cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors for Incident Cortical, Nuclear, Posterior Subcapsular, and Mixed Lens Opacities

Purpose: To identify sociodemographic and biological risk factors associated with the 4-year incidence of nuclear, cortical, posterior subcapsular (PSC), and mixed lens opacities. Design: Population-based, longitudinal study. Participants: We included 4658 Latinos 40 years from 6 census tracts in Los Angeles, California. Methods: Participants underwent an interview and detailed eye examination, including best-corrected visual acuity and slit-lamp assessment of lens opacities using the Lens Opacities Classification System II (LOCS II) at baseline and again 4 years later. Each opacity type was defined in persons with a LOCS II score of 2. Univariate and forward stepwise logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent baseline risk factors associated with 4-year incidence of nuclear only, cortical only, PSC only, and mixed (when 1 opacity type developed in a person) lens opacities. These comprised 4 mutually exclusive groups, and were based on person rather than eye. Main Outcome Measures: Odds ratios for independent risk factors associated with 4-year incidence of nuclear-only, cortical-only, PSC-only, and mixed lens opacities. Results: Of the 3471 participants with gradable lenses in the same eye at baseline and 4-year follow-up, 200 (5.8%) had incident nuclear-only opacities, 151 (4.1%) had incident cortical-only opacities, 16 (0.5%) had incident PSC-only lens opacities, and 88 (2.5%) had mixed lens opacities. Independent baseline risk factors for incident nuclear-only lens opacities included older age, current smoking, and presence of diabetes. Independent risk factors for incident cortical-only lens opacities included older age and having diabetes at baseline. Female gender was an independent risk factor for incident PSC-only lens opacities. Older age and presence of diabetes at baseline examination were independent risk factors for incident mixed lens opacities. Specifically, in diabetics, higher levels of hemoglobin A1c was associated with greater risk for 4-year incident nuclear-only, cortical-only and mixed lens opacities. Conclusions: Improved diabetic control and smoking prevention may reduce the risk of developing lens opacities. Understanding both modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors provides insight into the development of lens opacification. Financial Disclosure(s): The authors have no proprietary or commercial interest in any of the materials discussed in this article. Ophthalmology 2012;119:2040–2047 © 2012 by the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Clonidine can lower blood pressure by inhibiting vasopressin release.

Abstract The effect of clonidine on vasopressin release was studied in chloralose anesthetized rats which were made hypertensive by bilateral electrons of the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS). NTS lesions elevated arterial pressure and plasma vasopressin levels, and both of these variable were returned toward baseline values by intravenous injection of clonidine (30 μg/kg). Furthermore, the ability of a vasopressin antagonist to lower arterial pressure in NTS hypertensive rats was markedly attenuated by clonidine treatment. In contrast, autonomic blockade (chlorisondamine, 2.5 mg/kg) in NTS lesioned rats did not reduce plasma vasopressin levels or the effect of the vasopressin antagonist on blood pressure. These data demonstrate that part of the antihypertensive effect of clonidine in NTS hypertensive rats is due to inhibition of vasopressin release into the circulation.
Composite document extended retrieval: an overview

Experimental information retrieval (IR) systems, some dating back to the sixties, have demonstrated the viability of fully automatic document storage and retrieval methodologies with small to medium size bibliographic collections [72]. Many of these experimental systems utilize the vector space model in which each important term (such as a word stem) identifies a different dimension in a space, so that matrix methods and vector operations can be defined on queries and documents. Statistical techniques have been very effective, and probabilistic enhancements have given additional improvements [84]. However, the basic vector space model is oriented towards recording the essential information in the text of a title/abstract combination rather than describing more complex document structures. It is necessary to extend the model in order to handle composite documents.On the other hand, commonly available retrieval systems that employ Boolean logic queries and utilize inverted file storage schemes can without modification accommodate such documents, albeit with somewhat less effectiveness than is possible with more sophisticated systems. Hence, it is also of interest to consider how Boolean logic systems can be extended to give better performance, especially with composite documents, and to integrate those approaches with vector methods.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects of polypeptide delivery

