cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Let me do more than count the ways: what circulating tumor cells can tell us about the biology of cancer.

Tumor cells in the circulation of patients with advanced cancers have been described for over a century, but only recently have methods become available to reproducibly and robustly detect these cells in patients with cancer. A variety of methods have been developed to study this phenomenon, reflecting a broad interest in the field. The presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the peripheral blood of patients with metastatic cancer has been found to be of prognostic significance, and changes in CTC numbers over time appear to reflect treatment outcome. The ability to detect and study CTCs suggests that CTC concentration in blood may be able to be used as an intermediate biomarker in therapeutic trials of novel therapies in cancer patients and that molecular changes in patients’ tumors may be able to be detected and addressed with appropriate therapeutic interventions. Studies in patients with early, nonmetastatic cancers are beginning, and some studies indicate that circulating tumor cells can predic...
Stochastic Energy Simulation for Risk Analysis of Energy Retrofits

Building energy modeling is a common procedure for the analysis of energy efficiency retrofits. Smaller retrofits of isolated systems, such as equipment motors and lighting systems, can often be made without the need for complete energy modeling; however, when the retrofit affects multiple systems, such as those involving the building envelope or the heating or cooling system, or when the retrofits of motors and lighting systems are so significant that they affect the heating and cooling load of the building, a more complete energy analysis is necessary. Because the exact inputs to building energy models are never known, and some inputs to the model are stochastic in nature (e.g., occupancy, plug-loads, lighting loads, weather), deterministic prediction of energy use is not only invariably inaccurate, it is actually inappropriate. When simple deterministic energy savings without uncertainty are used in economic analyses (e.g., return on investment), it is difficult to analyze the risk/benefit of the retrofit investment with true accuracy. A stochastic simulation, which includes the effects of input uncertainty and stochastic inputs, is a more appropriate way to predict the building energy use. In this paper, we present a method for stochastic energy simulation that propagates probability characterizations of the input values through a computational engine to create probable energy use predictions. When this probable energy use is combined with forecasts of energy and construction costs, a probable estimate of return on energy efficiency measure investment is generated, and an economic risk/benefit analysis of the investment can be made. Such information is especially important to the growing energy service company market. The computational engine is based on the CEN/ISO monthly building energy calculation standards so its accuracy is well researched and validated, and the computational simplicity allows for efficient stochastic analysis.
Mining California vital statistical data

Vital statistics data offer a fertile ground for data mining. In this paper, we discuss the results of a data-mining project on the causes of death aspect of the vital statistics data in the state of California. A data-mining tool called Cubist is used to build predictive models out of two million cases over a nine-year period. The objective of our study is to discover knowledge (trends, correlations or patterns) that may not be gleaned through standard techniques. The generated predictive models allow pertinent state agencies to gain insight into various aspects of the death rates in the state of California, to predict health issues related to the causes of death, to offer an aid to decision or policy-making process and to provide useful information services to the customers. The results obtained in our study contain valuable new information.
Reverse sex-ratio adjustment in an apparently outbreeding wasp, Bracon hebetor.

Proportion des descendances mâles et femelles en fonction de la densite des fondatrices chez une souche normale et mutante de la guepe Bracon hebetor
Aortic pathophysiology by cardiovascular magnetic resonance in patients with clinical suspicion of coronary artery disease.

Purpose: To correlate cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR)-based measurement of aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) with serum markers for atherosclerosis and plaque burden in the thoracic aorta. Method: Individuals with risk factors for coronary atherosclerosis underwent CMR pulse wave velocity examination of the descending thoracic aorta and computed tomography for coronary calcium scoring. Inversion recovery images allowed quantification of aortic plaque. Serum lipids and c-reactive protein levels were measured. Results: Mean PWV did not correlate with presence of aortic plaque (p = 0.55). Subgroup analysis showed no significant correlation with PWV and total plaque. PWV and pulse pressure correlated (PP) (R2 0.38, p = 0.0003), but PWV and other predictor variables did not. Total plaque area correlated with aortic diameter (p = 0.0066). Conclusions: In patients with suspected coronary artery disease, aortic pulse wave velocity reflects increased aortic stiffness demonstrated by elevated pulse pressure,...
Error analysis, modeling, and correction for 3-D range data

The improvements in structured lighting based 3D optical camera measurement systems have made these non-contact inspection systems more applicable. In this paper, a basic calibration problem, caused by systematical errors particular to structured lighting based 3D optical camera systems, is addressed. The analysis of these errors is discussed and two model-based approaches, line model (LM) and area model (AM), are proposed to model the pattern of systematical error. The main step of either approach is to build a lookup table based on collected planar data at predetermined working distances and orientation angles. The lookup table is then used to correct the systematical error existing in the inspected data. The experimental results show that the proposed approaches effectively improve inspection accuracy.
Topography of Extracellular Matrix Mediates Vascular Morphogenesis and Migration Speeds in Angiogenesis

