cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microtubules stabilize cell polarity by localizing rear signals.

Microtubules are known to play an important role in cell polarity; however, the mechanism remains unclear. Using cells migrating persistently on micropatterned strips, we found that depolymerization of microtubules caused cells to change from persistent to oscillatory migration. Mathematical modeling in the context of a local-excitation–global-inhibition control mechanism indicated that this mechanism can account for microtubule-dependent oscillation, assuming that microtubules remove inhibitory signals from the front after a delayed generation. Experiments further supported model predictions that the period of oscillation positively correlates with cell length and that oscillation may be induced by inhibiting retrograde motors. We suggest that microtubules are required not for the generation but for the maintenance of cell polarity, by mediating the global distribution of inhibitory signals. Disassembly of microtubules induces cell oscillation by allowing inhibitory signals to accumulate at the front, which stops frontal protrusion and allows the polarity to reverse.
Effects of recording-erasure dynamics of storage capacity of a wavelength-multiplexed reflection-type photorefractive hologram.

We investigate the effects of the recording-erasure dynamics on the storage capacity of a wavelength-multiplexed reflection-type photorefractive hologram by using a coupled-recording-wave approach. A closed-form expression for the diffraction efficiency for on-Bragg incidence is derived. The dependence of the equalized diffraction efficiency on the number of recordable holograms is analyzed. The result shows that the storage capacity of a reflection-type hologram is of the same order of a transmission-type hologram but higher than the previous predictions based on an uncoupled-recording-wave theory.
Hydrocortisone, selectively inhibits IgE-dependent arachidonic acid release from rat peritoneal mast cells

Abstract Purified rat mast cells were used to study the effects of anti-inflammatory steroids on the release of [1- 14 C]-arachidonic acid ([1- 14 C]AA) and metabolites. Mast cells were incubated overnight with glucocorticoids, [1- 14 C]AA incorporated into cellular phospholipids and the release of [1- 14 C]AA, and metabolites determined using a variety of secretagogues. Release of [1- 14 C]AA and metabolites by concanavalin A, the antigen ovalbumin and anti-immunoglobulin in E antibody was markedly reduced by glucocorticoid treatment. Neither the total incorporation of [1- 14 C]AA nor the distribution into phospholipids was altered by hydrocortisone pretreatment. Glucocorticoid pretreatment did not alter [1- 14 C]AA release stimulated by somatostatin, compound 48/80, or the calcium ionophore, A23187. These data indicate that antiinflammatory steroids selectively inhibit immunoglobulin dependent release of arachidonic acid from rat mast cells. These findings question the role of lipomodulin and macrocortin as general phospholipase inhibitors and suggest that they may be restricted to immunoglobulin stimuli.
Cancer Screening Tests for Small Animals

Cancer is increasingly more common. Several tests for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in companion animals have been developed. Screening tests discussed include those for lymphoid neoplasia, hemangiosarcoma, and transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. None of these tests should be used in isolation for diagnosis. Vincristine and doxorubicin are mainstays in the treatment of canine lymphoma. However, it is important and accepted practice to test individuals of predisposed breeds for this mutation before administering these drugs in a lymphoma protocol.
M-mode ARFI imaging demonstrates the effect of coronary perfusion on cardiac stiffness

Myocardial stiffness is an important clinical indicator of cardiac function. One of the contributors to stiffness in the heart is coronary perfusion. The interaction between cardiac tissue and coronary vasculature has been studied for several decades using pressure-volume loop measurements. Recently, developments in elastography methods have enabled researchers to study the mechanical properties of tissues from a distance. Among them, Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) Imaging utilizes an acoustic pulse to push the tissue and ultrasound tracking to measure the resulting displacement. M-mode ARFI was used in this work to investigate the effect of coronary perfusion on cardiac stiffness. In six isolated Langendorff perfused rabbit hearts, we investigated the effect on myocardial stiffness of a perfusion pressure reduction from normal to half-normal. The acute decrease in coronary perfusion decreases the stiffness of the heart in systole and diastole (Gregg and garden-hose effects respectively). As the coronary perfusion was reduced from normal to half-normal, the average M-mode ARFI displacements for all the subjects increased from 5.1 ± 2.2 µm (mean ± standard deviation) to 9.7 ± 3.7 µm in systole and 24.5 ± 8.9 µm to 35.2 ± 9.1 µm in diastole (p < 0.05). These results are consistent with the Gregg and garden-hose effects reported by researchers using other measurement methods. Despite complicated issues regarding attenuation, anisotropy, and viscoelasticity, ARFI can be used to study relative or acute changes in cardiac function and myocardial stiffness.
Compact Model for Ultrathin Low Electron Effective Mass Double Gate MOSFET