Abstract The rational design and development of drug delivery systems for polypeptide compounds requires a quantitative understanding of the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of the compound in the intended therapeutic indication. In particular it is necessary to define the characteristics of the input function, i.e. the rate and time course of systemic drug input, that will maximize the therapeutic effect, minimize unwanted side effects and prevent tachyphylaxis from occurring. This paper reviews the general concepts of input function, PK and PD, and illustrates these concepts using two examples from the literature: (1) Sandoz compound SMS 201–995 and (2) gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). For SMS 201–995, a continuous (zero-order) input function is shown to be optimal for suppressing growth hormone secretion in the treatment of acromegaly. For GnRH, a pulsatile input function is optimal for stimulating pituitary gonadotropin secretion, whereas continuous input leads to a paradoxical suppression of gonadotropin secretion. These examples further illustrate the types of novel experimental approaches, using programmable infusion pumps, that are needed for investigating the relationship between PK and PD, and for defining the optimal input function experimentally. In addition, we show how mathematical models may be used to describe the interrelationships between input function, PK and PD. For SMS 201–995, a model based on the “effect compartment” concept offers a self-consistent description of the linkage between PK and PD and provides insight into the superiority of continuous input in the treatment of acromegaly. For GnRH, the complex relationship between input function and gonadotropin secretion is modelled on the basis of heuristic concepts that relate the time-averaged occupancy of the GnRH-receptors (by GnRH) to the expression of GnRH-receptors by the pituitary (i.e. down and up regulation). Together these examples illustrate the diversity of input functions that will be needed in polypeptide delivery and the novel experimental and theoretical approaches required for defining them.
Natural variation in Caenorhabditis briggsae mitochondrial form and function suggests a novel model of organelle dynamics

Mitochondrial functioning and morphology are known to be connected through cycles of organelle fusion and fission that depend upon the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨM); however, we lack an understanding of the features and dynamics of natural mitochondrial populations. Using data from our recent study of univariate mitochondrial phenotypic variation in Caenorhabditis briggsae nematodes, we analyzed patterns of phenotypic correlation for 24 mitochondrial traits. Our findings support a role for ΔΨM in shaping mitochondrial dynamics, but no role for mitochondrial ROS. Further, our study suggests a novel model of mitochondrial population dynamics dependent upon cellular environmental context and with implications for mitochondrial genome integrity.
Recreational use assessment of water-based activities, using time-lapse construction cameras.

Recreational exposure to surface waters during periods of increased pathogen concentration may lead to a significantly higher risk of illness. However, estimates of elementary exposure factors necessary to evaluate health risk (i.e., usage distributions and exposure durations) are not available for many non-swimming water-related activities. No prior studies have assessed non-swimming water exposure with respect to factors leading to impaired water quality from increased pathogen concentration, such as weather condition (rain events produce increased runoff and sewer overflows) and type of day (heavy recreational periods). We measured usage patterns and evaluated the effect of weather and type of day at eight water sites located within Philadelphia, by using a novel “time lapse photography” technology during three peak recreational seasons (May–September) 2008–2010. Camera observations validated with simultaneous in-person surveys exhibited a strong correlation (R2=0.81 to 0.96) between the two survey techniques, indicating that the application of remote photography in collecting human exposure data was appropriate. Recreational activities usage varied more on a temporal basis than due to inclement weather. Only 14% (6 out of 44) of the site-specific activity combinations showed dry weather preference, whereas 41.5% (17 out of 41) of the combinations indicated greater usage on weekends as compared with weekday. In general, the log normal distribution described the playing and wading duration distribution, while the gamma distribution was the best fit for fishing durations. Remote photography provided unbiased, real-time human exposure data and was less personnel intensive compared with traditional survey methods. However, there are potential limitations associated with remote surveillance data related to its limited view. This is the first study to report that time lapse cameras can be successfully applied to assess water-based human recreational patterns and can provide precise exposure statistics for non-swimming recreational exposures.
Comparison of fundamental frequency and perturbation measurements among three analysis systems.

Summary The need for standardization of procedures in approaches to voice measurement has been recently emphasized. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which the acoustic perturbation measurements from three different analysis systems agree when standardized recording and analysis procedures are used. High-quality acoustic voice recordings from 20 patients were analyzed. The results showed that, although fundamental frequency measurements were in strong agreement among the three systems tested, frequency and amplitude perturbation measurements were not in agreement. The underlying approaches to perturbation measurement appeared to be sufficiently different to produce different results. An argument is made for a standardized set of acoustic signals representing normal, dysphonic, and synthesized voices with known characteristics to facilitate testing of new acoustic analysis systems and confirm measurement accuracy and sensitivity.
Dust Bowl, USA: Depression America and the Ecological Imagination, 1929–1941

An in-depth look at the historical truth behind the popular myths Whether romantic or tragic, accounts of the dramatic events surrounding the North American Dust Bowl of the "dirty thirties" unearthed deep anxieities buried in America's ecological imagination. Moreover, the anxieties about a landscape of fear remain embedded in the national consciousness today. In vivid form, the aesthetic of suffering captured in Dorothea Lange's photographs and Wood Guthrie's folk songs made the myths and memories of the Depression generation. Dust Bowl, USA is a critical examination of the stories that grew out of the Dust Bowl experience Across the nation, newspapers, magazines, books, film, and aong, produced imagery of blight for local and mass audiences. As new technology, irrigation innovations, and conservation programs were introduced on a wide scale during the 1930s, the saga of the frontier continued to unfold through accounts of dust, drought, and desertification. In piercing the myths brought forth in legends, lore, allegories, and antecdotes, Brad Lookingbill provides a revelatory insight into the history of the cultural narratives that have come to define an era.
String flux mechanism for fractionalization in topologically ordered phases

