cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Power efficient scheduling for hard real-time systems on a multiprocessor platform

An online, real-time scheduler is proposed to minimize the power consumption of a task set during execution on a multiprocessor platform. The scheduler is capable of handling the spectrum of task types (periodic, sporadic, and aperiodic) as well as supporting mutually exclusive, shared resources. The solution presented is a user adjustable scheduler which ranges from producing an optimal schedule which requires the minimum power during the worst case execution scenario to producing a suboptimal schedule which aggressively minimizes power during the typical execution scenario.
Differentiation of thymus cells

The process of cellular differentiation in the thymus presumably leads to the development of immunocompetent peripheral “T” lymphocytes (1, 6). Although there are considerable data showing the existence of a small pool of immunocompetent cortisone-resistant, medullary thymocytes which, as a population, bear low concentration of Thy 1.2, lack TL antigens, and exhibit high concentrations of H-2, the identification of their immediate precursors is not yet known (1). Under conditions of parenteral hydrocortisone administration it has been demonstrated that at least some of the cortisone-resistant medullary thymocytes are derived from an intrathymic pool of cortisone-sensitive cortical precursors (7). In this paper we demonstrate the in vivo maturation of at least three lines of “mature” thymus cells from a precursor subclass using selective labeling of these precursors in situ as a marker.
Opioid-Induced Esophageal Dysfunction (OIED) in patients on chronic opioids

OBJECTIVES:Bowel dysfunction has been recognized as a predominant side effect of opioid use. Even though the effects of opioids on the stomach and small and large intestines have been well studied, there are limited data on opioid effects on esophageal function. The aim of this study was to compare
Use of Fiber‐Like Materials to Augment Cycle Life of Thick, Thermoprotective‐Seal Coatings

Some experimental and analytical studies of plasma sprayed ZrO2-Y2O3 thick seal thermoprotective materials over NiCrAlY bond coats with testing to 1040 deg C in a Mach 0.3 burner flame are reviewed. These results indicate the need for material to have both compliance and sufficient strength to function successfully as a thick thermoprotective seal material. Fibrous materials may satisfy many of these requirements. A preliminary analysis simulating the simplified behavior of a 25 mm cylindrical SiO2-fiber material indicated significant radial temperature gradients, a relatively cool interface and generally acceptable stresses over the initial portion of the thermal cycle. Subsequent testing of these fiberlike materials in a Mach 0.3 Jet A/air burner flame confirmed these results.
Effect of antenna footprint on the statistics of radar backscattering from random surfaces

The effect of antenna beamwidth on the statistics of radar backscattering from random surfaces is studied. One-dimensional perfectly conducting random surfaces having Gaussian height distributions and correlation functions are considered. Then, the method of moments is used to solve for the scattered field from the segments of the random surface when a Gaussian beam with variable footprints is used as the incident wave. The vv- and hh-polarized backscattering coefficients are computed using a large number of independent surface segments to get accurate statistics at various incidence angles. It was found that the antenna footprint should be at least twice as long as the correlation length so that the backscattering coefficients become independent of footprint size.
Magnesium therapy for nephrolithiasis

Purpose. Critically evaluate the experimental evidence and clinical trial outcomes as the basis for use of magnesium (Mg) supplements as therapy for calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis. Materials and methods. Literature search of MedLine and Web of Science through January 2005; articles cited in papers found by searches. Results. Magnesium inhibits calcium oxalate crystallization in human urine and model systems. Magnesium also inhibits absorption of dietary oxalate from the gut lumen. Three early trials of Mg oxide (MgO) and Mg hydroxide (Mg(OH) 2) reported lower rates of recurrent stone formation. However in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with more carefully selected patients, there was no significant difference between recurrence rates with 650 or 1300 mg MgO daily and the placebo. Another trial reported 391 mg (21 meq) Mg daily as a mixed salt, Mg potassium citrate, reduced calcium stone recurrence by 90%, similar to potassium citrate, but with better gastrointestinal tolerance. The failure of MgO and Mg(OH) 2 as sole therapy may be related to poor absorption and low rates of Mg deficiency in the patient populations tested. Conclusions. Clinical trial evidence does not justify the use of MgO or Mg(OH) 2 as a sole therapy for calcium oxalate kidney stones in a general patient population. However, the addition of magnesium to potassium citrate therapy improves outcomes. Clinical trials should focus on patients who are likely to be Mg deficient.
Molecular breast imaging

