cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RNA Interference to Treat Human Diseases

Discovery of the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway has been revolutionary to biology and biologically based therapeutics. The messenger RNA (mRNA) targets once believed to be “undruggable” by conventional methods are now being enthusiastically pursued with RNAi-based therapeutics. Fundamental research into the RNAi pathway and biotechnological research on the application of RNAi may one day make a new class of drugs a reality by targeting the mRNA of disease-causing or disease-promoting genes directly. The whole process begins with the design and validation of short-interference RNA (siRNA) using bioinformatics and cell culture systems. siRNA that has high specificity and potency (knockdown efficiency) then could be applied to animal models of human diseases for more evaluation, with the ultimate hope of advancing to clinical trails. Numerous chemical modifications of siRNA are currently being investigated in an effort to enhance their stability, to extend their stay in the body, and, perhaps, to avoid immune stimulation. Different delivery methods are developed depending on the diseases, tissues, or organs being targeted. In short, this relatively new biotechnology is advancing quickly as we learn from its failures and successes. In the current article, we will explore the background and current state of research as well as discuss some hurdles and future directions in the application of RNAi to treat human diseases.
Enabling Automation of Friction Stir Welding: The Modulation of Weld Seam Input Energy by Traverse Speed Force Control

Friction stir welding (FSW) joins materials by plunging a rotating tool into the work piece. The tool consists of a shoulder and a pin that plastically deforms the parent materials and then forges them together under the applied pressure. To create the pressure needed for forging, a rather large axial force must be maintained on the tool. Maintaining this axial force is challenging for robots due to their limited load capacity and compliant nature. To address this problem, force control has been used, and historically, the force has been controlled by adjusting the plunge depth of the tool into the work piece. This paper develops the use of tool traverse speed as the controlling variable instead of plunge depth. To perform this investigation, a FSW force controller was designed and implemented on a retrofitted Milwaukee Model K milling machine. The closed loop proportional, integral plus derivative (PID) control architecture was tuned using the Ziegler‐Nichols method. Results show that the control of axial force via traverse speed is feasible and predictable. The resulting system is more robust and stable when compared with a force controller that uses plunge depth as the controlling variable. A standard deviation of 41.5 N was obtained. This variation is much less when compared with a standard deviation of 129.4 N obtained when using plunge depth. Using various combinations of PID control, the system’s response to step inputs was analyzed. From this analysis, a feed forward transfer function was modeled that describes the machinery and welding environment. From these results, a technique is presented regarding weld seam input energy modulation as a by product of force control via traverse speed. A relative indication of thermal energy in the welding environment is obtained with the feedback of axial force. It is hypothesized that, while under force control, the controller modulates weld seam input energy according to the control signal. The result is constant thermomechanical conditions in the welding environment. It is concluded that the key enablers for force control are the unidirectional behavior and load dynamics of the traverse motor. Larger bandwidths and more stable weld conditions emerge when using traverse speed instead of plunge depth to control the force. Force control of FSW via traverse speed has importance in creating efficient automatic manufacturing operations. The intelligence of the controller naturally selects the most efficient traverse speed. DOI: 10.1115/1.4001795
Campylobacter Diarrhea and Guillain-Barré Syndrome

• Four of 106 consecutive patients with acute Guillain-Barre syndrome had preceding bacterial enteritis caused byCampylobacter jejuni. One had a severe illness with axonal damage and poor outcome; three had typical courses with good recovery. Preceding illnesses in the other 102 patients were the following: diarrhea in nine (with negative stool cultures in five), upper respiratory tract infections in 46, hepatitis in six, other infectious illnesses in eight, and none in 33. Eight patients previously reported withCampylobacterassociated with Guillain-Barre syndrome, and the serologic and clinical diagnosis ofCampylobacterenteritis in this context, are reviewed.
Somatotopic organization of rat thalamocortical slices

The thalamocortical slice is widely employed for in vitro studies of cortical circuits. This preparation was developed in order to preserve anatomical and functional connectivity between the ventrobasal thalamus and somatosensory (whisker/barrel) cortex of young mice, and thalamocortical slice experiments have contributed significantly to our understanding of the thalamocortical synapse. Cortical somatotopy within thalamocortical slices, however, has not been characterized, and this greatly limits their use in studies that require identification of cortical areas associated with particular regions of the sensory periphery. To address this shortcoming we used electrophysiological recording and neuroanatomical labeling techniques in rats to mark the position of functionally defined whisker barrels, in vivo. We subsequently processed the brains in a plane appropriate for TC slices and characterized the location of somatotopically identified barrels in relation to other aspects of slice topology. We found that barrels associated with the large mobile whiskers occupy a particular location in TC slices, but that there are certain constraints to studying this portion of the barrelfield in vitro.
New Lewis acid catalysts for the Diels-Alder reaction

