cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Optimal Potassium Concentration in Cardioplegic Solutions

High-energy phosphates provide a sensitive index of myocardial preservation. This experiment was designed to use this index in order to assess the efficacy of various potassium concentrations in a crystalloid cardioplegic solution in protecting the myocardium during hypothermic ischemic arrest. The in vivo ischemic pig-heart model was used, measuring left ventricular levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) before, during, and after a two-hour arrest period and after 30 minutes of reperfusion. Thirty-eight animals were divided into seven groups of 5 to 6 animals each. Each group received a different potassium concentration in the cardioplegic solution, namely, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 mEq/L. The results were as follows: the ATP moiety was best preserved during ischemia and reperfusion in the 15 mEq/L group, while it remained significantly lower in the 5 mEq/L group. The 10, 20, 25, 30, and 35 mEq/L groups showed an intermediate range of ATP preservation. We conclude from these results that cardioplegic solutions containing 5 mEq/L of potassium seem to be inadequate for myocardial preservation during ischemic arrest; that solutions with 15 mEq/L of potassium may offer the best myocardial protection of all concentrations tested; and that solutions with potassium concentrations of 15 and 35 mEq/L are significantly better than normokalemic (5 mEq/L) cardioplegic solutions.
Thoracic Surgery workforce: Snapshot at the end of the twentieth century and implications for the new millennium

Abstract Background . An appropriately sized physician workforce is an essential component for healthcare planning. Contemporary economic forces and the impact of managed care have stimulated renewed interest in understanding and monitoring workforce issues. Methods . Between August and December of 1999, the Workforce Committee of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons conducted a survey detailing demographic, geographic, and socioeconomic practice characteristics of the membership. Results . The 2,515 returned surveys represented a 62.6% return rate (± 1.6% margin of error), providing a highly statistically valid sample. Active thoracic surgeons are a mean of 50 years old, 98% men, with a high level of career satisfaction. Length of training and educational debt has been escalating. Adult cardiac surgical case volumes have increased (mean, 225 cases) and 52% of adult cardiac surgeons perform general thoracic procedures. Surgeons work 67 hours/week and 47 weeks/year. Most are organized in single specialty groups (50%) in urban areas (59%) as for-profit corporations (77%). Half of the respondents will be retired a mean of 13 years from now corresponding to a median calendar year of 2011. Conclusions . This survey highlights significant workforce retirement during the next 10 to 15 years. Currently, the workforce in thoracic surgery appears "right sized." These valuable data provide a profile of the specialty. The information enhances our ability to strategically plan.
Filtered region of interest cone-beam rotational angiography

Purpose: Cone-beam rotational angiography (CBRA) is widely used in the modern clinical settings. In a number of procedures, the area of interest is often considerably smaller than the field of view (FOV) of the detector, subjecting the patient to potentially unnecessary x-ray dose. The authors therefore propose a filter-based method to reduce the dose in the regions of low interest, while supplying high image quality in the region of interest (ROI). Methods: For such procedures, the authors propose a method of filtered region of interest (FROI)-CBRA. In the authors’ approach, a gadolinium filter with a circular central opening is placed into the x-ray beam during image acquisition. The central region is imaged with high contrast, while peripheral regions are subjected to a substantial lower intensity and dose through beam filtering. The resulting images contain a high contrast/intensity ROI, as well as a low contrast/intensity peripheral region, and a transition region in between. To equalize the two regions’ intensities, the first projection of the acquisition is performed with and without the filter in place. The equalization relationship, based on Beer’s law, is established through linear regression using corresponding filtered and nonfiltered data. The transition region is equalized based on radial profiles. Results: Evaluations in 2D and 3D show no visible difference between conventional FROI-CBRA projection images and reconstructions in the ROI. CNR evaluations show similar image quality in the ROI, with a reduced CNR in the reconstructed peripheral region. In all filtered projection images, the scatter fraction inside the ROI was reduced. Theoretical and experimental dose evaluations show a considerable dose reduction; using a ROI half the original FOV reduces the dose by 60% for the filter thickness of 1.29 mm. Conclusions: These results indicate the potential of FROI-CBRA to reduce the dose to the patient while supplying the physician with the desired image detail inside the ROI.
The α6Aβ1 and α6Bβ1 Integrin Variants Signal Differences in the Tyrosine Phosphorylation of Paxillin and Other Proteins

Integrin receptors can mediate transmembrane signaling in response to ligand binding. To further examine the role of the integrin α subunit in these signaling functions, we assessed the contribution of the α6 cytoplasmic domain variants to the signaling properties of the α6β1 integrin using P388D1 cells that had been transfected with either the α6A or the α6B cDNA. The α6Aβ1 and α6Bβ1 receptors induced marked quantitative differences in the tyrosine phosphorylation of several proteins after binding to laminin. Specifically, the α6A cytoplasmic domain was more effective than the α6B cytoplasmic domain in inducing the tyrosine phosphorylation of three major proteins (molecular mass, 120, 110, and 76 kDa). In addition to these proteins, we also observed that the tyrosine phosphorylation of the cytoskeletal protein paxillin was increased significantly more by α6Aβ1 integrin-mediated adhesion to laminin than by that of α6Bβ1. This differential pattern of tyrosine phosphorylation induction does not appear to be a secondary event initiated by cell shape changes. Also, differences in tyrosine phosphorylation in the α6 transfectants were not evident in response to attachment to other substrates. These findings provide biochemical evidence for functional differences between α subunit cytoplasmic domain variants of the same integrin.
The human tibia a simplified method of radiographic analysis of its cross-section, with anthropometric correlations.

