cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The skull of the Early Triassic archosauromorph reptile Prolacerta broomi and its phylogenetic significance

Description of new and re-examination of previously described cranial remains of Prolacerta broomi Parrington allows reappraisal of the structure of the skull in this basal archosauromorph reptile. The ventral margin of the premaxilla is slightly deflected, and there is a relatively large lateral foramen in the maxilla that is bounded anteriorly by the premaxilla; both features are shared with the basal rhynchosaur Mesosuchus and the basal archosauriform Proterosuchus. Implantation of the marginal dentition is ankylothecodont: the teeth are rooted relatively deeply, bounded lingually by a deep wall of the jaw, and anchored to the jaw by bone of attachment. The pineal foramen varies in size from little more than a scar in the interparietal suture to a suboval opening several millimetres in diameter. Contrary to previous claims, the skull roof in Prolacerta was akinetic and quadrate mobility (streptostyly) was absent. Phylogenetic analysis of a previously published data matrix, modified by the addition of new anatomical data and reinterpretation of some characters, corroborates the hypotheses of the polyphyly of Prolacertiformes (Protorosauria) and of a close relationship between Prolacerta and Archosauriformes. © 2004 The Linnean Society of London, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2004, 140, 335–351.
Reactive oxygen species in in vitro pesticide-induced neuronal cell (SH-SY5Y) cytotoxicity: Role of NFκB and caspase-3

Oxidative stress has been implicated in pesticide-induced neurotoxicity, based on its role in the cascade of biochemical changes that lead to dopaminergic neuronal cell death. We have, therefore, examined the role of oxidative stress caused by the pesticides endosulfan and zineb in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y) in culture. Upon treatment with 50-200 microM concentrations of either of these pesticides, SH-SY5Y cells generated both superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide in a dose-and time-dependent manner. Mixtures of the pesticides significantly enhanced the production of these reactive oxygen species compared to individual pesticide exposures. Pesticide treatment decreased superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase activities in SH-SY5Y cells. Additionally, these pesticides induced lipid peroxide (thiobarbituric acid reactive products) formation in these cells. While both pesticides individually (at 100 microM) increased caspase-3 activity, cells exposed to a mixture of the pesticides exhibited significantly low levels of this enzyme, probably due to excessive necrotic cell death. Furthermore, exposure to these pesticides increased nuclear NFkappaB activity. Taken together, these findings suggest that the cytotoxicity of endosulfan and zineb, both individually and in mixtures may, at least in part, be associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species with concomitant increased expression of NFkappaB.
The cut-off rate for investment decisions in growth companies

Abstract In this article the author attempts to define cut-off rate for capital budgeting decisions of a “growth company” and to relate it to the firms long range planning. Dr Chandra argues that conventional measurement of cost of capital cannot be used in the growth company. In brief, he defines the cut-off rate in this type of company as— dividend yield plus the rate at which dividend is expected to grow.
Relationships Among Intravascular Volume, Total Body Sodium, Arterial Pressure, and Vasomotor Tone

In rats made hyponatremic, hypovolemic, and hypotensive by intraperitoneal injections of 5 per cent glucose solution, arterial pressure was returned to control values by correction of the intravascular-volume deficit with either 5 per cent salt-free albumin or small volumes of hypertonic sodium-chloride solution. In the former, severe hyponatremia persisted; in the latter, it was corrected. Isotonic sodium-chloride solution, given in amounts considered sufficient to repair the extracellular-fluid and electrolyte deficits, was not so effective either in controlling hypotension or in expanding the intravascular volume. Using the height of the norepinephrine pressor response and the duration of the serotonin depressor phase as estimates of sympathetic activity, sympathetic vasomotor tone was found to be enhanced during hyponatremic, hypovolemic hypotension and depressed by administration of 5 per cent albumin, hypertonic and isotonic sodium-chloride solutions. These changes in estimates of sympathetic activity seemed dependent on changes in intravascular volume and not in extracellular sodium concentrations. Experiments performed following pentolinium-induced ganglion blockade showed that the depressor phase of the serotonin response was dependent on sympathetic vasomotor outflow, but that the height of norepinephrine pressor response was dependent not only on sympathetic activity, but also on the intravascular volume. In this study of selective sodium deficit, intravascular volume was found to be an important determinant of arterial pressure and sympathetic vasomotor tone.
Thermocapillary and oscillatory-shear instabilities in a layer of liquid with a deformable surface

The thermocapillary and shear-induced instabilities of a thin heated layer of liquid bounded from the top by a deformable free surface and at the bottom by a horizontally oscillating plate are studied for both Earth-bound and microgravity conditions. Finite-wavelength thermocapillary convection can be stabilized very significantly by the oscillatory shear, whereas shear-induced instabilities are greatly stabilized if the Marangoni number is negative. For long-wavelength thermocapillary convection, oscillatory shear can stabilize or destabilize the basic state, depending primarily on the imposed forcing frequency. With microgravity, significant stabilization of the dominant long-wavelength convection can be achieved by carefully selecting the imposed frequency.
Thin layers of phytoplankton: a model of formation by near-inertial wave shear