Abstract Catechol boron bromide ( 1 ) and ferrocenium hexafluorophosphate ( 2 ) function as Lewis acid catalysts for the Diels-Alder reaction.
Relationship between substorm activity and magnetic disturbances in two polar caps

[1] We examined the effect of magnetic disturbances in two polar caps on the generation of magnetospheric substorms. For this purpose we investigated the correlation between the AL index (showing substorm activity in the Northern hemisphere) and two geomagnetic activity indices, the Polar Cap (PC) index and Polar Magnetic (PM) index showing the magnetic disturbances in the Northern and Southern polar caps. For the analysis we used the data for four years when geomagnetic activity indices were available in both hemispheres. We obtained an unexpected yet important result: while in northern winter the correlation between AL index and northern PC/PM indices is very good, in northern summer the AL index correlates much better with southern PC/PM indices. Thus, substorm activity in summer months correlates much better with geomagnetic activity not in the nearby polar cap but in the opposite polar cap. This effect may be caused by the interhemispheric field-aligned currents flowing from the summer high-latitude ionosphere and closing through the ionosphere in the opposite auroral zone. An interesting feature of these interhemispheric currents is that they are directed opposite to the substorm field-aligned currents in the summer hemisphere but along the substorm field-aligned currents in the winter hemisphere. This leads to decreasing the total field-aligned currents and their contribution to magnetic disturbances in the summer hemisphere but increasing these currents and related magnetic disturbances in winter hemisphere, which explains the experimental results obtained in our study.
Risk factors for compartment syndrome in traumatic brachial artery injuries: an institutional experience in 139 patients.

Background: The brachial artery is the most common vascular injury encountered in upper extremity trauma. If not treated promptly, it can result in compartment syndrome (CS) and long-term disability. Here, we report an institutional experience of traumatic brachial artery injuries and establish risk factors for the development of upper extremity CS in this setting. Methods: A retrospective review of 139 patients with traumatic brachial artery injury from 1985 to 2001 at a single institution. Patients were divided into two cohorts, those with evidence ofCS and those without CS (NCS), for comparison. Results: One hundred thirty-nine patients presented with traumatic brachial artery injuries (mean age, 28.4 years). Twenty-nine patients (20.9%) were diagnosed with upper extremity CS, and 28 of these patients underwent fasciotomy on recognition of their CS. Seven patients (6.4%) in the NCS cohort underwent fasciotomy as a result of absent distal pulses on initial examination. Mean follow-up was 51.6 days. Two patients required revision of their arterial repair, and one patient underwent amputation. The risk of CS was increased in the presence of combined arterial injuries (p = 0.03), combined nerve injuries (p = 0.04), motor deficits (p < 0.0001), fractures, and increased intraoperative blood loss (p = 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression performed on these variables revealed that elevated intraoperative blood loss, combined arterial injury, and open fracture were independent risk factors for the development of CS (OR 1.12, 5.79, and 2.68, respectively). Conclusion: Prompt evaluation and management of traumatic brachial artery injuries is important to prevent CS, which can lead to functional deficits. In the setting of combined arterial injury, open fracture, and significant intraoperative blood loss, prophylactic fasciotomy should be considered.
ANOTHER “MULTIPLE CONGENITAL ANOMALIES” SYNDROME - THE W. FAMILY

Two siblings with a new association of multiple congenital anomalies were observed. These children, a boy and a girl, are the offspring of normal parents and they have one normal older brother. Both cases were admitted to Columbus Children's Hospital as neonates because of corneal clouding. Complete evaluation demonstrated the following anomalies: partial aniridia, congenital glaucoma, unilateral renal agenesis, frontal bossing, telecanthus and hypotonia. Both children have been observed over a period of 3 years (the boy) and 1 year (the girl). Despite accounting for visual handicap, the sibs have achieved all significant milestones 2-6 months later than can be expected. They resemble each other in physical appearance, but do not resemble either parent or their older brother. A marker chromosome not thought to be associated with the anomalies is carried in this family. The father and both affected reported have one D group chromosome with enlarged satellites. Although the children have a clinical resemblance to the cases recently reported by DeHauwere, renal agenesis did not occur in DeHauwere's patients. The postulated mode of inheritance in our family is autosomal recessive and DeHauwere reported an autosomal dominant syndrome.
Hole-doped semiconductor nanowire on top of an s-wave superconductor: a new and experimentally accessible system for Majorana fermions.