In developing techniques for in vivo static testing in bending of the human tibia, we have considered a 6 element model of the tibial cross-section which has enabled us to determine the cross-sectional area and moment of inertia from two conventional orthogonal radiographs. Area correlated directly with the height of the subject (p<0.05) and inversely with age (p<0.07), and the moment of inertia showed excellent correlation with the fourth power of the tibial width. Our values for the moment of inertia agreed well with those of others using different and more elaborate methods, and would seem suitable for clinical application.
Differential centrifugation studies of guinea pig lung proteases.

SummaryFive subcellular fractions were isolated from guinea pig lung homogenates by differential centrifugation. These fractions were defined biochemically by the analysis of 18 enzymes representing different subcellular compartments. Succinate dehydrogenase and cytochrome oxidase distributed with the heavy mitochondrial fraction, while N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase, acid p-nitrophenylphos-phatase, cathepsins A, Bl, and D, dipeptidyl-peptidases I and II, and elastolytic esterase distributed with the light mitochondrial fraction. Alkaline p-nitrophenylphosphatase, glucose 6-phosphatase, dipeptidylpeptidase IV, neutral protease, and alkaline protease all demonstrated a “microsomal” enrichment. In the cytosol were found lactate dehydrogenase, dipeptidylpeptidase III, and a dipeptidase. The lung subcellular fractions were heterogeneous with cross-contamination between the heavy mitochondrial, light mitochondrial, and “microsomal” fractions. The enzyme distributions noted were similar to those found in other tissues.
Cloning and characterization of the 23S RNA pseudouridine 2633 synthase from bacillus subtilis

A Bacillus subtilis ORF, ypul, 41% homologous to rsuA, the gene for the synthase which forms pseudouridine 516 in Escherichia coli 16S rRNA, was cloned and the protein expressed and affinity-purified by the His tag procedure. Reactions with E. coli 16S and 23S rRNA transcripts were performed in vitro. The protein did not form pseudouridine 516 as expected but did produce pseudouridine 552 in 16S rRNA and pseudouridines 1199, 2605, and 2833 in 23S rRNA. Of these, only pseudouridine 2605 is found naturally in either E. coli or B. subtilis rRNA. Kinetic experiments confirmed that pseudouridine 2605 was the primary target. Comparison of the four pseudouridine sites yielded a consensus recognition sequence for the synthase. This consensus sequence was not present at any other site in either E. coli or B. subtilis 16S or 23S RNA. We propose that YpuL is the B. subtilis pseudouridine 2633 (2605 in E. coli) synthase. Since the closest gene sequence homologue in E. coli is yciL, we suggest that its gene product is the corresponding E. coli pseudouridine 2605 synthase.
The integrative functions of conflict

substantially to their perpetuation (10, pp. 123, 141; 41, p. 238; 48, pp. 1016-17; 17, p. 1). In considering both intergroup conflict and that occurring internally between component parts of a single group, two kinds of effects may be distinguished. On the one hand, conflict may result in the destruction or disruption of all or certain of the bonds of unity which may previously have existed between the disputants. On the other hand, conflict may strengthen pre-existing ties or contribute to the establishment of unifying bonds where none before existed. It is with the latter that we are concerned in the
Use of ultrasound scan in prostatic I-125 implantation robert

Abstract The average dimension of prostate was measured by transabdominal ultrasonography preoperatively to compare with direct intmoperative measurements in 28 patients undergoing suprapubic I-125 seed implantation for the treatment of prostatic cancer. A highly significant correlation (r = 0.932) was found between these two measurements. Transabdominal ultrasonography is a relatively simple and accurate non-invasive method of determining the number of I-125 seeds needed to implant the patient with prostatic malignancy.
A New Line-based Algorithm for Real Time Haptic Interactions with Virtual Environments

In real time computer graphics, "interactivity" is limited to a display rate of 30 frames per second. However, in multimodal virtual environments involving haptic interactions, a much higher update rate of about 1 kHz is necessary to ensure continuous interactions and smooth transitions. The simplest and most efficient interaction paradigm in such environments is to represent the haptic cursor as a point. However, in many situations, such as those in the development of real time simulations involving the interactions of long slender tools with complex models, such a paradigm is nonrealistic and at least a line-based interaction is more desirable. While such paradigms exist, the main impediment to their widespread use is the associated computational complexity. In this paper, we introduce, for the first time, an efficient algorithm for computing the interaction of a line-shaped haptic cursor and polygonal surface models which has a near constant complexity. The algorithm relies on space-time coherence, topological information and the properties of lines in 3D space to maintain proximity information between a line segment and triangle meshes. For interaction with convex objects, the line is represented by its end points and a dynamic point, which is chosen to be the closest point on the line to any potentially colliding triangle. To deal with multiple contacts and non-convexities, the line is decomposed into segments and a dynamic point is used for each segment. Realistic examples are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Hunting for Rogue Waves in a Three-Dimensional Nonlinear Wavefield: A Direct Simulation-Based Approach