We construct a family of exactly solvable spin models that illustrate a mechanism for fractionalization in topologically ordered phases, dubbed the string flux mechanism. The essential idea is that an anyon of a topological phase can be endowed with fractional quantum numbers when the string attached to it slides over a background pattern of flux in the ground state. The string flux models that illustrate this mechanism are ${\mathbb{Z}}_{n}$ quantum double models defined on specially constructed $d$-dimensional lattices, and possess ${\mathbb{Z}}_{n}$ topological order for $d\ensuremath{\ge}2$. The models have a unitary, internal symmetry $G$, where $G$ is an arbitrary finite group. The simplest string flux model is a ${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$ toric code defined on a bilayer square lattice, where $G={\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$ is layer-exchange symmetry. In general, by varying the pattern of ${\mathbb{Z}}_{n}$ flux in the ground state, any desired fractionalization class [element of ${H}^{2}(G,{\mathbb{Z}}_{n})]$ can be realized for the ${\mathbb{Z}}_{n}$ charge excitations. While the string flux models are not gauge theories, they map to ${\mathbb{Z}}_{n}$ gauge theories in a certain limit, where they follow a magnetic route for the emergence of low-energy gauge structure. The models are analyzed by studying the action of $G$ symmetry on ${\mathbb{Z}}_{n}$ charge excitations, and by gauging the $G$ symmetry. The latter analysis confirms that distinct fractionalization classes give rise to distinct quantum phases, except that classes $[\ensuremath{\omega}],{[\ensuremath{\omega}]}^{\ensuremath{-}1}\ensuremath{\in}{H}^{2}(G,{\mathbb{Z}}_{n})$ give rise to the same phase. We conclude with a discussion of open issues and future directions.
Human brain atlas‐based volumetry and relaxometry: Application to healthy development and natural aging

This work investigated the feasibility and utility of using T2-weighted or dual spin-echo data to provide volume and T2 relaxation time for regional and global gray and white matter using standardized brain templates and anatomically labeled atlases. A total of 130 healthy males and females (age range 15–59 years) were included. Dual echo magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired and analyzed using standardized International Consortium for Human Brain Mapping atlas-based tissue segmentation procedures implemented in the statistical parametric mapping toolbox to obtain the age trajectories of volume and corresponding T2 relaxation time in whole brain white and gray matter, in the caudate nucleus and in the anterior limb of internal capsule. Whole brain gray matter and caudate nucleus volumes linearly decreased with age while whole brain white matter and anterior limb internal capsule volume increased slowly with age bilaterally in males and females. The relation between T2 relaxation time and age of whole brain gray and white matter, and caudate nucleus and anterior limb internal capsule followed a quadratic U-curve. The T2 relaxation times of the human brain followed a U curve both globally and regionally in both white and gray matter. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Basal insulin hypersecretion in insulin-resistant Zucker diabetic and Zucker fatty rats: role of enhanced fuel metabolism.

Abstract The biochemical mechanisms responsible for basal hyperinsulinemia in insulin-resistant states have not been fully defined. We therefore studied pancreatic β-cell function in vitro to characterize the relative importance of fuel metabolism or secretion via a constitutive pathway in the maintenance of high basal insulin secretion in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) and Zucker fatty (ZF) rats. Insulin secretion from ZF (10 ± 1.8 ν 5 ± 0.6 pmol/ng DNA/h) and ZDF (30 ± 4 ν 7 ± 0.8 pmol/ng DNA/h) islets at 2.8 mmol/L glucose was two to four times greater than secretion from islets of lean littermate control rats. In response to a decreasing glucose concentration (from 12 to 0 mmol/L), a paradoxical increase in insulin secretion was observed in perfused ZDF rat pancreas. Insulin secretion at 2.8 mmol/L glucose was suppressed approximately 70% to 80% in islets from ZDF and ZF rats following exposure to diazoxide, a K+-adenosine triphosphate (KATP) channel opener that inhibits membrane depolarization, or rotenone and oligomycin, agents that inhibit ATP production, or by incubation at 23°C. Inhibition of glycolysis with mannoheptulose, 2-deoxyglucose, and iodoacetate or fatty acid oxidation with a carnitine palmitoyltransferase I inhibitor also significantly inhibited basal insulin secretion in islets of ZDF and ZF rats but not their lean littermates. Furthermore, the glycolytic flux at 2.8 mmol/L glucose was significantly higher in ZDF islets versus ZDF lean littermate (ZLC) islets (2.2 ± 0.1 ν 3.7 ± 0.3 pmol/ng DNA/2 h, P
Constructing trees in graphs with no K 2,s