Majorana fermions were envisioned by Majorana in 1935 to describe neutrinos. Recently, it has been shown that they can be realized even in a class of electron-doped semiconductors, on which ordinary $s$-wave superconductivity is proximity induced, provided the time reversal symmetry is broken by an external Zeeman field above a threshold. Here we show that in a hole-doped semiconductor nanowire the threshold Zeeman field for Majorana fermions can be very small for some magic values of the hole density. In contrast to the electron-doped systems, smaller Zeeman fields and much stronger spin-orbit coupling and effective mass of holes allow the hole-doped systems to support Majorana fermions in a parameter regime which is routinely realized in current experiments.
The Application of Phenotypic High-Throughput Screening Techniques to Cardiovascular Research

In traditional pure protein high-throughput drug screens, also called in vitro screens, individual compounds from a small molecule collection are tested to determine whether they inhibit the enzymatic activity or binding properties of a purified target protein. In contrast, phenotypic high-throughput drug screens, also called chemical genetic or in vivo screens, investigate the ability of individual compounds from a collection to inhibit a biological process or disease model in live cells or intact organisms. In this review, the role of phenotypic screening techniques to identify novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of cardiovascular disease will be discussed.
Fidelity of Gaussian beams diffracted by volume holographic structures

Reconstruction fidelity of diffracted and transmitted beams resulting from Gaussian propagation through Bragg structures is examined. Detailed analyses of off-Bragg incidence in transmission gratings, and on and off Bragg incidence in reflection gratings are performed.
Quantitative 3-Dimensional Contrast Echocardiographic Determination of Myocardial Mass at Risk and Residual Infarct Mass After Reperfusion: Experimental Canine Studies with Intravenous Contrast Agent NC100100

Abstract Two-dimensional contrast echocardiography has been shown to enable the evaluation of myocardial perfusion abnormalities. However, its ability to quantify a regional myocardial mass is limited. The goal of this study was to examine the quantitative value of 3-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) in the estimation of myocardial mass at risk, salvaged mass, and residual infarct mass after intravenous injection of contrast. We created acute coronary occlusion, followed by reperfusion in 10 dogs. Three-dimensional echocardiographic data were acquired at the end of each stage, and the perfusion defect mass and dysfunctional mass were measured. The true mass at risk and infarct mass were determined by anatomic methods. The anatomic mass at risk (x) (27.1 ± 14.6 g or 23.8% ± 9.7% of the left ventricle [%LV]) correlated well with the 3DE–determined perfusion defect mass (y) during coronary occlusion ( y = 0.5 x + 8.9; r = 0.90; P y = 0.7 x + 6.5; r = 0.83, P (x) (9.3 ± 8.1 g or 9.1 ± 8.8 %LV) and the 3DE perfusion defect mass after reperfusion (y) ( y = 1.2 x + 1.2; r = 0.93; P y = 1.3 x , r = 0.98, P
Copper and iodine co-modified TiO2 nanoparticles for improved activity of CO2 photoreduction with water vapor

Abstract Copper and iodine co-modified TiO 2 nanoparticles (Cu–I–TiO 2 ) were synthesized through a combined hydrothermal and wet-impregnation process. The structures and properties of the catalysts were characterized by XRD, BET, SEM/EDX, XPS, and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Iodine ions were doped in the TiO 2 lattice by replacing Ti 4+ and, consequently, Ti 3+ was generated to balance the charge. Iodine doping reduced the TiO 2 crystal size and was responsible for visible light absorption. Cu species were found to deposit on the surface of TiO 2 and resulted in a slightly increased particle size. The activity of the Cu–I–TiO 2 catalyst was investigated by the photocatalytic reduction of CO 2 with water vapor, and CO was found to be the major reduction product with trace amounts of CH 4 generated. Under UV–vis irradiation, the activity of the co-modified catalyst (Cu–I–TiO 2 ) was higher than that of the single ion-modified catalysts (Cu–TiO 2 or I–TiO 2 ). Under visible light irradiation, the addition of Cu to I–TiO 2 did not lead to significant improvements in CO 2 reduction. Methyl chloride (CH 3 Cl) was detected as a reaction product when CuCl 2 was used as the precursor in the synthesis, thus suggesting that methyl radicals are reaction intermediates. When CuCl 2 was used as the Cu precursor, a three-fold increase in CO 2 photoreduction activity was observed, as compared to when Cu(NO 3 ) 2 was used as the Cu precursor. These differences in activities were probably due to enhanced Cu dispersion and the hole-scavenging effects of the Cl ions. However, the formation of by-products (e.g., CH 3 Cl) may be undesirable.
Fining of glasses: Present problems and speculations of things to come

Several of the outstanding problems in the field of glass fining are discussed. Particular emphasis is given to the subject of the interpretation of gas bubble experiments, and the concomitant requirements placed on theoretical models and experimental measurements needed to obtain meaningful interpretations. This topic is discussed in detail for the case of a single gas bubble in a glass melt, and some of the present difficulties are illustrated by recourse to several examples. Speculations are given for the state of glass refining twenty years hence. Two general areas are considered: the impediments to the solutions of fining problems, and the new developments in related disciplines which could influence the status of glass refining in the future.
A local approach to matrix equivalence

