cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In vitro complementation as an assay for purification of adenovirus DNA replication proteins

As an approach to the purification of adenovirus-encoded DNA replication proteins, we have developed in vitro complementation assays that make use of viral mutants defective in DNA replication in vivo. Nuclear extracts prepared from cells infected with H5ts36 or H5ts125, two such mutants belonging to different complementation groups, were found to be defective in viral DNA replication in vitro. However, replication activity could be restored by mixing the two extracts. Replication activity in either extract also could be restored by addition of appropriate replication-deficient fractions purified from cells infected with wild-type adenovirus. By using such assays, H5ts36- and H5ts125-complementing activities were extensively purified. As expected, purified H5ts125-complementing activity consisted of a single major polypeptide, the 72-kilodalton (kDal) adenovirus DNA binding protein. The purified H5ts36-complementing activity consisted of the 80-kDal adenovirus terminal protein precursor and two other major polypeptides with apparent molecular masses of 140 and 65 kDal. Formation of the 80-kDal terminal protein-dCMP complexes, the proposed initial step in adenovirus DNA replication, required components in the purified H5ts36-complementing fraction and a cellular factor(s) but did not require the adenovirus DNA binding protein. The complete in vitro adenovirus DNA replication reaction was reconstituted from the purified H5ts36-complementing activity, the adenovirus DNA binding protein, and an extract from uninfected cells.
Clinical PD/PDT in North America: An historical review

The healing properties of light have been appreciated for thousands of years. However, the harnessing of light energy to create a rigorous and reliable means to diagnose and treat human disease is only a relatively recent phenomenon. Despite outstanding results from ancient history and subsequent reemergence and refinement of this knowledge over the last 100 years, it took again the hand of serendipity to open the modern age of Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy. Based on the prescience and perseverance of a handful, the under appreciated observations of tumor fluorescence and photodynamic action have been brought to a worldwide audience. This review highlights the development of clinical Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, emphasizing the significant events and milestones taking place in North America.
Irreligious bioethics: benefits and burdens.

In what follows, I write from a particular perspective—the perspective of a physician, philosopher, and bioethicist who is also a Theist, Christian, and Protestant. I believe that each bioethicist ...
Field emission from non-uniform carbon nanotube arrays

Regular arrays of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are frequently used in studies on field emission. However, non-uniformities are always present like dispersions in height, radius, and position. In this report, we describe the effect of these non-uniformities in the overall emission current by simulation. We show that non-uniform arrays can be modeled as a perfect array multiplied by a factor that is a function of the CNTs spacing.
Properties of cytochrome P-450 as affected by environmental factors: qualitative changes due to administration of polycyclic hydrocarbons.

Abstract Evidence is presented to show that the administration of polycyclic hydrocarbons causes the appearance in hepatic microsomes of a P-450 hemoprotein which differs in certain of its physical and biochemical properties from that found normally. This previously unrecognized hemoprotein, which has been named cytochrome P1-450, does not result from the combination of polycyclic hydrocarbons or their metabolites with native cytochrome P-450, but is formed as a specific molecular entity as a result of de novo hemoprotein biosynthesis. The possibility that cytochrome P1-450 may be an aberrant hemoprotein is considered.
The Political Consequences of Perceived Threat and Felt Insecurity

The authors draw on data from a national random digit dial (RDD) telephone sample of 1,549 adult Americans conducted between October 15, 2001, and March 2, 2002, to explore the impact of a need for security on support for national security policies in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. They examine support for protective government policies among individuals who vary in their ability to feel secure in the aftermath of terrorism, exploring the interaction between perceived threat and felt security. Most Americans reported a sense of security after the 9/11 attacks. But a sense of insecurity among a minority of Americans coupled with a perceived threat of future terrorism increased support for both domestic and international security policy—the curtailment of domestic civil liberties, tougher visa checks, and support for the war in Afghanistan. The authors' findings underscore the diverse ways in which individuals react politically to a common external threat.
Multiple vertebral segmentation defects: Analysis of 26 new patients and review of the literature

To further delineate and classify those forms of short trunk dwarfism characterized by multiple vertebral segmentation defects, we analyzed 26 new patients and reviewed 115 described in the literature. Three distinct entities were recognized based on radio-graphic and clinical findings. Jarcho-Levin syndrome is the lethal autosomal recessive form, characterized by a symmetric crablike chest. Spondylocostal dysostosis is the benign autosomal dominant condition. Spondylothoracic dysostosis shows considerable clinical and radiographic overlap with spondylocostal dysostosis. Malformations observed in association with multiple vertebral segmentation defects are more common in the sporadic patients. Analysis of the 26 new individuals revealed that the body segment in which these nonvertebral malformations occur corresponds to the site of the vertebral segmentation defects. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Dephasing of interacting σ+ and σ− excitons in a ZnSe single quantum well