We describe an investigation of the occurrence, statistics, and generation mechanisms of rogue wave in the open sea using direct three-dimensional phase-resolved nonlinear wavefield simulations. To achieve this we develop an efficient nonlinear wavefield simulation capability based on the high-order spectrum method which solves the primitive phase-resolved Euler equations. The simulations account for nonlinear wave-wave interactions up to an arbitrary high order in the wave steepness and are capable of accounting for effects of bottom bathymetry, variable current, and direct physics-based models for wind input and wave breaking dissipation. We apply direct large-scale simulations to obtain a large number of phase-resolved nonlinear wavefields, initially specified by directional wave spectra. The typical spatial-temporal domain size of such numerical nonlinear wavefields is O(103 km2 ) over evolution time of O(hr). These spatial and temporal scales account for quartet resonant interactions and partially for quintet resonant interactions among wave components in the wavefield. From the simulated nonlinear wavefields, rogue wave events are identified and their occurrence statistics are studied. It is shown that the classic linear theory (i.e. Rayleigh distribution) significantly underestimates the rogue wave occurrence. Second-order theory improves the Rayleigh prediction, but still underestimates the rogue wave occurrence in wavefields with moderately large wave steepness and relatively narrow directional spreading and spectrum bandwidth. The influence of key wave spectrum parameters (such as significant wave height, directional spreading, effective steepness, and spectrum bandwidth) on the rogue wave occurrence is analyzed. The classification of rogue waves according to their configuration is also obtained. The key characteristics of a rogue wave or rogue wave group in terms of kinematics and surface structure are analyzed and quantified. The nonlinear wave simulations, which provide full three-dimensional kinematics and dynamics of rogue wave events, provide a powerful tool for understanding the underlying mechanisms of their generation. They are elucidated by specific examples.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Cost recovery in the health‐care sector in Sub‐Saharan Africa

Cost recovery, or the pricing of health-care services in government-run health-care facilities, continues to be a politically delicate subject in Sub-Saharan Africa. Nevertheless, ministries of health are now beginning to understand that the selective pricing of healthcare services can be a powerful tool for achieving the efficiency and equity goals that their governments have set, and for increasing ministry financial resources that can be used to improve the quality of care offered. This article provides a blue-print for these nascent cost-recovery efforts. After a consideration of the rationale for cost recovery within a theoretical context, a set of pricing principles for the whole public health sector is presented and a prototypical systemic price schedule is derived from the principles. Constraints to effective and equitable cost recovery are then discussed, and topics for further empirical research are suggested.
An acute trophic cascade among microorganisms in the tree hole ecosystem following removal of omnivorous mosquito larvae.

Results of two field experiments showed that selective removal of omnivorous mosquito larvae (Aedes triseriatus (Say)) functioning as top predators in the food web of a temperate, tree hole ecosystem resulted rapidly in increased abundance of flagellate and then ciliate populations. Flagellate density increased from 103 per ml within 4 days of omnivore removal, followed shortly thereafter by an increase in ciliate density from 102 per ml, after which flagellate density declined, and flagellate and ciliate densities stabilized. Rod-shaped bacteria increased slightly in density after removal of larval mosquitoes, then declined as protist density increased. Cocciform bacteria did not vary in density with these changes, thus the trophic cascade dampened at the remotest trophic level. Concomitant with the increase in protist densities, some bacteria formed elongated filaments >10 μm in length, likely an anti-predation, morphological response stimulated by suddenly intensified grazing as protozoan density rose. Results suggest that feeding by omnivorous mosquito larvae exhibited strong top-down effects on flagellate and ciliate populations, depressing them to below their equilibrium densities and nearly to extinction in tree hole ecosystems.
The Role of CD40 and CD80 Accessory Cell Molecules in Dendritic Cell-Dependent HIV-1 Infection

We investigated the role of blood dendritic cells (DCs) in transmission of HIV-1 from infected to uninfected CD4+ T cells, and the accessory molecules involved. DCs promoted transmission from infected to uninfected CD4+ cells, but DCs themselves were not infectable. DC-mediated transmission was blocked by MAb to CD4 and MHC class II, but strongly increased by MAb to CD40 on DCs or CD28 on T cells. The DC-dependent infection was inhibitable by anti-CD80 and a soluble fusion protein of the CD80 ligand, CTLA4; soluble CTLA4 immunoglobulin also blocked infection augmented by cross-linking CD40. These data suggest a linkage between CD40-CD40L and CD28-CD80 counterreceptors on DCs and T cells, and spread of HIV infection in vivo.
The influence of a variable initial composition on stellar silicon burning

Silicon burning at a temperatureT=3×109K has been studied for three initial abundance configurations: (1) X(Si28)=1; (2) X(Si28)=X(Mg24)=0.5; and (3) X(Si28)=X(S32)=0.5. It may be observed that, in the absence of beta-decay, the results obtained for cases (2) and (3), in which admixtures of substantial mass fractions of Mg24 and S32 into a silicon region are considered, will converge toward those of the pure silicon relaxation problem. This convergence takes place on a rapid time scale for the Mg24 admixture while, in the case of a S32 admixture, the abundances of the heavy elements (A>28) are enhanced for a substantial fraction of the lifetime of the silicon burning process.
A brief risk-stratification tool to predict repeat emergency department visits and hospitalizations in older patients discharged from the emergency department.

