutions as does private enterprise, better serve the public through changes in business practice than do our privately owned merchandising institutions ? Without effecting any basic change in the organization of marketing, can they, through the substitution of collective consumer control for competition and private enterprise, lower the price level or otherwise benefit the buying public ? There has been much talk and little study of costs and wastes in our present distributive system. We all know that it costs typically between 15% and 35% to perform the retailing function; between 5% and 25% to perform the wholesaling function; about 4% of retail sales to pay our advertising bill. We also know that price fixing of one kind or another is prevalent in what is supposed to be a system of free prices. All of these facts are ominous, and on the surface at least, suggestive of the vulnerability of our present distributive structure. It is obvious that the growth of any new system of marketing, even though in its form of organization it resembles the old, must depend upon its capacity to reduce costs, lower prices or improve service to the buying public. This of course assumes free competition and the absence of artificial restraints or stimuli.' It is appropriate, therefore, to inquire into two questions: (1) What are the weaknesses of the present marketing system, as they bear upon the question of consumer cooperation? (2) To what extent is it likely that cooperative organizations can remove these weaknesses?
Muting Behavior of Trichopsenius frosti: Physogastric Reticulitermes flavipes Queens Serve as Sexual Aggregation Centers

The host-specific termitophile Trichopsenius frosti Seevers mates only on the bodies of physogastric Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar) queens. Courtship was more complex and prolonged on neotenic than on primary queens.
Relative optical path differences of the colchicine-metaphase chromosomes of the Chinese hamster, Cricetulus griseus

1. Relative optical path differences were determined for colchicinemetaphase chromosomes of the Chinese hamster. 2. In a predominantly diploid cell culture of adult female origin, there was a small background of variability consistently present among the optical paths of the chromosomes of any one cell. 3. One-half of the cells of the diploid culture had one or two chromosomes differing highly in optical retardation from the rest of the complement. 4. In 65 per cent of the variant cells of the diploid culture, it was a subtelocentric chromosome that had a much longer optical path, and in 35 per cent, a small metacentric. 5. In an aneuploid culture derived from a mixed embryo culture, there were also small phase differences from chromosome to chromosome, probably equivalent to those seen in the female, diploid culture. 6. In forty per cent of the colchicine metaphases of the aneuploid culture, a long metacentric chromosome showed a marked tendency to have a different retardation through its two arms. 7. There were also differences in retardation through the chromosomes of non-colchicinized, control metaphases of the diploid culture; so the optical variability is not an effect solely of colchicine. 8. Technological problems involved in interferometric measurements at the chromosome level are discussed. 9. The interpretation of the interference patterns of chromosomes is considered in relation to: 1. chromosome condensation and coiling of chromatids; 2. volume of the chromosomes; 3. effect of colchicine; 4. composition of the chromosomes. 10. The biological significance of the metaphasic interference patterns of chromosomes is discussed.
Modeling Error Estimation in Response Prediction of Multilevel Composite Systems using Bayesian Networks

Predicting the failure response of complex systems often requires computational models that can capture the nonlinear response of the material and structure across multiple scales. Typically, computed model errors correspond to accumulated model errors that have been propagated across several levels of the hierarchical system. The objective of the current work is to identify the model error at each level of a composite problem hierarchical system. To that end, a Bayesian framework was implemented to systematically estimate the contribution of model error in response prediction at each sub-scale. The developed method could be used for optimal allocation of validation resources by determining the type and optimal number of experimental tests needed to validate and reduce uncertainty at different subsystems levels of large engineering systems.
Growth and Resistance: How Deweyan Pragmatism Reconstructs Social Justice Education

While Democracy and Education is often cited within the scholarship on and teaching of social justice education, it and Dewey's work generally remain underutilized. Peter Nelsen argues in this essay that Deweyan pragmatism offers rich resources for social justice education by exploring how Dewey's three-part conception of growth has both analytical and normative force. Nelsen makes this case by examining student resistance to engagement with social justice issues, and concludes from this analysis that resistance is an opportunity for growth. Furthermore, rather than being a precursor to critical engagement with ideas, Nelsen contends that creating collaborative environments that foster interdependence across group memberships might be as important as the critical engagement itself.
Delaying the widespread emergence of cephalosporin-resistant gonorrhoea: what is the best target?

