cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enlarging the bowel lumen for the Eea stapler

THE EEA STAPLING INSTRUMENT has p roven its value in low rectal anastomosis procedures. It is reco m m e n d e d that one use the largest cartridge of the EEA device that will fit easily into the lumen of the bowel, x One technical problem that is frequently enc o u n t e r e d is the dissimilar diameters of the bowel ends and the difficulty in in t roducing the cartr idge into the smaller of the intestinal lumina. This is especially true when the device is passed upward th rough the anus. 2"3 The distal rectal segment easily accommodates the staple cartridge, but one may have great difficulty in in t roducing the anvil into the smaller proximal bowel without lacerating the bowel wall. A simple technique for enlarging the bowel lumen is described.
Raman studies of lipid interactions at the bilayer interface: phosphatidyl choline--cholesterol.

The Raman CO stretch region of phospholipids is shown to be a sensitive probe of molecular interactions in the interface region. We report here the effect of cholesterol on the Raman CO stretch and Raman symmetric C4N+ stretch of aqueous dispersions of dipalmitoyl phosphatidyl choline (DPPC). Addition of cholesterol causes a shift of some intensity from the single strong 1737 cm−1 CO stretch to lower frequency-producing a second strong CO stretch band at 1720 cm−1. Cholesterol methyl ether does not produce this splitting. Evidence is presented which suggests that the CO frequency shift is due to a conformation change in the acyl region of DPPC induced by the presence of cholesterol. Addition of cholesterol causes no change in the Raman symmetric C4N+ stretch band of DPPC — suggesting that the effect of cholesterol does not extend to the head group region.
Nest predation and the species diversity of birds.

In a recent series of papers, Thomas E. Martin has suggested that selective, density-dependent predation on nests may promote ecological diversification of birds and constrain the number of coexisting species in a community. In an experimental study, Martin has demonstrated density-dependent predation on artificial nests constructed and placed so as to mimic natural ones. Comparisons between habitats indicate that availability of suitable nest sites may influence community diversity more strongly than does diversity of foraging niches. Although his case is circumstantial at this point, Martin argues compellingly for considering predation more seriously in studies of community ecology. Indeed, many patterns attributed to competition for food resources may arise, instead, from the partitioning of predator-escape space.
Stigmatization of Substance Use Disorders Among Internal Medicine Residents

ABSTRACT Background: Evidence suggests that some physicians harbor negative attitudes towards patients with substance use disorders (SUDs). The study sought to (1) measure internal medicine residents’ attitudes towards patients with SUDs and other conditions; (2) determine whether demographic factors influence regard for patients with SUDs; and (3) assess the efficacy of a 10-hour addiction medicine course for improving attitudes among a subset of residents. Methods: A prospective cohort study of 128 internal medicine residents at an academic medical center in New York City. Scores from the validated Medical Condition Regard Scale (MCRS) were used to assess attitude towards patients with alcoholism, dependence on narcotic pain medication, heartburn, and pneumonia. Demographic variables included gender, postgraduate training year, and prior addiction education. Results: Mean baseline MCRS scores were lower (less regard) for patients with alcoholism (41.4) and dependence on narcotic pain medication (35.3) t...
Sympathoexcitatory neurons of rostral ventrolateral medulla exhibit pacemaker properties in the presence of a glutamate-receptor antagonist

Abstract Intracisternal (i.c.) administration of the glutamate-receptor antagonist kynurenate to halothane-anesthetized rats (paralyzed, ventilated) produced an initial hypertension associated with an increase in lumbar sympathetic nerve discharge. Kynurenate (i.c.) blocked or greatly reduced all sympathetic reflexes investigated (somatosympathetic 70% reduction; vagal pressor and depressor responses, 100%; hypothalamic mixed responses, 90%; baroreflex, 100%) and increased the firing rate of retiiculospinal sympathoexcitatory cells of the rostral ventrolateral medulla (PGCL-SE neurons) by 33%. After i.c. kynurenate, these cells exhibited a rhythmic, non-bursting firing pattern which could be reset by spinal cord stimulation only when antidromic spikes were elicited. Cells with similar characteristics were recorded in the nucleus paragigantocellularis lateralis (PGCL) in an in vitro rat bulb preparation perfused through the basilar artery. Their ‘pacemaker-like’ discharge pattern was observed even in the absence of kynurenate and was reset by orthodromic activation. Cells with similar characteristics were also recorded within the PGCL in 500-μm coronal slices in vitro. At 37°C their discharge rate was similar to that of PGCL-SE neurons recorded in vivo after i.c. kynurenate; it was also pacemaker-like and was insensitive to glutamate receptor blockade. It is suggested that the tonic discharge of PGCL-SE neurons is normally due to an intrinsic pacemaker activity which is modulated in vivo by a variety of synaptic inputs.
Application of collapsing methods for continuous traits to the Genetic Analysis Workshop 17 exome sequence data