Abstract Matrix equivalence over principal ideal domains is considered, using the technique of localization from commutative algebra. This device yields short new proofs for a variety of results. (Some of these results were known earlier via the theory of determinantal divisors.) A new algorithm is presented for calculation of the Smith normal form of a matrix, and examples are included. Finally, the natural analogue of the Witt–Grothendieck ring for quadratic forms is considered in the context of matrix equivalence.
Effect of direct, reflex and exercise-provoked increases in sympathetic tone on idiopathic ventricular tachycardia

Exercise treadmill testing and direct enhancement of sympathetic influence with agents such as isoproterenol are often used to reproduce ventricular tachycardia (VT). The cardiac effects of, and arrhythmia responses to, graded exercise, isoproterenol infusion and lower body negative pressure (the latter 2 with and without atrial and ventricular stimulation) were studied in 11 patients with idiopathic VT. During maximal exercise, substantial increases in heart rate and blood pressure occurred, but only 2 of 9 exercised patients had VT (during recovery in both). During programmed stimulation alone, VT was initiated in 6 patients. During maximum levels of lower body negative pressure (-60 cm of water in most), mean systolic blood pressure decreased by 10 mm Hg, heart rate increased by 15 beats/min, and ventricular refractory period decreased by 10 ms. In 4 patients VT occurred spontaneously during lower body negative pressure; in 2, lower body negative pressure was the only intervention producing VT. During isoproterenol infusion VT occurred spontaneously in 2 patients; both had VT initiated during other interventions. Lower body negative pressure and isoproterenol increased VT rate, but did not prolong it. It is concluded that there is significant variability in arrhythmia responses to sympathetic augmentation, suggesting that additional covariables such as parasympathetic input and ventricular volume may also have a role in arrhythmia occurrence.
Talking point Amphitropic proteins: a new class of membrane proteins

Abstract Specific lipids play crucial roles in signal transmission across membranes and in the modulation, regulation and membrane-association of proteins. Several proteins, previously described as soluble cytoplasmic proteins, appear to interact both specifically with lipids and directly with the hydrophobic part of membranes, indicating a reversible association of these proteins with membranes under appropriate conditions. Here it is proposed that such proteins belong to a new class of membrane proteins defined as the ‘amphitropic' proteins. From this new concept emerge important implications for studies of cytoskeleton-membrane interactions, transmembrane signaling, and the organization of the cytoskeleton.
Pavement Interactive: Pavement Knowledge Transfer with Web 2.0

Pavement Interactive (http://pavementinteractive.org) is an ongoing experiment in coupling a participatory web application with a unique data set to improve transportation engineering knowledge transfer. Specifically, Pavement Interactive is an online pavement community built on an open-source wiki platform where users can create, edit, browse, and search site content with just a computer, web browser, and internet connection. It contains 523 web pages and has logged just over 2 million page views in 3 years of existence. Data from Google Analytics over the past year show substantial and growing use worldwide. Observations of use indicate (1) primary use as a ready-reference and learning tool; (2) collaboration functions are possible but not extensively used; (3) substantial quality content attracts users; (4) participation drives success; (5) a majority of effort should be dedicated to content creation and participation; and (6) there should be a means to maintain currency for such websites beyond the funded development phase.
Direct vs. vicarious paired-associate learning-to-learn in children

In three experiments pairs of Ss (sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in Exps. I and II; third and fourth graders in Exp. III) learned four consecutive sets of one of three PA transfer paradigms (A-B′, C-D, A-D), yoked observers alternately listening to the List-1 performances of models and learning the transfer lists directly. On Set 4, Ss either continued learning on the same paradigm or were switched to a different paradigm. Results for model Ss closely replicated earlier findings with adults, overall performance on List 1 increasing over sets and transfer on A-B′ showing marked increments from Set 1 to Set 2. Observers showed poorer transfer than models across paradigms, although the data suggest the presence of a complex Paradigm × Conditions of Learning × Age interaction. For both models and observers there was no Training Paradigm × 4th-Set Test Paradigm interaction, performance on Set 4 being dependent solely on the nature of the test paradigm. In Exp. III, exposure to different models over successive sets yielded consonant results with single model exposure.
LASSI - A Scanning Differential Ac Interferometer For Surface Profile And Roughness Measurement

LASSI (Laser Spot Scanning Interferometer) is a highly precise and versatile surface profilometer developed for various measurement applications in surface lapping, etching and polishing processes. The principle of measurement is based on a differential interferometer in which two parallel light beams split from a He-Ne laser are scanned across a sample surface. The phase difference of the reflected beams changes proportionally with the height variation between the two spots illuminated on the surface. In using a phase-locked method to determine the phase differences height variations of a surface can be measured with manometer precision. The range of applications of an instrument built on this principle encompasses step height, roughness, slope, and profile measurement of surface microtopographies. Special versions of this tool have also been developed for in situ monitoring of etch or deposition rates in sputter-etching and wet etching processes. In this paper, the principle of measurement will be described and some theoretical aspects of the measurement technique will be discussed. The various LASSI tools and their applications are reviewed.
An objective procedure for the hand scoring of scalp average evoked potentials

