cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulatory roles and molecular signaling of TNF family members in osteoclasts.

Abstract The tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family has been one of the most intensively studied families of proteins in the past two decades. The TNF family constitutes 19 members that mediate diverse biological functions in a variety of cellular systems. The TNF family members regulate cellular functions through binding to membrane-bound receptors belonging to the TNF receptor (TNFR) family. Members of the TNFR family lack intrinsic kinase activity and thus they initiate signaling by interacting intracellular signaling molecules such as TNFR associated factor (TRAF), TNFR associated death domain (TRADD) and Fas-associated death domain (FADD). In bone metabolism, it has been shown that numerous TNF family members including receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL), TNF-α, Fas ligand (FasL) and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) play pivotal roles in the differentiation, function, survival and/or apoptosis of osteoclasts, the principal bone-resorbing cells. These TNF family members not only regulate physiological bone remodeling but they are also implicated in the pathogenesis of various bone diseases such as osteoporosis and bone loss in inflammatory conditions. This review will focus on our current understanding of the regulatory roles and molecular signaling of these TNF family members in osteoclasts.
A Correlation of Leakage Vortex Cavitation in Axial-Flow Pumps

Tip clearance flow in turbomachinery can lead to losses in efficiency and stall margin. In liquid handling turbomachinery, the vortical flow field, formed from the interaction of the leakage flow with the through-flow, is subject to cavitation. Furthermore, this flow field is complex and not well understood. A correlation of variables which predict the vortex minimum pressure has been formulated. Measurements of the important variables for this correlation have been made on a high Reynolds number (3×10 6 ) axial-flow test rig. The correlation has been applied to the measured data and other data sets from the literature with good agreement. An optimum tip clearance has been theoretically identified as experiments have shown
Inhibition of zebrafish epidermal growth factor receptor activity results in cardiovascular defects

The physiological role of any of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor tyrosine kinases has yet to be determined in zebrafish. We isolated a zebrafish homologue of EGFR (egfr) that shows a 63% amino acid overall identity to human EGFR but with 90% amino acid identity in the kinase domain. Whole mount in situ hybridization showed ubiquitous distribution of egfr transcripts during gastrulation, somitogenesis and later stages. When expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells, zebrafish Egfr was a functional receptor that responded to EGF by receptor tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of MAP kinase. The function of zebrafish Egfr in vivo was determined by inhibiting its activity using EGFR kinase inhibitors and antisense morpholinos (MO), which inhibited Egfr kinase activity and translation of egfr messenger RNA into protein, respectively. The zebrafish is a particularly excellent model for studying cardiovascular development because zebrafish are transparent allowing direct visualization of the heart and circulation in the blood vessels. Inhibition of zebrafish Egfr activity in vivo impeded blood flow via the outflow tract into the aorta and impeded circulation in the axial and intersegmental vessels by 80 h post-fertilization. Analysis of the heart showed that the heart chambers and pericardial sacs were dilated and the outflow tracts were narrowed. Together these results suggested that zebrafish Egfr has a cardiovascular function in the developing zebrafish that is required for normal circulation.
Magnetization reversal in single-layer and exchange-biased elliptical-ring arrays

Arrays of elliptical rings with long axis of 3μm, short axis of 1.8μm, and widths of 400nm and above were fabricated by zone-plate-array lithography and lift-off processing. Hysteresis loops of NiFe elliptical rings with different widths indicate the “vortex” state is more stable for narrower rings. Micromagnetic simulations reveal that the magnetization configurations of wider rings are more complicated than that of narrower ones. Elliptical-ring arrays fabricated from exchange-biased thin film structures display shifted hysteresis loops and the same width dependence of the stability of the vortex state.
Larger maximum tumor diameter at radical prostatectomy is associated with increased biochemical failure, metastasis, and death from prostate cancer after salvage radiation for prostate cancer

Purpose To investigate the maximum tumor diameter (MTD) of the dominant prostate cancer nodule in the radical prostatectomy specimen as a prognostic factor for outcome in patients treated with salvage external beam radiation therapy (SRT) for a rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) value after radical prostatectomy. Methods and Materials From an institutional cohort of 575 patients treated with SRT, data on MTD were retrospectively collected. The impact of MTD on biochemical failure (BF), metastasis, and prostate cancer-specific mortality (PCSM) was assessed on univariate and multivariate analysis using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards models. Results In the 173 patients with MTD data available, median follow-up was 77 months (interquartile range, 47-104 months) after SRT, and median MTD was 18 mm (interquartile range, 13-22 mm). Increasing MTD correlated with increasing pT stage, Gleason score, presence of seminal vesicle invasion, and lymph node invasion. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis identified MTD of >14 mm to be the optimal cut-point. On univariate analysis, MTD >14 mm was associated with an increased risk of BF ( P =.02, hazard ratio [HR] 1.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2-2.8), metastasis ( P =.002, HR 4.0, 95% CI 2.1-7.5), and PCSM ( P =.02, HR 8.0, 95% CI 2.9-21.8). On multivariate analysis MTD >14 mm remained associated with increased BF ( P =.02, HR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1-3.2), metastasis ( P =.02, HR 3.4, 95% CI 1.2-9.2), and PCSM ( P =.05, HR 9.7, 95% CI 1.0-92.4), independent of extracapsular extension, seminal vesicle invasion, positive surgical margins, pre-RT PSA value, Gleason score, and pre-RT PSA doubling time. Conclusions For patients treated with SRT for a rising PSA value after prostatectomy, MTD at time of radical prostatectomy is independently associated with BF, metastasis, and PCSM. Maximum tumor diameter should be incorporated into clinical decision making and future clinical risk assessment tools for those patients receiving SRT.
Advances in water electrolysis technology with emphasis on use of the solid polymer electrolyte