Genetic Analysis Workshop 17 used real sequence data from the 1000 Genomes Project and simulated phenotypes influenced by a large number of rare variants. Our aim is to evaluate the performance of various collapsing methods that were developed for analysis of multiple rare variants. We apply collapsing methods to continuous phenotypes Q1 and Q2 for all 200 replicates of the unrelated individuals data. Within each gene, we collapse (1) all SNPs, (2) all SNPs with minor allele frequency (MAF) < 0.05, and (3) nonsynonymous SNPs with MAF < 0.05. We consider two tests when collapsing variants: using the proportion of variants and using the presence/absence of any variant. We also compare our results to a single-marker analysis using PLINK. For phenotype Q1, the proportion test for collapsing rare nonsynonymous SNPs often performed the best. Two genes (FLT1 and KDR) had statistically significant results. A single-marker analysis using PLINK also provided statistically significant results for some SNPs within these two genes. For phenotype Q2, collapsing rare nonsynonymous SNPs performed the best, with almost no difference between proportion and presence tests. However, neither collapsing methods nor a single-marker analysis provided statistically significant results at the true genes for Q2. We also found that a large number of noncausal genes had high correlations with causal genes for Q1 and Q2, which may account for inflated false positives.
Detection of Myeloma Cells in the Peripheral Blood by Flow Cytometry

Bone marrow plasma cells (PC) from patients with multiple myeloma (MM) express monoclonal cytoplasmic immunoglobulin (clg) light chain, strongly express CD38, and usually lack or dimly express CD45. The detection of malignant plasma cells in the peripheral blood (PB) by immunofluorescence microscopy (IM) distinguishes patients with active MM from those with stable disease. The aim of this study was to learn whether two-color (CD38 and CD45) flow cytometry (FC) on whole blood specimens (WBFC) and three-color FC (CD38, CD45, and anti-kappa or lambda clg) on mononuclear cells could identify circulating PC as well as the standard, more labor intensive IM technique. Split-samples of PB from 73 patients with plasma cell proliferative disorders were examined by both techniques. WBFC detected CD38+ CD45- cells in 94% (33/35) of patients with circulating monoclonal PC detected by IM and three-color FC detected monoclonal CD38+ CD45- cells in 77% (27/35) of these cases. The absolute number of monoclonal PC detected by IM was compared to the FC methods and the Spearman rank correlations were 0.77 with WBFC and 0.80 with three-color FC. This study indicates that WBFC, using antibodies to CD38 and CD45, offers a practical and reliable method to detect and quantify circulating malignant PC in patients with MM.
A Hardware-Accelerated Quantum Monte Carlo framework (HAQMC) for N-body systems☆

Interest in the study of structural and energetic properties of highly quantum clusters, such as inert gas clusters has motivated the development of a hardware-accelerated framework for Quantum Monte Carlo simulations. In the Quantum Monte Carlo method, the properties of a system of atoms, such as the ground-state energies, are averaged over a number of iterations. Our framework is aimed at accelerating the computations in each iteration of the QMC application by offloading the calculation of properties, namely energy and trial wave function, onto reconfigurable hardware. This gives a user the capability to run simulations for a large number of iterations, thereby reducing the statistical uncertainty in the properties, and for larger clusters. This framework is designed to run on the Cray XD1 high performance reconfigurable computing platform, which exploits the coarse-grained parallelism of the processor along with the fine-grained parallelism of the reconfigurable computing devices available in the form of field-programmable gate arrays. In this paper, we illustrate the functioning of the framework, which can be used to calculate the energies for a model cluster of helium atoms. In addition, we present the capabilities of the framework that allow the user to vary the chemical identities of the simulated atoms.
Dynamic Analysis of Distribution Systems with High Penetration of PV Generators using Differential Algebraic Equations in OpenDSS

Large-scale penetration of distributed energy re- sources on the existing distribution feeders impact the dynamic behavior and pose the motivation to perform a transient analysis on the distribution feeders. But, performing transient analysis based on conventional time domain approach is extremely time consuming and impractical. Besides, existing models of the PV generator in the distribution system analysis tools (OpenDSS) are just capable of supporting the snapshot and quasi-static analyses. Capturing the dynamic effects of the PV generators will be necessary for studies such as the effect of controller bandwidth, effect of multiple voltage correction devices, and anti-islanding studies. Considering an IEEE 37-bus test feeder as basis this paper proposes a mathematical approach based on differential algebraic equations (DAE) for performing dynamic analysis of distribution feeders in OpenDSS. In a detailed manner, this paper explores the use of DAE for the impact analysis of large PV generators on the existing distribution feeders. This approach models selected states as ordinary differential equations with rest of the distribution system as algebraic equations. The procedure based on DAE is effective in handling proprietary vendor- supplied models. Significant reduction in the computation time has been obtained by employing the above mentioned approach as compared with a conventional time domain technique. the effects of variable wind and solar power on distribution systems (3). Capturing the dynamic effects of the PV generators in the distribution system states will be necessary for studies such as - effect of controller bandwidths, effect of multiple voltage correction devices, and anti-islanding studies. Since the aim of this work is to accommodate large distribution feeders, efficient mathematical methods need to be applied for performing the above mentioned studies. This paper proposes the use of a mathematical approach based on differential alge- braic equations (DAE) in an open source distribution system analysis tool (OpenDSS). Selective states, such as electric currents of PV generators, has been solved using differential equation solvers, whereas major part of the distribution system has been solved using three-phase power flow solutions. The analysis and verification of the proposed mathematical approach have been performed on an IEEE 37-bus test distri- bution feeder (4). The view of the test feeder is as shown in the Figure 1. The IEEE 37-bus test feeder is loaded with 2000 kW, 400 kVaR along with a PV generator with a capacity of 400 kW. A dynamic model of the PV generator is developed as a Dynamic Linked Library (DLL) in association with the source code of the OpenDSS.
A 1 Mbs energy/security scalable encryption processor using adaptive width and supply