The extracellular matrix plays a critical role in orchestrating the events necessary for wound healing, muscle repair, morphogenesis, new blood vessel growth, and cancer invasion. In this study, we investigate the influence of extracellular matrix topography on the coordination of multi-cellular interactions in the context of angiogenesis. To do this, we validate our spatio-temporal mathematical model of angiogenesis against empirical data, and within this framework, we vary the density of the matrix fibers to simulate different tissue environments and to explore the possibility of manipulating the extracellular matrix to achieve pro- and anti-angiogenic effects. The model predicts specific ranges of matrix fiber densities that maximize sprout extension speed, induce branching, or interrupt normal angiogenesis, which are independently confirmed by experiment. We then explore matrix fiber alignment as a key factor contributing to peak sprout velocities and in mediating cell shape and orientation. We also quantify the effects of proteolytic matrix degradation by the tip cell on sprout velocity and demonstrate that degradation promotes sprout growth at high matrix densities, but has an inhibitory effect at lower densities. Our results are discussed in the context of ECM targeted pro- and anti-angiogenic therapies that can be tested empirically.
Chemo- and thermosensory neurons: structure and function in animal parasitic nematodes.

Nematode parasites of warm-blooded hosts use chemical and thermal signals in host-finding and in the subsequent resumption of development. The free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a useful model for investigating the chemo- and thermosensory neurons of such parasites, because the functions of its amphidial neurons are well known from laser microbeam ablation studies. The neurons found in the amphidial channel detect aqueous chemoattractants and repellants; the wing cells-flattened amphidial neurons-detect volatile odorants. The finger cells-digitiform amphidial neurons-are the primary thermoreceptors. Two neuron classes, named ADF and ASI, control entry into the environmentally resistant resting and dispersal dauer larval stage, while the paired ASJ neurons control exit from this stage. Skin-penetrating nematode parasites, i.e. the dog hookworm Ancylostoma caninum, and the threadworm, Strongyloides stercoralis, use thermal and chemical signals for host-finding, while the passively ingested sheep stomach worm, Haemonchus contortus, uses environmental signals to position itself for ingestion. Amphidial neurons presumably recognize these signals. In all species, resumption of development, on entering a host, is probably triggered by host signals also perceived by amphidial neurons. In the amphids of the A. caninum infective larva, there are wing- and finger-cell neurons, as well as neurons ending in cilia-like dendritic processes, some of which presumably recognize a sequence of signals that stimulate these larvae to attach to suitable hosts. The functions of these neurons can be postulated, based on the known functions of their homologs in C. elegans. The threadworm, S. stercoralis, has a complex life cycle. After leaving the host, soil-dwelling larvae may develop either to infective larvae (the life-stage equivalent of dauer larvae) or to free-living adults. As with the dauer larva of C. elegans, two neuron classes control this developmental switch. Amphidial neurons control chemotaxis to a skin extract, and a highly modified amphidial neuron, the lamellar cell, appears to be the primary thermoreceptor, in addition to having chemosensory function. The stomach worm, Haemonchus contortus, depends on ingestion by a grazing host. Once ingested, the infective larva is exposed to profound environmental changes in the rumen. These changes stimulate resumption of development in this species. We hypothesize that resumption of development is under the control of the ASJ neuronal pair. Identification of the neurons that control the infective process could provide the basis for entirely new approaches to parasite control involving interference with development at the time and place of initial host-contact.
Hydrogen Isotopic (D/H) Composition of Organic Matter During Diagenesis and Thermal Maturation

Changes in the D/H ratio of sedimentary organic matter (SOM) during thermal maturation have been difficult to interpret because the effects of hydrogen exchange and kinetic fractionations are confounded in natural samples. Recent analytical developments have significantly improved our understanding of the responsible mechanisms. In this paper, we review experimental and field data that document a progressive increase in the D/H ratio of most organic hydrogen at the bulk and molecular levels, and suggest that the transfer of hydrogen from water to organic matter is the most important mechanism leading to those changes. SOM and water in natural petroleum systems approach a pseudoequilibrium D/H fractionation of about −80 to −110‰. D/H ratios of organic hydrogen can preserve quantitative information about paleoclimate throughout diagenesis, and some qualitative information through catagenesis.
THE DEALER AND MARKET CONCEPTS OF BID-ASK SPREAD: A COMPARISON FOR NASDAQ STOCKS

Two models of bid-ask spread are estimated with a unique sample of matched observations of dealer spreads and market (inside) spreads for NASDAQ stocks. The estimates demonstrate that dealer and market spreads relate differently to their common determinants, indicating that the two measures are not interchangeable. Consequently, studies must select the spread concept that is appropriate to the hypothesis being tested to get unbiased estimates and correct interpretations of model parameters. In particular, the cost of immediacy to investors is measured directly by market spreads, while market-making costs and interdealer competition relate directly to dealer spreads.
Dynamic hardware/software partitioning: a first approach