Efforts to improve water electrolysis technology are being made using three promising approaches: (a) development of solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) water electrolysers, (b) increasing the operating temperature of alkaline water electrolysers from 80° C to a temperature in the range 120–150° C, and (c) investigation of advanced concepts. The research and development efforts on SPE water electrolysers are aimed at (a) low cost current collectors, (b) high-activity electrocatalysts, (c) high temperature capability, (d) low cost SPE, and (e) design and construction of scaled-up cell stacks. Attempts are being made to find materials for cells and auxiliaries which are stable in an alkaline environment at elevated temperatures. Advanced concepts for electrolytic hydrogen production, including (a) finding better reversible electrocatalysts, (b) use of anode depolarizers, (c) water vapour electrolysis in molten or solid electrolytes, (d) development of hydroxyl ion transporting membranes, (e) investigation of thermochemical-electrochemical hybrid cycles, and (f) photoelectrolysis of water, are still at a preliminary research stage.
Impact of cultural differences on knowledge management in global projects

Purpose – This study aims to propose a knowledge management process model for global projects. The paper also seeks to generate interest among academic researchers for undertaking further research on this important topic.Design/methodology/approach – This research effort uses literature review findings and past research efforts of the author to develop a generic KM process model and a set of questions for designing a project‐specific KM process model.Findings – Different cultures understand knowledge and its value differently. It is a challenge to develop KM processes for knowledge capturing and sharing in global projects where cultural diversity is a norm.Research limitations/implications – The KM process model and the set of questions identified to develop the KM process need to be studied further and to be validated for their effectiveness in knowledge management.Practical implications – The study is an attempt to recommend a knowledge management process that meets both internal and external goals and ...
Freezing points of electrolyte mixtures. I. Mixtures of sodium chloride and magnesium chloride in water

The freezing points of aqueous mixtures of sodium chloride and magnesium chloride have been measured in the range of ionic strengths from 0.1 to 3.5 mole-kg−1. The composition dependence of the excess Gibbs function is considered from the standpoint of the Scatchard ion-component treatment of electrolyte solutions. The ion-component equations predict the osmotic coefficients of the mixtures from the single-salt results with a maximum error of less than 1%. Values of Friedman's parameterw o at the freezing points of the solutions are compared with isopiestic and theoretical values at 298 K.
A STUDY OF CASH PLANNING IN SMALL MANUFACTURING COMPANIES

SEVERAL SIGNIFICANT investigations have been conducted to explain the causes of failure among small businesses. The most widely accepted theory forthcoming from such studies is that poor internal management is the predominant factor in failure. Businesses do not fail merely because they are small. The purpose olf this study is to explore one specific phase of the managerial job in small companies, namely the forward planning of cash requirements. Many small business owners allow themselves to be pressured into ad hoc decisions as a result of no advance planning. The research was designed to test the hypothesis that "the financial health of a small manufacturing firm is directly related to the amount of formal cash planning which is done." A formal cash plan is here defined as a written forecast, as opposed to mental estimates. The definition of a small manufacturing company is a firm with 150 employees or less. The solution of this problem involved a determination of the kinds of financial planning feasible, an analysis of how much is actually being done, and the formulation of a minimum amount of financial planning that should be accomplished. A random sample of twenty-eight small madhinery manufacturing companies in the Los Angeles area was investigated. Financial and operating data were obtained through questionnaires and personal interviews with the president (or senior executive). In addition, information was collected from each company's outside auditor, from the bank loan officer, and from Dun & Bradstreet files. Statement analyses were prepared for the Dun & Bradstreet fourteen financial ratios for each company for the period 1951-56. These ratios were compared with appropriate industry results by year as published by Dun & Bradstreet. A "score" was then developed for each company representing (a) over-all operating results and (b) net profit results. The responses to the questionnaire items by the three parties and
Carnap, Tarski, and Quine at Harvard: Conversations on Logic, Mathematics, and Science

In the early 2000s, Greg Frost-Arnold and Paulo Mancosu each independently discovered Rudolf Carnap's shorthand notes of conversations that Carnap had with Alfred Tarski and W. V. Quine during the ...
Isolation procedures and certain properties of vitamin BT.