We investigate coherences between σ + and σ - exciton states in a 10 nm thick ZnSe/ZnMgSe single quantum well by spectrally resolved three-pulse degenerate four-wave mixing using circularly polarized 100 fs pulses. Intensity dependent measurements are performed to study the influence of exciton-exciton scattering on their dephasing rates. The experiments reveal nearly equal zero-density dephasing rates for coherences between σ + and σ - heavy- and/or light-hole exciton states as compared to the dephasing rate of the interband coherence between these states and the ground state. The measurements also demonstrate that exciton-exciton scattering destroys the coherence between heavy- and light-hole excitons about three times more effectively than the coherence between σ + and σ - heavy-hole excitons.
Synergy of fluconazole with macrophages for antifungal activity againstCandida albicans

The possible synergy between macrophages and fluconazole for antifungal activity against different isolates ofC. albicans was studied. The susceptibility ofC. albicans isolates to fluconazole (FCZ), when incubated in RPMI-1640 with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and 10% fresh mouse serum (test medium, TM) was determined by using a quantative culture methodology. Multiplication of isolate Sh27 was strongly inhibited by FCZ, even at 1.0 µg/ml. However, FCZ even at 100 µg/ml was not fungicidal. Resident murine peritoneal macrophages (MP) incubated for 48 h in RPMI-1640+10% FBS (tissue culture medium, TCM), then challenged with Sh27 in TM for 24 h, were fungistatic (20±9%,n=4). Cultured macrophages synergized with FCZ (10 µg/ml) for fungicidal activity when co-cultured with Sh27 in TM for 24 h (46±8%) and for 48 h (74±5%),n=3. Macrophages and FCZ (10 µg/ml) could not synergize for significant killing of a less FCZ-sensitiveC. albicans isolate 94-164. Multiplication of a FCZ-resistant isolate (94–20) was not inhibited by FCZ at 10 µg/ml TM; however, macrophages and FCZ (10 µg/ml) could synergize for fungistatic (64%), but not fungicidal, activity.
Diffuse Pulmonary Infiltrates following Lymphography

A 27-year-old man was admitted to the hospital complaining of two days of increasing weakness, fatigue, and dyspnea, with a nonproductive cough and fever. Two months prior to admission he had been evaluated for fevers (39.4#{176}C)and left neck swelling. CT scans of the chest and abdomen showed cervical and supraclavicular adenopathy and a left axillary mass. No mediastinal or abdominal adenopathy was noted. Biopsy examination of a left supraclavicular lymph node revealed large cell lymphoma. He was subsequently evaluated at Stanford Hospital, and four days prior to admission had a lymphangiogram as part of a routine staging workup. The patient had no prior history of respiratory illness and had not traveled abroad. He had no risk factors for AIDS, but an HIV titer was performed on admission, which was subsequently returned as negative. On admission his temperature was 38.8#{176}C, and he was in moderate respiratory distress. He was orthostatic. His chest examination was significant for diffuse crackles with no wheezes. Palpable lymph nodes were present in both axilla and in the cervical and supraclavicular regions. Laboratory studies showed the following: WBCs, 15.4 x 10 /L, with 68 percent segmented forms, 19 percent band forms, 1 1 percent lymphocytes, and 2 percent monocytes; hematocrit, 32.7 percent; and hemoglobin, 10.9 g/dl. Four days prior to admission his hematocrit was 36 percent. Platelets were 551,000/mi, the PT, 13.9 s (control, 13 s); PTT, 33.9 s (control, 24 to 33 s). The BUN was 5 mg/dl and creatinine 0.6 mg/dl. The urinalysis was normal. Arterial blood gas while breathing with 2 L of supplemental 02 was pH 7.46; PC02, 36 mm Hg; and Po2, 106 mm Hg. Chest roentgenogram (Fig 1) showed diffuse patchy infiltrates throughout all lung fields. His therapy was begun with empiric trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and erythromycin. On the day following
BAT Burns Fat? Cool.

In modern times, we turn up the thermostat if we’re cold, but evolution designed our bodies to acclimate to cold temperatures and maintain euthermia (normal body temperature) without the assistance of external climate control. One way mammals thermoregulate is through the burning of calories by brown adipose tissue (BAT), whose main function is thermogenesis. Until recently, BAT was believed to be present mainly in rodents and animals that hibernate, whereas in humans its presences in newborns was thought to dissipate by adulthood. But 4 years ago, functional BAT was identified in adult humans, leading to a barrage of research investigating how to harness BAT’s calorie-burning power to combat obesity. Now, two studies examine whether cold exposure activates brown fat in adult humans and thereby increases energy expenditure. In the first study, van der Lans et al . exposed 17 healthy, lean [mean body mass index (BMI) = 21.6kg/m2], young (mean age 23) men and women to 15 to 16°C (59 to 60.8°F) for 6 hours per day on 10 consecutive days. Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emissions tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) imaging of the subjects revealed that cold exposure and acclimation significantly increased BAT activation, nonshivering thermogenesis, and energy expenditure. The authors suggest that intermittent, daily cold exposure may be a possible therapy for obesity by its effect on increasing energy expenditure. In the second study, Yoneshiro et al . randomized 22 lean, healthy, young men whom they had characterized as having low or undetectable BAT activity into two groups: One group was exposed to 17°C (62.6°F) for 2 hours per day for 6 weeks ( n = 12 participants) and a control group lived a “normal life style” for the same period of time ( n = 10 participants). The authors found that compared with the control group, the cold-exposure group had increased BAT activity, increased energy expenditure, and, importantly, decreased fat mass. These studies provide insight into using cold exposure to harness the power of BAT to promote thermogenesis, increase energy expenditure, and “burn” fat. Because these studies were conducted in lean individuals and were relatively short in duration, the experiments need to be conducted in obese humans over longer periods of time to assess both efficacy and feasibility of such interventions. Concurrently, researchers are also attempting to discover and develop pharmaceutical agents that activate BAT. In the meantime, regular dips in a cold swimming pool might help us burn a few extra calories. A. A. J. J. van der Lans et al ., Cold acclimation recruits human brown fat and increases nonshivering thermogenesis. J. Clin. Invest. 123 , 3395–3403 (2013). [[Full Text]][1] T. Yoneshiro et al ., Recruited brown adipose tissue as an antiobesity agent in humans. J. Clin. Invest . 123 , 3404–3408 (2013).[[Full Text]][2] [1]: http://www.jci.org/articles/view/68993 [2]: http://www.jci.org/articles/view/67803
Real-time data processing for an advanced imaging system using the Xilinx Virtex-5 FPGA