Objectives: To evaluate the predictive ability of a simple six-item triage risk screening tool (TRST) to identify elder emergency department (ED) patients at risk for ED revisits, hospitalization, or nursing home (NH) placement within 30 and 120 days following ED discharge. Methods: Prospective cohort study of 650 community-dwelling elders (age 65 years or older) presenting to two urban academic EDs. Subjects were prospectively evaluated with a simple six-item ED nursing TRST. Participants were interviewed 30 and 120 days post-ED index visit and the utilization of EDs, hospitals, or NHs was recorded. Main outcome measurement was the ability of the TRST to predict the composite endpoint of subsequent ED use, hospital admission, or NH admission at 30 and 120 days. Individual outcomes of ED use, hospitalization, and NH admissions were also examined. Results: Increasing cumulative TRST scores were associated with significant trends for ED use, hospital admission, and composite outcome at both 30 and 120 days (p < 0.0001 for all, except 30-day ED use, p = 0.002). A simple, unweighted five-item TRST (“lives alone” item removed after logistic regression modeling) with a cut-off score of 2 was the most parsimonious model for predicting composite outcome (AUC = 0.64) and hospitalization at 30 days (AUC = 0.72). Patients defined as high-risk by the TRST (score ≥ 2) were significantly more likely to require subsequent ED use (RR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.2 to 2.3), hospital admission (RR = 3.3; 95% CI = 2.2 to 5.1), or the composite outcome (RR = 1.9; 95% CI 1.7 to 2.9) at both 30 days and 120 days than the low-risk cohort. Conclusions: Older ED patients with two or more risk factors on a simple triage screening tool were found to be at significantly increased risk for subsequent ED use, hospitalization, and nursing home admission.
Simultaneous screening for osteoporosis at CT colonography: Bone mineral density assessment using MDCT attenuation techniques compared with the DXA reference standard

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of lumbar spine attenuation measurement for bone mineral density (BMD) assessment at screening computed tomographic colonography (CTC) using central dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) as the reference standard. Two-hundred and fifty-two adults (240 women and 12 men; mean age 58.9 years) underwent CTC screening and central DXA BMD measurement within 2 months (mean interval 25.0 days). The lowest DXA T-score between the spine and hip served as the reference standard, with low BMD defined per World Health Organization as osteoporosis (DXA T-score ≤ −2.5) or osteopenia (DXA T-score between −1.0 and −2.4). Both phantomless quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and simple nonangled region-of-interest (ROI) multi-detector CT (MDCT) attenuation measurements were applied to the T12–L5 levels. The ability to predict osteoporosis and low BMD (osteoporosis or osteopenia) by DXA was assessed. A BMD cut-off of 90 mg/mL at phantomless QCT yielded 100% sensitivity for osteoporosis (29 of 29) and a specificity of 63.8% (143 of 224); 87.2% (96 of 110) below this threshold had low BMD and 49.6% (69 of 139) above this threshold had normal BMD at DXA. At L1, a trabecular ROI attenuation cut-off of 160 HU was 100% sensitive for osteoporosis (29 of 29), with a specificity of 46.4% (104 of 224); 83.9% (125 of 149) below this threshold had low BMD and 57.5% (59/103) above had normal BMD at DXA. ROI performance was similar at all individual T12–L5 levels. At ROC analysis, AUC for osteoporosis was 0.888 for phantomless QCT [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.780–0.946] and ranged from 0.825 to 0.853 using trabecular ROIs at single lumbar levels (0.864; 95% CI 0.752–0.930 at multivariate analysis). Supine-prone reproducibility was better with the simple ROI method compared with QCT. It is concluded that both phantomless QCT and simple ROI attenuation measurements of the lumbar spine are effective for BMD screening at CTC with high sensitivity for osteoporosis, as defined by the DXA T-score. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Cucurbit seeds: III. Ultrastructure of quiescent storage tissues

Electron-microscopic examinations of seeds from wild xerophilous cucurbits revealed that their storage tissues ultrastructurally resembled those of commercially important oilseeds such as castor, cotton, peanut, soy, and tung.
The Extracellular Matrix of Gliomas: Modulation of Cell Function

The ECM of astrocytic tumors promotes and modulates a variety of cell functions, such as cell attachment, migration, proliferation, survival, and signaling. Recent studies indicate that there are extensive and complex interactions among ECM molecules and that these can modify the function of the participating molecules, interactions between the proteoglycan, phosphacan, and the ECM protein, tenascin, being an example (63). In addition, on nonastrocytic cell types it has been shown that an integrin receptor and the cell surface proteoglycan CD44 recognize the same ECM ligand osteopontin, and thus modulate each others function (77, 86). Thus, interacting components in the ECM and cell surface receptors likely cooperate in regulating cell function and tumor invasion (59, 77, 80, 85-87, 95). As tumor cells are capable of remodeling their ECM through synthesis of ECM proteins and proteoglycans, as well as upregulating integrin receptors and proteoglycans on their cell surface, tumor cells are capable of controlling their own destiny. ECM molecules which are concentrated in blood vessels of malignant astrocytomas, such as tenascin-C and the 250-kDa CSPG (NG2), are potentially therapeutic targets.
Managing the Mars Science Laboratory Thermal Vacuum Test for safety and success