We present a core compact model for undoped, high mobility, and low density of states materials in a double gate device architecture. Analytical equations for calculating current and charge are presented in a drift-diffusion compact modeling framework. This model accurately handles both Fermi-Dirac statistics and bias-dependent diffusivity. The results from analytical equations are validated against exact numerical charge and current integrations and device simulation.
Children’s identification of consonants in a speech-shaped noise or a two-talker masker

Purpose To evaluate child–adult differences for consonant identification in a noise or a 2-talker masker. Error patterns were compared across age and masker type to test the hypothesis that errors with the noise masker reflect limitations in the peripheral encoding of speech, whereas errors with the 2-talker masker reflect target–masker confusions within the central auditory system. Method A repeated-measures design compared the performance of children (5–13 years) and adults in continuous speech-shaped noise or a 2-talker masker. Consonants were identified from a closed set of 12 using a picture-pointing response. Results In speech-shaped noise, children under age 10 years performed more poorly than adults, but performance was adultlike for 11- to 13-year-olds. In the 2-talker masker, significant child–adult differences were observed in even the oldest group of children. Systematic clusters of consonant errors were observed for children in the noise masker and for adults in both maskers, but not for chil...
Efficacy of a new oral agent (tocainide) in the acute treatment of refractory ventricular arrhythmias

To assess the efficacy of tocainide, a new oral analog of lidocaine, 30 patients with ventricular arrhythmias refractory to quinidine, procainamide and propranolol were treated with this agent. The dose of tocainide ranged from 400 to 800 mg every 8 hours. Peak tocainide blood levels 1 to 4 hours after administration ranged from 5.0 to 15.0 μg/ml (mean 10.3). The suppression of ventricular premature beats by 75 percent or more was arbitrarily used as a measure of drug efficacy. In 13 patients who met this criterion, ventricular premature complexes, assessed with 24 hour ambulatory tape monitoring, decreased by an average of 88 percent. In 8 of 11 patients, repeated symptomatic bouts of ventricular tachycardia were completely suppressed. Considering both the response of ventricular premature complexes and the abolition of ventricular tachycardia, 18 patients (60 percent) responded to tocainide. Twenty-one patients (70 percent) had initial gastrointestinal and central nervous system side effects; most of these were transient or responded to a reduction in dose. In two patients disorientation and a skin rash required withdrawal of tocainide. These adverse effects did not appear to be due to the interaction of tocainide with other antiarrhythmic agents. It is concluded that tocainide is an effective oral agent for the therapy of potentially lethal ventricular arrhythmias refractory to other medication.
Forced sexual intercourse, suicidality, and binge drinking among adolescent girls.

Although sexual assault victimization has been shown to predict suicidality, little is known about the mechanisms linking these two factors. Using cross-sectional data (N = 6364) from the 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, binge drinking significantly mediated the relationship between forced sexual intercourse and suicide for Hispanic (n = 1915) and Caucasian (n = 2928) adolescent females, but not for African American adolescent females (n = 1521). Results suggest the need for closer monitoring of adolescent victims of sexual assault who also abuse alcohol to intervene in early suicide behaviors. Treatment and intervention programs should also be culturally sensitive to account for differences in reaction to sexual trauma among race/ethnicity. Implications for suicide prevention and alcohol intervention strategies as well as suggestions to clinical providers are discussed.
Fermi Surface, Pseudopotential Coefficients, and Spin-Orbit Coupling in Lead

The de Haas-van Alphen periods in lead have been studied in 200 kG impulsive fields, employing techniques with sensitivity and selectivity which are far improved over those used in an earlier study of this metal, and several new sets of oscillations have been discovered. The results confirm in detail the correctness of a nearly-free-electron Fermi surface based on four conduction electrons per atom, and the experimentally determined Fermi surface has been described in terms of an interpolation scheme using four orthogonalized plane waves for each wave vector k. As would be expected for a heavy metal such as lead, it is necessary to allow for the large spin-orbit interaction in order to achieve an accurate description of all portions of the Fermi surface. The four adjustable parameters required in the description have been determined by a least-squares fit to eight observed extremal areas of cross section, and are found to be (in Ry): Fermi energy ${E}_{f}=0.718\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001$; Fourier coefficients of the pseudopotential ${V}_{111}=\ensuremath{-}0.084\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.002$ and ${V}_{200}=\ensuremath{-}0.039\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.002$; and spin-orbit interaction $\ensuremath{\lambda}=0.096\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.002$. These values of the parameters refer to a specific interpolation scheme and assume that the mass in the kinetic-energy matrix elements is the free-electron mass (i.e., no attempt has been made to consider explicity many-body effects or the electron-phonon interaction). When the above parameters are used, the total occupied volume is calculated to correspond to 4.02\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02 electrons per atom, and the model confirms the experimental finding that the fourth zone is empty. The calculated dispersion curves $E(\mathrm{k})$ reflect the `inert-pair' behavior which is so well known in the chemistry of lead salts, in that there is a large energy gap between a filled $6s$-like band and the lowest branch of the $6p$-like bands which is never less than 0.13 Ry. The predictions of the model as regards the detailed orientation dependence of the de Haas-van Alphen periods are found to be in excellent agreement with experiment; comparison is also made with the Fermi-surface dimensions, cyclotron masses, magneto-resistance, etc., as determined by other experiments.
Judgments about Collisions in Simulations of Scenes with Textured Surfaces and Self-Motion: Do Display Enhancements Affect Performance?