Molecular breast imaging (MBI) is a new nuclear medicine technique that utilizes small semiconductor-based gamma-cameras in a mammographic configuration to provide high-resolution functional images of the breast. Current studies with MBI have used Tc-99m sestamibi, which is an approved agent for breast imaging. The procedure is relatively simple to perform. Imaging can be performed within 5 min postinjection, with the breast lightly compressed between the two detectors. Images of each breast are acquired in the craniocaudal and mediolateral oblique projections facilitating comparison with mammography. Key studies have confirmed that MBI has a high sensitivity for the detection of small breast lesions. In patients with suspected breast cancer, MBI has an overall sensitivity of 90%, with a sensitivity of 82% for lesions less than 10 mm in size. Sensitivity was lowest for tumors less than 5 mm in size. Tumor detection does not appear to be dependent on tumor type, but rather on tumor size. Studies using MBI and breast-specific gamma-imaging have shown that these methods have comparable sensitivity to breast MRI. A large clinical trial compared MBI with screening mammography in over 1000 women with mammographically dense breast tissue and increased risk of breast cancer and showed that MBI detected two-to three-times more cancers than mammography. In addition, MBI appears to have slightly better specificity than mammography in this trial. MBI provides high-resolution functional images of the breast and its potential applications range from evaluation of the extent of disease to a role as an adjunct screening technique in certain high-risk populations. MBI is highly complementary to existing anatomical techniques, such as mammography, tomosynthesis and ultrasound.
Some relationships between creativity and perception in fourth grade children.

Abstract This study sought to explore possible relationships between perceptual behaviors and measures of creative thinking. Ninetyfive fourth grade children in an elementary school district in Newhall, California were tested on the perceptual variables of: (a) preference for complexity, (b) field-independence, (c) ability to differentiate form in drawing and on non-verbal measures of creative thinking developed by Torrance. A correlational analysis was employed to test for relationships between the variables. The data were analysed separately by sex. The predicated relationships did not occur in any meaningful patterns. The results are discussed in reference to art education.
Contributions to the history of psychology: LV. Purkinje phenomenon: original account and later definitions.

Summary.-Although Putkinje observed the eponymous phenomenon at dawn, it is identical to what happens in the dark-adapting eye. It is shown that most modern definitions of the phenomenon couch it in terms of dark adaptation and that the author's definition of it in similar terms is justified in spite of Broiek's objection. Broiek (1989) objects, it seems, to my definition (Zusne, 1987) of the Purkinje phenomenon in terms of what happens when the light dims, because Purkinje (1825) himself made his original observation at dawn and therefore under conditions of increasing illumination. The original account of a phenomenon is one thing. Subsequent definitions of the phenomenon after it has become part of the scientific body of knowledge (and even an eponym) are something quite different. Purkinje ~rovided us only with a description of a phenomenon, and his description was limited to only one of the two conditions under which it can be observed: Purkinje's observation was Limited to the light-adapting eye, but the identical phenomenon is also observed in the dark-adapting eye. Modern definitions of the Purkinje phenomenon are therefore couched in terms that refer to either light-adaptation, dark-adaptation, or take both processes into account. ~xam~les of all three possibilities may be found in modern texts on vision, perception, and in psychological dictionaries. In fact, the large majority of them define the Purkinje phenomenon by referring to what happens in the process of dark adaptation (Chaplin, 1968; Cornsweet, 1970; Drever, 1964; English & English, 1958; Forgus & Melamed, 1976; Matlin, 1988; Rossotti, 1983; Schiffman, 1982; Warren, 1934). A few define the phenomenon as the difference between the maxima of the photopic and scotopic sensitivity curves (Dember & Warm, 1979; Hurvich & Jameson, 1966; Kaufman, 1979). Gregory (1978) defines it for the light-adapting eye. Geldard (1972) states that the phenomenon is the same regardless of the direction in which light intensity changes. Only Hurvich and Jameson (1966) and Coren and Ward (1989) state explicitly that Purkinje observed the phenomenon at dawn. There is a reason for the predilection of authors to define the Purkinje phenomenon in terms of events that accompany the process of dark adaptation. It is simply more convenient to dim the room lights and invite
Infrared photosensitivity in silica glasses exposed to femtosecond laser pulses

We investigate the use of infrared femtosecond laser pulses to induce highly localized refractive-index changes in fused-silica glasses. We characterize the magnitude of the change as a function of exposure and measure index changes as large as 3x10(-3) and 5x10(-3) in pure fused silica and boron-doped silica, respectively. The potential of this technique for writing three-dimensional photonic structures in bulk glasses is demonstrated by the fabrication of a Y coupler within a sample of pure fused silica.
Hydrophobic as well as Charged Residues in both MEK1 and ERK2 are Important for their Proper Docking

Docking between MEK1 and ERK2 is required for their stable interaction and efficient signal transmission. The MEK1 N terminus contains the ERK docking or D domain that consists of conserved hydrophobic and basic residues. We mutated the hydrophobic and basic residues individually and found that loss of either type reduced MEK1 phosphorylation of ERK2 in vitroand its ability to bind to ERK2 in vivo. Moreover, ERK2 was localized in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus when co-expressed with MEK1 that had mutations in either the hydrophobic or the basic residues. We then identified two conserved hydrophobic residues on ERK2 that play roles in docking with MEK1. Mutating these residues to alanine reduced the interaction of ERK2 with MEK1 in cells. These mutations also reduced the phosphorylation of MEK1 by ERK2 but had little effect on phosphorylation of MBP by ERK2. Finally, we generated docking site mutants in ERK2-MEK1 fusion proteins. Although the mutation of the MEK1 D domain significantly reduced ERK2-MEK1 activity, mutations of the putatively complementary acidic residues and hydrophobic residues on ERK2 did not change its activity. However, both types of mutations decreased the phosphorylation of Elk-1 caused by ERK2-MEK1 fusion proteins. These findings suggest complex interactions of MEK1 D domains with ERK2 that influence its activation and its effects on substrates.
Beneventan and Milanese Chant