The Mars Science Laboratory is a NASA/JPL mission to send the next generation of rover to Mars. Originally slated for launch in 2009, development problems led to a delay in the project until the next launch opportunity in 2011. Amidst the delay process, the Launch/Cruise Solar Thermal Vacuum Test was undertaken as risk reduction for the project. With varying maturity and capabilities of the flight and ground systems, undertaking the test in a safe manner presented many challenges. This paper describes the technical and management challenges and the actions undertaken that led to the ultimate safe and successful execution of the test.12
Spectral quality metrics for VNIR and SWIR hyperspectral imagery

Current image quality approaches are designed to assess the utility of single band images by trained image analysts. While analysts today are certainly involved in the exploitation of spectral imagery, automated tools are generally used as aids in the analysis and offer hope in the future of significantly reducing the timeline and analysis load. Thus, there is a recognized need for spectral image quality metrics that include the effects of automated algorithms. We have begun initial efforts in this area through the use of a parametric modeling tool to gain insight into parameter dependence on system performance in unresolved object detection applications. An initial Spectral Quality Equation (SQE) has been modeled after the National Imagery Interpretation Rating Scale General Image Quality Equation (NIIRS GIQE). The parameter sensitivities revealed through the model-based trade studies were assessed through comparison to analogous studies conducted with available data. This current comparison has focused on detection applications using sensors operating in the VNIR and SWIR spectral regions. The SQE is shown with key image parameters and sample coefficients. Results derived from both model-based trade studies and empirical data analyses are compared. Extensions of the SQE approach to additional application areas such as material identification and terrain classification are also discussed.
Lubricity-enhancing properties of soy oil when used as a blending stock for middle distillate fuels

As the price of middle distillate fuels continues to rise, the use of bioderived materials as fuel blending stocks becomes attractive. In the present research, a severely hydrotreated diesel fuel was blended in concentrations of 10−20% and was shown to have significantly better lubricity as measured by ASTM D6078/BOCLE, ASTM D6079/SLBOCLE, and BOTD. The current ASTM methods showed a wide differentiation between the hydrotreated fuel and the soy blends. The differences in the BOTD measurements were not as large.
Science aspects of a mission beyond the planets

A mission out of the planetary system, launched about the year 2000, could provide valuable data concerning characteristics of the heliopause, the interstellar medium, stellar distances (by parallax measurements), low-energy cosmic rays, interplanetary gas distribution, and mass of the solar system. Secondary objectives include investigation of Pluto. Candidate science measurements, instruments, and instrument development needs are discussed. The mission should extend from 400 to 1000 AU from the sun. A heliocentric hyperbolic escape velocity of 50-100 km/sec or more is needed to attain this distance within a reasonable mission duration (20-50 years). The trajectory should be toward the incoming interstellar gas. For a year 2000 launch, a Pluto encounter and orbiter can be included. A second mission targeted parallel to the solar axis would also be worthwhile.
Adult Cardiac Stem Cells Are Multipotent and Support Myocardial Regeneration

Abstract The notion of the adult heart as terminally differentiated organ without self-renewal potential has been undermined by the existence of a subpopulation of replicating myocytes in normal and pathological states. The origin and significance of these cells has remained obscure for lack of a proper biological context. We report the existence of Lin − c-kit POS cells with the properties of cardiac stem cells. They are self-renewing, clonogenic, and multipotent, giving rise to myocytes, smooth muscle, and endothelial cells. When injected into an ischemic heart, these cells or their clonal progeny reconstitute well-differentiated myocardium, formed by blood-carrying new vessels and myocytes with the characteristics of young cells, encompassing ∼70% of the ventricle. Thus, the adult heart, like the brain, is mainly composed of terminally differentiated cells, but is not a terminally differentiated organ because it contains stem cells supporting its regeneration. The existence of these cells opens new opportunities for myocardial repair.
An Analytical Framework with Bounded Deflection Adaptive Routing for Networks-on-Chip

In a Multi-Processor System-on-Chip (MPSoC)-based embedded system with Network-on-chip (NoC) as the communication architecture, routing of the communication traffic among the Processing Elements (PEs) contributes significantly to the overall latency, throughput and energy consumption. Design of an efficient routing algorithm for NoC requires a thorough understanding of the role of individual components of NoC. Simulation based studies are time-consuming and do not provide adequate insight into the design parameters for performance improvement. In this paper, we provide a framework for the analytical study of the NoC components and design an adaptive routing algorithm. Based on the traffic pattern of the communication traffic among PEs, we perform analytical studies based on network calculus and probabilistic analysis. Analytical study relates the design parameters with the worst case and average case latency and buffer requirements. Knowledge obtained from the analytical study is utilized for resource allocation of NoC, which further constitutes the design philosophy of the proposed Bounded Deflection Adaptive Routing (BDAR) algorithm. Our routing algorithm is deadlock-live lock free and efficiently reacts to link congestions. Experimental results based on simulations show that our routing algorithm performs significantly better than some existing static and dynamic routing in terms of link utilization, average and maximum end-to-end latency.
Percent positive rate of Lyme real-time polymerase chain reaction in blood, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, and tissue