To move through the environment safely, people must make effective judgments about collisions. It has been asserted that most studies of time-to-collision judgments are limited due to a lack of visual realism (Manser & Hancock, 1996). Studies that compared performance among displays which differed in realism provided mixed results. We measured judgments about whether, and when, two objects would have collided with each other. Results from simulations of scenes with colored, textured surfaces and a moving observer were mostly comparable to earlier results from simulations of black-and-white, line-drawn objects and a stationary observer (DeLucia, 1995; DeLucia & Meyer, 1999). Texture and self-motion affected performance in a restricted set of conditions and did not eliminate errors due to misleading depth cues. Increases in realism, which incur more costs and computational time, may not always be justifiable from a performance standpoint. Results have design implications for simulators and virtual reality s...
Ultrahigh-gradient acceleration of injected electrons by laser-excited relativistic electron plasma waves

High-gradient acceleration of externally injected 2.1-MeV electrons by a laser beat wave driven relativistic plasma wave has been demonstrated for the first time. Electrons with energies up to the detection limit of 9.1 MeV were detected when such a plasma wave was resonantly excited using a two-frequency laser. This implies a gradient of 0.7 GeV/m, corresponding to a plasma-wave amplitude of more than 8%. The electron signal was below detection threshold without injection or when the laser was operated on a single frequency.
Balanced centralized and distributed database design in a clinical research environment.

Clinical research databases can meet both research and clinical needs, but this ideal is seldom achieved. Priorities often differ for those who collect and ultimately use the data and those who develop data systems. Traditional database designs also create logistical barriers that hamper communication. The Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center has developed a secure, distributed data system with centralized data entry that provides an intuitive, individually customized interface for investigators in their clinics, laboratories and offices. Data are kept in a form that can be readily understood without reference to a code-book. Investigators can modify and query their own copies of the database without knowledge of programming languages. Balancing centralized and distributed designs for research databases enhance the accuracy and completeness of data collection and increases the use of data for research and clinical care.
Differential expression of human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) messenger RNAs and proteins in normal human prostate and prostatic adenocarcinoma

Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is a major histocompatibility complex class Ib gene expressed in normal organs and in some tumors. The glycoproteins encoded by this gene are best known for their immunosuppressive properties. Because isoform-specific expression of HLA-G in male reproductive organs has not been reported, we investigated HLA-G1, -G2, -G5, -G6 mRNAs and proteins in four-to-five samples of normal prostate glands, prostates with benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate adenocarcinomas using RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. All tissues contained HLA-G1, -G2, -G5 and -G6 specific mRNAs, but only HLA-G5 protein was detectable. In normal prostate glands, HLA-G5 protein was prominent in the cytoplasm of tubuloglandular epithelia and in glandular secretions. Staining was reduced in samples of benign prostatic hyperplasia but remained localized to the cytoplasm of glandular epithelia and secretions. In prostatic adenocarcinomas, HLA-G5 protein was detectable mainly in the secretions. Thus, HLA-G5 but not HLA-G1, -G2 or -G6 is produced in the normal prostate and is present in prostatic secretions. In addition, normal cellular localization is disturbed in benign and malignant prostatic adenocarcinomas. The results are consistent with this molecule may influencing female immune receptivity to sperm and suggest that such immunosuppression could be disturbed in men with prostatic adenocarcinomas.
The Copley Oil Pool of West Virginia

The Copley oil pool of Lewis and Gilmer counties, West Virginia, is an illustration of synclinal accumulation of oil in sands which carry no water. Oil occurs in the deepest part of the basin, at the foot of a descending axis, being almost surrounded by gas in the anticlines on either side and along the higher synclinal axis northeastward. Southwestward the pool is terminated by poor sand rather than by changed structural conditions. Oil production began by the completion of the Copley gusher in 1900, and still continues with a prospect that the pool will have ten more years of life. Gas production on a large scale began about 1909 and still continues, although the rock pressure, which originally was 550 pounds, has declined to 65 pounds. Production is mainly from the Gordon Stray, Gordon, and Fifth sands of the Catskill series of the Upper Devonian. There is little prospect of lateral extension of the pool, but there is hope of new gas production in deeper sands. Oil production is not probable in deeper sands unless it be found in the Lower Devonian and Silurian beds 7,000-10,000 feet deep.
Fragility of oil as a critical infrastructure problem