In many applications, it is desirable to design digital processors that allow a trade-off between the quality of service (QoS) provided and the energy consumed to process a sample. This allows the user to evaluate the application requirements and set the desired quality while minimizing the energy consumption. This paper presents an energy-scalable encryption processor in which the level of security (i.e., quality) and energy consumed to encrypt a bit can be traded-off dynamically, based on demand. Since transmitted data streams can often be partitioned into different priority levels, an energy-scalable processor ensures that important information is adequately protected, while sacrificing some security for low priority data, to reduce total system energy.
The Globalization of Business Schools: Curriculum and Pedagogical Issues

In this article we explore the connection between learning goals, cognitive skill development, and pedagogical strategies. We identify cognitive skills that are important to students of international business, and link them to the pedagogical strategies that support them. The characteristics that impact the effectiveness of international business pedagogy are described. Finally, three university programs are used to illustrate the connection between explicit learning goals, pedagogy, and cognitive skill development.
Adsorbate-Induced Ordering Transitions of Nematic Liquid Crystals on Surfaces Decorated with Aluminum Perchlorate Salts

We report an investigation of interfacial physicochemical phenomena underlying adsorbate-induced ordering transitions in nitrile-containing liquid crystals (LCs) supported on surfaces coated with metal perchlorate salts. When the mass density of Al(ClO4)3 deposited onto a surface was low (0.39 ± 0.03 ng/mm2), we measured 20 μm thick films of nematic 4-cyano-4′-n-pentyl-biphenyl (5CB) to initially exhibit perpendicular (homeotropic) ordering, consistent with the influence of coordination interactions between the nitrile groups of 5CB and Al3+ ions on the surface on the ordering of the LC. Furthermore, exposure of freshly prepared LC films to vapors of an adsorbate that coordinates strongly to Al3+ ions (dimethylmethylphosphonate, DMMP) triggered an ordering transition in the LC films, supporting our conclusion that the initial perpendicular orientation of the LC was induced by nitrile-Al3+ coordination interactions. Subsequent equilibration of the LC on the surface (hours), however, resulted in a slow, tim...
737–5 Risk Stratification in Acute Ischemic Syndromes Using Serum Tropenin T

To evaluate whether serum Troponin T (Trop-T) or CK-MB analysis could be used to risk stratify patients with acute ischemic syndromes, admission serum samples were obtained in 865 patients enrolled in the GUSTO-lia study. Pts were stratified on admission into ST elevation (n = 531) and non-ST elevation (n = 334) groups. CK-MB (mass assay) and Trop-T (immunoassay) were measured by an enzymatic core laboratory. The median (25th, 75th parcentile) serum CK-MB was 2.9 (0.9, 8.2) ng/ml in the non-ST and 4.0 (1.5, 14.1) ng/ml in the ST elevation group. Corresponding Trop-T levels were 0.05 (0.01, 0.27) ng/ml and 0.04 (0.01, 0.33) ng/ml, respectively. Elevated levels of CK-MB ( g 7 ng/mll were seen in 33% and Trop-T levels g 0.1 ng/ml were seen in 36% pts. Regression analysis documented that Trop-T levels were strongly associated with mortality (p l 0.0001), while CK-M B levels were less strongly associated (p = 0.03). In a regression model of both serum markers and mortality, CK-MB added no information (p = 0.9) after the Trop-T levels were included. Higher admission Trop-T levels were also associated (p = 0.005) with a poor clinical outcome using a composite endpoint of death, late ( g 18 hours after admission) myocardial infarction/reinfarction (MI), cardiogenic shock or heart failure (CHF), while only a weak relationship was observed with CK-MB (p = 0.07). Outcomes based on admission Trop-T levels g 0.1 ng/ml (Pos) or l 0.1 (Neg) were as shown: Non-ST Group ST elevation Group Trop-T Neg Trop-T Pas Trop-T Neg Trop-T Pas Outcomes N = 201 N = 123 N = 324 N = 176 Death 1% 9% 5% 12% Shock 2% 6% 3% 9% MI 6% 11% 5% 7% CHF 7% 16% 10% 15% In conclusion, Troponin T measurements in patients with acute ischemic syndromes can stratify patients into high and low risk categories. Early and rapid determination of Troponin T levels has the potential to streamline health care delivery in patients with acute ischemic syndromes.
Antibody response to immunization with Haemophilus influenzae type b polysaccharide vaccine in children with cancer