In 1058 Pope Stephen IX visited Montecassino, of which he had been made abbot only shortly before his elevation to the papacy the previous year. This German Pope was the former papal chancellor Frederick of Lorraine, the second northern abbot of Montecassino. On the occasion of this visit the Pope strictly forbade the singing at Montecassino of ‘Ambrosian chant’: ‘Tune etiam et Ambrosianum cantum in ecclesia ista cantari penitus interdixit.’
Counting the Homeless S-Night in New York

A modified capture-recapture methodology was devised to monitor and assess the 1990 S-Night street count in lower Manhattan. Observers were deployed at 41 sites, selected in a quasi-random manner, ...
Polyadenylation site-specific differences in the activity of the neuronal βCstF-64 protein in PC-12 cells.

Recent genome-wide analyses have implicated alternative polyadenylation — the process of regulated mRNA 3′ end formation — as a critical mechanism that influences multiple steps of mRNA metabolism in addition to increasing the protein-coding capacity of the genome. Although the functional consequences of alternative polyadenylation are well known, protein factors that regulate this process are poorly characterized. Previously, we described an evolutionarily conserved family of neuronal splice variants of the CstF-64 mRNA, βCstF-64, that we hypothesized to function in alternative polyadenylation in the nervous system. In the present study, we show that βCstF-64 mRNA and protein expression increase in response to nerve growth factor (NGF), concomitant with differentiation of adrenal PC-12 cells into a neuronal phenotype, suggesting a role for βCstF-64 in neuronal gene expression. Using PC-12 cells as model, we show that βCstF-64 is a bona fide polyadenylation protein, as evidenced by its association with the CstF complex, and by its ability to stimulate polyadenylation of luciferase reporter mRNA. Using luciferase assays, we show that βCstF-64 stimulates polyadenylation equivalently at the two weak poly(A) sites of the β-adducin mRNA. Notably, we demonstrate that the activity of βCstF-64 is less than CstF-64 on a strong polyadenylation signal, suggesting polyadenylation site-specific differences in the activity of the βCstF-64 protein. Our data address the polyadenylation functions of βCstF-64 for the first time, and provide initial insights into the mechanism of alternative poly(A) site selection in the nervous system.
Non-constant distribution coefficients from experimental data: Theoretical

Techniques were developed for calculating the distribution coefficient k from experimental data for directional crystallization and zone melting. Simplifying assumptions such as constant k and constant zone length were not made. Error analyses were performed to determine the optimal calculation methods.
Burst Tests of Filament-wound Graphite-epoxy Tubes

A test program was conducted to investigate the failure modes of undamaged and damaged graphite-epoxy cylindrical tubes subjected to internal pressure. Some tubes were intentionally damaged by either a longitudinal-line cut or a single-point impact. Both types of damage were intended to simulate fiber breakage caused by a local damage. The objectives of the program were to investigate the failure modes of graphite-epoxy cylindrical tubes subjected to internal pressure, with and without local damage, and to qualitatively determine the relative burst pressure degradation associated with preexisting local damage to the tubes. A high-speed motion analyzer was used to record images of the fractures. The images provide the failure mode information that was not available in existing literature. Testing was conducted under three conditions: hydraulic pressurization, pneumatic pressurization with solid inserts, and pneumatic pressurization with inert propellant inserts. A tube with a longitudinal cut can fail by t...
Firefly Synchrony: A Behavioral Strategy to Minimize Visual Clutter

Most firefly species (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) use bioluminescent flashes for signaling. In some species, the flashing between males occurs rhythmically and repeatedly (synchronically) with millisecond precision. We studied synchrony’s behavioral role in the North American firefly, Photinus carolinus. We placed a female in a virtual environment containing artificial males that flashed at varying degrees of synchrony. Females responded to an average of 82% of synchronous flashes compared with as few as 3% of asynchronous flashes. We conclude that one function of flash synchrony is to facilitate a female’s ability to recognize her conspecific male’s flashing by eliminating potential visual clutter from other flashing males.
Neurology of the neuronal ceroid‐lipofuscinoses: Late infantile and juvenile types