Abstract 1. 1. BT is not adsorbed on charcoal, but it is adsorbed on activated fuller's earth. In a phenol-water system it is concentrated in the phenol phase. Taking advantage of these properties a method has been worked out by which BT has been concentrated from whey about 300 times. The most active fraction, prepared by this method, showed full activity in quantities of 2 μg./g. of the dry diet. 2. 2. BT is highly soluble in water and remains in solution in alcohol up to concentrations of 95%. It is insoluble in most fat solvents. It is remarkably stable to high temperatures, irradiation in ultraviolet light, and treatment with strong acids; but is destroyed by prolonged treatment with strong alkalis. 3. 3. BT fails to be precipitated by heavy metals or certain organic acids. 4. 4. BT seems to differ in its properties from most, if not all, unidentified B-factors which have been described in recent years.
Chemistry of venom alkaloids in someSolenopsis (Diplorhoptrum) species from Puerto Rico

A number of 15-carbon alkaloids have been identified in venom extracts of four Puerto Rican species of ants in the genusSolenopsis (Diplorhoptrum). Workers of a species from El Verde produced thecis andtrans isomers of 2-methyl-6-nonylpiperidine with the latter isomer predominating. The same compounds were identified in queens of a species from Rio Grande, but in this species no alkaloids were detected in worker extracts. Workers of aDiplorhoptrum species collected on Mona Island produced primarily atrans-2-methyl-6-(Z-4-nonenyl)piperidine,3, with smaller amounts of thecis isomer, whereas the major compound found in the queens of the same species on Mona Island was (5Z,9Z)-3-hexyl-5-methylindolizidine, identical with the alkaloid produced by queens of a species collected on Cabo Rojo. Surprisingly, workers of the Cabo Rojo species produced (5Z,9Z)- and (5E,9E)-3-butyl-5-propylindolizidine (4 and5, respectively) reported earlier as the 223AB indolizidines from skins of dendrobatid frogs. The possible significance of the qualitative and quantitative differences in the venom alkaloids synthesized by queens and workers is discussed as is the possibility that ants containing such alkaloids may serve as a dietary source for the skin alkaloids used by certain frogs in chemical defense.
A far-field airborne radar NDT technique for detecting debonding in GFRP–retrofitted concrete structures

Abstract A far-field airborne radar (FAR) nondestructive testing (NDT) technique integrating inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) measurements and a backprojection algorithm for the condition assessment of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP)–wrapped concrete structures is proposed. The method is directed toward the detection of near-surface defects and delaminations located in the vicinity of GFRP–concrete interface. Normal and oblique incidence measurement schemes were adopted and studied for their effectiveness in detecting near-surface anomalies. This technique is also applied to the detection of rebars in reinforced concrete cylinders. Laboratory measurements in the frequency range 8–12 GHz were made on artificially damaged GFRP–concrete cylinders for validating the concept of this technique. Spatial resolutions (range and cross-range) are improved by integrating radar measurements at different azimuth angles and in different frequencies, and implementing the developed progressive image focusing scheme. The feasibility of the proposed FAR NDT technique for distant inspection is validated through these studies.
Pulmonary outcome at 1 year corrected age in premature infants treated at birth with recombinant human CuZn superoxide dismutase.

Objective. To examine whether treatment of premature infants with intratracheal recombinant human CuZn superoxide dismutase (r-h CuZnSOD) reduces bronchopulmonary dysplasia and improves pulmonary outcome at 1 year corrected age. Design. Three hundred two premature infants (600–1200 g birth weight) treated with exogenous surfactant at birth for respiratory distress syndrome were randomized to receive either intratracheal r-h CuZnSOD (5 mg/kg in 2 mL/kg saline) or placebo every 48 hours (as long as intubation was required) for up to 1 month of age. Short-term, as well as longer-term pulmonary outcome was assessed. Results. There were no differences between groups in the incidence of death or the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (oxygen requirement with an Edwards chest radiograph score of ≥3) at 28 days of life or 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age. r-h CuZnSOD was well-tolerated and not associated with significant increases in any adverse event. At a median of 1 year corrected age, health assessments and physical examinations were performed on 209 (80%) surviving infants, with complete data available on 189 infants. Thirty-seven percent of placebo-treated infants had repeated episodes of wheezing or other respiratory illness severe enough to require treatment with asthma medications such as bronchodilators and/or corticosteroids compared with 24% of r-h CuZnSOD-treated infants, a 36% reduction. In infants Conclusions. These data indicate that treatment at birth with r-h CuZnSOD may reduce early pulmonary injury, resulting in improved clinical status when measured at 1 year corrected age. r-h CuZnSOD appears to be a safe and effective therapy that improves pulmonary outcome in high-risk premature infants.
A low-level strength training exercise program for frail elderly adults living in an extended attention facility