Children receiving therapy for malignant diseases have an increased susceptibility to a number of bacterial infections. Up to 4% to 5% of the reported cases of bacterial sepsis in children with leukemia or other malignancies have been attributed to Hib? ,2 Purified Hib polysaccharide vaccine is recommended for routine use in children between 24 and 72 months of age? High-risk groups, such as children with asplenia, malignancies associated with immunosuppression, or chronic conditions that are associated with increased risk of Hib disease are targeted for immunization. There are unclear guidelines concerning the use of the vaccine in children >5 years and in adults. In addition, data are not available on the antibody responses to Hib vaccine in children receiving chemotherapy for malignant diseases. The current project was undertaken to evaluate serum antibody responses to Hib vaccine in children with cancer.
Liposomal formulations containing sodium mercaptoundecahydrododecaborate (BSH) for boron neutron capture therapy

Sodium mercaptoundecahydrododecaborate or BSH is a compound most widely used for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). Liposome formulations containing BSH, with or without steric stabilization, were prepared as potential agents for delivery of boron compounds for BNCT. Liposomes composed of DPPC/CHOL in a molar ratio 1:1 (PEG concentration: 5 mol%) were prepared having an average diameter in the range of 100-110 nm 200 mu L of liposomes (l.88 mg phospholipid/mouse and 3.5-5.8 mg BSH/kg body weight) were injected in mice via the tail vein. Both types of liposomes resulted in a significant improvement in the circulation time of BSH compared to that obtained previously after injecting free BSH. The mean percent injected BSH remaining in circulation at the end of 24 h was 19% for the PEG-liposomes compared to the corresponding value of 7% for the conventional liposomes. The mean percent uptake by the liver and spleen was not significantly different for the two types of liposomes; the blood/RES ratios were higher for the PEG-liposomes at all time points indicating that a higher fraction of injected BSH was available in circulation. The PEG-liposomes could be further explored as a means of enhance boron drug delivery to tumor cells for BNCT.
Diacetylenic Liquid Crystals: Synthesis and Preliminary Characterization of 4,4′-Dialkyl and 4,4′-Dialkoxy Derivatives of Diphenyldiacetylene

Abstract A new liquid crystalline structural class has been observed. The synthesis and mesomorphic properties of the novel diacetylenic liquid crystals, 4,4′-di-n-alkyldiphenyldiacetylenes and 4,4′-di-n-alkoxydiphenyldiacetylenes are described. In addition, an improved synthesis of the key intermediate, 4,4′-dihydroxydiphenyldiacetylene, has been developed.
Intrapleural etoposide for malignant effusion.

The pharmacology, toxicity, and therapeutic effectiveness of etoposide (VP-16) given by the intrapleural route were examined in a phase I trial. Ten patients with malignant pleural effusion received 100, 150, or 225 mg/m2 VP-16 infused over 2 h into the pleural space after drainage of pleural fluid. The administration of VP-16 was tolerated well, with no local pain, increase in cough, dyspnea, or infection. Myelosuppression was mild at doses of 150 mg/m2 or less but severe at 225 mg/m2. Drug levels were followed in both plasma and pleural fluid for up to 12 h. Clearance of VP-16 from the pleural cavity was low at 2 ml/min m2. Peak pleural-fluid drug levels in patients receiving 225 mg/m2 exceeded 300 µg/ml, whereas peak drug concentrations in corresponding plasma samples obtained at the same time amounted to <10 µg/ml. Serial chest X-rays showed no disappearance of pleural effusion in nine evaluable patients. However, follow-up investigation of pleural fluid characteristics [carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and cytologic examination] suggested some evidence of local therapeutic benefit.
What campuses need to know about organizational learning and the learning organization

This chapter provides an overview of the literature on organizational learning and the learning organization, sets out key concepts in each area, and reviews the way that organizational learning and the learning organization have been applied within higher education.
Evidence-Based Diagnostic Strategies for Evaluating Suspected Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is an increasingly common disease, with a prevalence of at least 10% to 25% in the United States. Diagnostic allergy tests, such as skin tests and in vitro tests, can assist clinicians in determining whether nasal symptoms are allergic in origin. In addition, safe and effective medications are available to treat allergic rhinitis. The initial strategy should be to determine whether patients should undergo diagnostic testing or receive empirical treatment. This paper reviews the test characteristics of the history, skin tests, and in vitro tests in diagnosing allergic rhinitis from the perspective of decision thresholds. A combination of pertinent medical history features in a practice with a high baseline prevalence of allergic rhinitis justifies the common practice of empirical treatment since allergy medication has minimal toxicity and side effects. The situation is more complex when the patient needs a diagnostic test, because reported sensitivities and specificities of skin tests and in vitro tests vary widely. As a result, it is difficult to calculate the post-test probability of allergic rhinitis with any confidence. The decision to initiate diagnostic testing must rely on clinical judgment to select patients who would benefit most from determining their allergic status while minimizing unnecessary testing and medications. Diagnosing allergy to a specific antigen allows patients to avoid the allergen and makes them candidates for allergen immunotherapy, which can decrease the need for medications.
Attentional Capture under High Perceptual Load