Abstract Microscale variability of phytoplankton has been detected in vertical profiles in the ocean for decades, yet its mechanism of formation remains unclear. Here a mechanism is presented which can generate thin (10s of centimeters) layers of phytoplankton through the interaction of near-inertial wave shear with horizontal (along-isopycnal) patchiness of phytoplankton. Horizontal biomass patches along isopycnals are advected over each other by the vertical shear of near-inertial waves, generating layers in vertical profiles. The thickness of the phytoplankton layers can be much less than the vertical wavelength of the internal wave, due to tilting and stretching of horizontal patches of phytoplankton. The thickness of the layers is directly related to the vertical shear and the along-isopycnal scale of the phytoplankton patches: shorter horizontal scales generate thinner layers for a given shear. The amplitude of the biomass difference between layers is directly proportional to both the along-isopycnal and vertical biomass gradients. The model predicts the thickness, time of occurrence and duration of layers during the internal wave's cycle. This mechanism is likely a ubiquitous feature of the world's ocean, and would be particularly important in regions of strong horizontal gradients of properties.
A Retrospective Study of Canine Pancytopenia

To better define the incidence and causes of canine pancytopenia, we retrospectively evaluated the results of complete blood counts submitted to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Teaching Hospital during a 1-year period. Pancytopenia was defined as packed cell volume < 36%, total leukocyte count < 6,000/microliter or total segmented neutrophil count < 3,000/microliter, and platelet count < 200,000/microliter. Of 4,560 complete blood counts, 110 (2.4%) samples from 51 dogs met the criteria for pancytopenia. Eleven different disease processes were identified. These included chemotherapy-associated pancytopenia (n=22), parvovirus infection (n=5), malignant histiocytosis (n=5), idiopathic aplastic anemia (n=3), sepsis (n=3), myelodysplastic syndrome (n=3), immune-mediated hematologic disease (n=3), lymphoblastic leukemia (n=2), ehrlichiosis (n=2), estrogen toxicity (n=2), and multiple myeloma (n=1). Malignant histiocytosis and idiopathic aplastic anemia occurred more frequently than was expected. Doxoruicin was the chemotherapeutic agent associated with pancytopenia. Hematologic recovery and patient survival time varied with the cause of pancytopenia; therefore, a specific diagnosis was essential for establishing prognosis. Differentiation among causes of pancytopenia requires a systemic approach that includes elimination of infectious and drug-induced causes, and examination of bone marrow aspiration and core biopsy specimens.
Two Minds Vs. Two Philosophies: Mind Perception Defines Morality and Dissolves the Debate Between Deontology and Utilitarianism

Mind perception is the essence of moral judgment. Broadly, moral standing is linked to perceptions of mind, with moral responsibility tied to perceived agency, and moral rights tied to perceived experience. More specifically, moral judgments are based on a fundamental template of two perceived minds—an intentional agent and a suffering patient. This dyadic template grows out of the universal power of harm, and serves as a cognitive working model through which even atypical moral events are understood. Thus, all instances of immorality are perceived to involve both blameworthy agents (i.e., acts) and suffering victims (i.e., consequences). Because moral cognition simultaneously concerns acts and consequences, theories which focus primarily on acts (i.e., deontology) or consequences (i.e., utilitarianism) do not accurately describe moral cognition. Indeed, the phenomenon of dyadic completion suggests that deontological and utilitarian concerns are not only simultaneously active, but also typically compatible and reinforcing: wrong acts have harmful consequences, and harmful consequences stem from wrong acts. The cognitive fusion of acts with consequences suggests that normative conflicts between deontology and utilitarianism are not reflected in everyday moral judgment. This in turn suggests that empirical conclusions drawn from moral dilemmas that pit utilitarianism against deontology—i.e., trolley problems—give an skewed account of moral cognition.
Superconducting nanosensors with mesoscopic number of quasiparticles

Abstract Novel approach to detection of low-energy (submillimeter and infrared) photons is based on implementation of the electron heating in superconducting nanostructures with small number of quasiparticles. In a hot-electron sensor, the incoming quanta generate nonequilibrium quasiparticles, which affect either the resistivity (transition-edge sensor) or the inductance (kinetic-inductance sensor operating in the superconducting state). The sensitivity of this sensor is limited by equilibrium fluctuations of the number of quasiparticle excitations, and a small number of quasiparticles is the key issue for high performance. The relaxation time in superconducting structures can be controlled over the range from 10 ps (outdiffusion of quasiparticles) to 0.1 s (phonon cooling). Therefore, hot-electron sensors can be employed as relatively slow ultra-sensitive detectors or fast photon counters, depending on a dominant cooling mechanism. The counter can resolve photons of submillimeter and terahertz ranges with the counting rate of 10 11 count/s . Hot-electron nanosensors are expected to deliver the unique performance: the noise equivalent power of 10 −20 W /√ Hz and the energy resolution of 10 −21 – 10 −23 J .
Outcome of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the testis by era of treatment: the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center experience.