Let s ≥ 2 be an integer and k > 12(s - 1) an integer. We give a necessary and sufficient condition for a graph G containing no K2,s with δ$(G) ≥ k/2 and Δ(G) ≥ k to contain every tree T of order k + 1. We then show that every graph G with no K2,s and average degree greater than k - 1 satisfies this condition, improving a result of Haxell, and verifying a special case of the ErdosSos conjecture, which states that every graph of average degree greater than k - 1 contains every tree of order k + 1. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 56: 301310, 2007
Kinetics of Synaptic Transmission at Ribbon Synapses of Rods and Cones

The ribbon synapse is a specialized structure that allows photoreceptors to sustain the continuous release of vesicles for hours upon hours and years upon years but also respond rapidly to momentary changes in illumination. Light responses of cones are faster than those of rods and, mirroring this difference, synaptic transmission from cones is also faster than transmission from rods. This review evaluates the various factors that regulate synaptic kinetics and contribute to kinetic differences between rod and cone synapses. Presynaptically, the release of glutamate-laden synaptic vesicles is regulated by properties of the synaptic proteins involved in exocytosis, influx of calcium through calcium channels, calcium release from intracellular stores, diffusion of calcium to the release site, calcium buffering, and extrusion of calcium from the cytoplasm. The rate of vesicle replenishment also limits the ability of the synapse to follow changes in release. Post-synaptic factors include properties of glutamate receptors, dynamics of glutamate diffusion through the cleft, and glutamate uptake by glutamate transporters. Thus, multiple synaptic mechanisms help to shape the responses of second-order horizontal and bipolar cells.
A highly parallel multigrid-like method for the solution of the Euler equations

We consider a highly parallel multigrid-like method for the solution of the two dimensional steady Euler equations. The new method, introduced as filtering multigrid, is similar to a standard multigrid scheme in that convergence on the finest grid is accelerated by iterations on coarser grids. In the filtering method, however, additional fine grid subproblems are processed concurrently with coarse grid computations to further accelerate convergence. These additional problems are obtained by splitting the residual into a smooth and an oscillatory component. The smooth component is then used to form a coarse grid problem (similar to standard multigrid) while the oscillatory component is used for a fine grid subproblem. The primary advantage in the filtering approach is that fewer iterations are required and that most of the additional work per iteration can be performed in parallel with the standard coarse grid computations. We generalize the filtering algorithm to a version suitable for nonlinear problems. We emphasize that this generalization is conceptually straight-forward and relatively easy to implement. In particular, no explicit linearization (e.g., formation of Jacobians) needs to be performed (similar to the FAS multigrid approach). We illustrate the nonlinear version by applying it to the Euler equations, and presenting numerical results. Finally, a performance evaluation is made based on execution time models and convergence information obtained from numerical experiments.
Data Stream Mining: Challenges and Techniques

Data streams are continuous flows of data. Examples of data streams include network traffic, sensor data, call center records and so on. Their sheer volume and speed pose a great challenge for the data mining community to mine them. Data streams demonstrate several unique properties: infinite length, concept-drift, concept-evolution, and feature-evolution. Concept-drift occurs in data streams when the underlying concept of data changes over time. Concept-evolution occurs when new classes evolve in streams. Feature-evolution occurs when feature set varies with time in data streams. Each of these properties adds a challenge to data stream mining. This invited talk will present an organized picture on how to handle various data mining techniques in data streams: in particular, how to handle classification in evolving data streams by addressing these challenges.
Optical design of airport control tower cabs.

A study has been made of optical aspects of airport control towers as part of a planned general optimization of control towers by Transport Canada. Problems found were reflections, glare, visual obstructions, identification of distant objects, and excessive solar heat. The study makes recommendations on cab shape, tower height, glazing, shades, sunglasses, binoculars, and internal lighting. Proper choice of cab shape (e.g., 30 degrees window inclination and 12-28 sides) provided effective control of reflections. Some plastic shades werefound to increase the risk of eye damage. Two tower cabs incorporating the recommendations have been built and were found to be satisfactory.
Testing a Model of Communication Responses to Relationship Infidelity

How partners communicate following a serious relationship transgression helps determine whether a relationship continues or dissolves. The current study utilized the exit-voice-loyalty-neglect (EVLN) and investment models to explore how individuals (n = 146) would communicate upon learning of a partner's infidelity. Individuals were more likely to actively respond to infidelity using exit and voice in the EVLN model. As infidelity increased in seriousness, individuals were also more likely to communicate in a relationship destructive manner and less likely to respond in a relationship constructive manner. Commitment, satisfaction, investment size, and relationship length emerged as consistent predictors of communication responses.
Manufacturing consent and resistance in peripheral production: The labor process among Egyptian Migrant Workers and Egyptian National Development