Attentional capture by abrupt onsets can be modulated by several factors, including the complexity, or perceptual load, of a scene. We have recently demonstrated that observers are less likely to be captured by abruptly appearing, task-irrelevant stimuli when they perform a search that is high, as opposed to low, in perceptual load (Cosman & Vecera, 2009), consistent with perceptual load theory. However, recent results indicate that onset frequency can influence stimulus-driven capture, with infrequent onsets capturing attention more often than did frequent onsets. Importantly, in our previous task, an abrupt onset was present on every trial, and consequently, attentional capture might have been affected by both onset frequency and perceptual load. In the present experiment, we examined whether onset frequency influences attentional capture under conditions of high perceptual load. When onsets were presented frequently, we replicated our earlier results; attentional capture by onsets was modulated under conditions of high perceptual load. Importantly, however, when onsets were presented infrequently, we observed robust capture effects. These results conflict with a strong form of load theory and, instead, suggest that exposure to the elements of a task (e.g., abrupt onsets) combines with high perceptual load to modulate attentional capture by task-irrelevant information.
Immunoelectrophoresis of proteins in the hemolymph of the large milkweed bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus (Dallas)☆

Abstract 1. 1. Using immunoelectrophoresis at least eleven antigens were detected in hemolymph from fourth-instar nymphs, from male and female fifth-instar nymphs 1–8 days post-molt, from male and female adults 1–14 days post-molt, and in the egg. A minimun of five and as many as ten antigens were observed in preparation of first-, second- or third-instar nymphs. Fusion was observed between corresponding precipitin arcs containing antigens from insects of both sexes and all physiological ages studied as well as from the egg. 2. 2. Five of the precipitin arcs gave an esterase reaction which was inhibited by 10 −4 M eserine. 3. 3. Two of the precipitin arcs which stained for esterase also gave a tyrosinase reaction. 4. 4. One of the tyrosine and esterase positive arcs bound-dye specific for lipoprotein and also reacted as a glycoprotein. 5. 5. Some of the protein present bound evans blue, but it did not have the mobility characteristic of human serum albumin. 6. 6. Although the protein concentrations do change during development, the data support the idea that the proteins of the milkweed bugs in different developmental stages do not differ qualitatively in a significant manner.
Abdominal calcifications and diagnostic imaging decision making: a topic review

Objective To review commonly encountered calcifications found within the abdomen as seen on the lumbar spine radiograph and to determine which advanced imaging modality is best to thoroughly assess the patient.
A novel inversion of (sI – A)

Abstract The inversion of (sI – A), for A in standard form, is important to the study of elementary linear system analysis. An algorithm is developed which directly computes (sI – A)−1 and the fundamental solution matrix exp (At) in terms of the lumped plant, parameters found in A.
The mechanosensitive channel of small conductance (MscS) functions as a Jack-in-the box.

Phenotypical analysis of the lipid interacting residues in the closed state of the mechanosensitive channel of small conductance (MscS) from Escherichia coli (E. coli) has previously shown that these residues are critical for channel function. In the closed state, mutation of individual hydrophobic lipid lining residues to alanine, thus reducing the hydrophobicity, resulted in phenotypic changes that were observable using in vivo assays. Here, in an analogous set of experiments, we identify eleven residues in the first transmembrane domain of the open state of MscS that interact with the lipid bilayer. Each of these residues was mutated to alanine and leucine to modulate their hydrophobic interaction with the lipid tail-groups in the open state. The effects of these changes on channel function were analyzed using in vivo bacterial assays and patch clamp electrophysiology. Mutant channels were found to be functionally indistinguishable from wildtype MscS. Thus, mutation of open-state lipid interacting residues does not differentially stabilize or destabilize the open, closed, intermediate, or transition states of MscS. Based on these results and other data from the literature, we propose a new gating paradigm for MscS where MscS acts as a “Jack-In-The-Box” with the intrinsic bilayer lateral pressure holding the channel in the closed state. In this model, upon application of extrinsic tension the channel springs into the open state due to relief of the intrinsic lipid bilayer pressure.
Ensemble Monte Carlo simulation of velocity modulation transistors (VMT) and real space transfer (NERFET, CHINT) devices

Abstract Numerical simulation of velocity-modulation field effect transistors and real-space transfer transistors are presented. Using self-consistent particle-field Monte Carlo analyses, we assess possible advantages of these novel device structures with respect to their switching speed. Our study shows that current switching can be achieved by the velocity modulation concept. The simulations performed for real space transfer devices are in agreement with experiments and reproduce all prominent features of real space transfer structures such as, negative differential resistance, saturation of drain and substrate (injection) current at high source-to-drain voltages, and the negative transconductance ( Δ I D,sat Δ V sub ) in the saturated drain current.
Static force analysis of a three-cylindric robot using the theory of screws

Abstract Screw theory is applied to the inverse static force problem of a general geometry, six-degree-of-freedom, three-cylindric robot. The paper shows that the transpose of the (3 × 3) dual-Jacobian matrix plays the same role in the inverse static force problem as the inverse of the matrix plays in the inverse velocity problem. The symmetry between the two solutions is discussed and shown to be a direct result of the theorem of reciprocity between the velocity screw of the end-effector and the external wrench acting on the end-effector. The paper then presents the dual actuator force applied at each of the three cylindric joints and the power required by each rotary-linear actuator to support a specified external wrench acting on the end-effector. Finally, the results are applied to a kinematically simple three-cylindric robot and a numerical example is included for illustrative purposes.
Repair of pectus excavatum and carinatum in adults.