The purpose of this study was to assess the clinicopathologic characteristics and outcomes in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the testis, and to assess the impact of changes in the therapeutic approach that have occurred over the years. We reviewed the medical records of 75 patients between 1964 and 2008. Factors analyzed included: age, clinical stage, B-symptoms, serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), β2-microglobulin, treatment received, and outcome. Immunophenotypic data were available for 43 cases, all of which showed B-cell lineage. On univariate analysis, stages III and IV (p = 0.042), elevated serum LDH (p = 0.014), B-symptoms (p = 0.003), and high-intermediate or high International Prognostic Index (IPI) score (p = 0.010) were associated with a significantly decreased overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The 5-year OS and PFS for patients after 2000, treated predominantly with R-CHOP, intrathecal chemotherapy (ITC), and scrotal radiotherapy (RT), ...
Perioperative complications influence recurrence and survival after resection of hepatic colorectal metastases

Background Perioperative outcomes, such as blood loss, transfusions, and morbidity, have been linked to cancer-specific survival, but this is largely unsupported by prospective data.
Total synthesis of biologically active metabolites of arachidonic acid. The two 8-hydroxy-11,12(S,S)-epoxyeicosa-5,14(Z),9(E)-trienoic acids.

Abstract An efficient and simple total synthesis of the two C(8) diastereomers of 3, of interest as possible hormonal releasing agents, is described.
Barriers to antiretroviral adherence: the importance of depression, abuse, and other traumatic events.

Among HIV-infected persons, high-level adherence to antiretroviral medications (>90%–95%) is associated with improved immunologic, virologic, and clinical outcomes, and is necessary to prevent the emergence of viral resistance. This study examines whether lifetime traumatic events including physical and sexual abuse, are associated with antiretroviral nonadherence. We present a cross-sectional analysis of the Coping with HIV/AIDS in the Southeast (CHASE) Study, analyzing data from the enrollment interview and medical records of study subjects. The CHASE Study is a prospective cohort study of consecutively sampled HIV-infected subjects from infectious diseases clinics in five southern states; Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Four hundred seventy-four (78%) of the 611 CHASE study subjects reported being treated with antiretroviral medications at enrollment and are included in this analysis. Nonadherence was defined as the patient's self-report of missing any doses of their an...
Growth Kinetics, Cell Shape, and the Cytoskeleton of Primary Astrocyte Cultures

We examined correlations among growth kinetics, cell shape, and cytoskeletal protein content in rat astrocytes grown in primary culture. Cell suspensions from brains of newborn rats were seeded at densities from 0.2 to 3 X 10(5)/cm2. At initial densities above 1 X 10(5) the population increased to reach confluency by 10-12 days, after which cell number remained stable for many weeks. At low initial densities, 0.2-0.4 X 10(5)/cm2, cells did not increase in number. Final density increased with increasing plating densities. High-density cells had small perikarya and several long cytoplasmic processes; low-density cells appeared flat and polygonal. All cultures were almost entirely astrocytic, as judged by immunofluorescent staining with antiserum against glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Cytoskeletal proteins were analyzed by gel electrophoresis after extraction from cells with nonionic detergent. Relative amounts of the proteins differed, in that low-density cells contained large amounts of cytoskeletal actin relative to the intermediate filament (IF) proteins vimentin and GFAP, whereas high-density cells contained relatively less actin and more IF proteins. Such differences in cytoskeletal proteins between the high- and low-density cultures were mirrored in the relative rates of synthesis of the cytoskeletal proteins. In the low-density cells amino acid incorporation into cytoskeletal-associated actin was more active than that into the IFs, whereas in the high-density cells higher rates of IF protein synthesis were observed.
MicroRNAs in the Drosophila bithorax complex

The iab-4 noncoding RNA from the Drosophila bithorax complex is the substrate for a microRNA (miRNA). Gene conversion was used to delete the hairpin precursor of this miRNA; flies homozygous for this deletion are sterile. Surprisingly, this mutation complements with rearrangement breakpoint mutations that disrupt the iab-4 RNA but fails to complement with breaks mapping in the iab-5 through iab-7 regulatory regions. These breaks disrupt the iab-8 RNA, transcribed from the opposite strand. This iab-8 RNA also encodes a miRNA, detected on Northern blots, derived from the hairpin complementary to the iab-4 precursor hairpin. Ultrabithorax is a target of both miRNAs, although its repression is subtle in both cases.
Incidence of Missed Inferior Alveolar Nerve Blocks in Vital Asymptomatic Subjects and in Patients with Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis

Abstract Introduction The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the incidence of missed inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) blocks by using a 1- or 2-cartridge volume of 2% lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine in vital asymptomatic teeth and in emergency patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Methods As part of 37 studies, 3169 subjects/patients were evaluated for missed IAN blocks. The study included 2450 asymptomatic subjects and 719 emergency patients presenting with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Each subject or patient received either a 1- or 2-cartridge volume of 2% lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine. A missed block was defined as no lip numbness at 15–20 minutes after the IAN block. The effect of anesthetic volume on the incidence of missed blocks was assessed by using mixed models logistic regression with individual studies as a random effect. Results The incidence of missed blocks for asymptomatic subjects was 6.3% for the 1-cartridge volume and 3.8% for the 2-cartridge volume. For patients presenting with irreversible pulpitis, the incidence of missed blocks was 7.7% for the 1-cartridge volume and 2.3% for the 2-cartridge volume. In both asymptomatic subjects and patients with irreversible pulpitis, the 2-cartridge volume was significantly ( P = .0395) better than the 1-cartridge volume. There were no significant effects for pulpal diagnosis ( P = .7523) or the pulpal diagnosis and anesthetic volume interaction ( P = .3973). Conclusions Concerning missed IAN blocks, we concluded that administration of a 2-cartridge volume was significantly better ( P = .0395) than a 1-cartridge volume in both asymptomatic subjects and emergency patients presenting with irreversible pulpitis.
Retained foreign bodies during surgery in pediatric patients : a national perspective

Abstract Background Attention has been placed on surgical and medical errors, though there is a lack of data on the frequency of some complications. Methods International Classification of Diseases , Ninth Revision , Clinical Modification , code 998.4 and E code 871.0 were used to search a database from the United States. Results In the Kids' Inpatient Database 2003, there were 103 reports of retained foreign bodies after surgery (incidence, 0.0031%) with a mean age of 11.5 years. There was a wide range between the 36 states sampled. Total charges for a patient with this complication are $56,683 (95% confidence interval, $41,327-$72,039); mean length of stay is 10.5 days. There is an increased charge of $42,077 in patients who have this complication ( P Conclusions On a national perspective in the United States, the rate of a retained foreign body is 0.0031% or approximately 1 in 32,672 cases and is associated with an increased charge of $42,077 for this complication. Comparative data demonstrate that pediatric surgery in the United States is exceptionally safe with regard to retained foreign bodies.
Irreducible distal interphalangeal joint dislocation of the finger: a new cause.

Dorsal dislocations of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint of the finger are almost always reducible by closed methods.’ Rarely, however, these injuries may be irreducible, requiring open reduction. To date, three causes of irreducible dorsal dislocation of the DIP joint have been described. These causes are (1) palmar plate avulsion off the middle phalanx with interposition in the joint,* (2) entrapment of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon behind one condyle of the middle phalanx,3T4 and (3) buttonhole tear through the palmar plate.’ We have encountered a case in which the distal end of the middle phalanx became entrapped in a longitudinal split in the FDP tendon. We report this case as a fourth cause of irreducible dorsal DIP dislocation. Case Report A 20-year-old man injured his right long finger when he jammed it into the base during a head-first slide while playing softball. Physical examination revealed swelling, tenderness, and deformity about the DIP joint of the finger. There was a 7 mm laceration over the palmar aspect of the DIP joint as well. Anteroposterior and lateral x-ray films (Fig. 1) revealed a dorsal DIP dislocation. An attempted closed reduction under digital block failed, and the patient underwent surgery for an open reduction, debridement, and irrigation. The condyles of the
Control of dendritic development by the Drosophila fragile X-related gene involves the small GTPase Rac1.

Fragile X syndrome is caused by loss-of-function mutations in the fragile X mental retardation 1 gene. How these mutations affect neuronal development and function remains largely elusive. We generated specific point mutations or small deletions in the Drosophila fragile X-related ( Fmr1 ) gene and examined the roles of Fmr1 in dendritic development of dendritic arborization (DA) neurons in Drosophila larvae. We found that Fmr1 could be detected in the cell bodies and proximal dendrites of DA neurons and that Fmr1 loss-of-function mutations increased the number of higher-order dendritic branches. Conversely, overexpression of Fmr1 in DA neurons dramatically decreased dendritic branching. In dissecting the mechanisms underlying Fmr1 function in dendrite development, we found that the mRNA encoding small GTPase Rac1 was present in the Fmr1-messenger ribonucleoprotein complexes in vivo. Mosaic analysis with a repressor cell marker (MARCM) and overexpression studies revealed that Rac1 has a cell-autonomous function in promoting dendritic branching of DA neurons. Furthermore, Fmr1 and Rac1 genetically interact with each other in controlling the formation of fine dendritic branches. These findings demonstrate that Fmr1 affects dendritic development and that Rac1 is partially responsible for mediating this effect.
Trajectory generation for underactuated control of a suspended mass

The underactuated system under consideration is a magnetically-suspended, differential drive robot utilizing a winch system to articulate a suspended mass. A dynamic model of the system is first constructed, and then a nonlinear, infinite-dimensional optimization algorithm is presented. The system model uses the principles of kinematic reduction to produce a mixed kinematic-dynamic model that isolates the modeling of the system actuators from the modeling of the rest of the system. In this framework, the inputs become generalized velocities instead of generalized forces facilitating real-world implementation with an embedded system. The optimization algorithm automatically deals with the complexities introduced by the nonlinear dynamics and underactuation to synthesize dynamically feasible system trajectories for a wide array of trajectory generation problems. Applying this algorithm to the mixed kinematic-dynamic model, several example problems are solved and the results are tested experimentally. The experimental results agree quite well with the theoretical showing promise in extending the capabilities of the system to utilize more advanced feedback techniques and to handle more complex, three-dimensional problems.
Sensitive assay of phospholipid glycerol in environmental samples