A partir de l'exemple des travailleurs migrants ruraux egyptiens (tarahil) exercant un travail saisonnier dans l'agriculture et migrant, hors saison, loin de chez eux pour avoir un salaire complementaire, l'A. montre qu'a l'interieur de l'organisation du travail capitaliste se melent consentement et conflit, approbation de la gestion et resistance a ses exigences. L'interaction entre les activites de ces hommes et les conditions economiques et politiques de la nation est decrite.
Current Treatments for Advanced Stage Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer mortality in the United States, and the majority of patients will have non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and will present with locally advanced or metastatic disease. In the United States, the most common histology is adenocarcinoma, followed by squamous cell, large cell, and not otherwise specified. For patients with a preserved performance status (PS), double agent platinum-based therapy extends survival, improves quality of life (Qol), and reduces disease-related symptoms. The addition of a third cytotoxic agent increases toxicity without any clinical benefit. However, the addition of a targeted agent (bevacizumab, an antiangioegenesis agent, or cetuximab, an antibody against the epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR]) to platinum-based therapy has yielded an improvement in survival compared with platinum-based therapy alone. To receive bevacizumab, patients are required to have nonsquamous histology, a PS of 0 or 1, and no evidence of brain metastases,...
Acute tryptophan depletion increases translational indices of anxiety but not fear: serotonergic modulation of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis?

Serotonin is strongly implicated in the mammalian stress response, but surprisingly little is known about its mode of action. Recent data suggest that serotonin can inhibit aversive responding in humans, but this remains underspecified. In particular, data in rodents suggest that global serotonin depletion may specifically increase long-duration bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST)-mediated aversive responses (ie, anxiety), but not short-duration BNST-independent responses (ie, fear). Here, we extend these findings to humans. In a balanced, placebo-controlled crossover design, healthy volunteers (n=20) received a controlled diet with and without the serotonin precursor tryptophan (acute tryptophan depletion; ATD). Aversive states were indexed by translational acoustic startle measures. Fear and anxiety were operationally defined as the increase in startle reactivity during short- and long-duration threat periods evoked by predictable shock (fear-potentiated startle) and by the context in which the shocks were administered (anxiety-potentiated startle), respectively. ATD significantly increased long-duration anxiety-potentiated startle but had no effect on short-duration fear-potentiated startle. These results suggest that serotonin depletion in humans selectively increases anxiety but not fear. Current translational frameworks support the proposition that ATD thus disinhibits dorsal raphe-originating serotonergic control of corticotropin-releasing hormone-mediated excitation of the BNST. This generates a candidate neuropharmacological mechanism by which depleted serotonin may increase response to sustained threats, alongside clear implications for our understanding of the manifestation and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.
The self-directed osteopathic medical student: Bringing adult learning into the osteopathic manipulative technique lab

Abstract Utilizing self-directed learning methods in the medical school setting has become an increasingly popular way to encourage students to be lifelong learners. With the ever expanding and rapidly changing body of medical knowledge and technology, physicians need to be able to seek out, access information, and keep abreast of changes in medicine. Medical students have been largely taught in a pedagogical environment characterized by passive lectures. Gerald Grow's Staged Self-Directed Learning Model is presented as a means to transition students to an andragogical educational format. In order to introduce andragogy into as many areas of undergraduate medical education as possible, a track-lab concept is introduced. In this model, second year osteopathic medical students self-assess their osteopathic manipulative technique educational needs and choose to either review previously taught techniques or learn additional techniques. This track-lab concept shows promise as a method of introducing self-directed learning to the osteopathic manipulative technique lab setting.
Estimating the magnitude and direction of bias in tuberculosis drug resistance surveys conducted only in the public sector: a simulation study

Accurate assessment of the burden of drug-resistant TB requires systematic efforts to quantify its magnitude and trend. In approximately half the countries where resistance has been reported, estimates are based on surveys conducted in public sector facilities. However, in locations where a substantial fraction of TB cases seek care with private providers, these surveys may not accurately measure resistance in the entire population. We describe a mathematical model to investigate biases associated with sampling only from public sector cases in India, where TB treatment is offered in both public and private sectors. We then propose and demonstrate a weighted estimator as an efficient method for including small numbers of cases from the private sector as a way to recover valid estimates of resistance in the population under study. We find that public sector surveys rarely provide valid estimates of drug-resistance among new and retreatment cases. Further, the magnitude and direction of the bias are sensitive to many parameters describing the health-seeking behaviours and treatment outcomes of tuberculosis patients, disallowing simple adjustments to recover accurate estimates. In locations where large numbers of tuberculosis patients are diagnosed and treated by private sector practitioners who are not typically included in drug resistance surveys, targeted surveys for assessing drug resistance are required to validly estimate resistance.
Optical analysis of a microdensitometer system