The multi-angle spectro-polarimetric imager (MSPI) is an advanced camera system under development at JPL for possible future consideration on a satellite based Aerosol-Cloud-Environment (ACE) mission as defined in the National Academies 2007 Decadal Survey. The MSPI project consists of three phases: Ground-MSPI, Air-MSPI, and Space-MSPI. Ground-MSPI is a ground-based demonstration focused on characterizing the imager optics and performance. Air-MSPI will be an updated version of the ground system to be flown on an ER-2 aircraft. Lessons learned from the ground- and air-based demonstrations will be used in the design of the final satellite-based Space-MSPI instrument. In order to capture polarimetric data, the data collection algorithm oversamples the desired spatial resolution by a large factor. The actual polarimetric information can be efficiently extracted from this oversampled data. It has been proposed to do this extraction on the spacecraft for the purposes of reducing the total downlink data rate. As described in [1], the processing can be done in non-realtime on a Xilinx Virtex-4 FPGA. We have shown that this processing can be done in real-time on a Xilinx Virtex-5 FXT FPGA. Pseudo-random data simulating Ground-MSPI data stream is processed on the FPGA and the resulting polarimetric parameters are output using an Ethernet link to a host PC for verification. This demonstration is a stepping stone to an effective implementation for the Space-MSPI instrument.
Effect of varying doses of chenodeoxycholic acid on bile lipid and biliary bile acid composition in gallstone patients: A dose-response study

In a dose-response study, a formulation of chenodeoxycholic acid (chenic acid) with complete bioavailability was fed at doses of 0, 250, 500, 750 mg for randomized 6-week periods to 13 patients with radiolucent gallstones. The proportion of chenic acid in biliary bile acids increased in direct relation to dose. Lithocholic acid also increased, but ursodeoxycholic acid showed no significant change. Bile saturation decreased with increasing dose, but response was variable and achieved significance only at 750 mg/day. Cholesterol saturation was negatively correlated with the proportion of chenic acid in biliary bile acids: When biliary bile acids contained greater than 70% chenic acid (and ursodeoxycholic acid), bile became unsaturated, on the average. The data suggest that a dose of at least 10-15 mg/kg may be necessary to obtain desaturation in many gallstone patients.
Effect of morphine and β-endorphin on human Fc receptor-dependent and natural killer cell functions

Interactions between opiates and the human immune system have important clinical implications. To further evaluate these interactions, we studied in vitro and in vivo effects of morphine sulfate (morphine) and beta-endorphin (Bend) on antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC), natural killer cell cytotoxicity (NKCC), and effector cell expression of antibody Fc receptors. Morphine and Bend had no potent in vivo or in vitro effect on FcR expression nor did they have a significant in vitro effect on ADCC by monocytes or polymorphonuclear cells. Bend enhancement of NKCC in vitro was inhibited by coincubation of effector cells with morphine. After taking 90 to 150 mg of oral morphine, study volunteers demonstrated a significant decrease in ADCC by peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The same individuals demonstrated a consistent increase in NKCC and no change in the expression of Fc receptors. Effector cells from these individuals responded normally to in vitro incubation with interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma).
Differences in the cyclic AMP-dependent phosphorylation of plasma membrane proteins of differentiated and undifferentiated L6 myogenic cells.