Partitioning an application among software running on a microprocessor and hardware co-processors in on-chip configurable logic has been shown to improve performance and energy consumption in embedded systems. Meanwhile, dynamic software optimization methods have shown the usefulness and feasibility of runtime program optimization, but those optimizations do not achieve as much as partitioning. We introduce a first approach to dynamic hardware/software partitioning. We describe our system architecture and initial on-chip tools, including profiler, decompiler, synthesis, and placement and routing tools for a simplified configurable logic fabric, able to perform dynamic partitioning of real benchmarks. We show speedups averaging 2.6 for five benchmarks taken from Powerstone, NetBench, and our own benchmarks.
Defining Characteristics of Creative Women

This study was an effort to identify correlates of creativity in women. A sample of 447 college students were given the picture completion subtest of the Torrance Test of Creative Thinking, the How Do You Think Test, the Revised NEO Personality Inventory, the Multidimensional Self-Esteem Inventory, the Family Environment Scale, and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory Second Edition. Results provide evidence of gender differences in creative potential favoring men. Creativity in both men and women in the study was associated with openness, extraversion, resistance to social demands, substantial personal powerfulness, high energy, and impulsivity. Unique to men were correlations between creativity and overall self satisfaction, insensitivity to criticism, and distinctly unusual cognition. A review of the correlates of creativity in women reveals quite a mixed picture. In women, creativity was correlated with harshly self-critical judgments regarding their ability to live up to others’ expectatio...
Lubrication Effect of Liquid Nitrogen in Cryogenic Machining Friction on the Tool-chip Interface

The liquid nitrogen as an environmentally safe coolant has been widely recognized in cryogenic machining, its function as a lubricant is plausible due to its chemical inertness, physical volatility and low viscosity. Since a reduced friction is a direct witness of the lubrication effect from a tribological viewpoint, this paper presents an evaluation of the apparent friction coefficient on the tool-chip interface in cryogenic cutting operations to prove and characterize the lubricity of LN2 in cryogenic machining. The cryogenic cutting technology used in this study is based on a cooling approach and liquid nitrogen delivery system which are intended to apply liquid nitrogen in well-controlled fine jets to selectively localized cutting zones and to penetrate liquid nitrogen to the tool-chip interface. It has been found that the apparent friction coefficient can be significantly reduced in cryogenic machining, depending on the approach of liquid nitrogen delivery.
Response requirements and performance in a visual vigilance task

Three groups of Ss performed a visual vigilance task with either one (standard vigilance procedure), two (binary procedure), or four (rating procedure) keys available as response indicators. Data analyzed within the framework of the theory of signal detection revealed that the criterion, β, increased for all groups but was considerably lower for the rating method group. The sensitivity parameter, d’, remained constant over time and was also found to be independent of the response requirement. Results were discussed in terms of the relationship between psychophysical procedures and vigilance tasks.
Mapping surface materials on Mars from Mars Pathfinder spectral images with HYPEREYE

A comprehensive mapping of spectral variations is presented for one octant of the SuperPan data set of the Imager for Mars Pathfinder. Both left and right eye images are analyzed, simultaneously utilizing all respective spectral bands for each. We achieve fine discrimination of over 20 surface units using a self-organizing map. Agreements with earlier analyses are very good where comparison is available. In spite of the separate analysis of the left and right eye data, which cover different spectral windows, many classes show similar spatial distribution in both images. The SOM clustering produced a refinement within the unit formerly labeled as "black rock", discovered previously undiscussed units that may be coatings on rocks, and presented some disagreements with existing units. The clustering tools are part of HYPEREYE, a research software developed with NASA/OSSA AISRP support.
Vitamin D status and antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin (LL-37) concentrations in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis

Background: Vitamin D insufficiency is common in industrialized and developing nations. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D insufficiency is associated with a higher risk of active tuberculosis. Laboratory studies provided a mechanism for this link on the basis of findings that vitamin D metabolites regulate the expression of cathelicidin (LL-37), which is an endogenous antimicrobial peptide with activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Little information is available on the clinical relation between vitamin D, LL37 concentrations, and disease severity in patients with tuberculosis. Objective: The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the relation between vitamin D nutriture, serum LL-37 concentrations, and tuberculosis by using samples stored in the Tuberculosis Trials Consortium serum repository. Design: We measured 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and LL-37 concentrations in 95 serum specimens from patients with cultureconfirmed pulmonary tuberculosis and correlated these concentrations to clinical and demographic variables. Results: The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency [serum 25(OH)D concentration ,30 ng/mL] in patients with active tuberculosis was 86% (n = 95) with a mean baseline serum 25(OH)D concentration of 20.4 ng/mL. Factors associated with vitamin D insufficiency were black race and indoor lifestyle. The mean (6SD) baseline LL-37 concentration was 49.5 6 23.8 ng/mL. Higher LL-37 concentrations correlated with acid fast bacilli sputum smear positivity and weight .10% below ideal body weight. Serum vitamin D status of the study subjects did not correlate with serum LL-37 concentrations. Conclusion: Moreprospectivelydesignedstudiesareneededtoevaluate the clinical implications of vitamin D insufficiency in patients with tuberculosis and the utility of circulating LL-37 as a potential biomarkerinpatientswithactivetuberculosisdisease.Theparenttrial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00023335. Am J Clin Nutr 2010;92:603‐11.
Orthopedics versus orthodontics in class II treatment: an implant study.