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is associated with high morbidity worldwide. The emergence of cephalosporin and macrolide resistance represents a grave threat to the control of a disease, which, if untreated, can lead to serious reproductive complications in women, blindness in neonates, facilitated spread of HIV and, in rare cases, life-threatening disseminated infections.1 ,2 A plenary was convened at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) sexually transmitted disease (STD) Prevention Conference held in Atlanta, Georgia, 9–12 June 2014, to discuss several key aspects pertaining to this issue. The Scientific Committee, including Drs Matthew Golden from the University of Washington, Kevin Karem from CDC and Khalil Ghanem from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, invited three experts to discuss challenges to the control of drug-resistant gonorrhoea. The presentations focused on the antibiotics, the microbe and population-specific dynamics. The three contributors were then asked to develop their presentations into full-length papers, which are compiled here. In an effort to delay the emergence of cephalosporin and macrolide resistance, several public …
Targeting the Heat Shock Response in Cancer: Tipping the Balance in Transformed Cells

The elucidation of the heat shock response (HSR) as a mediator of cellular stress has created a framework for understanding how these processes may promote tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the identification of specific components of the HSR and how they are co-opted by cancer cells has led to the discovery of new therapeutic targets. A wide range of small molecule inhibitors of the HSR are in various stages of development for clinical application in patients with cancer. The introduction of these novel small molecule inhibitors offers the opportunity for synergy with existing therapies and the potential for highly targeted treatments.
Probabilistic assessment of soil liquefaction considering spatial variability of CPT measurements

ABSTRACTThe conventional liquefaction potential assessment methods (also known as simplified methods) profoundly rely on empirical correlations based on observations from case histories. A probabilistic framework is developed to incorporate uncertainties in the earthquake ground motion prediction, the cyclic resistance prediction, and the cyclic demand prediction. The results of a probabilistic seismic hazard assessment, site response analyses, and liquefaction potential analyses are convolved to derive a relationship for the annual probability and return period of liquefaction. The random field spatial model is employed to quantify the spatial uncertainty associated with the in-situ measurements of geotechnical material.
Medical Relief Trips…What's Missing? Exploring Ethical Issues and the Physician-Patient Relationship

"The welcome ceremony alone will leave you breathless as you become inspired by their overwhelming joy at you arrival. Here you will participate with the community and provide much needed medical care. The team will also provide care for the Talibe boys in Theis who go without medical care and are left to face disease on their own (Senegal, 2009)."
Pisse Prophecy: A Brief History of Urinalysis

This article has reviewed a few of the major historic aspects of urine examination from ancient times to the twentieth century. It is a most fascinating history for it mirrored that of the history of medicine itself. The recognition of the importance of urine in diagnosis was made over 6000 years ago by several of the earliest civilizations, and a few of their clay tablets have been found that give us some insight into their observations and conclusions. However, the progress in analysis and its clinical significance was often slow and frequently littered with charlatanism. Visual inspection alone, and prognostication therefrom, was shown to be inadequate as a single means of diagnosis, and over 600 years ago Paracelsus, as well as others, began to reject ancient dogma and searched for new approaches to the analysis of urine by using chemical distillation techniques. Progress in anatomy and physiology, coupled with the understanding of organ function, provided a fertile field for the investigation of the composition of the urine and associating its chemical constituents with specific disease states. The advent of the microscope caused scientists to examine all body fluids, especially the urine, and to record their observations as an aid to diagnosis--the beginnings of medical microscopy. This century has also seen remarkable advances in the field of urinalysis: dipstick testing, the application of modern chemical and microscopic techniques to constituent analysis, automation, and, most recently, monoclonal antibody and recombinant gene technology to enhance and improve urine examination. In short, urinalysis, the first of all laboratory tests, began as and still remains a most valuable and highly important means of diagnosis in clinical medicine.