Differences in the cyclic AMP-dependent plasma membrane phosphorylation system of undifferentiated and differentiated L6 myogenic cells have been detected. Endogenous plasma membrane protein phosphorylation in undifferentiated L6 myoblasts was stimulated more than three fold by 5 × 10−5 M cyclic AMP, whereas no statistically significant cyclic AMP-dependent phosphorylation of endogenous plasma membrane proteins was observed in differentiated L6 cells. In undifferentiated cells cyclic AMP promoted the phosphorylation of several proteins, the most prominent of which had a molecular weight of 110,000. In differentiated cells cyclic AMP did not selectively promote the phosphorylation of specific plasma membrane proteins. Both differentiated and undifferentiated L6 cells, however, contain a cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase capable of catalyzing the phosphorylation of exogenous substrates, such as histone f2b. Therefore, the data show that differentiation in L6 cells is associated with a selective change in the activity of a plasma membrane cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase which employs endogenous membrane proteins as substrate.
On plastic strain distribution and texture development in fiber composites

Abstract A model situation—plane-strain deformation of a composite with many infinitely long, regularly arranged, undeformable fibers perpendicular to the plane of straining—has been analyzed by finite-element simulation of an isotropic continuum and subsequent polycrystal simulation of texture development for the strain and rotation paths of some characteristic material points. The principal effect of the inclusions is a change in flow pattern in the areas far away from them; by comparison, “dead-zone” or “cluster” effects in the immediate vicinity of the inclusions are quite small in extent. The changed flow pattern in about half the matrix material consists of shears and rotations that change both with progressing deformation and with location. This causes significant alterations in texture development, which tend toward contributing a uniform background to the average matrix texture. However, other areas of the matrix do contribute definite texture components. The relevance of these conclusions to other geometries and loading paths is discussed.
Early Management of Congenitally Missing Teeth

Often children and adolescents are congenitally missing their maxillary lateral incisors or mandibular second premolars, and frequently it is the orthodontist who diagnoses the agenesis. In fact, early orthodontic intervention may eliminate some of the periodontal and restorative problems that could arise in these patients as adults. An excellent implant site can be developed in the mixed dentition by extracting the maxillary primary lateral incisor and guiding the eruption of the permanent canine into the lateral incisor space. Occasionally, the mandibular primary second molar also may require extraction during early adolescence. This is due to ankylosis, which could become a significant periodontal concern, if not addressed early. When there is no permanent successor, an ankylosed primary molar may need to be extracted so the alveolus will develop vertically as the patient grows. Therefore, the orthodontist plays a key role in monitoring eruption and growth of these patients at an early age. If this were done, the final result could be esthetic and predictable. This article will discuss the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in order to preserve various treatment options in the future.
Testing strategies for simulation optimization

There is increasing interest in science and industry in the optimization of computer simulation models. Often these models are not Monte-Carlo simulations, but consist of systems of differential equations, or other mathematical models. These models can present special problems to numerical optimization methods. First, derivatives are often unavailable. Second, function evaluations can be extremely expensive (e.g. 1 hour on an IBM 3090). Third, the numerical accuracy of each function value may depend on a complicated chain of calculations, and so be impractical to pre-specify. This last point makes it difficult to calibrate optimization routines that use finite difference approximations for gradients. This paper presents a strategy for comparing optimization techniques for these problems, and reviews several interesting findings for quasi-Newton methods, simplex search, and others.
Fungal infections in children with human immunodeficiency virus infection

Abstract The increasing prevalence of fungal infections is caused in large part by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. HIV-associated immunodeficiency is a major risk factor for invasive fungal disease. The prevalence of fungal infections in adults with HIV infection is markedly increased, and a large body of information about their incidence, course, and prognosis in adults exists. However, fungal infections, except candidiasis, are less common in children with HIV infection, and information about their pathogenesis is limited. The reason for this difference is unknown. This article reviews the occurrence of systemic fungal infections in children with HIV infection. Despite the relative rarity of infections with the ubiquitous and endemic fungi in the first 2 decades of the HIV epidemic, the increasing number of children with long-standing HIV infection in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy warrants close surveillance for and aggressive treatment of fungal infections in children with HIV infection. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company
Response of ciliated epithelium to ozone and sulfuric acid.

The effects of ozone (O3), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), and their interaction on ciliary activity were investigated. Following in vivo exposure to various concentrations of O3 and H2SO4, ciliary activity of isolated tracheal ring cultures was microscopically determined under stroboscopic illumination. Assay of tracheal rings immediately after a 2-hr exposure to 880 μg H2SO4/m3 showed a significant decrease (P < 0.0001) in ciliary beating frequency from controls. Following 72 hr in vitro maintenance, there was still a significant depression (P < 0.01) in ciliary activity of treatment cultures. In vivo recovery studies indicated that ciliary activity had returned to the normal range 72 hr after exposure. Exposure to 196 μg O3/m3 for 3 hr resulted in no significant difference from controls in ciliary activity. Experiments designed to investigate the effects of a sequential exposure to O3 followed by H2SO4 indicated a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the ciliary beating frequency of exposed animals which was less than that observed with H2SO4 alone. As indicated by the results of these studies, combined action experiments are extremely relevant in assessing the toxicity of environmental pollutants.
Determining the Significance of Estimated Signed and Unsigned Areas Between Two Item Response Functions

Asymptotic sampling distributions (means and vari ances) of estimated signed and unsigned areas between two item response functions (IRFS) are presented for the Rasch model, the two-parameter model, and the three-parameter model with fixed lower asymptotes. In item bias or differential item functioning research, it may be of interest to determine whether the estimated signed and unsigned areas between IRFS calibrated with two different groups are significantly different from 0. The usefulness of these sampling distributions in this context is discussed and illustrated. More em pirical research with the proposed significance tests is necessary.
A compact modular wireless sensor platform