Little is known about low-level, mildly progressive, strength training programs for frail elderly adults who live in extended attention housing. To study the effects of a low-level strength training program, a group of 12 frail elderly adults, aged 70 to 93 years, residing in an extended attention facility, participated in a strength training exercise program using ankle and wrist weights. Baseline measurements of elbow and knee flexor and extensor muscle strength were taken with a handheld dynamometer prior to initiation of the strength training program, and every three weeks during the 12-week period of exercise with weights. Muscle strength of elbow and knee flexors improved significantly by the end of the 12-week period (p < 0.05). Elbow and knee extensors did not show significant increases in muscle strength, but were maintained. It is concluded that muscle strength can be maintained or improved in adults over 70 who live in an extended attention facility using a low-level, mildly progressive, resistive exercise program. The program is safe, inexpensive, practical and can be used in clinical as well as community settings.
Dense motion field estimation by 3-D Gabor representation

This paper presents two advancements in motion estimation based on the 3-D Gabor representation. First, we introduce a new searching strategy and solve the estimation bias problem encountered in the current approach to piecewise translational motion estimation; second, in order to achieve better spatiotemporal resolution, we constructed a new algorithm that can provide dense motion field estimation.
Progress In Slab Geometry Solid State Lasers

A slab geometry, with a zig-zag totally internally reflected optical path, significantly reduces thermal focusing, stress induced biaxial focusing and birefringence in a solid state laser host. We present results of a theoretical and experimental study of slab geometry Nd:Glass and Nd:YAG laser systems.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Quantitative study of rigid-body and respiratory motion of patients undergoing stress and rest cardiac SPECT imaging

We report patient motion in 110 Tl-201 cardiac perfusion SPECT studies in 66 patients. The imaging consisted of emission followed by sequential transmission imaging during which motion tracking with a visual tracking system (VTS) was performed. We investigated the extent, time, and frequency of respiratory and rigid-body motion in these patients. We also determined whether the motion occurred gradually or in sudden jumps, whether it was sustained, and if it occurred along one or more axes predominantly. We then studied the differences in respiratory and body motion (BM), if any, between stress versus rest imaging groups, male versus female subjects, and exercise versus pharmacological stress groups. We found that 23% of the studies had sustained motion (> 4 min.) of between 3-6 mm, and 5% had sustained motion larger than 6 mm during emission imaging. In terms of respiratory motion, 13% showed a downward trend of the respiratory baseline of more than 6 mm during emission imaging. Also, in 9% of the studies, the average position of patients was displaced by more than 3 mm between emission and transmission imaging phases. Both of these motions may lead to misalignment of the attenuation map. In hypothesis testing of grouped studies, it was determined that stress and rest imaging did not show any significant differences in body motion but did in respiratory motion associated with a change in respiration following stress. Exercise-stress studies showed a larger extent of respiratory motion than the pharmacologically induced stress studies. Significant differences in body and respiratory motion of male and female groups were also observed. A visual assessment of the reconstructed slices in the studies with measured motion was made to investigate the impact of the motion. Illustrative example studies are included.
Sampling of cache congruence classes

Techniques for sampling of cache congruence classes are considered. A sampling policy that selects on the basis of where a reference hits the cache (physically) instead of when a reference arrives is examined. The notion of weighted misses is used to provide some meaningful interpretations of the miss ratios associated with workload partitioning. >
Circa 1492 : art in the age of exploration

Part 1 Essays: Mediterranean - essays by - J. M. Massing, L. de Albuquerque, Ezio Bassani, Jonathan Brown, R. Kagan, J. J. Martin Gonzales, M. Rogers, J. Raby, D. Woodward, F. Maddison, M. Kemp Asia - essays by - F. More, M. Colcutt, G. Ledyard, C. Welch Americas - I. Rouse, J. M. Massing, M. Coe, C. Morris, W. Bray, Dr. Reichel-Dolmatov epilogue - Prof. John Elliot the catalogue - Europe and the Mediterranean world - contributors - J. M. Massing, J. Teixera, F. Willett, S. Stratton, G. C. Argan, M. Kemp towards Cathay - contributors - S. E. Lee, J. Ulak, G. Ledyard, H. Rogers, S. C. Welch the Americas - contributors - I. Rouse, M. Leon-Portilla, C. Feest, E. Matos Moctezuma, F. Solis, L. Laurencich Minelli, E. Benson, W. Bray, C. Plazas, A-M. Falchetti, M. Snarskis.
Duration of deep inspiration and subsequent airway constriction in vivo.

The effects of a deep inspiration (DI) in asthmatics differ from those observed in healthy subjects. When considering the effects of a DI, an implicit assumption is that all the airways are distending at the same rate as the lung parenchyma. However, with such rapid lung inflation, the ability of contracted airways to dynamically follow the lung parenchyma was recently shown to significantly lag the lung inflation. Another potentially important variable in the response of the individual airways to a DI that has not been well studied is the duration of the DI maneuver. The current study examines the effects of increasing duration at TLC during a DI on subsequent airway caliber. In five anesthetized and ventilated mongrel dogs, after DIs of increasing duration, changes in airway size were measured over the subsequent 5-minute period using high-resolution computed tomography. Results show that the duration of the maneuver is extremely important, leading to a qualitative change in the airway response. A long ...
Allelic polymorphisms in the FcγRIIC gene can influence its function on normal human natural killer cells