Summary Measurement of very low levels of microbial biomass was achieved by determining the glycerol content of the phospholipids recovered from environmental samples. Successive application of acid methanolysis and hydrofluoric acid hydrolysis was used to release glycerol from the phospholipids. The glycerol, once released, was acetylated and analyzed by capillary gas-liquid chromatography (GLC). The analysis was sensitive to 10 -~t moles by GLC with flame ionization detection and GLC/mass spectrometry with selective ion monitoring. Estimation of the microbial biomass by the lipid phosphate correlated with the glycerol phosphate measured by the hydrolytic procedures. In addition, indication of the community composition was gained by analysis of the acid labile glycerol. Application of this methodology to the sparse microbiota of the ground water sediments showed agreement with other estimates of microbial biomass.
The apparent inhibition of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase by mycophenolic acid glucuronide is attributable to the presence of trace quantities of mycophenolic acid

Background: Mycophenolic acid glucuronide, the primary metabolite of the immunosuppressive agent mycophenolic acid, affords weak inhibition of proliferating and resting lymphocytes and recombinant human inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase in comparison to the active drug. We evaluated the hypothesis that mycophenolic acid is a trace contaminant of the glucuronide metabolite preparation and that this accounts for the observed effects of mycophenolic acid glucuronide on human inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase catalytic activity both in lymphocytes and the pure enzyme. Methods: We used negative ion electrospray HPLC-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) and HPLC-tandem MS (HPLC-MS-MS) to identify mycophenolic acid as a contaminant of mycophenolic acid glucuronide. Quantification of the mycophenolic acid contaminant was achieved using a negative ion electrospray HPLC-MS method in the selected-ion monitoring mode. Results: Trace amounts of mycophenolic acid were detected and definitively identified in the mycophenolic acid glucuronide preparation by the HPLC-MS-MS analysis. In addition to having identical HPLC retention times, pure mycophenolic acid and the contaminant produced the following major fragments upon HPLC-MS-MS analysis: deprotonated molecular ion, m/z 319; and fragment ions, m/z 275, 243, 205, and 191 (the most abundant fragment ion). Using the negative ion electrospray HPLC-MS procedure in the selected-ion monitoring mode, the quantity of the contaminant mycophenolic acid was determined to be 0.312% ± 0.0184% on a molar basis. Conclusion: These data provide strong support for the proposal that the apparent inhibition of the target enzyme inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase by mycophenolic acid glucuronide is attributable to the presence of trace amounts of contaminant mycophenolic acid.
Transgenic wheat expressing a barley class II chitinase gene has enhanced resistance against Fusarium graminearum

Fusarium head blight (FHB; scab), primarily caused by Fusarium graminearum, is a devastating disease of wheat worldwide. FHB causes yield reductions and contamination of grains with trichothecene mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON). The genetic variation in existing wheat germplasm pools for FHB resistance is low and may not provide sufficient resistance to develop cultivars through traditional breeding approaches. Thus, genetic engineering provides an additional approach to enhance FHB resistance. The objectives of this study were to develop transgenic wheat expressing a barley class II chitinase and to test the transgenic lines against F. graminearum infection under greenhouse and field conditions. A barley class II chitinase gene was introduced into the spring wheat cultivar, Bobwhite, by biolistic bombardment. Seven transgenic lines were identified that expressed the chitinase transgene and exhibited enhanced Type II resistance in the greenhouse evaluations. These seven transgenic lines were tested under field conditions for percentage FHB severity, percentage visually scabby kernels (VSK), and DON accumulation. Two lines (C8 and C17) that exhibited high chitinase protein levels also showed reduced FHB severity and VSK compared to Bobwhite. One of the lines (C8) also exhibited reduced DON concentration compared with Bobwhite. These results showed that transgenic wheat expressing a barley class II chitinase exhibited enhanced resistance against F. graminearum in greenhouse and field conditions.
Integrating analysis and design methods (abstract)

Most of those who practice object-oriented analysis and design do not follow any standard method exactly, but combine different techniques to suit their own unique requirements. Each method employs its own set of models, notations, and processes, so it can be difficult to combine them. This tutorial shows how to design a method by providing a framework for understanding and evaluating current methods, applying it to three recent methods (OMT (Rumbaugh et al), Responsibility Driven Design/CRC cards, Booth 91 Method), and combining them to produce a new method, FUSION, that builds on their best aspects.The tutorial introduces a set of criteria for evaluating methods from the viewpoint of the object-oriented concepts they support, the kinds of models and notations they employ and the process steps that they recommend. The criteria provides a way to understand the underlying similarities and differences between methods.The criteria were developed as part of a program to assess what kind of method should be made available to HP engineers, which led to the development of the FUSION method. The tutorial ends with a brief account of the usefulness of FUSION in practice.
RNA Type III Secretion Signals that require Hfq