We have designed and constructed a modular platform for use in compact wireless sensing. This platform is based around a series of circuit boards (or panes), each of which instantiates a specific sensing modality - e.g. inertial sensing, tactile sensing or ambient sensing. As opposed to similar architectures, this system treats the sensor panes as discrete design objects that have data collection as their primary purpose. The main goals achieved by this design are ease of prototyping (and revision) and encapsulation of design knowledge. We describe a number of different projects instantiated with this system. Key among them are a wearable gait measurement system which exploited the modularity of the system, a novel musical controller which benefited from the design encapsulation and a study of dynamically low-power sensor nodes based on the structure of the panes (i.e. multiple sensors for a single modality). Several other applications are discussed. Lessons learned in the areas of software design, sensor placement and mechanical stability are commented on.
Craniocerebral Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measurement and Findings in Lesch-Nyhan Syndrome

Objective To provide the first comprehensive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessment of brain in a series of patients with Lesch-Nyhan syndrome (LNS), with emphasis on basal ganglia measurements. Design Routine readings of MRI studies, repeated reading in random order blinded to subject diagnosis, and 3-dimensional volumetric measures of basal ganglia regions. Setting The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Md. Patients Seven patients with LNS who have hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase levels less than 1.6% and characteristic clinical features of the disorder, which include hyperuricemia, cognitive impairment, and dystonic movement disorder, were compared with 7 age-matched control subjects. Five of the 7 patients demonstrated self-injurious behavior. MRI studies were performed using general anesthesia because of the severity of the movement disorder. Main Outcome Measures Measurement of brain regions from MRI-obtained images. Results Routine readings described mild cerebral atrophy in 2 of 7 patients, but no caudate or putamen abnormalities were reported. However, on the directed blinded rereading, small caudates were suspected in 5 of 7 cases, and abnormalities in cerebral size and cranium were identified. Volumetric studies of the patients with LNS confirmed a 34% decrease in caudate volume ( P P P= .19). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of consistent neuroanatomic abnormalities in LNS. The findings of reduced basal ganglia volume are consistent with the dystonic movement disorder.
Parental Involvement and African American and European American Adolescents' Academic, Behavioral, and Emotional Development in Secondary School

This study examined longitudinal trajectories of parental involvement across middle and high school, and how these trajectories related to adolescents' academic, behavioral, and emotional adjustment. In addition, ethnic and socioeconomic status differences in longitudinal associations and the potential moderating role of parental warmth were assessed. Longitudinal growth modeling technique was used to describe trajectories of different types of parental involvement and adolescent outcomes over 7th, 9th, and 11th grades (mean ages = 12.9, 14.3, and 17.2 years, respectively) on an ethnically and economically diverse sample of 1,400 adolescents (51% female, 56% African American, 39% European American, 5% others). Each aspect of parental involvement contributed differentially but significantly to adolescent outcomes. Finally, parental warmth moderated the associations between providing structure at home and adolescent grade point average and problem behavior.
Clinical PET in Oncology.

The major utilization of clinical PET is in oncology, and oncologic PET utilizes FDG as the radiopharmaceutical. FDG imaging demonstrates the increased metabolism by malignant cells compared to normal cells. The initial clinical application of FDG-PET was demonstrated in brain tumors, and the gradation of accumulation of FDG related to the degree of malignancy. Subsequent studies have documented the accuracy of FDG-PET in detecting and staging several different malignancies. Whole-body imaging has made a major impact on the ability of PET to document the distribution of malignancy.FDG-PET imaging is very accurate in determining if an indeterminate solitary pulmonary nodule is malignant and in staging lung cancer. The cost-effectiveness of PET has been demonstrated for these indications. Third-party payers have policies for paying for PET scans performed in the evaluation of solitary pulmonary nodules and in staging lung cancer. The preliminary data on the use of FDG-PET imaging in other malignancies supports its use in detecting liver metastases from colorectal cancer and differentiating fibrosis from recurrent tumor after therapy for colorectal cancer; staging the axilla in primary breast cancer; staging melanoma and lymphoma; and staging and detecting recurrence of head and neck cancer. The initial reports on the use of FDG-PET are encouraging in its use in musculoskeletal malignancy, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and thyroid cancer.
In vitro degradation of in situ crosslinkable poly(propylene fumarate-co-ethylene glycol)-based macroporous hydrogels