Natural killer (NK) cells are important in host defense against viruses and tumors and can induce death of virally infected cells following engagement of cell surface receptors. Human NK cells express receptors for the Fc portion of IgG which stimulate antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity and induce cytokine production. We have shown that NK cells from certain individuals can express, in addition to CD16 (FcγRIIIa), isoforms of CD32 (FcγRIIc1-4). Expression of CD32 on NK cells is dependent on an allelic polymorphism of the FcγRIIC gene. We analyzed the expression and function of CD32 on NK cells from 31 normal donors. Fourteen of the 31 (45%) donors expressed CD32 on their NK cells. Molecular characterization of FcγRIIc isoforms expressed by the CD32+ donors revealed that the majority of donors expressed the FcγRIIc1 isoform. Interestingly, 3 of the 14 positive donors did not express FcγRIIc1, and we identified a novel isoform, FcγRIIc5, expressed by these individuals. The expression of this isoform was correlated to a second allelic polymorphism that controls exon splicing. One of the three was found to express FcγRIIb on the NK cells. Biochemical analysis revealed that CD32+ donors of both types expressed a 40-kDa protein, specifically immunoprecipitated by anti-CD32 monoclonal antibodies. Functionally, only individuals expressing the FcγRIIc1 isoform were able to trigger reverse antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity via CD32 whereas a CD32+ individual expressing the FcγRIIb isoform was unable to trigger this function. These results demonstrate that the presence of multiple allelic polymorphisms in the FcγRIIC gene determine the expression and function of CD32 on NK cells.
Fluid-phase behavior of binary mixtures in which one component can have two critical points.

We investigate theoretically the binary fluid-phase behavior of mixtures in which one water-like component can have two critical points. We consider three equal-sized nonpolar solutes that differ in the strength of their dispersive interactions (a1<a2<a3, where a denotes the van der Waals attractive parameter). In each case, we compare the phase behavior predicted using two sets of parameters for water: one giving rise to a pure component low-temperature liquid-liquid transition terminating at a critical point (two-critical-point parameter set), and one in which no such second critical point exists (singularity-free parameter set). Regardless of the parameter values used, we find five mixture critical lines. Using the two-critical-point parameter set, we find that a critical line originates at water’s second critical point for aqueous mixtures involving solutes 1, 2, or 3. For mixtures involving solutes 1 or 2, this line extends towards low pressures and high temperatures as the solute mole fraction incre...
On Choice and the Law of Effect

Cumulative records, which show individual responses in real time, are a natural but neglected starting point for understanding the dynamics of operant behavior. To understand the processes that underlie molar laws like matching, it is also helpful to look at choice behavior in situations such as concurrent random ratio that lack the stabilizing feedback intrinsic to concurrent variable) ( ) (
Channel Modeling of Wireless Networks in Tunnels

The propagation characteristics of electromagnetic (EM) waves in tunnels are significantly different from those in terrestrial environment. However, the current tunnel channel models cannot provide an analytical solution for both near and far region of the sources. In this paper, the Multimode model is proposed to completely characterize the wireless channel of tunnels in roads/subways as well as underground mines. The new model provides an analytical expression for the path loss and delay spread at any position in a tunnel. This theoretical model is validated by comparing results with experiment measurements. Our channel model reveals that: the mode attenuation is mostly determined by the tunnel size and operating frequency, while the mode intensity is governed by the position of the transmission antenna. Physical factors, such as, humidity, pressure and temperature of the tunnel air, as well as the material of tunnel walls have little influence on the signal propagation in tunnels.
A Dynamic-cluster Energy-aware Routing Algorithm Based on Neural Structure in the Wireless Sensor Networks

The function of neural network of human beings is quite similar to that of the sensor network, which is a cluster of firmly related individual units performing a special function. According to the architecture of neural network, a dynamic-cluster energy-aware routing algorithm (DCEAR) has been proposed in this paper. The nodes on the network have adopted an active routing based on event awaking. Firstly, the event data dynamically elects a temporary cluster-header. Then the temporary cluster-header handles all the data it receives, and the handled data reflects the general instance of the region. In this way it has decreased the information that has to be forwarded and has reduced the energy consumption of the entire network. The backbone of the network is originated by genetic-tree algorithm. It will timely update the trunk of the genetic-tree in order to trade off the energy consumption of the whole network. So it has prolonged the lifetime of the network greatly. The result of our simulation indicates that it is a quite effective energy saving routing algorithm
An improved algorithm and its parallel implementation for solving a general blood-tissue transport and metabolism model