Salmonella virulence is largely mediated by two type III secretion systems (T3SS) that deliver effector proteins from the bacterium to a host cell; however, the secretion signal is poorly defined. Effector N termini are thought to contain the signal, but they lack homology, possess no identifiable motif, and adopt intrinsically disordered structures. Alternative studies suggest that RNA-encoded signals may also be recognized and that they can be located in the 5' untranslated leader sequence. We began our study by establishing the minimum sequence required for reporter translocation. Untranslated leader sequences predicted from 42 different Salmonella effector proteins were fused to the adenylate cyclase reporter (CyaA'), and each of them was tested for protein injection into J774 macrophages. RNA sequences derived from five effectors, gtgA, cigR, gogB, sseL, and steD, were sufficient for CyaA' translocation into host cells. To determine the mechanism of signal recognition, we identified proteins that bound specifically to the gtgA RNA. One of the unique proteins identified was Hfq. Hfq had no effect upon the translocation of full-length CigR and SteD, but injection of intact GtgA, GogB, and SseL was abolished in an hfq mutant, confirming the importance of Hfq. Our results demonstrated that the Salmonella pathogenicity island 2 (SPI-2) T3SS assembled into a functional apparatus independently of Hfq. Since particular effectors required Hfq for translocation, Hfq-RNA complexes may participate in signal recognition.
Frequency regulation with wind power plants

A new frequency regulation scheme is developed for the wind turbine/generator/converter trio that will provide the capability to participate in restoring frequency in a way similar to the droop response of conventional generators. Output active power adjustment can be realized by both converter and pitch angle control in addition to inertial response of the wind turbine. This helps in maintaining instantaneous power balance as well as in longer term frequency regulation.
Contributions of epidemiology to quality assessment and monitoring.

The contribution of epidemiology to quality assessment and monitoring: a clear enough subject. But as I approached it, it slipped into ambiguity and confusion. What was quality assessment? What was monitoring? For that matter, what was quality? And the meaning of epidemiology was the deepest mystery of all. I must begin by defining my terms. Quality shall be taken to mean making a judgment on the goodness of healthcare, based on one or more of the following: the expected or realized ability of the care to achieve the greatest improvement in health that the current science and technology of healthcare can achieve; acceptability to patients (including their families); and acceptability to the community (or the society at large). There are three ways in which we can find out if healthcare has been good in these respects. First is the examination of the process of care, which I take to mean the degree to which what is done for and by patients corresponds to what is known or believed to be most effective in improving health, and most acceptable to patients and to society. Second is the examination of the outcomes of care, meaning the degree to which the care provided is acceptable and has attained achievable improvements in health. Third is the examination of structural attributes, meaning the degree to which the physical and organizational settings in which care is given are conducive to the kind of care that can be expected to improve health and to be acceptable to patients and to the community. So much for quality assessment. As for quality monitoring, I shall take this to mean an activity by which we periodically or continuously review the quality of care and make necessary improvements in it. Quality monitoring has at least four components: gathering data pertinent to quality; data analysis; interpretation (advancing hypotheses as to causation of low or high quality); remedial action; and verification of the effects of remedial action. Next I propose a rather restrictive definition of epidemiology: the methodologically rigorous study of the distribution of states of health and disease that occur naturally in populations in order to infer causation and plan remedial action. However, epidemiologists often range over a wider field of action than the one I have just described. I characterize this larger field, in successive expansions, as: the study of other phenomena, ranging from those closely related to health and disease to those only marginally related; the design and conduct of experimental studies in populations; and the custodianship of the scientific method, broadly defined, mainly in population studies and particularly in clinical settings.
Sacrifice as Education in Augustine and Chrysostom

As eruditi et erudienti who had profited richly from pagan and Christian learning, Augustine and Chrysostom appreciated the power and influence of teachers and of pedagogical techniques. Both viewed God as the teacher, and both were captivated by the divine method of instruction. They saw this method as one of divine accommodation; that is, the Lord adapted his lessons and plan to human capacities. Augustine's and Chrysostom's works are replete with references to, and discussions of, divine accommodation; it is a common aspect of their thought which fits neatly and prominently into a lengthy and vibrant exegetical tradition.
Ten-year impacts of the biological control agents Galerucella pusilla and G. calmariensis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) in Central New York State