The effect of crosslinking density and porosity on the degradation of macroporous hydrogels (MPHs) was evaluated in this study. MPHs were synthesized from aqueous solutions of poly(propylene fumarate-co-ethylene glycol) (P(PF-co-EG)) and poly(ethylene glycol)-diacrylate (PEG-DA) with concurrent free-radical initiation and pore formation reactions involving ammonium persulfate (APS), L-ascorbic acid (AH), and sodium bicarbonate (SB). The crosslinking density was controlled by the ratio of P(PF-co-EG):PEG-DA to obtain molecular weights between crosslinks (M/sub c/) of 1000/spl plusmn/100 and 1880/spl plusmn/320 g/mol. Porosity was controlled by sodium bicarbonate and ascorbic acid concentrations and ranged between 78/spl plusmn/2 and 89/spl plusmn/3%. In vitro degradation was carried out in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) at 37/spl deg/C and a pH of 7.4. MPHs degradation was assessed at 0, 2, 4, 8, and 12-weeks by evaluating the mass loss, volume change, elastic modulus under confined compression, and porosity via /spl mu/CT. Both Mc and porosity had a significant effect on the modulus at the initial time-point. The Mc had the greatest effect on the degradation of these MPHs with percent mass loss up to 62/spl plusmn/8% after 12 weeks.
Objective cardiac markers and cerebrovascular lesions in Indian seniors

Cardiovascular risk factors are implicated in cerebrovascular disease, resulting in cognitive impairment. This study investigated the relationship between objective cardiac markers and cerebral changes in older Indian adults with and without dementia. Dementia patients with major electrocardiographic (EKG) abnormalities were 8.19 times more likely to have evidence of stroke on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared with patients with no EKG abnormalities (p<.05). The relationship between major EKG abnormalities and stroke on MRI was not significant for patients without dementia. Objective cardiac markers may identify MRI cerebrovascular lesions in patients with dementia, and thus guide neuroimaging allocation in resource-poor areas.
Mass spectrometric characterization of protein modification by the products of nonenzymatic oxidation of linoleic acid.

Autoxidation of linoleic acid (LA) enhanced by Fe(II)/ascorbate generates unsaturated hydroperoxides which undergo further oxidative evolution resulting in a mixture of electrophiles, including epoxyketooctadecenoic acid and dienones with intact C-18 chains as well as oxidative cleavage products such as 4-hydroxy-2(E)-nonenal (HNE), 4-oxo-2(E)-nonenal (ONE), 2(E)-octenal, 9-hydroxy-12-oxo-10(E)-dodecenoic acid, 9,12-dioxo-10(E)-dodecenoic acid, and 11-oxoundec-9(E)-enoic acid. Mass spectrometric (MALDI-TOF-MS and LC-ESI-MS/MS) studies have been performed following incubation of the model protein β-lactoglobulin with LA, Fe(II), and ascorbate, which identified adducts of these electrophiles with three different protein nucleophiles. Deuterium labeled linoleic acid 17,17,18,18,18-d5-(9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12-dienoic acid (d5-LA) was synthesized to facilitate the detection and characterization of the protein modifications by mass spectrometry. Reduction by NaBH4 served to trap reversible adducts and to quantify...
Free-standing all-polymer microring resonator optical filter

Free-standing all-polymer microring resonator optical filters as prototypical elements in flexible integrated lightwave circuits are demonstrated. The fabrication and measurement methods are discussed. The measured spectrum shows good agreement with theoretical expectations. The crucial 'critical' coupling condition is achieved, resulting in a measurement limited -27 dB extinction of the filter output on resonances.
Increasing external K+ blocks phase shifts in a circadian rhythm produced by serotonin or 8-benzylthio-cAMP

Serotonin (5-HT) phase shifts the circadian rhythm from the isolated eye of Aplysia. The discovery of the mechanisms involved in phase shifting by 5-HT may help elucidate the nature of the circadian oscillator. We have found that 5-HT appears to phase shift by causing a change in membrane K+ conductance. Solutions containing zero K+(0-K+) phase shift the rhythm and the phase response curve (PRC) for 0-K+ is similar to one previously obtained for 5-HT. The similarity in PRCs for 0-K+ and 5-HT suggested that these treatments may be phase shifting the rhythm through a common mechanism. The nonadditivity of phase shifting by 0-K+ and 5-HT supports this suggestion. A common mechanism of action of 5-HT and 0-K+ might be effects on membrane potentials. The possible involvement of a membrane potential change in mediating the effect of 5-HT and the lack of an effect of large reductions in Na+, Cl-, and Ca2+ ions on phase shifting by 5-HT led us to examine the role of K+ ions in phase shifting by 5-HT. A change in K+ conductance may mediate the effects of 5-HT on the rhythm because HiK (30mM) solutions blocked the phase shift normally produced by 5-HT. The conductance change produced by 5-HT may be an increase in K+ conductance which would produce a hyperpolarization and not a decrease in K+ conductance which would produce a depolarization since depolarizing treatments, HiK (30-110mM), had no effect on the rhythm at the phase where 5-HT produces its largest phase shifts. Since we previously found that the effects of 5-HT appear to be mediated by cAMP, we examined whether HiK solutions could block the effects of 8-benzylthio-cAMP on the rhythm. HiK (40mM) blocked the phase shifts normally produced by 8-benylthio-cAMP. Our working hypothesis for the 5-HT phase-shifting pathway based on these results is 5-HT leads to increased cAMP leads to elevates K+ conductance leads to membrane hyperpolarization leads to phase shifts the rhythm.
Local Linear ICA for Mutual Information Estimation in Feature Selection