My experience with more than 80 cases of the late infantile and juvenile forms of the neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinoses over the last 5 years has led to the following realizations. The 2 variants are neurologically distinct entities and probably are the result of different genetic defects. Treatment includes supportive measures and anticonvulsant medication. Therapy for behavioral and psychiatric disturbances in the juvenile type proves to be particularly challenging as neuroleptic medications tend to worsen parkinsonian like symptoms. Neuropathologic and neuroradiologic explanation of clinical symptomatology correlates best with neuronal loss and not neuronal storage. There is a paucity of neuropathologic documentation of these 2 types; additional reports are encouraged.
Occult hypercarbia : an unrecognized phenomenon during percutaneous endoscopic tracheostomy

Bronchoscopy has been incorporated as a useful adjunct to increase the safety and effectiveness of percutaneous endoscopic tracheostomy (PET). Insertion of the bronchoscope, along with the intraluminal dilators of the PET set, into the airway potentially leads to hypoventilation and hypercarbia during the procedure. Using continuous in-line arterial blood gas monitoring, we documented profound hypercarbia in two patients undergoing PET in the surgical ICU. In a third patient, the rise in PaCO 2 was accompanied by a marked rise in intracranial pressure (ICP), and a corresponding fall in cerebral perfusion pressure. While transient hypercarbia seems well tolerated by most patients, this phenomenon and its effect on cerebral blood flow should be strongly considered before performing PET on the critically ill patient with evidence of elevated ICP.
Evaluation of anticoagulant therapy in cloth-covered prosthetic valves.

Over a period of four years, a series of 303 patients had prosthetic valve replacement with the Starr-Edwards cloth-covered metallic ball prosthesis. There were 135 aortic replacements, 105 mitral, 42 combined mitral and aortic, and 21 combined mitral and tricuspid. The frequency of thromboembolism and hemorrhage was studied in patients receiving warfarin sodium (Coumadin) and in those not receiving warfarin. No thromboemboli occurred during 2,052 patient-months of observation in patients with aortic prostheses who were receiving warfarin, but 10 episodes of hemorrhage occurred. By comparison, after anticoagulants were discontinued, there was 1 episode of thromboembolism during 786 months of patient observation. Among patients with mitral prostheses who were receiving warfarin, 3 episodes of thromboembolism occurred in 2,081 patient-months of observation, during which 5 hemorrhagic episodes also occurred. By comparison, after warfarin was discontinued, there were 3 episodes of thromboembolism during 402 months. In patients with mitral and aortic prostheses who were receiving warfarin, 1 episode of thromboembolism occurred in 670 patient-months, and no episodes of hemorrhage. Without anticoagulation, 2 episodes of thromboembolism occurred in 130 patient-months. In patients with mitral and tricuspid prostheses who were receiving warfarin, there were no episodes of thromboembolism during 186 patient-months, but there was 1 episode of hemorrhage. Without anticoagulation, however, there were 3 episodes of thromboembolism during 32 months of patient observation.
A multi-resolution approach for tumor motion modeling

This paper presents a multi-resolution approach for tumor motion modeling as a function of respiratory motion of the patient for the purpose of conformal radiation therapy. Respiration induced tumor motion can distort the shape of the tumor, degrade the anatomic position reproducibility during imaging, and necessitate larger margins during radiation therapy planning which may be harmful for healthy tissue surrounding the tumor. The key idea of our approach is the powerful averaging process which allows one to blend independent and arbitrary local models to obtain a global model without introducing the discontinuity on the boundaries. These local models are defined independently to each other by the use of classical basis functions like RBF, Fourier Series, Polynomials, Wavelets etc. based upon a-priori information that we may have about local characteristics of the given input-output data. The proposed approach is validated by using experimental data from a porcine lung.
Preparing Africa for the twenty-first century: Lessons from constitutional economics

In the 1960s, when most African countries gained independence, they had an opportunity to select new political and economic institutions to promote growth and development. After more than three decades of political autonomy, it now appears that the opportunity made possible by decolonization was wasted and never fully utilized to promote sustainable development in the continent. As a result, after more than thirty years of independence, most of Africa remains poor and highly deprived. Political economy in the continent is characterized by opportunism, promoted by political coalitions whose primary objective is to subvert the rules to generate benefits for themselves. The end of the Cold War and the subsequent cessation of superpower rivalry, in addition to the demise of apartheid in South Africa, has provided policy makers in Africa another opportunity to choose new institutions to lead Africans into the twenty-first century. Public choice and constitutional economics provide guidelines that can be utilized to develop efficient and self-enforcing institutions to enhance development and effect significant increases in social welfare in Africa in the next century.
Studies on chromatin-associated protein phosphokinase of submandibular gland from isoproterenol-treated rats