A method is described for identifying and scoring average evoked response (AER) components. The method uses background EEG activity as a guide for visual identification of AER components. This procedure provides an advantage in objectivity and precision over most other methods, thus producing an increase in reliability and greater likelihood for interlaboratory agreement in experiments employing measures based upon the AER components.
Airway and plasma leptin and adiponectin in lean and obese asthmatics and controls.

Introduction. Obesity-mediated changes in plasma adipokines have been associated with increased systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. However, it is unknown whether obesity induces similar changes in airway levels of these adipokines and whether these changes are associated with increased airway biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. Methods. Lean and obese asthmatics and controls underwent bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), spirometry, and provided fasting plasma leptin and adiponectin. Biomarkers of oxidation and inflammation in the BAL included exhaled nitric oxide (NO), 8-isoprostanes, pH, and nitrogen oxide products (NOx). Results. Out of a total of 48 subjects, 44% had asthma and 56% were healthy controls. Among subjects with asthma, 66% were obese, 10% overweight, and 24% lean; in the controls these proportions were 63%, 11%, and 26%, respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, smoking history, ethnicity, and prebronchodilator forced exhalation in 1 second (FEV1), obesi...
Top Secret/Trade Secret: Restricting and Accessing Information

Our society could well be said to run on information. We use information so much that we tend to take it for granted. We wake up to radio broadcasts of the latest news or the daily weather forecast. During the day we need data about many things—the price of goods we intend to purchase, the technical features of a service proposed for the business we run, the schedule of appointments for next week, and so on during working hours. We may have called colleagues for data, used a library, or had a search done on a computerized database. As we return home we might peruse reports and correspondence received during the day. Before the day comes to an end we have undoubtedly read at least one newspaper and perhaps checked the television guide to find out the schedule of programs. Our waking hours are filled with accessing and evaluating information.
Arterial Embolization for Salvage of Hepatic Artery Infusion Pumps

PURPOSE Hepatic artery infusion pumps (HAIPs) ideally provide for homogenous perfusion of the liver with chemotherapeutic agents. Perfusion of extrahepatic organs or asymmetric liver perfusion (ie, “misperfusion”) is diagnosed by nuclear scintigraphy and precludes the use of HAIPs. The purpose of this study is to report experience in salvaging HAIPs with arterial embolization. MATERIALS AND METHODS A single-center HAIP database was retrospectively reviewed for cases from 1999 to 2005 to identify patients who underwent angiography to treat misperfusion documented by nuclear scintigraphy. Patient demographics, nuclear scintigraphic findings before and after embolization, angiographic findings, embolization variables, and outcomes were recorded. Technical success (defined by cessation of flow to the vessel responsible for misperfusion) and clinical success (ie, successful use of the pump) were calculated. RESULTS During the study period, 475 HAIPs were implanted. Of those, 43 (9%) had abnormal nuclear scintigraphic findings of misperfusion, but only 32 (7%) had angiographic abnormalities. In eight of 32 cases, hepatic arterial thrombosis and extravasation at the catheter tip were found, which precluded salvage by embolization. In 24 of 32 cases, a vessel presumed responsible for the misperfusion was identified and targeted for embolization. Technical success and clinical success were achieved in 21 of 24 patients (87.5%) and 19 of 24 patients (79%), respectively, who underwent 27 embolization procedures. The three technical failures (12.5%) were the result of inability to catheterize the identified vessel. CONCLUSIONS Percutaneous arterial embolization of a vessel to correct misperfusion shown by nuclear scintigraphy is safe and effective. This approach can be expected to result in HAIP salvage in the majority of patients.
Collocation methods for stochastic Volterra integro-differential equations with random forcing function

Abstract A Volterra integro-differential equation is said to be stochastic (SVIDE) if it involves any possible combination of (i) random coefficients, (ii) random initial conditions, (iii) random forcing functions, (iv) random kernels. Here stochastic Volterra integro-differential equations are considered with random forcing function of white noise type, and they are solved numerically by collocation methods to obtain sample path solutions. These equations have important applications in physics with the generalized Langevin equation being a representative example. Results of simulations which concern mean estimates of the mean square errors are presented for one example.
Multi-Axial Fatigue-Life Prediction via a Strain-Energy Method