Abstract Interdependences between critical infrastructures are becoming increasingly apparent. The 21st century has been defined by events that have changed perceptions about critical infrastructures and their fragility in the face of the inherent risks and vulnerabilities. A major critical infrastructure is the energy sector, of which oil is an important component. This paper explores the systemic interrelationships between oil and other infrastructures and the implications for future design, analysis and development of oil systems within the energy critical infrastructure. The paper argues that the relationships between oil and other elements of the critical infrastructure have significant implications for the structure of the oil industry due to increasing interdependence. Understanding how to manage the new oil industry structure is an emerging issue that can be examined from a systems view. Whether oil is in its crude or refined form, its value cannot be minimized due to its numerous applications and global importance as an energy source. However, oil and its derivatives do not exist as an independent infrastructure and cannot be considered in isolation from other critical infrastructures. Indeed, oil is inextricably interconnected to other forms of energy and other infrastructures. These interconnections introduce increased risks and vulnerabilities. The conclusion is that oil is – for the foreseeable future – critical to the wellbeing of society. It is a fragile interdependent component of the energy sector and, regardless of political proclivities and the desire for alternative forms of energy, oil must be viewed as a primary energy asset of the fossil-fuel-based global economy.
The role of muscular contraction in the production of configurations in the insect skeleton

Extensive measurements were made on skeletal configurations and muscles of several forms of Hemiptera-Homoptera from the early nymphal instars to the adults, inclusive. It has been shown that several of the muscles actually decrease in length (i.e., contract) as the animal grows as a whole. Such a state of affairs has never before been observed, so far as the writer knows. The most marked increase in length of a skeletal invagination often coincides with the greatest amount of contracture of the muscle which is attached to its extremity. The characteristics of the arthropod skeleton, which consist of invaginations and evaginations are probably, in the forms studied, due to muscular contraction or to the prolonged sustenance of muscular tonicity. The form of muscular contraction described probably belongs to the ‘catch’ type rather than to the metabolic type. The direct cause of these muscular contractions is probably due to changes in physico-chemical constitution of the haemolymph.
SEM Analysis of Ionizing Radiation Effects in Linear Integrated Circuits

A successful diagnostic technique was developed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) as a precision tool to determine ionization effects in integrated circuits. Previous SEM methods radiated the entire semiconductor chip or major areas. The large area exposure methods do not reveal the exact components which are sensitive to radiation. To locate these sensitive components a new method was developed, which consisted in successively irradiating selected components on the device chip with equal doses of electrons [(10 rad (Si)], while the whole device was subjected to representative bias conditions. A suitable device parameter was measured in situ after each successive irradiation with the beam off.
DAB389 Interleukin-2 Receptor Binding Domain Mutations CYTOTOXIC PROBES FOR STUDIES OF LIGAND-RECEPTOR INTERACTIONS

Site-directed mutagenesis was used to generate point mutations in the diphtheria toxin-related fusion protein, DAB389 interleukin-2 (IL-2). Thr-439, in the IL-2 receptor binding domain of the fusion toxin, was changed to a Pro residue. The resultant fusion toxin, DAB389 IL-2(T439P), was 300-fold less cytotoxic than wild type DAB389 IL-2, partially as the result of a 100-fold decrease in binding affinity for the high affinity form of the IL-2 receptor. However, DAB389 IL-2(T439P) stimulated DNA synthesis to a greater extent than expected. Studies of intoxication kinetics indicated that the increased stimulation might result from an increased contact time between the mutated IL-2 receptor binding domain and the receptor, perhaps due to a decreased internalization rate. Another mutant, DAB389 IL-2(Q514D), in which a Gln residue at position 514 was changed to an Asp, was 2000-fold less cytotoxic than wild type DAB389 IL-2. This mutant had a 50-fold decrease in binding affinity, did not stimulate DNA synthesis and also had a reduced rate of intoxication. Gln-514 appears to play a role in receptor binding and activation, whereas Thr-439 appears to be involved with receptor binding and signaling internalization of the fusion toxin-receptor complex.
Information coding in artificial olfaction multisensor arrays.