Fast algorithms for simulating mathematical models of coupled blood-tissue transport and metabolism are critical for the analysis of data on transport and reaction in tissues. Here, by combining the method of characteristics with the standard grid discretization technique, a novel algorithm is introduced for solving a general blood-tissue transport and metabolism model governed by a large system of one-dimensional semilinear first order partial differential equations. The key part of the algorithm is to approximate the model as a group of independent ordinary differential equation (ODE) systems such that each ODE system has the same size as the model and can be integrated independently. Thus the method can be easily implemented in parallel on a large-scale multiprocessor computer. The accuracy of the algorithm is demonstrated for solving a simple blood-tissue exchange model introduced by Sangren and Sheppard [W.C. Sangren, C.W. Sheppard, A mathematical derivation of the exchange of a labeled substance between a liquid flowing in a vessel and an external compartment, Bull. Math. Biophys. 15 (1953) 387-394], which has an analytical solution. Numerical experiments made on a distributed-memory parallel computer (an HP Linux cluster) and a shared-memory parallel computer (a SGI Origin 2000) demonstrate the parallel efficiency of the algorithm.
Using the NREN Testbed to Prototype a High-Performance Multicast Application

Development of the Next Generation Internet requires the development of revolutionary applications as well as advances in networking technologies. This paper presents experiences in using the NREN testbed to prototype a collaborative medical-imaging application. Technological requirements for this application include high-bandwidth reliable multicast and QoS provisioning. Engineering the network infrastructure for a demonstration in May 1999 was a challenging experience. We achieved high-bandwidth multicast for the demonstration; current efforts focus on satisfying application requirements for reliable multicast and QoS.
MobiStreams: A Reliable Distributed Stream Processing System for Mobile Devices

Multi-core phones are now pervasive. Yet, existing applications rely predominantly on a client-server computing paradigm, using phones only as thin clients, sending sensed information via the cellular network to servers for processing. This makes the cellular network the bottleneck, limiting overall application performance. In this paper, we propose Mobi Streams, a Distributed Stream Processing System (DSPS) that runs directly on smartphones. Mobi Streams can offload computing from remote servers to local phones and thus alleviate the pressure on the cellular network. Implementing DSPS on smartphones faces significant challenges: 1) multiple phones can readily fail simultaneously, and 2) the phones' ad-hoc WiFi network has low bandwidth. Mobi Streams tackles these challenges through two new techniques: 1) token-triggered check pointing, and 2) broadcast-based check pointing. Our evaluations driven by two real world applications deployed in the US and Singapore show that migrating from a server platform to a smartphone platform eliminates the cellular network bottleneck, leading to 0.78~42.6X throughput increase and 10%~94.8% latency decrease. Also, Mobi Streams' fault tolerance scheme increases throughput by 230% and reduces latency by 40% vs. prior state-of-the-art fault-tolerant DSPSs.
Sediment-water interactions and mineral cycling in reservoirs

This study was conducted to examine the influences of sediment-water interactions on releases of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and nutrients to the overlying water in established reservoirs. Emphasis was placed on sediment-water interactions under anaerobic conditions, and on sediment-water interactions with and without an externally supplied source of biologically available organic carbon. These studies were conducted in large, 2501 reactor chambers containing 20 cm of sediment and 2101 of water. Results showed that at the end of an anaerobic incubation, the overlying water more closely resembles the composition of sediment interstitial water rather than aerobic surface waters. Dissolved oxygen depletion was shown to result in remobilization of metals and nutrients from sediment into the overlying water. Addition of organic matter to the overlying water resulted in enhanced release rates of Fe and Mn. It is postulated that Fe and Mn trapped in the sediment surface layer under aerobic conditions were reduced and released to the water column under anaerobic conditions.
Construction of Biomimetic Environments with A Synthetic Peptide Analogue of Collagen.

The flow of chemical and mechanical signals among cells, and between cells and their environment plays a crucial role in cell differentiation and morphogenesis. In tissues, type I collagen serves as the template for cell anchorage and migration, and it mediates the flux of regulatory signals via highly specific receptors. Cells respond to mechanical cues by secreting growth factors and remodeling their surrounding matrix in an exquisitely orchestrated spatial and temporal program of matrix turnover and organization. Cellular tractional forces contribute to the organization and orientation of the newly synthesized matrix, establishing the template for subsequent morphogenesis. The junction between cells and collagen plays a key role in cell differentiation, morphogenesis and tissue remodeling. An optimal biomimetic environment would emulate this pathway for the exchange of stimuli. To achieve this goal, we have constructed templates which place cells in apposition to P-15, a synthetic peptide ligand for collagen receptors. These environments prompted 3-D colony formation, induced increased osteogenic differentiation, and the deposition of highly oriented and organized matrix by human dermal and gingival fibroblasts and by osteoblast like HOS cells. These observations support our concept for biomimetic environments for tissue engineering.
CONGENITAL MALFORMATIONS INDUCED IN RATS BY MATERNAL NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCY

Congenital malformations, induced in rats by maternal nutritional deficiency, date back to the cartilaginous or precartilaginous stage of the structures affected. The defects of ossification are secondary results, caused by the faulty development of the precursors of the bones. Many cartilaginous structures show a lack of division in the longitudinal and transverse direction; this leads to a reduction in the number of the skeletal elements, and to syndactylism and brachydactylism in the paws. The radius, ulna, tibia, and fibula are frequently shortened in the cartilaginous stage. Ossification is delayed and faulty, and eccentric centers of ossification lead to an abnormal arrangement of the bone trabeculae.
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Prenatal Exposure to Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: Influence of Surface Charge and Dose on Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity

Iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are commonly utilized for biomedical, industrial, and commercial applications due to their unique properties and potential biocompatibility. However, little is known about how exposure to iron oxide NPs may affect susceptible populations such as pregnant women and developing fetuses. To examine the influence of NP surface-charge and dose on the developmental toxicity of iron oxide NPs, Crl:CD1(ICR) (CD-1) mice were exposed to a single, low (10 mg/kg) or high (100 mg/kg) dose of positively-charged polyethyleneimine-Fe₂O₃-NPs (PEI-NPs), or negatively-charged poly(acrylic acid)-Fe₂O₃-NPs (PAA-NPs) during critical windows of organogenesis (gestation day (GD) 8, 9, or 10). A low dose of NPs, regardless of charge, did not induce toxicity. However, a high exposure led to charge-dependent fetal loss as well as morphological alterations of the uteri (both charges) and testes (positive only) of surviving offspring. Positively-charged PEI-NPs given later in organogenesis resulted in a combination of short-term fetal loss (42%) and long-term alterations in reproduction, including increased fetal loss for second generation matings (mice exposed in utero). Alternatively, negatively-charged PAA-NPs induced fetal loss (22%) earlier in organogenesis to a lesser degree than PEI-NPs with only mild alterations in offspring uterine histology observed in the long-term.
BRANCHINECTA READINGI, NEW SPECIES NAME FOR A WELL-KNOWN FAIRY SHRIMP FROM EAST OF THE NORTH AMERICAN CONTINENTAL DIVIDE

Abstract Branchinecta mackini Dexter, 1956 (Crustacea, Anostraca) has been thought to occur both east and west of the Continental Divide of North America for more than 30 years. My study revealed that individuals from east of the Divide are morphologically distinct from those found west of the Divide. Males consistently differed in the shape of the distal end of the antenna. The eastern taxon is described and given the name Branchinecta readingi new species.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Behavioral Health Disaster Response App

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in the Department of Health and Human Services offers extensive disaster behavior health resources to assist disaster survivors in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from natural and manmade disasters. One of SAMHSA's most innovative resources is the SAMHSA Behavioral Health Disaster Response App (SAMHSA Disaster App). The SAMHSA Disaster App prepares behavioral health responders for any type of traumatic event by allowing them to access disaster-related materials and other key resources right on their phone, at the touch of a button. The SAMHSA Disaster App is available on iPhone, Android, and BlackBerry devices.
Medication utilization evaluation of dabigatran and rivaroxaban within a large, multi-center health system

Objective The objective of this medication utilization evaluation (MUE) was to determine the appropriateness of dabigatran and rivaroxaban while also reviewing outcomes for safety and effectiveness within a large, multi-center health system. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed using the system’s electronic medical record. A data inquiry was requested and generated for dabigatran usage from July 28, 2011 through July 28, 2012 and for rivaroxaban from March 1, 2012 to July 31, 2012 at eight health system hospitals. All patients receiving at least one dose were eligible for inclusion in the MUE. Results For dabigatran, 78 of 390 unique patient encounters were analyzed (20%). All 62 rivaroxaban encounters were included in the analysis. Dabigatran was used for appropriate indications in 94% of encounters and 82% for rivaroxaban. Based on indication and renal function, 87% of dabigatran patients and 92% of rivaroxaban patients received correct dosing. For patients transitioning to or from another anticoagulant, appropriate transitions occurred in 44% of dabigatran transitions and 48% of rivaroxaban transitions. At discharge, 83% of dabigatran and 86% of rivaroxaban therapy was continued. There were no reported strokes or systemic embolism with dabigatran, but one reported deep vein thrombosis occurred during hospitalization with rivaroxaban therapy. Documented bleeds in 5% of dabigatran and 3% of rivaroxaban patients. Patient education was documented for 37% of dabigatran and 26% of rivaroxaban patients receiving therapeutic anticoagulation. Conclusion This MUE revealed the appropriate use of dabigatran and rivaroxaban therapy with few safety outcomes within a large, multi-center health system.
Impacts of warming revealed by linking resource growth rates with consumer functional responses