I n most instances, the resolution of Class II malocclusions requires dis. tal movement of the maxillary posterior teeth. For this purpose, a number of procedures have been proposed. Basically, they can be divided into two types: (1) orthodontic mechanisms designed to move teeth and (2) orthopedic mechanisms that presumably reposition the entire maxillary complex distally by either “growth manipulation” or distal movement of the complex. Orthodontically, the teeth apparently can be moved distally without difficu1ty.l Yet, the clinical evidence supporting orthopedic movement is not so clear, even though dramatic distal repositioning of the entire nasome,xillary complex has been demonstrated in primate studies.2-4 Clinically, the backward displacement of the maxilla has been suggested by some.“, 6s lo Others proposed that growth retardation and/or redirection may have been responsible for the presumed orthopedic relocation of the ma.xillary complex.7 On the other hand, a recent report suggested that tooth movement rather than orthopedic change was the principal factor in resolving Class II malocclusions in growing patienks In that study, growth retardation was effectively ruled out since the changes noted weke recorded in less than 6 months. One possible reason for this conflict of opinion is that the data from meet reports were gained by conventional cephalometric comparisons which, one could argue, may not be adequate to determine the relatively small orthopedic and/or orthodontic changes recorded. For this reason, the present clinical study was conducted to determine the orthopedic and/or orthodontic component of Class II correction by means of an orthopedic appliance in patients (Fig. 1). Implants were placed in the maxillas of the patients to serve as the “reference point” to delineate the changes noted.
A normally attractive cell interaction is repulsive in two C. elegans mesodermal cell migration mutants

In wild-type Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodites, two bilaterally symmetric sex myoblasts (SMs) migrate anteriorly to flank the precise center of the gonad, where they divide to generate the muscles required for egg laying (J. E. Sulston and H. R. Horvitz (1977) Devl Biol. 56, 110–156). Although this migration is largely independent of the gonad, a signal from the gonad attracts the SMs to their precise final positions (J. H. Thomas, M. J. Stern and H. R. Horvitz (1990) Cell 62, 1041–1052). Here we show that mutations in either of two genes, egl-15 and egl-17, cause the premature termination of the migrations of the SMs. This incomplete migration is caused by the repulsion of the SMs by the same cells in the somatic gonad that are the source of the attractive signal in wild-type animals.
Subcapsular Liver Hematoma in Metastatic GIST Complicating Imatinib (Gleevec) Therapy

We report two patients with metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) who had large subcapsular hepatic hematomas that developed while on imatinib mesylate (Gleevec) therapy. We describe the pertinent radiologic features of the subcapsular hematomas in these patients, and discuss possible etiologies for the bleeding in each patient.
The Common and Species-Specific Roles of Oviductal Proteins in Mammalian Fertilization and Embryo Development

Proteins are biomolecules responsible for a vast range of functions within living cells and tissues. Over 150 different proteins are present in the fluid of the oviduct, where mammalian oocytes are fertilized and zygotes start to develop. Although fertilization can be achieved in vitro without any contributions from the oviduct or oviductal proteins, some of these proteins play crucial or yet unknown roles in fertilization and embryo development. The inclusion of specific oviductal proteins or purified fractions of oviductal fluids with beneficial effects on gametes, zygotes, or embryos might help to reduce the adverse effects of the periconceptional environment in in vitro–derived embryos and thereby also improve the yield and quality of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). The proteins discussed here include osteopontin (SPP1), glycodelin, oviductin (OVGP1), plasmin, heat shock proteins (HSPA8, Grp78, HSP60), lactoferrin, deleted in malignant brain tumors 1 (DMBT1), and fetuin.
Abstract 16619: The Role of Capillary Disorder in Coronary Ischemic Congestive Heart Failure in Rats

The aim of present study is to explore the role of capillary disorder in coronary ischemic congestive heart failure (CHF). Methods: CHF was induced in rats by aortic banding plus ischemia/reperfusion followed by aortic de-banding. Coronary arteries were perfused with plastic polymer containing fluorescent dye. Multiple fluorescent images of casted heart sections and scanning electric microscope of coronary vessels were conducted to characterize changes in the heart. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and in vivo hemodynamics. Results: Stenosis was found in all levels of coronary artery in CHF. Coronary vasculature volume and capillary density in remote myocardium were significantly increased in CHF compared with control. This occurred largely in micro-vessels with diameter ≤ 3 μm. Capillaries in CHF had a tortuous structure, while normal capillaries were linear. Capillaries in CHF had inconsistent diameters, with assortments of narrowed and bulged segments. Their surfaces appeared rough, li...
Stability of serum amylase

SummaryThe amylase activity of serum does not change significantly on a statistical basis when sera are stored at 9-10°C for 5 days. A few cases in which there were significant increases were noted, however.
BACTERIA INDUCED MORPHOLOGIC CHANGES.