High-density sensor arrays were prepared with microbead vapor sensors to explore and compare the information coded in sensor response profiles following odor stimulus. The coded information in the sensor-odor response profiles, which is used for odor discrimination purposes, was extracted from the microsensor arrays via two different approaches. In the first approach, the responses from individual microsensors were separated (decoded array) and independently processed. In the second approach, response profiles from all microsensors within the entire array, i.e., the sensor ensemble, were combined to create one response per odor stimulus (nondecoded array). Although the amount of response data is markedly reduced in the second approach, the system shows comparable odor discrimination rates for the two signal extraction methods. The ensemble approach streamlines system resources without decreasing system performance. These signal compression approaches may simulate or parallel information coding in the mammalian olfactory system.
Using religious services to improve health: findings from a sample of middle-aged and older adults with multiple sclerosis.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the use of religious services to improve health among middle-aged and older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS). Method: Data from the study “Aging With MS: Unmet Needs in the Great Lakes Region” were used to investigate religious service use among 1,275 adults with MS. Results: The findings indicate that nearly two thirds of the sample currently use religious services to improve their health or well-being. Individuals whose MS is stable and those who have had the disease longer are significantly more likely to use religious services to improve their health. Conclusions: Religious organizations should continue providing out-reach and increasing accessibility for individuals with disabling conditions. In addition, health care professionals should be aware of the importance of religious services to individuals with MS and do their part to facilitate participation for those who desire it.
Comparison of endoscopic ultrasound guided 22-gauge core needle with standard 25-gauge fine-needle aspiration for diagnosing solid pancreatic lesions.

Background and Objectives: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is the standard modality for diagnosing pancreatic masses. We compared the diagnostic yield of a new EUS-guided 22-gauge core needle biopsy to a standard 25-gauge FNA in sampling the same pancreatic lesions during the same EUS. Patients and Methods: The main outcomes of the study were the sample adequacy of each method to provide a final pathological diagnosis, and the concordance in diagnosis between core and FNA specimens. The secondary outcomes were the sensitivity and specificity of the findings for each needle and the incremental yield of using both needles compared with using each needle alone. Results: A total of 56 patients with 61 solid pancreatic lesions were evaluated. The mean number of passes with FNA was 3.5 (ranges 1-8) and with core biopsy needle was 1.7 (ranges 1-5). The proportions of adequate samples were 50/61 (81.9%) for FNA and 45/61 (73.8%) for core biopsy ( P = 0.37). The diagnostic yield was 46/61 (75.4%), 42/61 (68.9%) and 47/61 (77.1%) for FNA, core, and both, respectively. There was a substantial agreement of 87.5% (κ = 0.77; P P = no significant [NS]). The specificity was 100% for both methods. The incremental increase in sensitivity and specificity by combining both methods are 1.5% and 0%, respectively. Conclusion: There are NS differences in the diagnostic yield between EUS-guided 22-gauge core biopsy and standard 25-gauge FNA for diagnosing pancreatic lesions, but core biopsy required fewer numbers of passes. There was NS incremental diagnostic yield when using both needles during the same procedure.
A contour-based stereo matching algorithm using disparity continuity

Abstract A contour-based stereo matching algorithm is presented using the disparity continuity property along image contours. The basic idea is to first match specific high-information points along a contour, then use the matches found to guide other matches on the same contour by sequentially propagating the disparities along the length of the contour. The matching algorithm consists of three stages: (1) extraction of high-curvature edge points, terminations and junctions (collectively refered to as extremal points), (2) matching of the extremal points, and (3) matching other edge points by propagating the measured disparities at the extremal points along contours. We present a number of examples illustrating the performance of the algorithm in natural stereo images ranging from aerial images to laboratory images.
Investigation of the Anomaly in the Response of Silicon Semiconductor Radiation Detectors at Low Temperatures

Investigation of the response anomaly in silicon semiconductor radiation detectors cooled to temperatures below 40°K has been continued. Experiments with surface barrier detectors show that the mean temperature at which normally ionized impurity atoms accept electrons (as deduced from dE/dx measurement of the depletion depth) is a slowly varying function of the impurity concentration. This behavior is expected from the dependence of the Fermi level on the temperature, impurity concentration and ionization energy. Below the narrow temperature interval in which the majority of the impurity atoms accept electrons and hence become electrically neutral, particles which produce low ionization densities (beta particles) produce pulse heights with room temperature magnitudes, while particles with high ionization densities (alpha particles) produce pulse heights which are lower than those characteristic of room temperature operation and which depend on the detector bias voltage. The results of experiments conducted to investigate polarization effects in lithiumdrifted semiconductor radiation detectors are described.
The rate controlling deformation mechanism in high strain rate superplasticity

An analysis of high strain rate superplasticity data shows a change in activation energy with particle size. The result is explained on the basis of change of rate controlling mechanism with second phase particles. The prediction of diffusional relaxation models agrees well with the experimental results. The temperature for onset of high strain rate superplasticity in mechanically alloyed aluminum and nickel base alloys can also be predicted by diffusional relaxation models. These concepts can be used to construct a superplastic mechanism map.
Alternative Mating Tactics and Evolutionarily Stable Strategies