Abstract Water-soluble chromatin from rat submandibular gland nuclei was isolated, and had a DNA: RNA:protein ratio of 8:1:20. The spectral properties of this preparation were similar to those described for chromatins from other tissues. The rat submandibular gland chromatin possessed protein phosphokinase activity. It was able to incorporate 32P from [γ-32P]-ATP into chromatin proteins, and into dephospho-phosvitin. The chromatin-associated protein phosphokinase activity (measured with dephospho-phosvitin as substrate) required Mg2+, Na+ or K+ and dithiothreitol for optimal activity. A single injection of isoproterenol influenced the activity of this enzyme system, so that it was decreased at 2 h, showed a transient increase at 4 h, and a large increase at 10–16 h after the injection. This event appears to precede the increase in ribosomal RNA induced by Ipr [13]. By 48 h the chromatin-associated protein kinase returned to the normal control levels. These changes appeared to be commensurate with the corresponding alterations in the non-histone acidic protein complement of these chromatins. Actinomycin D or cycloheximide, when administered 30 min prior to isoproterenol, blocked the increase in chromatin-associated protein kinase at 4 as well as 10 h after the injection of isoproterenol. Injection of pilocarpine did not influence the chromatin-associated protein phosphokinase activity. Dichloroisoproterenol appeared to be antagonistic to the influence of isoproterenol in mediating changes in chromatin-associated protein kinase. The results suggest that the isoproterenol-induced increase in chromatin-bound protein phosphokinase which precedes the increase in RNA synthesis is related to the eventual onset of DNA synthesis in rat submandibular gland stimulated by isoproterenol. The chromatin-bound protein phosphokinase activity (or activities) may have a regulatory role on gene action, mediated through the control of phosphorylation of nuclear non-histone acidic proteins [26].
DETECTION OF SOCIAL INTERACTION IN SMART SPACES

The pervasive sensing technologies found in smart environments offer unprecedented opportunities for monitoring and assisting the individuals who live and work in these spaces. An aspect of daily life that is important for one's emotional and physical health is social interaction. In this paper we investigate the use of smart environment technologies to detect and analyze interactions in smart spaces. We introduce techniques for collecting and analyzing sensor information in smart environments to help in interpreting resident behavior patterns and determining when multiple residents are interacting. The effectiveness of our techniques is evaluated using two physical smart environment test beds.
A primary care provider’s guide to preventive and acute care management of adults and children with sickle cell disease

Purpose: To familiarize primary care providers (PCPs) with the pathophysiological processes, diagnostic evaluation, and medical management of sickle hemoglobinopathies and their complications. Current standards of care, clinical research advances, and new treatment options will also be addressed to assist PCPs in the management of sickle cell disease (SCD). Data sources: A selective search and review of the current literature on SCD and the authors’ experience. Conclusions: Management of individuals with SCD is very complex, requiring a multidisciplinary approach that includes the patient or parent, PCP, specialist, nurse, and social worker. More patients living with SCD are relying on PCPs in nonspecialty practices for comprehensive disease management. Implications for practice: Newborn screening detects new cases of SCD annually. The median life expectancy has more than doubled for individuals with sickle cell anemia. Healthcare providers are now in an era of increased routine screening, assessment, and management of chronic complications from this illness not previously seen in the care of adults with SCD.
Topology of the germ plasm and development of primordial germ cells in inverted amphibian eggs

Inverted Xenopus eggs have reduced numbers of primordial germ cells (PGCs). The extent of the reduction varies from spawning to spawning. Histologic examination revealed that PGC counts were lowest in inverted eggs which displayed the greatest amount of shift in the vegetal mass of large yolk platelets, although the germ plasm itself always remained localized in the egg's original vegetal hemisphere. Even at blastulation the germ plasm continued to be localized in the egg's original vegetal hemisphere. In many cases, however, it was confined to the periphery of the embryo, which probably accounts for the reduced PGC number in some tadpoles. In other cases it may have been dispersed and therefore not detectable in histologic analyses. Although the altered site of involution in inverted embryos did not influence PGC development, subsequent cell movement patterns apparently did. Those embryos which displayed the largest degree of pattern reversal at the tail-bud stage also exhibited the most extreme reduction in PGC numbers. A brief cold shock (4 degrees C, 10 min) prior to first cleavage leads to a further reduction in PGC numbers in inverted embryos, probably as a result of the displacement of the germ plasm away from its original vegetal pole location.
Growth and Characterization of Epitaxial GaAs Deposited by Plasma-Enhanced Metal-Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition

Epitaxial GaAs films have been deposited using a Plasma-Enhanced Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (PE-MOCVD) technique. This technique uses an RF discharge to dissociate arsine and hydrogen upstream from the substrate. The plasma increases the partial pressure of arsenic above the substrate and improves the growth and quality of GaAs films grown at low teyperature and with low arsine flow rates. We have used photoluminescence, Hall measurements, dislocation etches, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study the properties of films grown with and without plasma. enhancement under a variety of reactor conditions. Specular epitaxial layers of n -GaAs were grown with and without plastua at, very low pressures (2 – 3 Torr) on semiinsulating GaAs substrates. Layers grown both with and without the plasma showed good mobility and photoluminescence at deposition temperatures of 650°C. At lower deposition temperatures the films deposited with the plasma were better than those deposited without the plasma. A KOH-NaOH eutectic etch revealed a better structural quality in films deposited with plasma at low arsine partial pressure.
Microtermolides A and B from Termite-Associated Streptomyces sp. and Structural Revision of Vinylamycin