Abstract BACKGROUND: There is sparse published information regarding the repair of pectus chest deformities in adults. This report summarizes our clinical experience with the surgical repair of pectus excavatum and carinatum deformities in 25 adults. METHODS: During the past 11 years, 25 patients 20 years of age or older (mean 31) with symptomatic pectus excavatum (23) or carinatum (2) deformities underwent surgical repair using a temporary internal sternal support bar. RESULTS: Each of the patients with decreased stamina and endurance or dyspnea with exercise experienced marked clinical improvement within 4 months postoperation. Exercise-induced asthma was improved in 6 of 7 patients; chest pain was reduced in each of 9 patients. Postoperative complications included pneumothorax (1), keloid (2), and discomfort from sternal bar (2). The sternal bar was removed 7 to 10 months postoperation in 19 patients; there has been no return of preoperative symptoms or recurrent depression in any patient with a mean follow-up of 4.8 years. CONCLUSIONS: For adults who have symptoms and activity limitations related to uncorrected pectus chest deformities, surgical repair can be performed with low morbidity, low cost, minimal limitation in activity, and a high frequency of symptomatic improvement. The operation in adults is more difficult than in children, although the results are similar.
Critical temperature changes in many-layer films between plates

Abstract Two distinct mechanisms produce two separate terms in the change of the critical temperature Tc in an n-layer (n ↗ 1) film. The interface interaction induces a change ΔTc, ΔTc/Tc ⩽ O(2/n). The finite thickness of a film gives another term in the change of Tc, which has the exponent 1/ν≈1.56. Comparison with experiments is made and further experiments are discussed.
Reporter protein-targeted probes for magnetic resonance imaging.

Contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging are frequently employed as experimental and clinical probes. Drawbacks include low signal sensitivity, fast clearance, and nonspecificity that limit efficacy in experimental imaging. In order to create a bioresponsive MR contrast agent, a series of four Gd(III) complexes targeted to the HaloTag reporter were designed and synthesized. HaloTag is unique among reporter proteins for its specificity, versatility, and the covalent interaction between substrate and protein. In similar systems, these properties produce prolonged in vivo lifetimes and extended imaging opportunities for contrast agents, longer rotational correlation times, and increases in relaxivity (r1) upon binding to the HaloTag protein. In this work we report a new MR contrast probe, 2CHTGd, which forms a covalent bond with its target protein and results in a dramatic increase in sensitivity. A 6-fold increase in r1, from 3.8 to 22 mM–1 s–1, is observed upon 2CHTGd binding to the target protein. T...
A 2-MHz 60-W Zero-Voltage-Switching Synchronous Noninverting Buck–Boost Converter With Reduced Component Values

This brief presents a high-frequency high-efficiency zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) synchronous noninverting buck–boost converter for tens-of-Watt applications. By using two pairs of small auxiliary inductors and capacitors, the proposed converter can achieve ZVS under different load currents without increasing voltage stress across power field-effect transistors. The switching power loss is thus minimized to enable high-frequency operation of the converter. The proposed converter can be also configured into the boost mode or the buck mode with ZVS operation when the input voltage changes in order to maintain high power efficiency under different input voltages. The proposed noninverting buck–boost converter has been implemented to operate at 2 MHz and deliver 60-W output. The measured peak power efficiency achieves 94.3%, and the output capacitance and its volume can be reduced by at least 14 times and 4.8 times compared with other state-of-the-art counterparts.
Molecular mechanisms of cellular mechanics

Mechanical forces play an essential role in cellular processes as input, output, and signals. Various protein complexes in the cell are designed to handle, transform and use such forces. For instance, proteins of muscle and the extracellular matrix can withstand considerable stretching forces, hearing-related and mechanosensory proteins can transform weak mechanical stimuli into electrical signals, and regulatory proteins are suited to forcing DNA into loops to control gene expression. Here we review the structure-function relationship of four protein complexes with well defined and representative mechanical functions. The first example is titin, a protein that confers passive elasticity on muscle. The second system is the elastic extracellular matrix protein, fibronectin, and its cellular receptor integrin. The third protein system is the transduction apparatus in hearing and other mechanical senses, likely containing cadherin and ankyrin repeats. The last system is the lac repressor protein, which regulates gene expression by looping DNA. This review focuses on atomic level descriptions of the physical mechanisms underlying the various mechanical functions of the stated proteins.
Giant Field Enhancement at Carbon Nanotube Tips Induced by Multi-stage Effect

Recently, we have reported an extremely strong field emission from carbon nanotubes grown on carbon cloth, with the field-enhancement factor of up to 18 800. In this paper, we study the origins of this effect, by investigating field emission from individual carbon nanotubes, in a transmission electron microscope equipped with a piezo manipulator. Microscopic analysis reveals a multistage structure of some of the nanotubes, characterized by an order of magnitude smaller nanotubes branching off the tips of bigger nanotubes or carbon fibers . The multistage structure causes a macroscopic enhancement of the electric field, which can match that of a single macroscopically long nanotube with length equal to the combined length of all stages, and the tip radius equal to that of the thinnest nanotube in the structure. This not only explains the observed giant field enhancement, but also provides important clues for the design of nanotube emitters for electronic applications. © 2005 American Institute of Physics. DOI: 10.1063/1.2008363
Assembly of a heterooligomeric asialoglycoprotein receptor complex during cell-free translation.