SummaryInoculation of Streptococcus sp. into germfree rats resulted in dramatic cecal changes within 24 hours. The weight of the cecum and its contents were reduced almost 50% and an apical aggregate of lymphatic tissue appears as a grossly visible entity, lacking only the more densely clumped nature of that found in classic rats. Exploratory work with mice confirmed this observation. Although the size (weight or surface area) of the cecal wall of the germfree rats is twice the size of that in classic rats, no change was noted when germfree rats were monoinoculated with Streptococcus sp. The cervical lymph nodes increased 3-fold following inoculation of germfree mice. This exploratory work illustrates the potential of gnotophoric animals in the study of defense mechanisms.The authors acknowledge the assistance of G. G. Caldwell in the bacteriological work.
Insecticidal Control of a Vegetable Leafminer13

Of 30 insecticidal sprays applied to lima beans infested 1 to 5 days previously by Liriomyza munda Frick, 97–100% eggs and larvae of all ages were killed by azinphosmethyl, chlorpyrophos, Dasanit® ( O,O -diethyl O -[ p -(methylsulfinyl)phenyl] phosphorothioate), demeton, diazinon, dichrotophos, dimethoate, fenthion, lindane, parathion, phorate, and mexacarbate. Of the remaining 18 insecticides, some were less effective vs. eggs or young larvae, others were ineffective vs. both at all ages. When applied in aerosols, parathion was more effective than dichlorvos or sulfotepp. The results support the need for a series of spray or aerosol applications scheduled to destroy the insect as eggs or larvae, the most vulnerable stage.
A New Gustometer for Taste Testing in Rodents

In recent years, to circumvent the interpretive limitations associated with intake tests commonly used to assess taste function in rodents, investigators have developed devices called gustometers to deliver small volumes of taste samples and measure immediate responses, thereby increasing confidence that the behavior of the animal is under orosensory control. Most of these gustometers can be used to measure unconditioned licking behavior to stimuli presented for short durations and/or can be used to train the animal to respond to various fluid stimuli differentially so as to obtain a reward and/or avoid punishment. Psychometric sensitivity and discrimination functions can thus be derived. Here, we describe a new gustometer design, successfully used in behavioral experiments, that was guided by our experience with an older version used for over 2 decades. The new computer-controlled gustometer features no dead space in stimulus delivery lines, effective cleaning of the licking substrate, and the ability to measure licking without passing electrical current through the animal. The parts and dimensions are detailed, and the benefits and limitations of certain design features are discussed. Schematics for key circuits are provided as supplemental information. Accordingly, it should be possible to fabricate this device in a fashion customized for one's needs.
Study on Damage Location of Oil Derrick Based on Wavelet and Neural Network

According to the problem of single damage location of oil derrick,the two-layer BP neural network is build by the combination of wavelet and neural network method.The eigenvectors of normalized energy are as the neural network's inputing vectors,which are obtained from the wavelet analysis.After network training and simulation test,it is concluded that the method above has better practicability to identify single damage location of oil derrick.The vibration experiment beating the indoor derrick model with a hammer is completed,which shows that the damage evaluation guide line based on eigenvectors of normalized energy can achieve to identify damage location of oil derrick well and truly.
Subjective Numeracy and the Influence of Order and Amount of Audible Information on Perceived Medication Value.

Background. Order and amount of information influence patients’ risk perceptions, but most studies have evaluated patients’ reactions to written materials. The objective of this study was to examin...
The Influence of Regular Sports Participation on Consumer Psychology: Implications for Marketing Sports Participation to American Society

The present study makes a case for not only the need but also the likely benefits of encouraging (e.g. via social marketing) more Americans to participate in organized sports. Since the 1970’s the number of kids aged 6 – 19 in the United States who are overweight or obese has almost tripled to about 16% of the population. Current trends project that nearly half of all children could be overweight or obese heading into the second decade of the century (Kirka, 2006). Thus, the current problem could ignite an avalanche of health problems that could overwhelm many aspects of the United States economy. The data for this project came from a national mail survey conducted by Universal McCann in 2005, called Media in Mind. The sampling frame included 19,908 participants and the survey was completed by 5,508 adults, yielding 28% response rate. Over 50% of the respondents were over the age of 50.
Chemodectoma (Carotid-Body Tumor) Metastasizing to Bone

A case of carotid-body tumor with two isolated metastases to the left ilium is presented. The first metastatic lytic lesion to the left ilium appeared thirty-five years after the mass was first noted and thirteen years after excision of the primary tumor. Two biopsies—done four years apart—revealed metastatic carotid-body tumor. X-ray and cobalt irradiation followed each biopsy with no demonstrable effect on the size or structure of the tumor. At the time of writing, the patient is still alive with minimum discomfort in the left hip, despite a pathological fracture of the acetabulum and increase in the size of the iliac lesions.
New opportunities for authors

the journal of applied physiology is pleased to offer two new article types for you to consider as vehicles for your work. You will find both described on the journal website under article types ( ), where the major
Performance of a Generic Non-blocking Packet Switch