Difficulties with applying Evolutionarily. Stable Strategy (ESS) methodology and terminology to alternative mating behaviors (in which some males in local populations adopt strikingly different, often non-competitive, behavioral patterns) are reviewed. Definitions for “tactic” (behavioral phenotype) and “strategy” (evolved set of rules for expressing tactics) are given. Inconsistent and incorrect applications of “mixed,” “pure,” and “conditional” ESSs are discussed. Cases of condition-dependent alternative mating tactics are reviewed. Because most alternative behaviors are condition dependent, neither their population-wide nor individual fitness contributions are expected to equal the fitness contributions of “primary” tactics. Individuals should, however, switch tactics at “equal fitness points.” A particular conditional tactic will persist when its maintenance cost (genetic or physiological) is less than its fitness contribution. In only exceptional cases are the fitness contributions of tactics expected to be equal: 1) genetic polymorphisms, 2) stochastic “mixed” ESSs, 3) frequency-dependent choice and, 4) arbitrary assessment. Although alternative tactics may occur in cases of genetic polymorphism or genetic equipotence, most mating tactics probably occur when continuous heritable variation in underlying conditional strategy exists. Selection for genetically influenced “roles” (genetic background) may also uncover apparent heritability.
Increase the concurrency for multi-core systems through collision array based workload assignment

Simply upgrading to multi-core systems has been proven to provide only minor speedup compared with single core systems. However, because multi-core systems use shared memory, the bottleneck for speedup lies in the memory I/O. The only way to fully utilize multiple cores is to increase parallelism and concurrency. This paper proposes a new collision array based workload assignment to increase data request cancellation. Through a task flow partitioning algorithm, we minimize sequential data access and then dynamically schedule tasks while increasing the data request cancellations. We have shown experimentally that this method can boost general system throughput by 3 times and reduce the execution time by an average of 27.6%. For a 3×3 multi-core system, if all nine cores are utilized, the speedup can reach 5.0 times. If only three cores are utilized to reduce communication and power, the proposed method can obtain 2.3 times speedup.
Ultrasonic signals in the defense and courtship of Euchaetes egle Drury and E. bolteri Stretch (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae)

Euchaetes egle Drury andE. bolteri Stretch produce ultrasound using paired thoracic tymbal organs in both defensive and sexual contexts. The defensive ultrasound produced in response to tactile stimulation is fully characterized. The sounds are sexually monomorphic and species specific in the number of sound pulses produced during each flexion and relaxation of the tymbal, peak frequency, peak intensity, and duration of the interval between flexion and relaxation. Ultrasonic signals play a role in the courtship of both species. Males produce ultrasound just prior to contact with females, and it is shown to be important to courtship success inE. egle. Ultrasonic courtship communication is mapped on a recently proposed cladogram for the family Arctiidae. The use of ultrasound in courtship has evolved on at least three occasions within the family.
Developing risk models for complex systems

Disasters are more likely to occur when systems are not thoroughly analyzed. Several recent disastrous events have elucidated the consequences of not performing rigorous risk assessments and/or not eliminating or mitigating the vulnerabilities found. This paper discusses two risk assessment techniques that can aid in identifying complex system vulnerabilities. The topics discussed are development of a risk framework, Failure Mode and Effect Analysis and Event Tree Analysis. Examples of each of these topics are presented.
Rendering stone fragments paramagnetic with iron-oxide microparticles improves the efficiency and effectiveness of endoscopic stone fragment retrieval.

Objectives To develop peptide-coated iron oxide-based microparticles that selectively adhere to calcium stone fragments, thereby enabling magnetic manipulation of human stone fragments. Methods In phase 1, human stone fragments were coated overnight with iron oxide-based microparticles. Groups of 10 coated stones (1.5-3 mm) were placed into a bladder simulator and removed cystoscopically with either an 8 Fr magnetic extraction device or a 2.4 Fr nitinol basket. In phase 2, the peptide coating was optimized and 2 stone fragment sizes (1-2 mm and 2-3 mm) were exposed to 3 separate concentrations of microparticles for 3 different incubation times. In each trial, 10 fragments were placed into a glass vial and removed using the 8 Fr magnetic device. Results In phase 1, mean total time for removal of all fragments was 53% shorter using the magnetic instrument compared with basket extraction. An average of 3.7 extractions was required to magnetically remove all fragments versus 9.4 for basket extraction. In phase 2, 18 different combinations of particle concentrations, fragment sizes, and incubation times were tested; 91% of small fragment trials and 43% of large fragment trials yielded successful fragment extraction. Of the small fragments, 100% were successfully extracted at both the middle and high particle concentrations after 2 minutes, and of the large fragments 70% and 100% were successfully extracted after 10 minutes of incubation at the lowest and highest concentrations, respectively. Conclusions Rendering stone fragments paramagnetic with novel microparticles allows manipulation and removal using a novel magnetic device in vitro, potentially improving surgical efficacy and efficiency.
Nuclear deterrence: decisions at the brink.

Linguistic analysis reveals how advisers influenced President Kennedy during the Cuban missile crisis 50 years ago, argues David R. Gibson.
Treatment-experienced breast cancer.