Abstract We have translated RNAs for the two rat asialoglycoprotein receptor polypeptides together in a cell-free system containing dog pancreatic microsomes and immunoprecipitated the products with antibodies that distinguish the two proteins. In this system the proteins oligomerize, as judged by their coprecipitation with either of the subunit-specific antisera. Oligomerization does not occur between subunits synthesized without microsomes or between subunits synthesized on separate microsomes mixed during detergent solubilization. Thus, oligomerization occurs within the microsomal membrane. We calculate that oligomerization proceeds with an efficiency of approximately 85%. The receptor complex appears to represent a specific oligomer because it excludes a third membrane glycoprotein synthesized in the same reaction. Oligomerization of the asialoglycoprotein receptor in vitro should provide a useful system to study the assembly of a membrane-protein complex.
Ca2+-dependent inhibition of smooth muscle adenylate cyclase activity

Abstract We have examined the inhibitory regulation by Ca2+ of the adenylate cyclase activity associated with microsomes isolated from bovine aorta smooth muscle. In the presence of 2 m m MgCl2, Ca2+ (0.8–100 μ m ) inhibited in a noncompetitive manner activation of the enzyme by GTP, Gpp[NH]p, or forskolin. In all instances the value for half-maximal inhibition was between 2 and 3 μ m . In contrast, Ca2+ inhibited the activation by MgCl2 (2–50 m m ), alone or in the presence of GTP, in a competitive manner. The inhibition of adenylate cyclase by 10 μ m Ca2+ was reversed in the presence of either 5 or 25 μ m calmodulin or troponin C. These data show that (i) Ca2+, at concentrations similar to those which activate smooth muscle contraction, inhibits the stimulation of adenylate cyclase by several activators; (ii) Ca2+ and Mg2+ compete for a common site on the smooth muscle adenylate cyclase complex; and (iii) the reversal of Ca2+-dependent inhibition by Ca2+-binding proteins may be produced by chelation of the metal by these proteins.
3D image registration using a fast noniterative algorithm.

This note describes the implementation of a three-dimensional (3D) registration algorithm, generalizing a previous 2D version [Alexander, Int J Imaging Systems and Technology1999;10:242‐57]. The algorithm solves an integrated form of linearized image matching equation over a set of 3D rectangular sub-volumes (‘patches’) in the image domain. This integrated form avoids numerical instabilities due to differentiation of a noisy image over a lattice, and in addition renders the algorithm robustness to noise. Registration is implemented by first convolving the unregistered images with a set of computationally fast [O(N)] filters, providing four bandpass images for each input image, and integrating the image matching equation over the given patch. Each filter and each patch together provide an independent set of constraints on the displacement field derived by solving a set of linear regression equations. Furthermore, the filters are implemented at a variety of spatial scales, enabling registration parameters at one scale to be used as an input approximation for deriving refined values of those parameters at a finer scale of resolution. This hierarchical procedure is necessary to avoid false matches occurring. Both downsampled and oversampled (undecimating) filtering is implemented. Although the former is computationally fast, it lacks the translation invariance of the latter. Oversampling is required for accurate interpolation that is used in intermediate stages of the algorithm to reconstruct the partially registered from the unregistered image. However, downsampling is useful, and computationally efficient, for preliminary stages of registration when large mismatches are present. The 3D registration algorithm was implemented using a 12-parameter affine model for the displacement: u(x) 5 Ax 1 b. Linear interpolation was used throughout. Accuracy and timing results for registering various multislice images, obtained by scanning a melon and human volunteers in various stationary positions, is described. The algorithm may be generalized to more general models of the displacement field, and is also well suited to parallel processing. © 2000 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.
Computer-aided diagnosis of pulmonary infections using texture analysis and support vector machine classification.