A strain-energy-based method has been developed to predict the fatigue life of a structure subjected to either shear or biaxial bending loads at various stress ratios. The framework for this method is an advancement of previously conducted research that validates a uniaxial energy-based fatigue-life-prediction approach. The understanding behind the approach states that the total strain energy dissipated during a monotonic fracture and a cyclic process is the same material property, where the experimental strain-energy density of each can be determined by measuring the area underneath the monotonic true stress-strain curve and the area within a hysteresis loop, respectively. The developed framework consists of two elements: a life-prediction method that calculates shear fatigue-life cycles and a multi-axial life-prediction method capable of calculating biaxial fatigue-life cycles. A comparison was made between the two framework elements and experimental results from three different aluminum alloys. The comparison shows encouraging agreement, thus providing credence in the prediction capabilities of the proposed energy-based framework.
How nursing home residents develop relationships with peers and staff: A grounded theory study

Abstract Social support and social relationships have been repeatedly identified as essential to nursing home resident quality of life. However, little is known about ways residents develop relationships with peers or staff. Objective This study was conducted to explore the ways resident develop relationships with peers and staff in nursing homes. Design and methods Fifteen cognitively intact nursing home residents from two facilities were interviewed for this grounded theory study. Sampling, interviewing, and analysis occurred in a cyclical process with results at each stage of the study informing decisions about data collection and analysis in the next. Unstructured interviews and field observations were conducted. Data were analyzed with open, axial, and selective coding. Results Residents developed relationships with peers and staff largely as an unintended consequence of trying to have a life in the nursing home. Having a life was a two-step process. First, life motivations ( Being Self and Creating a Positive Atmosphere ) influenced resident preferences for daily activities and interaction goals and subsequently their strategies for achieving and establishing both. Second, the strategies residents used for achieving their required daily activities ( Passing Time and Getting Needs Met ) and interaction goals then influenced the nature of interaction and the subsequent peer or staff response to these interactions. Residents defined relationships as friendly or unfriendly depending on whether peers or staff responded positively or negatively. There was considerable overlap in the ways peer and staff relationships developed and the results highlight the role of peer and staff responsiveness in relationship development. Implications The results provide possible explanations for the success of interventions in the literature designed to improve staff responsiveness to residents. The results suggest that adapting these kinds of interventions for use with peers may also be successful. The conceptual model also presents a number of opportunities for developing interventions for residents.
Molecular and Functional Characterization of a Novel Pathogenic Substrate for Autosomal Dominant Long QT Syndrome Discovered by Whole Exome Sequencing, Genomic Triangulation, and Systems Biology

Background Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is the most common cardiac channelopathy with 13 elucidated long QT syndrome (LQTS) susceptibility genes. An estimated 25% of LQTS cases remain elusive genetically. We combined whole exome sequencing (WES), systems biology, and genomic triangulation to identify the pathogenic substrate responsible for nonsyndromic, LQT1-13 genotype negative, autosomal dominant LQTS in a multigenerational pedigree. Methods Genomic DNA was isolated from the symptomatic index case (QTc = 506 ms), unaffected father (QTc = 383 ms), and affected maternal aunt (QTc = 479 ms). DNA libraries were sequenced with 35× coverage, and the Mayo Clinic Bioinformatics Core aligned the samples. Common variants in dbSNP, 1000 genomes, or 200 BGI exomes were subtracted. Familial genomic triangulation and the published LQTS interactome were used to filter the remaining variants, which were then ranked using 3 disease network analysis algorithms (ToppGene, Endeavor, and SUSPECTS). The top ranking mutation was characterized functionally using whole-cell patch-clamp technique in a heterologous HEK293 expression system. Results After filtering, 6 missense mutations and 2 insertions/deletions remained. Direct DNA sequencing identified 1 variant, P857R-CACNA1C, which segregated with the disease phenotype within the pedigree. This variant was also ranked by all 3 disease network algorithms as the most probable LQTS susceptibility gene. This L-type calcium channel (LTCC) α-subunit mutation involves a highly conserved residue localizing to a critical PEST domain in the II-III linker, a region thought to signal for LTCC protein degradation. Functional expression of P857R-CACNA1C in HEK293 cells resulted in a gain of function with a 2.1-fold (–34 ± 7.5 pA/pF vs 16 ± 1.7 pA/pF, P Ca,L at +10 mV compared with wild type, consistent with the prolonged QT interval phenotype. Conclusions The coupling of WES, genomic triangulation, and systems biology is a novel approach for the identification of potential disease-causing mutations. The identification of a non-Timothy syndrome, gain-of-function mutation in CACNA1C suggests that perturbations in the LTCC may be a bona fide pathogenic substrate for classic, autosomal dominant LQTS.
The Role of Meaning and Purpose in Life in Bereaved Parents Associated with a Self-Help Group: Compassionate Friends