Abstract This paper provides a general model to study the performance of a family of non-blocking packet switches. The switch size is N x N , and it employs both input and output queueing to resolve the output port contentions. The switch fabric has a speed advantage of C, 1 ≤ C ≤ N , over the I/O links. This speedup factor of C enables up to C packets to be delivered to the same output port simultaneously and they are queued at the output buffers until they are served by the output links, if more than C packets contend for the same output simultaneously, the excess packets are queued at the input buffers until they are served by the switch and delivered to their desired output ports. This paper analyzes the impact of the speedup factor on the switch performance. in particular, the maximum switch throughput and the average system delay for any given C are obtained. The results demonstrate that the switch can achieve 99% throughput with a modest speedup factor of 4.
The Health Care Dimension: Delivering Care for High-Risk Pregnant Women and Preterm Infants

This chapter examines the medical care provided to high-risk pregnant women and to preterm newborns. In the U.S., this care often involves technologically focused interventions, including some that are of questionable effectiveness. The drivers of this maximalist approach to care are provider competition, an urge to action in response to cultural expectations that medical care can assure positive pregnancy outcomes, and commercial interest in increasing revenue by providing more goods and services. This chapter explores the consequences of this approach, in terms of system organization (over-capacity of NICUs and a fragmented maternal referral system), and high healthcare expenditures. Women’s experiences of high-risk pregnancies and families’ experiences once preterm infants are born are conditioned by shared cultural understandings and affected by the dynamics of the healthcare delivery system. The U.S. health care system, with its orientation toward healthcare as a business and the minimal decision-making role played by government entities, is quite different from the healthcare systems of Canada, Great Britain, and Western Europe. In these other settings, health care is publicly financed, and maternity care systems are more primary care focused and more systematically organized. This limits the overtreatment that sometimes occurs in the U.S. system, reduces practice variation, and orients care providers to pay more attention to the clinical value of treatments, but it can also mean that infants born prematurely have less immediate access to NICU care, relative to the U.S.
An Incidental Finding on Prenatal Abdominal Ultrasonography

During third-trimester fetal ultrasonography, an incidental finding of a cystic structure in the right lower fetal abdomen was identified. The cause of the finding was unknown. ### Prenatal and Birth Histories ### Presentation (Day 1) The infant’s initial physical examination findings were benign, as noted below. The infant was observed in the nursery and abdominal ultrasonography was performed (Figs 1 and 2) 12 hours after birth, which showed a normal-sized and -contoured liver. A thin-walled, ovoid, anechoic structure was appreciated in the inferior right hepatic lobe (measuring 2.48 × 1.76 cm), which had posterior acoustic enhancement and no associated vascularity (simple hepatic cyst, Fig 1). The gallbladder was …
Ingestion of an Amino Acid Electrolyte Beverage during Resistance Exercise Does Not Impact Fluid Shifts into Muscle or Performance

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of ingesting an amino acid-electrolyte (AAE) beverage during upper body resistance exercise on transient muscle hypertrophy, exercise performance, markers of muscle damage, and recovery. Participants (n = 15) performed three sets of six repetitions—bench press, lat pull down, incline press, and seated row—followed by three sets of eight repetitions at 75% of the estimated 1 repetition maximum—triceps kickback, hammer curl, triceps push down, and preacher curl—with 90 s of rest between sets. The final set of the push down/preacher curl was performed to failure. Prior to and immediately post-exercise, as well as 24, 48, and 72 h post exercise, cross-sectional muscle thickness was measured. Blood samples were collected prior to exercise, as well as 24, 48, and 72 h post-exercise for serum creatine kinase (CK) analysis. No treatment effect was found for muscle cross-sectional area, repetitions to failure, or serum CK. A main effect (p < 0.001) was observed in the change in serum CK levels in the days following the resistance exercise session. The findings of this study suggest that the acute ingestion of a AAE beverage does not alter acute muscle thickness, performance, perceived soreness and weakness, or markers of muscle damage.
Optical-CCD system for imaging light and drug distributions in tumors for phototherapy