When a recording microdensitometer is used for evaluating the image quality of a photographic material, the inherent transfer characteristics of the microdensitometer itself must be considered. The theoretica analysis and evaluation of the transient response of the system in space was performed with an IBM 162 computer. The computed analysis involved the convolution of the transient response of the variou optical elements utilized in the microdensitometer. Comparison of the theoretically computed result with the experimental knife-edge scans indicated the need for separate consideration of the high-and low-density responses. Good agreement was established between the evaluation of physical knife edges on a microdensitometer and the computed theoretical performance response for that instrument. These results indicate that the basic microdensitometer system approaches a diffraction-limited response. Certain secondary effects are also discussed.
Guaranteeing Spatial Uniformity in Reaction-Diffusion Systems Using Weighted L^2 Norm Contractions

We present conditions that guarantee spatial uniformity of the solutions of reaction-diffusion partial differential equations. These equations are of central importance to several diverse application fields concerned with pattern formation. The conditions make use of the Jacobian matrix and Neumann eigenvalues of elliptic operators on the given spatial domain. We present analogous conditions that apply to the solutions of diffusively-coupled networks of ordinary differential equations. We derive numerical tests making use of linear matrix inequalities that are useful in certifying these conditions. We discuss examples relevant to enzymatic cell signaling and biological oscillators. From a systems biology perspective, the paper’s main contributions are unified verifiable relaxed conditions that guarantee spatial uniformity of biological processes.
The enhancement of PCR amplification by low molecular weight amides

Amplification of a DNA target by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) often requires laborious optimization efforts. In this regard, the use of certain organic chemicals such as dimethyl sulfoxide, polyethylene glycol, betaine and formamide as cosolvents has been found to be very helpful. Unfortunately, very little is known about the precise structural features that make these additives effective and, accordingly, the number of such chemicals currently known to enhance PCR is limited. In order to address these issues, we decided to focus on formamide and undertook an extensive study of low molecular weight amides as a class to see how changing the substituents in the amide structure influences its effect on PCR. We describe here the results of this study, which involved 11 different amides, and present observations that provide a cohesive picture of structure-activity relations in this group of additives. We found several of these amides to be exceptionally effective and introduce them as novel PCR enhancers.
Autonomous generation of complete 3D object models using next best view manipulation planning

Recognizing and manipulating objects is an important task for mobile robots performing useful services in everyday environments. In this paper, we develop a system that enables a robot to grasp an object and to move it in front of its depth camera so as to build a 3D surface model of the object. We derive an information gain based variant of the next best view algorithm in order to determine how the manipulator should move the object in front of the camera. By considering occlusions caused by the robot manipulator, our technique also determines when and how the robot should re-grasp the object in order to build a complete model.
An Agent-Based Optimal Bidding Function

Problems such as price volatility have been observed in electric power markets. Demand-side participation is often offered as a potential solution by promising to increase market efficiency when hockey-stick type offer curves are present. However, individual end-consumer will surely value electricity differently, which makes demand-side participation as a group and at a bus difficult. In this paper demand is categorized into two groups: one that highly values reliability and the other that does not. The two types are modeled separately and a new optimal bidding function is developed and tested based on this model.
Lipid association improves the therapeutic index of lomustine [1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea] to suppress 36B-10 tumor growth in rats.

The therapeutic efficacy and tumor accumulation of a liposome formulation of 1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea (CCNU), an effective agent used in the treatment of malignant brain tumors, was examined in an animal tumor model. Pharmacokinetic studies in normal and tumor-bearing rats indicated that a 2-fold greater plasma exposure was achieved with liposome-formulated CCNU compared with the free drug. In Fisher rats bearing s.c. tumors 36B-10, tumor growth was delayed substantially when liposomal CCNU was delivered compared with free-drug treatment. In single-dose treatments of 20, 35, and 50 mg/kg, tumor progression after each dose was reduced ∼2-fold with liposomal compared with free CCNU (four animals in each treatment group). Multiple-dose treatments (given as three weekly doses with eight animals in each treatment group) with cumulative doses of 80 and 100 mg/kg of free and liposomal CCNU also resulted in a 2-fold reduction in tumor progression when compared with free-drug treatment. When drug levels in tumors relative to plasma were examined, it was observed that tumor drug concentrations did not exceed those found in plasma after administration of free CCNU; after administration of liposomal CCNU, however, tumor concentrations exceeded those in plasma by nearly 10-fold. These results suggest that the increased efficacy of liposome-formulated CCNU may be attributable to enhanced drug accumulation in tumor tissues.
Designing audio aura