Microtermolides A (1) and B (2) were isolated from a Streptomyces sp. strain associated with fungus-growing termites. The structures of 1 and 2 were determined by 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Structural elucidation of 1 led to the re-examination of the structure originally proposed for vinylamycin (3). Based on a comparison of predicted and experimental 1H and 13C NMR chemical shifts, we propose that vinylamycin’s structure be revised from 3 to 4.
Bilateral Ear Swelling and Erythema After Chemotherapy: A Case of Ara-C Ears

Case Report A 56-year-old woman with a new diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia with a FLT3 mutation and no other significant past medical history was admitted to the leukemia service for induction chemotherapy with cytarabine (days 1 to 7) and daunorubicin (days 1 to 3). On day 8, 1 day after her final dose of cytarabine, the patient reported swelling and itching behind her left ear. Over the next 4 to 5 days, these symptoms progressed to bilateral swelling, erythema, and pain of the external ears including an area of skin immediately posterior to the ears (Figs 1 and 2). The patient reported no change in auditory acuity, and on otoscopic examination, she had clear tympanic membranes without evidence of effusions. The swelling and erythema gradually resolved without intervention. Our dermatology consultation service noted the temporal relationship of this finding with the start of cytarabine therapy. The dermatology consultation service also considered the greater likelihood of a simultaneous bilateral process being inflammatory or reactive rather than infectious in etiology.
Cell cycle related inhibition of mouse vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation by prostaglandin E1: relationship between prostaglandin E1 and intracellular cAMP levels

Elucidation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms which regulate vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation is critical to the understanding of atherogenesis. The present studies were conducted to evaluate the relationship between prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and cAMP in the regulation of DNA synthesis in mouse vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Quiescent cultures of SMCs were challenged with 10% fetal bovine serum to initiate cell cycle transit and PGE1 (10 microM) or dibutyryl cAMP (1, 10, 100 microM) added at 0, 8, 16, 24, and 32 h. DNA synthesis as measured by [3H] thymidine incorporation and intracellular cAMP levels were measured 24 h following individual treatments. PGE1 modulated DNA synthesis in a cell cycle related fashion, with inhibition only observed in cells challenged 16 h or longer following initiation of cell cycle transit. The decrease in DNA synthesis induced by PGE1 was associated with increased intracellular cAMP levels at 16 and 24 h, but not 32 h. Exposure of SMCs to dibutyryl-cAMP also inhibited DNA synthesis in a cell cycle related fashion, with the most pronounced effect seen at 16 h. These results demonstrate that the effects of PGE1 are restricted to a defined period within the cell cycle following S phase entry and implicate modulation of intracellular cAMP levels in the inhibitory response.
Excess body weight loss is associated with nonpathological gait patterns in women 4 to 5 years after bariatric surgery.

Background This study examined relationships between excess body weight (EBW) loss and current gait and functional status in women 5 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.
Intramuscular Sedation Technique

A technique for intramuscular sedation is presented and indications and contraindications for its use are noted. A protocol is presented using a step-by-step injection sequence.
Power control with jammer location uncertainty: A Game Theoretic perspective

This paper presents a Game Theoretic framework for the analysis of distributed spectrum sharing in a Cognitive Radio Network (CRN) prone to jamming attacks. We consider competitive interactions between a selfish secondary user (SU) transmitter-receiver pair and a jammer under realistic physical interference constraints. Assuming incomplete knowledge of the jammer's location in the network, the SU chooses its transmission power strategy, subject to a total power budget, with the objective of satisfying a minimum signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (SINR) constraint at the intended receiver.We model the strategic power allocation problem as an incomplete and imperfect information game and investigate self-enforcing strategies of the SU and the jammer. The solution of the game corresponds to Nash Equilibria (NE) points. We carry out the equilibrium analysis for this game by considering the mixed strategy solution space and provide closed form expressions of the equilibria points. Numerical examples are presented for illustration.
Modeling Plunger Lift for Water Removal From Tight Gas Wells

Many tight gas wells produce at rates below their potential, due to water loading. Plunger lift is often applied to remove produced (or condensed) water, reduce bottomhole flowing pressure, and increase both gas production rate and ultimate recovery. Previous authors have discussed dynamic models of the plunger lift process. However, these previous models considered only stabilized reservoir production. Because of the assumption that reservoir production is stabilized, these older models have only limited applicability to tight gas wells. This paper presents a study of the application of plunger lift to the problem of water removal from tight gas wells. A numerical simulation model was developed which includes gas flow in the reservoir, wellbore/annulus effects, and dynamic plunger lift cycles. Transient reservoir performance is an important feature of the new model. Transient reservoir performance is a significant factor for tight gas reservoirs, especially as average reservoir pressure decreases during the life of the reservoir. Field data from tight gas wells with plunger lift for water removal can be more thoroughly analyzed using the new simulation model. Calibration of model parameters with field cases allows the plunger lift design to be optimized for a particular well. Improved understanding of the plunger lift process for tight gas wells with water loading problems may lead to more efficient water removal, increased gas production rates and recovery, and longer well life.
Challenges in Calculating Two-Year College Student Transfer Rates to Four-Year Colleges