We performed a retrospective review of 23,777 specimens tested by our Lyme real-time polymerase chain reaction assay to determine the percent positive rates by specimen source. The percent positive rates were highest in synovial fluid (6.4%) and tissue (6.5%), and lowest in blood (0.1%) and cerebrospinal fluid (0.09%).
Bilateral simultaneous open carpal tunnel release: a prospective study of postoperative activities of daily living and patient satisfaction.

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine patient function and satisfaction prospectively after bilateral simultaneous open carpal tunnel release (CTR). Methods: Twenty patients (40 CTR) completed a questionnaire regarding postoperative activities of daily living (ADL), return to work, procedure satisfaction (visual analog scale), and willingness to have the surgery again. Results: The average patient age was 43 years (range, 23–73 y). The hardest task was opening a jar; the easiest task was using the bathroom. Other tasks on the list in descending order of difficulty included driving, household chores, carrying groceries, buttoning, bathing, cooking, writing, dressing, shopping, holding a book, eating, computer use, and holding a phone. Average return to work was 2.6 weeks (range, 3 d–6 wk). Average satisfaction with the surgery was 9.6 of 10 (range, 8–10); 20 of 20 patients (100%) would have the bilateral simultaneous surgery again. Conclusions: These data are useful for patient education and decision making when considering surgery in patients with bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, and show that bilateral simultaneous open CTR is a feasible and useful procedure.
Mitotic requirement for aurora A kinase is bypassed in the absence of aurora B kinase

We investigated why treatment of cells with dual aurora A and B kinase inhibitors produces phenotypes identical to inactivation of aurora B. We found that dual aurora kinase inhibitors in fact potently inhibit cellular activities of both kinases, indicating that inactivation of aurora B bypasses aurora A in mitosis. RNAi experiments further established that inactivation of aurora B indeed bypasses the requirement for aurora A and leads to polyploidy. Inactivation of aurora A activates checkpoint kinase BubR1 in an aurora B-dependent manner. Our results thus show that aurora B is responsible for mitotic arrest in the absence of aurora A.
Neonatal group B streptococcal sepsis: effects of late treatment with dazmegrel.

ABSTRACT: Neonatal group B streptococcal (GBS) sepsis produces pulmonary arterial hypertension and hypoxemia that are preventable by pretreatment with the selective thromboxane A2 synthase inhibitor, dazmegrel. In the present experiment we administered dazmegrel (8 mg/kg) 2 h after the initiation of a 2½ h infusion of 5 × 108 GBS/kg/h in ten 2− to 3-wk-old piglets. The multiple inert gas elimination technique was used to measure intrapulmonary shunt and alveolar ventilation to pulmonary perfusion mismatching. Thromboxane B2, the stable metabolite of thromboxane A2, and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1α, the stable metabolite of prostacyclin, were assayed in arterial blood. Pulmonary arterial pressure increased immediately after initiation of the GBS infusion, rising from 12 ± 2 to 34 ± 4 torr (p < 0.02); pulmonary vascular resistance increased by 400% (p < 0.01). Arterial hypoxemia developed (p < 0.02) in association with an increase in the low ventilation-perfusion ratio index but without a significant increase in intrapulmonary shunt. Thromboxane B2 levels increased 10-fold. Infusion of the carrier substance for dazmegrel after 2 h of GBS infusion produced no change in any variables. In contrast, infusion of the drug resulted in the return to pre-GBS infusion baseline values for both pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance. However, no improvement in arterial pO2 or in the low ventilation-perfusion ratio index occurred. Both pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary arterial pressure remained normal for 0.5 h after dazmegrel administration despite continued GBS infusion. Thromboxane B2 levels were decreased 30 min after dazmegrel (p < 0.02), but remained greater than pre-GBS levels. Dazmegrel reversed pulmonary hypertension and elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, but did so without concomitant improvement in pulmonary gas exchange, when administered after 2 h of GBS infusion.
Generalized Coulomb-projected Born-approximation cross sections for atomic excitation by charged-particle impact

An expression is given for the (${n}_{i}$, ${l}_{i}=0\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{n}_{f}$, ${l}_{f}=0$) excitation cross section in terms of a single one-dimensional integral with the aid of a transformation to prolate spheroidal coordinates. Results are given for the $1s\ensuremath{-}2s$ excitation of arbitrary-$Z$ hydrogenic targets. For our choice of wave functions the cross sections are found to scale as ${Z}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$ at fixed $\frac{{E}_{\mathrm{inc}}}{{Z}^{2}}$. The principal difference between the Coulomb-projected Born-approximation (CPBA) and Born results is in the large-angle portion of the differential cross section. This, however, leads to CPBA and Born momentum-transfer cross sections which differ by less than 20% at high energies for $1s\ensuremath{-}2s$ transitions.
Phonon structure in the tunneling characteristics of thin proximity effect sandwiches