In this paper. we describe the process behind the design of Audio Aura. The goal of Audio Aura is to provide serendipitous information, via background auditory cues, that is tied to people’s physical actions in the workplace. We used scenarios to explore issues in serendipitous information such as privacy and work practice. Our sound design was guided by a number of strategies for creating peripheral sounds grouped in cohesive ecologies. Faced with an physical and software infrastructure under development in a laboratory distant f?om our sound studio. we prototyped different sonic landscapes in VRML worlds. In our infrastructure design, we made a number of trade-offs in our use of legacy systems and our client-server design.
An Overlooked Hotspot? Rapid Biodiversity Assessment Reveals a Region of Exceptional Herpetofaunal Richness in the Southeastern United States

We conducted a competitive bioblitz survey in four Georgia counties to raise awareness of a unique and species rich herpetofauna in the Pine Mountain/ Fall Line Sandhills Region of Georgia, and compared documented species of these counties to other herpetofaunas of the southeast that have known high richness and/ or were subject to thorough collection efforts. Our results demonstrate the efficacy of bioblitzes for documenting large numbers of species in a limited amount of time (62 amphibian and reptile species in only seven days, including 36 new county re- cords and documentation of three protected species). Compared to areas of similar size, this area is among the most species-rich herpetofaunas in North America north of Mexico, with only three areas having higher documented richness. However, all areas we compared our site to have experienced much higher collection effort and contain much larger tracts of protected land. Thus, our data suggest the Pine Moun- tain/Fall Line Sandhills region is among the most important regions for amphibian and reptile conservation in North America.
Mucopolysaccharides of renal collecting tubule cells in potassium deficient rats.

SummaryThe granules which appear in the collecting tubule cells of potassium deficient rats give a positive reaction with both the Hale iron technique and the PAS stain. The capacity for Hale staining is removed after exposure to receptor destroying enzyme or neuraminidase, but not by hyaluronidase, cathepsin, hot chloroform methanol extraction, or exposure to amylases. The Hale staining was intensified after pepsin, trypsin, or chymotrypsin treatment. It is concluded that the granules contain an acid mucopolysaccharide, which probably contains sialic acid side groups, and that the acid mucopolysaccharide may be masked by protein, which can be uncovered by the action of pepsin, trypsin, or chymotrypsin.
A Drosophila model for xeroderma pigmentosum and Cockayne's syndrome: haywire encodes the fly homolog of ERCC3, a human excision repair gene

Abstract The haywire gene of Drosophila encodes a protein with 66% identity to the product of the human ERCC3 gene, associated with xeroderma pigmentosum B (XP-B) and Cockayne's syndrome (CS). XP is a human autosomal recessive disease characterized by extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet irradiation and marked susceptibility to skin cancer. In addition, XP and CS patients often exhibit a variety of defects, ranging from central nervous system disorders to hypogonadism. Phenotypes of haywire mutants mimic some of the effects of XP. Many haywire alleles are recessive lethal, viable alleles cause ultraviolet sensitivity, and flies expressing marginal levels of haywire display motor defects and reduced life span. Progeny of females carrying a maternal effect allele show central nervous system defects.
Explaining America's lost war

Gary R. Hess, Malden, MA and Oxford, Blackwell Publishing, 2009, xxii+218 pp. This is an excellent book for those seeking help in navigating the vast amount of literature on the Vietnam War. Its su...
Tissue heterogeneity in structure and conductivity contribute to cell survival during irreversible electroporation ablation by “electric field sinks”

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is an emerging, minimally invasive technique for solid tumors ablation, under clinical investigation for cancer therapy. IRE affects only the cell membrane, killing cells while preserving the extracellular matrix structure. Current reports indicate tumors recurrence rate after IRE averaging 31% of the cases, of which 10% are local recurrences. The mechanisms for these recurrences are not known and new explanations for incomplete cell death are needed. Using finite elements method for electric field distribution, we show that presence of vascular structures with blood leads to the redistribution of electric fields leading to the areas with more than 60% reduced electric field strength in proximity to large blood vessels and clustered vessel structures. In an in vivo rat model of liver IRE ablation, we show that cells located in the proximity of larger vessel structures and in proximity of clustered vessel structures appear less affected by IRE ablation than cells in the tissue parenchyma or in the proximity of small, more isolated vessels. These findings suggest a role for “electric field sinks” in local tumors recurrences after IRE and emphasize the importance of the precise mapping of the targeted organ structure and conductivity for planning of electroporation procedures.
Comparative Toxicity of Chaetomium Contaminated Corn and Various Chemical Forms of Oosporein in Broiler Chicks