The goal of this study was to explore the relationship of parental bereavement to meaning and purpose in life. Specifically, the study attempted to: 1) investigate the relationship of bereaved parents' perception of purpose in life, and specific parent, child, death, and grief characteristics; and 2) provide descriptive information on the role of meaning in parental bereavement. Two-hundred and three volunteers obtained through Compassionate Friends newsletters in seven cities in various parts of the United States completed a questionnaire consisting of the Purpose in Life Test, the Grief Experience Inventory and questions on meaning. Analysis of the results indicate that lower purpose in life for bereaved parents in this sample is related to less time since the death, loss by suicide, loss of an only child, and loss of more than one child. The descriptive data also indicates that a crisis of meaning may follow the death of a child. Implications for resolution are discussed.
A critical analysis of appendix R modification at the Browns Ferry nuclear plant

Abstract In the USA, Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 50 (10CFR50) details the legal requirements relating to operation of nuclear power plants. Appendix R of that document contains regulations governing the fire protection of such facilities, and represents the culmination of extensive regulatory activity following the infamous Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant (BFNP) fire of 1975. As BFNP did not meet the requirements of Appendix R even after restoration efforts following the fire, major modifications were necessary to upgrade the fire safety of the plant. The change in the risk to the public due to Appendix R modifications was quantified via probabilistic risk assessment sensitivity analysis. The ratio of the cost to perform the modifications, including supporting engineering analysis (but not including replacement power costs, as the BFNP was shut down at the time for other problems) to the risk change defines the cost/benefit ratio of the modifications. In this paper, the result of the cost-benefit study is compared to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) guidelines published as the ‘backfit’ rule, yielding the conclusion that the modifications were not cost-beneficial.
Patterns of diversity, extinction and origination in the Ordovician‐Devonian stropheodontacea

Evolutionary patterns exhibited by ninety‐one genera and subgenera of Ordovician‐Devonian Stropheodontacea can be inferred using two measures of standing diversity, along with raw diversity, and three measures each of extinction rates, origination rates and turnover rates. Of the three measures defined for each type of rate, one counts taxa that are confined to the interval and two do not. Of the latter, one is defined on a pertotal taxa and one on a per‐standing‐diversity basis. If it is assumed that the available data adequately represents the total range of morphological diversity and time distribution of the Stropheodontacea, then these measures can be treated as descriptive statistics and several patterns emerge: Diversity increases monotonically from Caradoc to Emsian and then decreases from Emsian to zero in the Famennian. Extinction rates increase from Wenlock to Frasnian. Origination rates show three to four peaks. Turnover rates show a decrease in the Early Silurian, a local peak in the Wenlock,...
Fabrication of pure starch fibers by electrospinning

Many efforts to spin starch fibers are reported in the patent and research literature. All reported spinning methods are dependent upon addition of non-starch components, e.g. other polymers, plasticizers or cross-linkers. In the present study, we demonstrate a method of producing pure starch fibers by an electrospinning technique. This method involves choosing an appropriate solvent for native high amylose starch and spinning on a modified electrospinning setup. Resulting starch fibers have diameters in the order of microns. Coagulation solvent composition can affect the crystallinity of the starch fibers. Post-spinning treatments were employed to increase the crystallinity and cross-link the starch fibers. The novel starch fibers have potential in various applications, e.g. in the food, textile, and biomedical industries.
Visual detection efficiency in ultrasonic imaging: A framework for objective assessment of image quality

Experimental methods for estimating detection efficiencies of human and computational observers viewing low‐contrast circular targets in acoustic noise are described. Sonographic images were simulated with signal and noise properties specified exactly. These images were presented to observers in two‐alternative forced‐choice (2AFC) experiments. Relative to the ideal observer of these images, i.e., the prewhitening matched filter, human observers were 60% efficient for detecting targets over a broad range of target energies and for both target polarities. Studies were limited to situations where target diameters were much larger than the correlation length of the noise. In that case, observers unable to decorrelate the noise showed no reduction in detectability as predicted by theory. For example, the efficiency of one computational observer, a nonprewhitening matched filter, was nearly ideal. Its response was proportional to that of the average human observer, which suggests a role for computational observers in image evaluation.
A proposed intracortical visual prosthesis image processing system

It has been a goal of neuroprosthesis researchers to develop a system, which could provide artificial vision to a large population of individuals with blindness. It has been demonstrated by earlier researches that stimulating the visual cortex area electrically can evoke spatial visual percepts, i.e. phosphenes. The goal of visual cortex prosthesis is to stimulate the visual cortex area and generate a visual perception in real time to restore vision. Even though the normal working of the visual system is not been completely understood, the existing knowledge has inspired research groups to develop strategies to develop visual cortex prosthesis which can help blind patients in their daily activities. A major limitation in this work is the development of an image processing system for converting an electronic image, as captured by a camera, into a real-time data stream for stimulation of the implanted electrodes. This paper proposes a system, which will capture the image using a camera and use a dedicated hardware real time image processor to deliver electrical pulses to intracortical electrodes. This system has to be flexible enough to adapt to individual patients and to various strategies of image reconstruction. Here we consider a preliminary architecture for this system
Closed-form relationship between the two interpretations of a moving plane