Mutual information is an important tool in many applications. Specifically, in classification systems, feature selection based on MI estimation between features and class labels helps to identify the most useful features directly related to the classification performance. MI estimation is extremely difficult and imprecise in high dimensional feature spaces with an arbitrary distribution. We propose a framework using ICA and sample-spacing based entropy estimators to estimate MI. In this framework, the higher dimensional MI estimation is reduced to independent multiple one-dimensional MI estimation problems. This approach is computationally efficient, however, its precision heavily relies on the results of ICA. In our previous work, we assumed the feature space has linear structure, hence linear ICA was adopted. Nevertheless, this is a weak assumption, which might not be true in many applications. Although nonlinear ICA can solve any ICA problem in theory, its complexity and the requirement of data samples restrict its application. A better trade-off between linear and non-linear ICA could be local linear ICA, which uses piecewise linear ICA to approximate the non-linear relationships among the data. In this paper, we propose that by replacing linear ICA with local linear ICA, we can get precise MI estimation without greatly increasing the computational complexity. The experiment results also substantiate this claim
Reducing scorpion fluorescence via prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light

Abstract A simple technique is presented for reducing the fluorescence of living scorpions by prolonged exposure to UV light. Scorpion's fluorescence peak can be eliminated by a 1-mo exposure to low intensity UV light. Although the fluorescence peak returns within 1 wk after removal from UV light exposure, the magnitude remains reduced. This technique potentially opens up new options for testing a variety of hypotheses about possible functions of scorpion fluorescence including potential effects on cuticle strength, visual responses, predation, cannibalism, and mating.
On TCP Performance in Flow-Based Mix Networks

Anonymity technologies such as mix networks have gained increasing attention as a way to provide communication privacy. Mix networks were developed for message-based applications such as email, but researchers have adapted mix techniques to low-latency, flow-based applications such as anonymous web browsing. In this paper, we systematically address TCP performance issues of flow-based mix networks. We explain why a mix's batching and reordering schemes can dramatically reduce TCP throughput due to out-of-order packet delivery. We developed a theoretical model to analyze such impact and present closed formulae for TCP throughput in mix networks. To improve TCP performance, we examined the approach of increasing TCP's duplicate threshold parameter and derived closed formulae for the performance gains. Our simulation results matched our theoretical analysis well.
Iterative context bounding for systematic testing of multithreaded programs

Multithreaded programs are difficult to get right because of unexpected interaction between concurrently executing threads. Traditional testing methods are inadequate for catching subtle concurrency errors which manifest themselves late in the development cycle and post-deployment. Model checking or systematic exploration of program behavior is a promising alternative to traditional testing methods. However, it is difficult to perform systematic search on large programs as the number of possible program behaviors grows exponentially with the program size. Confronted with this state-explosion problem, traditional model checkers perform iterative depth-bounded search. Although effective for message-passing software, iterative depth-bounding is inadequate for multithreaded software.This paper proposes iterative context-bounding, a new search algorithm that systematically explores the executions of a multithreaded program in an order that prioritizes executions with fewer context switches. We distinguish between preempting and nonpreempting context switches, and show that bounding the number of preempting context switches to a small number significantly alleviates the state explosion, without limiting the depth of explored executions. We show both theoretically and empirically that context-bounded search is an effective method for exploring the behaviors of multithreaded programs. We have implemented our algorithmin two model checkers and applied it to a number of real-world multithreaded programs. Our implementation uncovered 9 previously unknown bugs in our benchmarks, each of which was exposed by an execution with at most 2 preempting context switches. Our initial experience with the technique is encouraging and demonstrates that iterative context-bounding is a significant improvement over existing techniques for testing multithreaded programs.
The narrative nature of clinical reasoning

Narrative reasoning is a central mode of clinical reasoning in occupational therapy. Therapists reason narratively when they are concerned with disability as an illness experience, that is, with how a physiological condition is affecting a person's life. In this paper, narrative reasoning is contrasted with propositional reasoning, and two kinds of narrative thinking are examined. The first is the use of narrative as a mode of speech that can be contrasted with biomedical discourse, in which disability is framed as physical pathology. The second involves the creation rather than the telling of stories. Therapists try to "emplot" therapeutic encounters with patients, that is, to help create a therapeutic story that becomes a meaningful short story in the larger life story of the patient.
Increased gray matter diffusion anisotropy in patients with persistent post-concussive symptoms following mild traumatic brain injury.