The toxicity to broiler chicks of Chaetomium contaminated corn and various chemical forms of oosporein were compared by feeding diets containing 60% Chaetomium contaminated corn (300 micrograms oosporein/g diet), and 300 or 150 micrograms/g of purified oosporein in either the K salt, Na salt, or organic acid form from hatching to 3 weeks of age. The Chaetomium contaminated corn diet caused 100% mortality during the first week of feeding. Necropsies revealed extensive visceral and articular gout, enlarged pale kidneys, dehydration, proventricular enlargement with mucosal necrosis, and a dark green discoloration of the gizzard lining. When the mortality percentages of the two experiments conducted were considered collectively, the K and Na salts of oosporein caused significantly higher mortality than the organic acid form of oosporein. The K salt caused the most severe lesions and the organic acid caused the least severe lesions. No mortality occurred at the 150 micrograms/g K salt or 150 micrograms/g organic acid levels. Relative kidney weights were increased by all forms of oosporein at 300 micrograms/g, but at 150 micrograms/g only the K salt caused an increase in kidney weight. The LD50 values, based on mortality from 1 to 10 days, were 5.77, 5.00, and 4.56 mg/kg for oosporein acid, oosporein Na salt, and oosporein K salt, respectively. These results suggest that the salts of oosporein (particularly the K salt) are more toxic than the organic acid, and the natural occurrence of oosporein in a salt form could contribute to the increased toxicity of the Chaetomium contaminated corn.
Aggressive and affiliative behavior in green monkeys with differing housing complexity

Eleven green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) were combined into three social groups (two heterosexual, one all-male) in enclosures with similar volume but different levels of environmental complexity (two or four compartments). Agonistic and affiliative interactions were recorded over a 21-week period. The two heterosexual groups had their environmental complexity reduced (number of compartments reduced by one-half and volume/floorspace reduced by one-third) for a 5-week period in the middle of the study. Rates of contact aggression were low throughout the study. In the group with complexity reduced to one compartment, rates of noncontact aggression and affiliative behavior increased, and remained high after complexity was restored. In the group reduced to two compartments, rates of affiliative behavior increased but rates of noncontact aggression decreased, trends which continued after complexity was restored. The all-male group exhibited low rates of affiliative behavior throughout. Two compartments appear to foster successful group formation, but any change in a group's enclosure can have long-term effects on rates of aggression. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Comparative analysis of masseter fiber architecture in tree‐gouging (Callithrix jacchus) and nongouging (Saguinus oedipus) callitrichids

Common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) and cotton-top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus) (Callitrichidae, Primates) share a broadly similar diet of fruits, insects, and tree exudates. Common marmosets, however, differ from tamarins by actively gouging trees with their anterior teeth to elicit tree exudate flow. During tree gouging, marmosets produce relatively large jaw gapes, but do not necessarily produce relatively large bite forces at the anterior teeth. We compared the fiber architecture of the masseter muscle in tree-gouging Callithrix jacchus (n = 10) to nongouging Saguinus oedipus (n = 8) to determine whether the marmoset masseter facilitates producing these large gapes during tree gouging. We predict that the marmoset masseter has relatively longer fibers and, hence, greater potential muscle excursion (i.e., a greater range of motion through increased muscle stretch). Conversely, because of the expected trade-off between excursion and force production in muscle architecture, we predict that the cotton-top tamarin masseter has more pinnate fibers and increased physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) as compared to common marmosets. Likewise, the S. oedipus masseter is predicted to have a greater proportion of tendon relative to muscle fiber as compared to the common marmoset masseter. Common marmosets have absolutely and relatively longer masseter fibers than cotton-top tamarins. Given that fiber length is directly proportional to muscle excursion and by extension contraction velocity, this result suggests that marmosets have masseters designed for relatively greater stretching and, hence, larger gapes. Conversely, the cotton-top tamarin masseter has a greater angle of pinnation (but not significantly so), larger PCSA, and higher proportion of tendon. The significantly larger PCSA in the tamarin masseter suggests that their masseter has relatively greater force production capabilities as compared to marmosets. Collectively, these results suggest that the fiber architecture of the common marmoset masseter is part of a suite of features of the masticatory apparatus that facilitates the production of relatively large gapes during tree gouging. J. Morphol. 261:276–285, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Semantic correspondence in federated life science data integration systems

For execution of complex biological queries, data integration systems often use several intermediate data sources because the domain coverage of individual sources is limited. Quality of intermediate sources differs greatly based on the method used for curation, frequency of updates and breadth of domain coverage, which affects the quality of the results. Therefore, integration systems should provide data provenance; i.e. information about the path used to obtain every record in the result. Furthermore, since query capabilities of web-accessible sources are limited, integration systems need to support refinement queries of finer granularity issued over the integrated data. However, unlike the individual sources, integration systems have to handle the absence of data and conflicts in the integrated data caused by inconsistencies among the sources. This paper describes the solution proposed by BACIIS, the Biological and Chemical Information Integration System, for providing data provenance and for supporting refinement queries over integrated data. Semantic correspondence between records from different sources is defined based on the links connecting these data sources including cross-references. Two characteristics of semantic correspondence, namely degree and cardinality, are identified based on the closeness of the links that exist between data records and based on the mappings between domains of data records respectively. An algorithm based on semantic correspondence is presented to handle absence of data and conflicts in the integrated data.