ummary 1.Warming global temperatures are driving changes in species distributions, growth and timing, but much uncertainty remains regarding how climate change will alter species interactions. 2.Consumer-Resource interactions in particular can be strongly impacted by changes to the relative performance of interacting species. While consumers generally gain an advantage over their resources with increasing temperatures, nonlinearities can change this relation near temperature extremes. 3.We use an experimental approach to determine how temperature changes between 5 and 30 °C will alter the growth of the algae Scenedesmus obliquus and the functional responses of the small bodied Daphnia ambigua and the larger D. pulicaria. 4.The impact of warming generally followed expectations, making both Daphnia species more effective grazers, with the increase in feeding rates outpacing the increases in algal growth rate. At the extremes of our temperature range, however, warming resulted in a decrease in Daphnia grazing effectiveness. Between 25 and 30°C both species of Daphnia experienced a precipitous drop in feeding rates, while algal growth rates remained high, increasing the likelihood of algal blooms in warming summer temperatures. 5.D. pulicaria performed significantly better at cold temperatures than D. ambigua, but by 20°C there was no significant difference between the two species and at 25°C D. ambigua out-performed D. pulicaria. Warming summer temperatures will favor the smaller D. ambigua, but only over a narrow temperature range and warming beyond 25°C could open D. ambigua to invasion from tropical species. 6.By fitting our results to temperature dependent functions we develop a temperature and density dependent model which produces a metric of grazing effectiveness, quantifying the grazer density necessary to halt algal growth. This approach should prove useful for tracking the transient dynamics of other density dependent consumer-resource interactions, such as agricultural pests and biological control agents. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN THE NORTHWESTERN HILLY PART OF THE NARA BASIN

A study was made of the housing development in the northwestern hilly part of the Nara Basin, using urban planning materials of Nara Prefecture and aerial photographs as well as doing field work. As a result, it was found that a rapid housing development had first begun along the Kintetsu Nara line, and extended to the southern, central, and northeastern parts in a leapfrogging manner, then filled the areas between earlier housing developments. Especially eye-catching development is the transformation of Japanese red pine forest in the central part of this region, except for the northwestern part where the foothills are being transformed into housing areas. The population of this region has increased four-fold since 1965, leading to the formation of housing areas that include more than 30, 000 households and more than 100, 000 people. Eventually, even the deep forest areas were developed into luxurious communities. With the creation of new housing areas and increase in population, roads have been extended, widened, and paved. Bus service has been extended and at the same time accompanied with the increase of daily runs. Thus, nearly half of these new housing areas fall within a nine-minute radius to the nearest railway station. Other areas are in the fourteen-minute range to Nara City, and a few in the twenty-minute range. The topographical environment of small scale was analyzed by using the 500 meter grid square on topographical maps with a scale of one to twenty five thousand, and by making field work. It was found that in the case of most of the early housing development areas (1965.1967), houses were built in the areas of relative relief of 22 to 25 meters and altitude of more than 140 meters above sea level. The valley density was low (between 10 and 19) and 70% of housing areas occupied the sunny slopes. However, in the later period, houses were developed in the areas of relative relief of greater than 30 meters and altitude of less than 100 meters above sea level. The valley density was greater than 20, and 60% of the areas occupied the shady slopes. The writer realized that housing development first began in areas with less topographical barriers suitable for the housing development, and then housing development moved gradually to less suitable areas.
An audit of preoperative fasting compliance at a major tertiary referral hospital in Singapore.

Introduction To avoid the risk of pulmonary aspiration, fasting before anaesthesia is important. We postulated that the rate of noncompliance with fasting would be high in patients who were admitted on the day of surgery. Therefore, we surveyed patients in our institution to determine the rate of fasting compliance. We also examined patients' knowledge on preoperative fasting, as well as their perception of and attitudes toward preoperative fasting. Methods Patients scheduled for 'day surgery' or 'same day admission surgery' under general or regional anaesthesia were surveyed over a four-week period. The patients were asked to answer an eighteen-point questionnaire on demographics, preoperative fasting and attitudes toward fasting. Results A total of 130 patients were surveyed. 128 patients fasted before surgery, 111 patients knew that they needed to fast for at least six hours before surgery, and 121 patients believed that preoperative fasting was important, with 103 believing that preoperative fasting was necessary to avoid perioperative complications. However, patient understanding was poor, with only 44.6% of patients knowing the reason for fasting, and 10.8% of patients thinking that preoperative fasting did not include abstinence from beverages and sweets. When patients who did and did not know the reason for fasting were compared, we did not find any significant differences in age, gender or educational status. Conclusion Despite the patients' poor understanding of the reason for fasting, they were highly compliant with preoperative fasting. This is likely a result of their perception that fasting was important. However, poor understanding of the reason for fasting may lead to unintentional noncompliance.
Early experiences with the centrifichem analyser

The CentrifiChem system as purchased was linked to a Wang 600 series calculator and output-writer. The manual reaction rate methods recording at 340 nm for AST, ALT and CK, and at 405 nm for γ-GT were quickly and satisfactorily implemented on the system. For CK the comparison between manual and automatic results gave a regression coefficient r = 0.99. Problems were experienced with ALP at 550 nm; these were shown to be due to the marked variation in O.D. of phenolphthalein with temperature (ΔO.D. = 0.77%/°C). Appreciating this, subsequent comparative evaluations gave r = 0.995. The pipettor performed within the makers specifications. The C. of V. dispensing 5 μl samples was found to be 1.3%. Early results indicate satisfactory correlation between manual and CentrifiChem methods for urea, creatinine, cholesterol, protein, albumin, calcium, and magnesium. Initial mechanical and electrical problems were encountered in the centrifugal analyser and the pipettor.