Rationale and Objectives The purpose of this study was to develop and test a computer-assisted detection method for the identification and measurement of pulmonary abnormalities on chest computed tomographic (CT) imaging in cases of infection, such as novel H1N1 influenza. The method developed could be a potentially useful tool for classifying and quantifying pulmonary infectious disease on CT imaging. Materials and Methods Forty chest CT examinations were studied using texture analysis and support vector machine classification to differentiate normal from abnormal lung regions on CT imaging, including 10 patients with immunohistochemistry-proven infection, 10 normal controls, and 20 patients with fibrosis. Results Statistically significant differences in the receiver-operating characteristic curves for detecting abnormal regions in H1N1 infection were obtained between normal lung and regions of fibrosis, with significant differences in texture features of different infections. These differences enabled the quantification of abnormal lung volumes on CT imaging. Conclusion Texture analysis and support vector machine classification can distinguish between areas of abnormality in acute infection and areas of chronic fibrosis, differentiate lesions having consolidative and ground-glass appearances, and quantify those texture features to increase the precision of CT scoring as a potential tool for measuring disease progression and severity.
Data-Hiding Codes

This tutorial paper reviews the theory and design of codes for hiding or embedding information in signals such as images, video, audio, graphics,and text. Such codes have also been called watermarking codes; they can be used in a variety of applications, including copyright protection for digital media, content authentication, media forensics, data binding, and covert communications. Some of these applications imply the presence of an adversary attempting to disrupt the transmission of information to the receiver; other applications involve a noisy, generally unknown, communication channel. Our focus is on the mathematical models, fundamental principles, and code design techniques that are applicable to data hiding. The approach draws from basic concepts in information theory, coding theory, game theory, and signal processing,and is illustrated with applications to the problem of hiding data in images.
The Ill Effects of Public Sector Corruption in the Water and Sanitation Sector

In general, given a particular set of institutions, the greater a county's per capita income, the more extensive will be its pro vision of goods and services that require concerted public action. We contend that one of the most important aspects of institutions in this regard is public sector corruption. We test this contention by analyzing 85 countries observed in 1990, 1995, 2000, and 2004--the only years for which data on improved drinking water and adequate sanitation are available. The models point to statistically significant, negative relations between corruption and access to both improved drinking water and adequate sanitation.
Glocal knowledge networks in the development of India's outsourced software sector

Global-local (glocal) knowledge networks were instrumental in the development of India's outsourced software sector beginning with the building of the nation's educational infrastructure of state-funded technical and management institutes and private engineering colleges. These networks expanded as graduates sought higher education and employment opportunities abroad. New software firms also sent project teams to foreign client sites to undertake outsourced work. Technological knowledge clusters formed in cities such as Mumbai and Bangalore and, when cost pressures mounted, these enclaves began to perform the offshore outsourcing work for North American MNCs like TI, Citibank, Nortel Networks, and GE.
Foldover-free image warping

An image warping method is presented that deforms an image continuously without foldover, while observing a given set of trajectories of feature elements. Any intermediate image during the morph is homeomorphic to the initial image and the morphing process is a homotopy. The method permits points, line-segments, and polygons to be included as features in the image. Our method is based on time-varying triangulation, that is, triangulation changes as features move. Accordingly, the deformation mapping is updated locally for the part for which the triangulation changes. Experimental results are included to demonstrate the feasibility of our approach and the complexity of the algorithm is analyzed.
Environmental Policy Since Earth Day I: What Have We Gained?

I review the data on costs and benefits of the major environmental laws passed during the 1970s. The winners in terms of benefit-cost analysis include: getting lead out of gasoline; controlling particulate air pollution; reducing the concentration of lead in drinking water; and the cleanup of hazardous waste sites with the lowest cost per cancer case avoided under Superfund The losers include: mobile source air pollution control; water pollution control; and many of the regulations and cleanup decisions taken under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, the Toxic Substances Control Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, and Superfund.
Monte Carlo calculations for transport due to MHD modes

The three basic mechanisms that produce either classical or anomalous transport are spatial variation of magnetic field strength, spatial variation of electrostatic potential in magnetic surfaces, and loss of magnetic surfaces. A Monte Carlo code is written to study transport due to these three mechanisms interacting with collisional effects. The equations of motion are obtained from the canonical drift Hamiltonian, but non-canonical co-ordinates are used to simplify the integrations. The code is applied to the reversed-field-pinch ZT-40 and the Tokapole II. For ZT-40 the Bessel-function model is used to represent the magnetic field geometry. The effects of pitch-angle scattering, loop voltage and the break-up of magnetic surfaces resulting from resistive MHD perturbations on the drift particle trajectories are illustrated. The particle diffusion coefficients are obtained for varying amplitudes of resistive MHD perturbations. For Tokapole II the spectrum of both the ideal and resistive MHD perturbations is constructed from the experimental data. The drift trajectories for trapped and passing electrons in the presence of such perturbations are obtained. The particle diffusion coefficients for the neo-classical regime in Tokapole II are obtained for varying collision frequency. By comparing the transport coefficients for various groups of particles with the experimental data, we hope to obtain far more information on the transport mechanisms than can be obtained by the standard confinement time measurements. The various groups of particles that can be studied using the code include runaway electrons, thermal electrons, and both passing and trapped diagnostic beam ions.
Broad-band reactive matching of high-speed directly modulated laser diodes

The design and demonstration of an octave bandwidth impedance matching network for directly modulated diode lasers are considered. Compact semilumped matching structures have been designed and fabricated at microwave frequencies with near theoretical performance. The laser was matched to 50 Omega over the 2-4-GHz band, achieving greater than 13-dB return loss and a dramatic 10-dB improvement in fiber link insertion loss and sensitivity. Excellent agreement was obtained between measured and simulated fiber link performance. >