An optical system for digitized imaging (OSDI) consisting of a computer-controlled charge-coupled-device (CCD) array with 576 x 384 detection elements and 1.4 bits of digitization is used for in-vivo measurements of light distributions from diffusing tips of optical fibers in tumors. A macro lens assembly allows imaging with a spatial resolution of approximately 46 pm. Radiation-induced fibrosarcoma were implanted and grown subcutaneously in C3H mice. A fiber with a cylindrical diffuser tip (1.5 x 5 mm) was inserted into tumors. Tumor light intensity distribution images were made with the OSDI at wavelengths varying from 457.9 to 800 nm with argon, argon-dye and titanium-sapphire lasers. These tumor images show that the volume of tumor exposed to actinic light intensities increases for wavelengths between 400 and 800 run and reaches a maximum at about 800 nm. The uniformity of light distribution also increases at longer wavelengths. At shorter wavelengths, blood vessels in the tumor are clearly delineated as dark lines and networks of lines that might shield sensitized tumor cells from adequate light exposure. The light-acti.vated drug, Photofrin II (PF II), 20 mg/kgbw, was administered intravenously to anesthetized mice. With optical excitation at 457.9 nm consecutive (0, 1., 2.5, 4 hours) fluorescence-only images were made of PF II fluorescence distribution in the tumor and surrounding the diffusing optical fiber. Serial images after PF II injection showed drug fluorescence increasing with time in the tumor around the fiber. The OSDI provides a way to measure actual light intensity distributions and could be used in vivo to guide adjustments in light intensity and drug distributions before and during tumor phototherapy.
Ophthalmic outcomes for children treated with CNS radiation

Central nervous system radiation may expose different parts of ophthalmic system to radiation, leading to transient or permanent injury. This chapter discusses the potential consequence of radiation to ocular, orbital, and periorbital structures, as well as the anterior and posterior optic pathways and cranial nerves. In addition, therapeutic interventions for acute and chronic side effects are provided.
Interplay of ventilation and filtration: Differential analysis of cost function combining energy use and indoor exposure to PM2.5 and ozone

Abstract This study investigated the effects of ventilation and filtration on building energy consumption and exposure to PM2.5 and ozone in U.S. offices. Energy use and indoor PM2.5 and ozone concentrations were predicted in 15 locations for a typical office with either a constant air volume (CAV) or variable air volume (VAV) mechanical system. For each office and location, annual simulations were performed with combinations of fixed ventilation ranging 20–100 CFM/occ (9.4–47 L/s/occ) and filters ranging in efficiency corresponding to MERV 8–16 and HEPA. Energy use was monetized using historic costs, and PM2.5 and ozone exposures were monetized using incidence valuations and concentration-response functions. These outcomes were combined into a singular cost function, which was characterized empirically as a function of ventilation and filtration. Various partial derivatives of the cost function were calculated to observe trends and interdependencies. Exposure cost was 5.5 times higher than energy cost for cases with common filters (MERV 8–11). Even with high filter efficiency, exposure cost was greater than energy cost on average. Filtration had a much stronger effect than ventilation on indoor contaminant levels and the total cost function. The differential analysis revealed that ventilation and filtration complement each other: Implementing a high efficiency filter can mitigate negative effects of ventilation, and higher ventilation rates can increase the efficacy of filtration (e.g. increasing ventilation from 20 to 60 CFM/occ increased filtration efficacy by 1.2–1.5 for VAV offices).
Human Evolution, Movement, and Intelligence: Why Playing Games Counts as Smart

ABSTRACTThe article investigates several ways in which creating, entering, and playing games requires uniquely human levels of intelligence. It examines an element of our evolutionary heritage and the possibility that games (particularly in the form of sport) were among the first elements of culture. It describes sport as a “way of knowing,” a species of intellection that permeates expertise in all domains of human behavior. Finally, it evaluates the credentials of sport as a form of communication, a way of seeking and sharing meaning, a method by which we tell our stories. This portrayal shows how and why sporting acts transcend animal play, mechanical movements, habitual behavior, and any prudential rationale related to self-preservation, health, and fitness. In short, it explains why playing games counts as smart.
Ultraviolet Radiation-An Effective Bactericide for Fresh Meat.

Ultraviolet radiation (UV), with principal energy at a wavelength of 253.7 nm, was effective in destroying bacteria on the surface of fresh meat. A radiation dose of 150 mW s/cm2 (275 uW/cm2 for 550 s) reduced bacteria on smooth surface meat (beef plate) about 2 log cycles (99% "kill"). Further increases in dose level to 500 mW s/cm2 (275 uW/cm2 for 1800 s) reduced the bacteria level one additional log cycle. Since UV radiation does not penetrate most opaque materials, it was less effective on rough surface cuts of meat such as round steak because bacteria were partly shielded from the radiation. Unlike gamma (ionizing) radiation, UV had no deleterious effects on color (Hunter "a", redness) or general appearance. UV treatment chambers could be easily installed in new or existing meat processing facilities at relatively low cost. Experimental results indicate that UV irradiation of meat carcasses could effectively increase the lag phase of bacteria multiplication until adequate cooling had occurred.
International consensus statement on allergy and rhinology: allergic rhinitis-executive summary.