Abstract More than a decade has passed since the biological control agents Galerucella pusilla and G. calmariensis (Chrysomelidae) were introduced into North America for biological control of the wetland weed purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). This study provides an assessment of impact of these beetles at 36 sites in Central New York where they were released in 1994. Measurements of stand area, plant density, and plant height were made at the time of release and again in 2004. Plant heights were found to be significantly reduced, but there were no changes in stand area or plant densities, even when the presence or absence of beetles was included as a factor. The relative abundances of the two beetle species were also compared between 2004 and the last observation made in 1997. G. pusilla was found to be more abundant than G. calmariensis, but G. calmariensis had increased in relative frequency as compared to the earlier survey. Both species were more likely to be present in sites where larger releases were made in 2004. In addition to the 36 release sites, 22 non-release sites were surveyed for Galerucella and their damage. Only 27% of non-release sites were found to be occupied by Galerucella. Beetle abundance and damage levels were lower at these sites than at release sites. The results suggest that any regional, population-level decline in purple loosestrife in the Central New York region will require more time before it can be detected and that the biocontrol program could be expedited with human aided dispersal of Galerucella to areas not yet occupied.
How do I perform hematopoietic progenitor cell selection

Graft-versus-host disease remains the most important source of morbidity and mortality associated with allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The implementation of hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) selection is employed by some stem cell processing facilities to mitigate this complication. Current cell selection methods include reducing the number of unwanted T cells (negative selection) and/or enriching CD34+ hematopoietic stem/progenitors (positive selection) using immunomagnetic beads subjected to magnetic fields within columns to separate out targeted cells. Unwanted side effects of cell selection as a result of T-cell reduction are primary graft failure, increased infection rates, delayed immune reconstitution, possible disease relapse, and posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease. The Miltenyi CliniMACS cell isolation system is the only device currently approved for clinical use by the Food and Drug Administration. It uses magnetic microbeads conjugated with a high-affinity anti-CD34 monoclonal antibody capable of binding to HPCs in marrow, peripheral blood, or umbilical cord blood products. The system results in significantly improved CD34+ cell recoveries (50%-100%) and consistent 3-log CD3+ T-cell reductions compared to previous generations of CD34+ cell selection procedures. In this article, the CliniMACS procedure is described in greater detail and the authors provide useful insight into modifications of the system. Successful implementation of cell selection procedures can have a significant positive clinical effect by greatly increasing the pool of donors for recipients requiring transplants. However, before a program implements cell selection techniques, it is important to consider the time and financial resources required to properly and safely perform these procedures.
Investigation of the Genetics and Biochemistry of Roseobacticide Production in the Roseobacter Clade Bacterium Phaeobacter inhibens

Roseobacterclade bacteria are abundant in surface waters and are among the most metabolically diverse and ecologically significant species. This group includes opportunistic symbionts that associate with micro- and macroalgae. We have proposed that one representative member,Phaeobacter inhibens, engages in a dynamic symbiosis with the microalgaEmiliania huxleyi In one phase, mutualistically beneficial molecules are exchanged, including theRoseobacter-produced antibiotic tropodithietic acid (TDA), which is thought to protect the symbiotic interaction. In an alternative parasitic phase, triggered by algal senescence, the bacteria produce potent algaecides, the roseobacticides, which kill the algal host. Here, we employed genetic and biochemical screens to identify the roseobacticide biosynthetic gene cluster. By using a transposon mutagenesis approach, we found that genes required for TDA synthesis-thetdaoperon andpaacatabolon-are also necessary for roseobacticide production. Thus, in contrast to the one-cluster-one-compound paradigm, thetdagene cluster can generate two sets of molecules with distinct structures and bioactivities. We further show that roseobacticide production is quorum sensing regulated via anN-acyl homoserine lactone signal (3-OH-C10-HSL). To ensure tight regulation of algaecide production, and thus of a lifestyle switch from mutualism to parasitism, roseobacticide biosynthesis necessitates the presence of both an algal senescence molecule and a quorum sensing signal.IMPORTANCEMarineRoseobacterspecies are abundant in the oceans and engage in symbiotic interactions with microscopic algae. One member,P. inhibens, produces the antibiotic TDA and a growth hormone thought to protect and promote algal growth. However, in the presence of molecules released by senescing algae, the bacteria produce potent algaecides, the roseobacticides, which kill the host. We examined the regulatory networks and biosynthetic genes required for roseobacticide production. We found thatP. inhibensuses largely the same set of genes for production of both TDA and roseobacticides, thus providing a rare case in which one gene cluster synthesizes two structurally and functionally distinct molecules. Moreover, we found roseobacticide production to be regulated by quorum sensing. Thus, two small molecules, the algal metabolite and the quorum-sensing signal, ensure tight control in the production of roseobacticides. These results highlight the role of small molecules in regulating microbial symbioses.
Image similarity ranking of focal computed tomography liver lesions using a 2AFC technique