Purpose. Breast cancer, the second leading cause of cancer mortality among women in the U.S., following lung cancer is described and the number of treatment options for patients with breast cancer, which has been accompanied by a trend toward declining cancer mortality, is reviewed. Summary. Despite these advances in cancer therapy, many patients with early stage breast cancer eventually progress to metastatic disease. Several prognostic factors have been identified for patients with metastatic breast cancer, including tumor volume and location, comorbid conditions, response to prior therapy, and the presence of molecular tumor markers (e.g., estrogen receptors [ER] and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 [HER2]). Metastatic breast cancer is usually incurable, and the goals of therapy are palliation of symptoms, extending survival, and improving quality of life. Options for the medical management of metastatic breast cancer include endocrine therapy, cytotoxic chemotherapy, and targeted biologic agents. Treatment guidelines developed by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network generally recommend endocrine therapy for patients with ER-positive or progesterone receptor (PR)-positive disease, for patients with bone or soft tissue metastasis, or those with asymptomatic visceral disease. Cytotoxic chemotherapy alone is usually recommended for patients with ER-negative/PR-negative disease, who have symptomatic visceral disease, or whose tumors are HER2-negative or rapidly growing. Biologic agents (e.g., trastuzumab and lapatinib) alone or in combination are recommended for patients with HER2-positive disease. Conclusion. Treatment options for meta-static breast cancer continue to increase as new antitumor medications enter clinical practice and controlled clinical trials evaluate the optimal combinations of established and novel medications.
Survival and water balance of black sea bass held in a range of salinities and calcium-enhanced environments after abrupt salinity change

Abstract Black sea bass Centropristis striata juveniles survived abrupt transfer from 15 g/L salinity to 8 g/L, but not to 6 g/L salinity. Seven days after abrupt transfer, the plasma osmolality was proportional to environmental osmolality. Increasing environmental calcium concentration in receiving environments did not have an effect on either survival or plasma osmolality after abrupt transfer. Abrupt transfer from 15 g/L salinity to 4.5 g/L artificial sea salt + 4.5 g/L calcium chloride resulted in 100% mortality. Abrupt transfer of black sea bass to salinities below ∼ 15 g/L will have osmotic and perhaps survival consequences.
Diagnosis of Closed Central Slip Injuries: A cadaveric analysis of non-invasive tests

Four non-invasive tests for central slip integrity were analysed using 20 fresh frozen cadaver fingers. A pre-boutonniere deformity was simulated by dividing the central slip. A passively correctable boutonniere was simulated by dividing the central slip, triangular ligament and oblique fibres of the extensor expansion. The test described by Boyes, which evaluates distal interphalangeal joint flexion, was found not to be reliable for the diagnosis of either injury. The test described by Elson, which evaluates distal interphalangeal joint rigidity while actively extending the flexed proximal interphalangeal joint, was the only manoeuvre which was able to discern central slip integrity in both simulated injuries. The central slip tenodesis test and testing resistance of active proximal interphalangeal joint extension should be performed with the proximal interphalangeal joint in flexion to weaken the effectiveness of the lateral bands.
Characteristics of a rapid, point-of-care lateral flow immunoassay for the diagnosis of sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a common and life-threatening hematological disorder, affecting approximately 400,000 newborns annually worldwide. Most SCD births occur in low-resource countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where limited access to accurate diagnostics results in early mortality. We evaluated a prototype immunoassay as a novel, rapid, and low-cost point-of-care (POC) diagnostic device (Sickle SCAN™) designed to identify HbA, HbS, and HbC. A total of 139 blood samples were scored by three masked observers and compared to results using capillary zone electrophoresis. The sensitivity (98.3–100%) and specificity (92.5–100%) to detect the presence of HbA, HbS, and HbS were excellent. The test demonstrated 98.4% sensitivity and 98.6% specificity for the diagnosis of HbSS disease and 100% sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of HbSC disease. Most variant hemoglobins, including samples with high concentrations of HbF, did not interfere with the ability to detect HbS or HbC. Additionally, HbS and HbC were accurately detected at concentrations as low as 1–2%. Dried blood spot samples yielded clear positive bands, without loss of sensitivity or specificity, and devices stored at 37°C gave reliable results. These analyses indicate that the Sickle SCAN POC device is simple, rapid, and robust with high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of HbA, HbS, and HbC. The ability to obtain rapid and accurate results with both liquid blood and dried blood spots, including those with newborn high-HbF phenotypes, suggests that this POC device is suitable for large-scale screening and potentially for accurate diagnosis of SCD in limited resource settings. Am. J. Hematol. 91:205–210, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Critical examination of the mismatch-and-relaxation frequency-response model for dispersive materials