Background The available allergic rhinitis (AR) literature continues to grow. Critical evaluation and understanding of this literature is important to appropriately utilize this knowledge in the care of AR patients. The International Consensus statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Allergic Rhinitis (ICAR:AR) has been produced as a multidisciplinary international effort. This Executive Summary highlights and summarizes the findings of the comprehensive ICAR:AR document. Methods The ICAR:AR document was produced using previously described methodology. Specific topics were developed relating to AR. Each topic was assigned a literature review, evidence-based review (EBR), or evidence-based review with recommendations (EBRR) format as dictated by available evidence and purpose within the ICAR:AR document. Following iterative reviews of each topic, the ICAR:AR document was synthesized and reviewed by all authors for consensus. Results Over 100 individual topics related to AR diagnosis, pathophysiology, epidemiology, disease burden, risk factors, allergy testing modalities, treatment, and other conditions/comorbidities associated with AR were addressed in the comprehensive ICAR:AR document. Herein, the Executive Summary provides a synopsis of these findings. Conclusion In the ICAR:AR critical review of the literature, several strengths were identified. In addition, significant knowledge gaps exist in the AR literature where current practice is not based on the best quality evidence; these should be seen as opportunities for additional research. The ICAR:AR document evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the AR literature. This Executive Summary condenses these findings into a short summary. The reader is also encouraged to consult the comprehensive ICAR:AR document for a thorough description of this work.
Functional Brain Imaging of Auditory Hallucinations: From Self-Monitoring Deficits to Co-opted Neural Resources

We review functional brain imaging studies addressing possible neural mechanisms underlying the experience of auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs). We propose that AVHs arise from unbidden auditory verbal perceptions of other people talking that convey characteristic, and often disturbing or disruptive, content. Further, we propose that the “engine” for these experiences is a hyperconnected corticostriatal network resulting in otherwise nascent activity gaining access to consciousness. This network is responsible for registration of sensory aspects of experience, including the acoustic vocal characteristics. The nonself perception of this experience may result from dysfunction in the efference copy/corollary discharge mechanism.
The Management of Radiation Cystitis

Radiation cystitis can present early or months to years (late) after receiving pelvic radiation. While early radiation cystitis is usually self-limited, late radiation cystitis can be more challenging to manage and lead to greater patient morbidity. This chapter aims to discuss the diagnosis, pathophysiology, intravesical therapies, and systemic treatments for radiation-induced cystitis. Furthermore, detailed descriptions are provided for endoscopic and percutaneous management options, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and cystectomy and urinary diversion for refractory cases of hemorrhagic radiation cystitis. Finally, novel treatment strategies and future research areas will be discussed.
The Response of Human Cells to In Vivo Methylation Damage

Individuals with Hodgkin’s disease (HD) may be treated by a chemotherapeutic regimen which includes procarbazine, a compound metabolized to a methylating species. A small group of all HD patients eventually develop acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL) some years after therapy (t-ANLL). We therefore initiated a study of the O6− methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MT) activity in normal controls and in patients with HD, ANLL de novo or t-ANLL. As part of the study we also prepared lymphoblastoid lines by Epstein Barr virus (EBV) transformation of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL’s). We express MT activity per gg of DNA. The activity in normal individuals varies from about 2.2 to 14.7 fmol/µg of DNA with a mean ± SE of 7.2 ± 0.35. HD patients before treatment have MT values of 5.6 ± 0.53. The MT value of HD patients receiving procarbazine was 4.3 ± 0.52; t-ANLL patients before treatment gave 4.2 ± 0.63; six recently diagnosed ANLL patients had MT values of 7.8 ± 1.72, and 13 ANLL patients in remission had MT activities of 9.3 ± 2.3. The differences in MT value between normal subjects and HD patients, between t-ANLL and normal subjects, and between ANLL de novo and t-ANLL groups are significant. There is significant variation in the MT values of normal PBL’s sampled at different times. MT activity diminishes slightly with age in both normal and HD groups, but this does not account for the observed differences between normal and HD groups. We find a significant correlation between the MT activity of PBL’s and of the lines derived from them, particularly when normal or untreated individuals are used as the source of the lines. There is variation in the the MT values of successive lines from the same individual, but it is within a factor of about two in these experiments. Although there is significant variation in repeated samples of PBL’s from the same individual, patients with Hodgkin’s disease have significantly lower MT activity than do normal controls. In addition, the HD group includes individuals with almost no MT activity. The observation that individuals with t-ANLL have lower MT activity than either controls or ANLL patients de novo and that HD patients on procarbazine have reduced levels as compared to HD patients before treatment would, if confirmed, lend credence to the hypothesis that MT levels play a role in the etiology of secondary malignancy. There is a clear relationship between the MT level in lymphocytes and in the lines derived from them. We interpret these results to mean that the MT level of a cell is a characteristic which survives the events of EBV transformation.
Supracondylar Humerus Fractures

Supracondylar humerus fractures are common elbow injuries in children that occur in a vulnerable anatomical location with risk for sequelae ranging from neurovascular compromise to residual deformity. While nondisplaced fractures can be managed nonoperatively, both closed and open surgical reduction techniques are indicated when fractures are displaced or associated with neurovascular injury. This paper describes the techniques employed in the surgical treatment of pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.