Content-based image retrieval (CBIR) for radiological images has experienced massive growth over the past two decades, and shows great potential as a tool for use in precision medicine. A recurring challenge in CBIR evaluation has been in obtaining reference sets of images from human viewers of the system. Our work seeks to determine the feasibility of creating a reference set from images ranked by similarity from human viewers of the images. We obtained 2 sets each of 10 images of CT focal liver lesions from a database of open-access publications with and without markings showing the region containing the lesions, respectively. We created 2 sets of all 45 pair-wise combinations of the images, and displayed them to 10 volunteers, of which 2 had medical training. We used a Two-Alternative Forced Choice (2AFC) paradigm to obtain complete rankings of similarity levels in these image pairs. Analysis showed that inter-reader agreement for rankings ranged from Tau=0.21-0.69 (median=0.37) for the image pairs without any markings, and Tau=0.21-0.57 (median=0.33) for the image pairs with markings. A comparison of the regions of interests drawn by the study participants outlining the lesions in images without markings showed that participants tended to agree on images containing a single focal lesion of a single density, and inter-reader agreement for image rankings in which the regions of interest agree ranged from Tau=0.39-0.85 (median=0.58). These results show that the use of image ranking using 2AFC may be a feasible method for creating reference sets for CBIR system validation.
Ageing management of safety-related concrete structures to provide improved bases for continuing the service of nuclear power plants

On decrit les structures en beton se rapportant a la securite des installations nucleaires, et on determine les facteurs de degradation susceptibles de compromettre la conformite de ces structures aux criteres de fonctionnement et de performance qui leur sont assignes. On donne ici, de facon resumee, les exigences d’inspection en service. On examine l’evaluation des performances des elements en beton dans les installations nucleaires. Enfin, on trace les grandes lignes d’un programme pour gerer le vieillissement des structures en beton en rapport avec la securite des installations nucleaires, et ameliorer leur capacite de service. On resume egalement les differents aspects du programme.
Transfer Delays From the Neurologic Intensive Care Unit: A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction:Neurocritical care beds are a scarce, valuable resource. The purpose of this pilot study was to quantify discharge delays from the neurologic intensive care unit (NICU) at a tertiary-care teaching hospital and to examine the impact on overall hospital length of stay (LOS). Secondary goals were to evaluate (1) the effect of NICU delays on patient physical/occupational therapy services and (2) the accuracy of clinician estimates of NICU discharge date and hospital LOS.Methods:We conducted a prospective cohort study of consecutive patients discharged over 1 month from NICU. A patient was defined to have experienced a delay when deemed medically ready for NICU discharge (ie, floor transfer) but without actual NICU discharge within 8 hours of the ready time.Results:Sixty-five patients were discharged from the NICU with an average delay of 25 hours 51 minutes (median 13 hours 3 minutes), of which 60% (39 of 65) of patients were delayed at least 8 hours, while 25% (16 of 65) were delayed at least 48...
Spectral Zones Determination for Pebble Bed Reactor Cores Using Diffusion Theory Spectral Indices

A practical methodology is developed for the determination of spectral zones in Pebble Bed Reactors (PBR). The methodology involves the use of spectral indices based on few-group diffusion theory whole core calculations. In this work a spectral zone is defined as made up of a number of nodes whose characteristics are collectively similar and that are assigned the same few-group diffusion constants. Therefore, spectral indices that reflect the physical behaviors of interest can be used to characterize said behaviors within each zone and thus to identify and distinguish the spectral zones. Several plausible spectral indices have been investigated in this work. Special emphasis and focus was placed on the trend or behavior of the spectral index at various positions along the radial and axial dimensions in the core. The ratio of group-wise surface currents to total surface fluxes, has been used to successfully identify spectral zone boundaries. A plot of the absolute value of this ratio versus position in the reactor exhibits a series of minima and maxima points. These extrema correlate with regions of significant spectral changes, and therefore are identified as plausible spectral zone boundaries.© 2008 ASME
Analysis of Unplanned Postoperative Admissions to the Intensive Care Unit.

Purpose:To investigate factors associated with unplanned postoperative admissions to the intensive care unit (ICU).Methods:Data from the National Anesthesia Clinical Outcomes Registry (NACOR) were ...
Modeling Customer Satisfaction in Business Markets: Some Basic Issues Revisited

The purpose of this paper is to revisit some of the basic assumptions and issues which are currently accepted in marketing literature on customer satisfaction. The intention of doing this is to raise issues which may or may not have been considered in the early stages of the development of this paradigm. Further, not all paradigms or approaches to model customer satisfaction are being considered. The paradigm forming the basis of this discussion is Oliver’s (1980) model and a related model of Cadotte et al. (1987). Other related constructs such as Source Loyalty (Wind 1970) and Customer Franchise (Parasuraman, Berry and Zeithaml 1991) are also considered.
Study on immuno-regulation effects of Turmeric-Ganoderma tablets

Objective:To assess the immuno-regulation effects of Turmeric-Ganoderma tablets(TGT),the dry powder derived from curcumin and Ganoderma lucidum extracts.Methods: Mice were fed with TGT daily for 30 days at the doses of 100 mg/kg·BW,200 mg/kg·BW and 400 mg/kg·BW,respectively.Seven indexes of immunologic functions were examined to assess the effect of TGT on immune system.Results: No significant effects of TGT on the growth,organ/body weight ratio and NK cells activity were observed.It was found that TGT at high doses stimulated the proliferation of splenic lymphocytes and antibody-forming cells,promoted the delayed allergic reaction,improved engulfment capability of macrophage,and increased the content of serum hemolysin in mice,comparing to the control.Conclusion: The results indicated that TGT could enhance several immunologic functions of mice.