Abstract Accurate calculations of the frequency and time responses of the new dynamic-mismatch conductive-system frequency-response model of Funke, designated by CMR, indicate that its predictions are inconsistent with some of the physically based assumptions used in deriving the model. Although it does not lead to good quantitative agreement with real-part conductivity data for 0.4Ca(NO 3 ) 2 ·0.6KNO 3 [CKN] for several temperatures, it may be useful for fitting other disordered or crystalline materials showing frequency dispersion. Calculation of the full complex-conductivity frequency response, not well fitted by the KWW response model, and of its unique underlying distribution of relaxation times, leads to specification of the conditions necessary for the appearance of two peaks in the frequency response of the imaginary part of the complex modulus. Important conclusions about modulus plotting and the modulus formalism fitting approach are presented, and the normalization expression used in the CMR is corrected. The appropriate expression found for the τ 0 normalization quantity, which is relevant for scaling, cannot be fully evaluated independently of experimental results. It involves a conductive-system-effective dielectric constant whose zero-frequency values, ϵ C 0 , were found from the CKN fitting to be of the order of 10 and showed small temperature dependence. On the other hand, based on limited data, τ 0 itself showed approximate Arrhenius behavior. CMR macroscopic transient response is shown to be fitted exceptionally well by the combination of an ordinary exponential and a stretched exponential, both applying over the full time range, a type of parallel response quite different from the serial responses of the Ngai coupling model and of the closely related but more plausible distribution-of-relaxation-times cutoff model.
Fisher zeros and conformality in lattice models

Fisher zeros are the zeros of the partition function in the co mplex β = 2Nc/g 2 plane. When they pinch the real axis, finite size scaling allows one to disting uish between first and second order transition and to estimate exponents. On the other hand, a gap signals confinement and the method can be used to explore the boundary of the conformal window. We present recent numerical results for 2D O(N) sigma models, 4D U(1) and SU(2) pure gauge and SU(3) gauge theory with Nf = 4 and 12 flavors. We discuss attempts to understand some of the se results using analytical methods. We discuss the 2-lattice matching and qualitative aspects of the renormalization group (RG) flows in the Migdal-Kadanoff approximation, in particu lar how RG flows starting at large β seem to move around regions where bulk transitions occur. We consider the effects of the boundary conditions on the nonperturbative part of the average energy and on the Fisher zeros for the 1D O(2) model.
On relation among time delay and signal strength based geolocation methods

The time-of-arrival (TOA), time-difference-of-arrival (TDOA) and signal strength (SS) methods have been widely accepted as three principal techniques for positioning a mobile station (MS) in a wireless communication system. To the best of our knowledge, previous studies tend to treat these methods separately, and less analytical results on their relationship have been reported. We first examine the link between the TOA and TDOA methods. We provide an analytical explanation for the claim that, given a set of BS locations and an MS position, the TOA method should achieve a higher positioning precision than its TDOA counterpart. However, the two positioning methods may attain the same level of accuracy under certain conditions. We then investigate the tradeoff between the accuracy limits of the TOA and SS based methods, which leads to our proposal of a hybrid distance estimation scheme that combines both TOA and SS data.
Plasma concentration of 3-hydroxyisovaleryl carnitine is an early and sensitive indicator of marginal biotin deficiency in humans

Background: Blood-based indicators of biotin status in humans were shown to be useful tools in several clinical situations, including pregnancy. We previously validated the activity of the biotindependent enzyme propionyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (PCC) in lymphocytes as a sensitive and specific blood-based indicator of marginal degrees of biotin deficiency. However, the measurement of PCC activity in population studies presents substantial analytic challenges. 3-Hydroxyisovaleryl carnitine (3HIA-carnitine) increases in response to the decreased activity of the biotin-dependent enzyme methylcrotonyl-coenzyme A carboxylase and might reflect biotin status. Objective: We sought to determine whether the plasma concentration of 3HIA-carnitine increases significantly in marginal biotin deficiency. Design: We experimentally induced marginal, asymptomatic biotin deficiency in 10 healthy adults (8 women) by having the subjects consume undenatured egg white for 28 d; biotin status was then repleted. Plasma concentrations of 3HIA-carnitine were measured on days 0, 14, 28, 35, and 50 by liquid chromatography‐mass spectroscopy. Results: The mean plasma 3HIA-carnitine concentration increased with depletion (P , 0.0001) and decreased with repletion (P , 0.0001). Plasma 3HIA-carnitine concentrations were greater than the upper limit of normal concentrations in 7 of 10 subjects by day 14 and in 9 of 10 subjects by day 28 and decreased to within normal limits in 9 of 10 subjects by day 50. Conclusions: These studies provide evidence that 3HIA-carnitine is an early and sensitive indicator of marginal biotin deficiency. The ease of sample collection, small sample volume requirement, and stability of 3HIA-carnitine during storage suggest that the plasma 3HIA-carnitine concentration is likely to be a useful indicator of marginal biotin deficiency for larger population studies. Am J Clin Nutr doi: 10.3945/ajcn.110.002543.