A significant percentage of individuals diagnosed with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) experience persistent postconcussive symptoms (PPCS). Little is known about the pathology of these symptoms and there is often no radiological evidence based on conventional clinical imaging. We aimed to utilize methods to evaluate microstructural tissue changes and to determine whether or not a link with PPCS was present. A novel analysis method was developed to identify abnormalities in high-resolution diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) when the location of brain injury is heterogeneous across subjects. A normative atlas with 145 brain regions of interest (ROI) was built from 47 normal controls. Comparing each subject’s diffusion measures to the atlas generated subject-specific profiles of injury. Abnormal ROIs were defined by absolute z-score values above a given threshold. The method was applied to 11 PPCS patients following mTBI and 11 matched controls. Z-score information for each individual was summarized with two location-independent measures: ‘‘load’’ (number of abnormal regions) and ‘‘severity’’ (largest absolute z-score). Group differences were then computed using Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Results showed statistically significantly higher load (p=0.018) and severity (p=0.006) for fractional anisotropy (FA) in patients compared with controls. Subject-specific profiles of injury evinced abnormally high FA regions in gray matter (30 occurrences over 11 patients), and abnormally low FA in white matter (3 occurrences over 11 subjects). Subject-specific profiles provide important information regarding the pathology associated with PPCS. Increased gray matter (GM) anisotropy is a novel in-vivo finding, which is consistent with an animal model of brain trauma that associates increased FA in GM with pathologies such as gliosis. In addition, the individualized analysis shows promise for enhancing the clinical care of PPCS patients as it could play a role in the diagnosis of brain injury not revealed using conventional imaging.
L’écho-guidage diminue le taux des complications liées à l'accès après traitement endovasculaire totalement percutané des anévrismes de l'aorte abdominale

L'experience du traitement totalement percutane des anevrismes aortiques a identifie l'obesite morbide et des gros introducteurs (≥ 20F) comme facteurs de complication pour la fermeture des acces percutanes. Nous avons cherche a evaluer l'impact de l’echo-guidage de l'acces femoral sur les taux de succes technique, de conversion pour une reparation femorale directe, et de complications liees a l'acces. L’etude retrospective d'une base de donnees prospective a ete faite. Tous les patients consecutifs ayant la fermeture totalement percutanee de sites d'acces de gros calibre (>12F) avec un dispositif de suture percutanee ont ete inclus. La cohorte a ete stratifiee en deux groupes selon la technique d'acces, acces femoral percutane standard, et acces femoral echo-guide. Les caracteristiques des patients ont ete evaluees, et les resultats etaient mesures sur le succes technique, la necessite d'une conversion en reparation ouverte, et les complications liees a l'acces. Les conversions enregistrees etaient seulement celles liees a la technique de fermeture de l'acces. Au cours de la periode d'etude, 88 patients consecutifs ont eu la fermeture percutanee de 152 sites d'acces de gros calibre apres traitement endovasculaire d'un anevrisme. Il n'y avait aucune difference dans la proportion de patients presentant une obesite morbide (index de masse corporelle >35kg/m 2 ) entre les deux cohortes. Les complications liees a l'acces etaient significativement reduites dans le groupe ayant un acces echo-guide. Malgre le moindre taux de complications avec l’echo-guidage, 24 sites (41%) avaient eu des tailles d'introducteur ≥20F contre seulement 21 sites (24%) dans le groupe d'acces standard (p
Broiler Chick and Laying Hen Tolerance to Sodium Hypochlorite in Drinking Water

Two broiler and two laying hen experiments were conducted to establish threshold levels for sodium hypochlorite use in poultry drinking water. Both broiler experiments were of 21-days duration, and the first and second hen experiments ran for 8 and 4 wk, respectively. A 5.25% sodium hypochlorite solution was used to provide chloride levels of 0, 10, 100, or 500 ppm in the first broiler study and 0, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, or 450 ppm in the second study. Comparable sodium levels from sodium bicarbonate were additional treatments in the first broiler experiment. The initial hen study had drinking water treatments of 0, 50, or 100 ppm chloride whereas in the second study, treatments varied from 0 to 70 ppm chloride at 10-ppm intervals. In chick experiments, water intake was reduced by 100 ppm chloride and body weight by 300 ppm. Hen experiments demonstrated the adverse effect level to be 40 ppm for water consumption and 60 ppm for egg production when the application was to pullets producing eggs at a high rate in warm weather. Water consumption of older hens in cooler weather was adversely affected by 50 ppm chloride, but egg production, egg weight, or daily feed intake was not reduced by 100 ppm.
Considering the Context of Women’s Violence: Gender, Lived Experiences, and Cumulative Victimization

Women's violence has been viewed in gendered ways that are limited and one-dimensional. Such constructions are problematic in that they do little to address underlying disadvantages that foster this violence. This study investigates the complex context in which women’s violence is rooted. Through in-depth interviews with two marginalized populations of women—those who are homeless and those who work as exotic dancers—the author explores participants’ lived experiences of cumulative victimization characterized by abuse and violence, economic vulnerability, gender inequality, loss and dislocation, degradation, and social exclusion. This context severely constrains opportunities and choices available to the women in terms of livelihood, safety, coping, and survival. The women engage in violence as a way of resisting and responding to their cumulative victimization, and this violence has multiple meanings and is manifested in different ways. Ultimately, this study contributes to understandings of women’s viol...
Optimizing the mobile platform for energy efficiency

In this paper, we present several design and simulation innovations that resulted in significant improvements in the notebook energy efficiency. At the component level, we show innovations in the 45 nm technology & processor simulation and design methodologies. At the platform level, we did several measurements to understand where the energy is spent and proposed architectural improvements to several subsystems with special emphasis on the power delivery subsystem.