The tunneling spectra of Al-oxide-N-S proximity effect junctions show phonon structure not only from the superconducting layerS, but also from the normal metal layerN. We report experimental results for junctios with Ag, Cu, and Al normal metal layers (100–400 A thick) and Pb or Sn superconducting layers (∼3000 A thick). We compare these experimental results with the McMillan geometrical resonance model of the proximity effect and with an extended McMillan tunneling model. The extension includes the effect of the frequency-dependent electron-phonon interaction in the normal metal. Finally, we estimate the electron-phonon coupling constant λ for the normal metals from the size of their phonon structure in the tunneling spectra.
ADAM10 Regulates Notch Function in Intestinal Stem Cells of Mice

Background & Aims A disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 10 (ADAM10) is a cell surface sheddase that regulates physiologic processes, including Notch signaling. ADAM10 is expressed in all intestinal epithelial cell types, but the requirement for ADAM10 signaling in crypt homeostasis is not well defined. Methods We analyzed intestinal tissues from mice with constitutive (Vil-Cre;Adam10 f/f mice) and conditional (Vil-CreER;Adam10 f/f and Leucine-rich repeat-containing GPCR5 [Lgr5]-CreER;Adam10 f/f mice) deletion of ADAM10. We performed cell lineage-tracing experiments in mice that expressed a gain-of-function allele of Notch in the intestine (Rosa26 NICD ), or mice with intestine-specific disruption of Notch (Rosa26 DN-MAML ), to examine the effects of ADAM10 deletion on cell fate specification and intestinal stem cell maintenance. Results Loss of ADAM10 from developing and adult intestine caused lethality associated with altered intestinal morphology, reduced progenitor cell proliferation, and increased secretory cell differentiation. ADAM10 deletion led to the replacement of intestinal cell progenitors with 2 distinct, post-mitotic, secretory cell lineages: intermediate-like (Paneth/goblet) and enteroendocrine cells. Based on analysis of Rosa26 NICD and Rosa26 DN-MAML mice, we determined that ADAM10 controls these cell fate decisions by regulating Notch signaling. Cell lineage-tracing experiments showed that ADAM10 is required for survival of Lgr5 + crypt-based columnar cells. Our findings indicate that Notch-activated stem cells have a competitive advantage for occupation of the stem cell niche. Conclusions ADAM10 acts in a cell autonomous manner within the intestinal crypt compartment to regulate Notch signaling. This process is required for progenitor cell lineage specification and crypt-based columnar cell maintenance.
Understanding sexual abstinence in African American teens.

The purpose was to explore the perspectives of teenage girls on how life contexts influenced sexuality and sexual abstinence. A qualitative descriptive study with a convenience sample of 14 sexually abstinent African American adolescent females who were interviewed to obtain their life histories. Narrative analysis was used to identify unique and common experiences and to develop themes. For these participants being abstinent was a way to demonstrate their emerging identities as adult women. They described themselves as faithful unique persons who defied negative stereotypes avoided risky situations wanted to be strong women like their mothers and grandmothers and were selective about their friends. The primary challenge to abstinence was their degree of vulnerability to sexual harassment romantic partner pressure and female peer pressure. Abstinence is a complex state of being that is influenced by a variety of contexts develops over time and is consciously chosen. Maintaining abstinence requires effort and a variety of skills. While these young women were cognitively familiar with reasons why they should refrain from sex nurses may still assist youth with being abstinent by providing ongoing teaching and specific dialogue on how to refrain from sex. (authors)
Association of apolipoprotein B, LDL-C and vascular stiffness in adolescents with type 1 diabetes

LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) is the current lipid standard for cardiovascular disease (CVD)-risk assessment in type 1 diabetes. Apolipoprotein B (apoB) may be helpful to further stratify CVD risk. We explored the association between apoB and pulse wave velocity (PWV) to determine if apoB would improve CVD-risk stratification, especially in type 1 diabetes adolescents with borderline LDL-C (100–129 mg/dL). We hypothesized that type 1 diabetes adolescents with borderline LDL-C and elevated apoB (≥90 mg/dL) would have increased PWV compared to those with borderline LDL-C and normal apoB ( 5 years and HbA1c 8.9 ± 1.6 %. Triglyceride to HDL-C ratio (TG/HDL-C) and nonHDL-cholesterol (nonHDL-C) were calculated. PWV was measured in the carotid–femoral segment. ApoB, nonHDL-C and TG/HDL-C correlated with PWV (p < 0.0001). ApoB, nonHDL-C and TG/HDL-C remained significantly associated with PWV in fully adjusted models. In adolescents with borderline LDL-C (n = 61), PWV was significantly higher in those with elevated apoB than in those with normal apoB (5.6 ± 0.6 vs. 5.2 ± 0.6 m/s, p < 0.01) and also remained significant after adjustment for CVD-risk factors (p = 0.0002). Moreover, in those with borderline LDL-C, apoB explained more of the variability of PWV than nonHDL-C and TG/HDL-C. Elevated apoB is associated with increased arterial stiffness in type 1 diabetes adolescents. Measurement of apoB in addition to LDL-C may be helpful in stratifying CVD risk in type 1 diabetes adolescents, especially in those with borderline LDL-C.
Protease production by microorganisms associated with reproductive tract infection