Two-year colleges play an important role in facilitating transfers to four-year institutions. This has resulted in the demand to assess how well the community college systems train students for successful transfer to four-year bachelor-granting institutions. Existing datasets on two-year college transfer rates provides inconsistent and, sometimes, even contradicting answers. In this paper, we examine exactly why and how there are such varied results on two-year college transfer rates. Our findings indicate that there is no valid or universal measure of successful transfer programs. We find that such a measure is hindered by six factors: structural, technological, economic, governmental, and social. These factors make reliable comparisons of national and even statewide transfer success rates problematic. We suggest that policy makers should review existing datasets on two-year college transfer rates with a knowledgeable eye to avoid drawing inferences or making decisions based upon a review of potentially ...
Modified Use of Team-Based Learning for Effective Delivery of Medical Gross Anatomy and Embryology.

Team-based learning (TBL) is an instructional strategy that combines independent out-of-class preparation for in-class discussion in small groups. This approach has been successfully adopted by a number of medical educators. This strategy allowed us to eliminate anatomy lectures and incorporate small-group active learning. Although our strategy is a modified use of classical TBL, in the text, we use the standard terminology of TBL for simplicity. We have modified classical TBL to fit our curricular needs and approach. Anatomy lectures were replaced with TBL activities that required pre-class reading of assigned materials, an individual self-assessment quiz, discussion of learning issues derived from the reading assignments, and then the group retaking the same quiz for discussion and deeper learning. Students' performances and their educational experiences in the TBL format were compared with the traditional lecture approach. We offer several in-house unit exams and a final comprehensive subject exam provided by the National Board of Medical Examiners. The students performed better in all exams following the TBL approach compared to traditional lecture-based teaching. Students acknowledged that TBL encouraged them to study regularly, allowed them to actively teach and learn from peers, and this served to improve their own exam performances. We found that a TBL approach in teaching anatomy allowed us to create an active learning environment that helped to improve students' performances. Based on our experience, other preclinical courses are now piloting TBL.
Analytical Pyrolysis-Chromatography: Something Old, Something New.

Despite a long history of use across multiple disciplines, analytical pyrolysis is rarely taught in undergraduate curricula. We briefly review some interesting applications and discuss the three types of analytical pyrolyzers available commercially. We also describe a low-cost alternative that can be used to teach the basic principles of pyrolysis.
Exploring agent-based simulations using temporal graphs

Agent-based simulation has become a key technique for modeling and simulating dynamic, complicated behaviors in social and behavioral sciences. Lacking the appropriate tools and support, it is difficult for social scientists to thoroughly analyze the results of these simulations. In this work, we capture the complex relationships between discrete simulation states by visualizing the data as a temporal graph. In collaboration with expert analysts, we identify two graph structures which capture important relationships between pivotal states in the simulation and their inevitable outcomes. Finally, we demonstrate the utility of these structures in the interactive analysis of a large-scale social science simulation of political power in present-day Thailand.
Semi-classical quantization using the method of harmonic balance

We show, by means of an example, that good estimates can be obtained for the energy levels of one-dimensional quantum systems where the potential has all bound states. The calculation uses a semi-classical expression to determine the energy levels where the classical periodic states are evaluated using the method of harmonic balance.
The Musashino Plan: Japan's home equity conversion program for social, health and financial services.

Recent concerns regarding the growth of the elderly population concomitant with the difficulties faced by government to provide sufficient supportive services have resulted in innovative plans for alternative financing. Home equity conversion for the “real estate rich, cash poor” elderly represents one such plan. This study reports on one of only two known government-based programs, the Musashino Plan of Japan. An overview of its historical development and its organizational structure is initially provided followed by a report of a community attitudes survey which attempted to assess preliminary program support. In addition, the experiences of the Plan are also discussed in terms of its eligibility requirements, financial accounting system, types and costs of services provided, client description and enrollment experience and service utilization pattern. This study concludes with a discussion of its limitations, potential and implications for growth from a cross-cultural perspective.
5-HT1A agonists modulate mouse antipredator defensive behavior differently from the 5-HT2A antagonist pirenperone.