It is well known that a pair of images of a textured planar surface captured from two different viewpoints can give rise to two interpretations for the orientation of the plane and the relative position and orientation of the camera at the two viewpoints. The relationship between these two solutions has been derived for the case in which the separation of the two viewpoints is small (one viewpoint position and orientation can be brought into coincidence with the other through an infinitesimal rotation and translation). I derive the relationship between the two interpretations for the case in which the baseline between the two camera positions can be arbitrarily large, and I show how one solution can be derived in terms of the other.
High levels of mineralocorticoids in preovulatory follicular fluid could contribute to oocyte development.

Objective To identify aldosterone and precursors in ovarian follicles and to relate levels of mineralocorticoids to previously described renin-angiotensin system follicular fluid content. Design Experimental. Setting Academic laboratory and affiliated large private practice. Patient(s) Women undergoing oocyte retrieval for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Main Outcome Measure(s) The concentrations of mineralocorticoids were measured in plasma and follicular fluid. Granulosa cell mRNA expression and oocyte receptor content were evaluated. Result(s) High concentrations of preovulatory aldosterone and corticosterone were measured in follicular fluid (419.5 ± 122.2 and 218,383 ± 124,143 pg/mL, respectively). Increased mineralocorticoid levels are found in follicular fluid compared with in plasma and in large follicles compared with in small. Plasma aldosterone levels increase before ovulation. Granulosa cell gene expression that promotes aldosterone production and accumulation of corticosterone is increased in younger patients. Aldosterone receptors are localized to the surface of human oocytes. Conclusion(s) High levels of aldosterone and its precursor, corticosterone, were found in ovarian follicles. This combined with the presence of aldosterone receptors on oocytes suggests a possible role for aldosterone in oocyte development.
Correction: Table in Article on Echocardiography

Excerpt To the editor: I have read with great interest a recent paper entitled "How Cardiologists Learn About Echocardiography" (1). In attempting to reconstruct Table 1, I have found what appears ...
Cardiac Surgery in Patients with Fabry's Disease: Review of Literature

Fabry's disease is a rare but important cause of structural cardiac disease that may influence cardiac surgical decision making. Herein we present a case of mitral valve repair in a patient with Fabry's disease and review the cardiac-related literature on this lysosomal storage disease.
Recovery of sodium sulfate from farm drainage salt for use in reactive dyeing of cotton.

Agricultural drainage salt generated during irrigation of crops in San Joaquin Valley, California, exceeds 600 000 tons annually and cumulates in the field at a rapid rate. As a result, the waste is occupying more farmland for salt storage and disposal, thus causing serious concern to the environment and the local agricultural industry. In searching for a potential solution to reduce or eliminate the waste, the research describe herein explored the feasibility of producing a value-added product, sodium sulfate, from the waste and utilizing the product in textile dyeing. The results indicated that sodium sulfate could be produced from the salt and could be purified by a recrystalization method in a temperature range within the highest and lowest daily temperatures during summer in the valley. The recovered sodium sulfate samples, with purities ranging from 67 to 99.91%, were compared with commercially available sodium sulfate used in reactive dyeing of cotton fabrics. The salt samples recovered from Mendot...
New and emerging agents for the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer

Most men with recurrent prostate cancer (CaP) initially respond to androgen deprivation therapy but eventually develop metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Over the last decade, new therapeutic targets have been identified in CRPC and several new drugs have reached advanced stages of clinical development. In 2010, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved sipuleucel-T and cabazitaxel, and in 2011, abiraterone for patients with metastatic CRPC based on phase 3 trials showing improved survival. Although not yet available for clinical use, a press release in June 2011 announced that radium 223 also demonstrated a survival advantage in men with metastatic CRPC. Emerging therapies in advanced stages of clinical development in CRPC include the hormonal therapies MDV3100 and TAK 700, and the immunotherapy ipilimumab. Results are also pending on phase 3 studies comparing docetaxel plus prednisone with docetaxel given with the novel agents aflibercept, dasatinib, lenalidomide, and custirsen. In addition to these new and emerging therapeutic agents, denosumab was approved for the prevention of skeletal complications in patients with bone metastases due to solid tumor malignancies, providing an alternative to zoledronic acid. While the addition of these new treatment options is a great advance for men with metastatic CRPC, there are many new questions arising regarding sequencing of these treatments with each other, with previously existing therapies, and with the emerging agents now in clinical trials. Furthermore, there are concerns that on-going phase 3 trials may be contaminated if patients go off study treatment to start 1 of the newly approved agents or take the agent subsequently. These realities make clinical trial design more challenging than ever.