Factors influencing pathogenicity of various microbes found in the female lower genital tract remain incompletely understood. Protease production by cervico/vaginal microorganisms may alter or inactivate a variety of proteins important in host defense and structural-functional integrity including collagen-containing chorioamniotic membranes and uterine cervix. Host tissues may be made more susceptible to other organisms' virulence factors by protease-producing members of genital tract local flora. Microorganisms themselves may also be influenced by the presence of other microbial protease. Nonspecific protease, gelatinase, collagenase, and elastase production was examined for in vitro with use of aerobic (30) and anaerobic (25) strains of microorganisms typical of those isolated from the lower genital tract of women with premature rupture of membranes, chorioamnionitis, and puerperal infection. Microorganisms including Bacteroides bivius, Bacteroides melaninogenicus, Bacteroides fragilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus species, and Propionibacterium acnes produce various proteases. Protease production by both acknowledged pathogenic and commensal bacteria may contribute to the occurrence of reproductive tract morbidity including premature rupture of membranes and preterm labor.
Monitoring aldicarb residues in Florida soil and water

Soil and water monitoring studies have been conducted to characterize the movement of aldicarb residues in Florida citrus groves. Samples were taken in 1980 and 1981 from TEMIK-treated groves on six farms located in five counties. In the soil, aldicarb residues decay rapidly to relatively nontoxic compounds. No significant concentrations of aldicarb were found in potable wells or in surface water around the six sampling sites. The monitoring results have been compared with the predictions of the Environmental Protection Agency computer model PESTAN. These calculations indicate that only a small fraction (< 1%) of the aldicarb applied to a Florida citrus grove during the spring flush (the required application period) would normally reach shallow groundwater. The monitoring data and model calculations demonstrate that the use of TEMIK in Florida citrus groves will not result in persistent aldicarb residues in Florida groundwater.
GENETIC FACTORS IN GRAVES' OPHTHALMOPATHY

SUMMARY We investigated the distribution of HLA and immunoglobulin G heavy chain markers (Gm) in 117 patients with Graves' disease, 62 with ophthalmopathy and 55 without. With Graves' disease per se, there is a closer association with HLA-DR3 than with B8. The opposite was true for Graves' patients with ophthalmopathy (odds ratio for ophthalmopathy associated with B8 was 12.4 and with DR3 was 7.7, both with P < 00005). HLA-DR7 interacts with B8 in modifying the risk for eye disease; using the phenotype B8- DR7- as reference, the odds ratios were 16.7 for B8+ DR7 +, 8.7 for B8 + DR7- and 0.26 for B8- DR7 +. Thus, DR7 enhanced the risk for ophthalmopathy in the presence of B8+ but had a protective influence in its absence. Although Gm showed no association with eye disease, it modified the risk for ophthalmopathy associated with HLA-B8; the odds ratios were 20.9 for B8+ Gmfb homozygo-zity (fb +), 15.3 for B8+ fb- and 1.7 for B8- fb+ (B8- fb- =1.00). We conclude that the genetic factors contributing to Graves ‘ophthalmopathy are different from those related to liability for Graves’ hyperthyroidism.
Mitigation of HF releases

Abstract The hazards of hydrogen fluoride (HF) have long been recognized and industry performance reflects sound operating practices. However, full-scale industry-sponsored HF release tests conducted at the US Department of Energy Test Site in 1986 caused concern in view of the toxicity of HF. Ambient impacts were greater than anticipated, and diking, a primary mitigation technique, proved ineffective for releases of pressurized superheated HF. In partial response to these new technical data, an ad-hoc three-component industry cooperative hydrogen fluoride (HF) mitigation and assessment programme (ICHMAP) was begun in late-1987 to study and test techniques for mitigating accidental releases of HF and alkylation unit acid (AUA), and to enhance capabilities to estimate ambient impacts from such releases. The programme's mitigation components have recently been completed while work on the impact assessment component is nearing completion. The purpose of this article is to describe the programme and to summarize the objective, scope of work, structure, and conclusions from the two mitigation components. The objectives and scope of work of the impact assessment component are also briefly described. Detailed and summary reports for each programme component will shortly be available through the US Department of Commerce, National Technical Information Service (NTIS) of Springfield, Virginia, ICHMAP member companies, collaboratively and individually, screened numerous potential mitigation techniques for accidental HF releases including techniques such as total enclosures with exhaust scrubbers, liquid containment dikes, foam application, water sprays, vapour barriers, and surface tension modifying agents. Water sprays and vapour barriers were judged to be the most promising techniques. Accordingly, the ICHMAP mitigation components consisted of both water spray and vapour barrier programmes. The water spray programme investigated the effectiveness of water or augmented water application systems in mitigating accidental releases of both HF and AUA. The vapour barrier programme assessed the effectiveness of vapour barriers in delaying and diluting accidental releases of heavier-than-air HF vapour clouds in an industrial setting and determined what impact such barriers might have on the consequences of an unconfined vapour cloud explosion.