The mouse defense test battery (MDTB) has been designed to investigate defensive reactions in Swiss-Webster mice to situations associated with a natural predator, the rat, such as flight, avoidance, defensive threat, defensive attack, and risk assessment activities. The present study evaluated the ability of 8-OH-DPAT (0.05–10 mg/kg, SC, 5) and gepirone (2.5–10 mg/kg, IP, 30), a full- and a partial agonist at 5-HT1A sites, as well as pirenperone (0.25–1 mg/kg, IP, 30), a preferential 5-HT2A receptor antagonist, to exert an anxiolytic-like action in the MDTB. The most consistent effect of both 5-HT1A receptor agonists across tests was a marked reduction in predator assessment activity and defensive attack behavior. In contrast, neither of the two ligands was able to reduce flight responses to the approaching predator, and both failed to reduce in a specific manner contextual defense behaviors after the predator was removed. The 5-HT2A receptor antagonist pirenperone did not provide significant indication of an anxiolytic effect on predator assessment activity and postpredator potentiation of contextual defense responses, and had negligible influence on antipredator defensive behavior. The most interesting exception to this profile was a dose-related reduction in flight-related measures. In view of previous results indicating that the panic-promoting drug yohimbine increases flight/escape reactions and that the panicolytic compound alprazolam reduces these responses, we tentatively suggest that the preferential 5-HT2A receptor antagonist pirenperone may have some efficacy in improving panic attacks. In addition, the lack of effect of the 5-HT1A receptor agonists on these flight responses is consistent with clinical findings indicating that these agents are of limited use in the treatment of panic disorder. These findings suggest that the MDTB provides behavioural measures capable of differentiating between various classes of antianxiety drugs.
Improvement of MRI probes to allow efficient detection of gene expression.

Recently, it has been demonstrated that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) utilizing monocrystalline iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONs) targeted to an engineered transferrin receptor enables imaging of gene expression. However, the relatively high doses of iron oxides used indicated the need for improved MR imaging probes to monitor changes in gene expression in vivo. Using alternative conjugation chemistries to link targeting ligands and iron oxide nanoparticles, we present the development and characterization as well as improved receptor binding and MRI detection of a novel imaging probe. Iron oxide nanoparticles with a cross-linked dextran coat were conjugated to transferrin (Tf) through the linker molecule N-succinimidyl 3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionate (SPDP) to yield Tf-S-S-CLIO. The characteristics of this conjugate were evaluated in comparison to Tf-MION and Tf-CLIO generated by oxidative activation of the dextran-coat with subsequent reduction of Schiff's base. SPDP conjugation allowed approximately a 4...
Progress in the Development of Effective Vaccines to Prevent Selected Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections

Infections caused by virulent Gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, group B streptococci and group A streptococci, remain significant causes of morbidity and mortality despite progress in antimicrobial therapy. Despite significant advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of infection caused by these organisms, there are only limited strategies to prevent infection. In this article, we review efforts to develop safe and effective vaccines that would prevent infections caused by these 3 pathogens.
Effective energy coupling for 200-Mhz pulsed radiofrequency spectroscopic discharges

Abstract The introduction of various new radiofrequency electrical discharges has placed increased emphasis on circuit design which provides optimal energy transfer between a generator and its corresponding spectroscopic “load”. This technology is well developed for high-frequency (ca. 27 MHz) inductively-coupled plasma discharges and for cavity discharges which operate in the microwave region (e.g., 2450 MHz). The 200-MHz very high frequency (VHF) region has received less attention. New circuitry is described which allows effective transfer of high power (5-kW), pulsed (2.5-μs), VHF (200-MHz) energy into a plasma suitable for analytical purposes. A triple-stub tuner is used in this circuitry. Comparison with other approaches and applicability to a variety of discharge systems are discussed.
Surface channelling effects in electron holograms

Abstract In-line holograms, or coherent shadow images, are formed in a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) instrument when the electron probe of diameter 3 A is focussed close to the specimen plane. If the beam axis is almost parallel to the flat face of a small crystal, bright spots and arcs appear in the shadow images as a result of the channelling of electrons along the surface layers of the crystal face. A bright, rather diffuse, axial spot is attributed to channelling directly along surface rows or planes of atoms. The localization of the channelling that gives the axial spot is demonstrated when a STEM image obtained by detecting the spot shows a single bright fringe, about 2 A wide, at the crystal surface. Bright arcs, paralleling the curved shadow of the crystal edge, are seen to vary in intensity and sharpness with beam position. Evidence from the STEM images and the EELS spectra obtained from these bright arcs suggests that the arcs also arise from the channelling of electrons along the crystal surface.
A new probabilistic model for title generation

Title generation is a complex task involving both natural language understanding and natural language synthesis. In this paper, we propose a new probabilistic model for title generation. Different from the previous statistical models for title generation, which treat title generation as a generation process that converts the 'document representation' of information directly into a 'title representation' of the same information, this model introduces a hidden state called 'information source' and divides title generation into two steps, namely the step of distilling the 'information source' from the observation of a document and the step of generating a title from the estimated 'information source'. In our experiment, the new probabilistic model outperforms the previous model for title generation in terms of both automatic evaluations and human judgments.
Tools for a successful refactoring

Although refactoring tools have been integrated into numerous development environments over the past ten years, we have seen little variation in the human interfaces to refactoring tools -- when a refactoring fails, most tools present a textual error message. Existing interfaces can cause programmers to refactor slowly, conservatively, and in an error-prone manner. In this demonstration, we will show how our tools can help programmers overcome barriers to a successful refactoring.