cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Repeat Gamma Knife Surgery for Incompletely Obliterated Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations

OBJECTIVE: The causes of failure after an initial Gamma procedure were studied, along with imaging and clinical outcomes, in a series of 140 patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) treated with repeat Gamma Knife surgery (GKS). METHODS: Causes of initial treatment failure included inaccurate nidus definition in 14 patients, failure to fill part of the nidus as a result of hemodynamic factors in 16, recanalization of embolized AVM compartments in 6, and suboptimal dose (< 20 Gy) in 23. Nineteen patients had repeat GKS for subtotal obliteration of AVMs. In 62 patients, the AVM failed to obliterate despite correct target definition and adequate dose. At the time of retreatment, the nidus volume ranged from 0.1 to 6.9 cm 3 (mean, 1.4 cm 3 ), and the mean prescription dose was 20.3 Gy. RESULTS: Repeat GKS yielded a total angiographic obliteration in 77 patients (55%) and subtotal obliteration in 9 (6.4%). In 38 patients (27.1 %), the AVMs remained patent, and in 16 patients (11.4%), no flow voids were observed on magnetic resonance imaging. Clinically, 126 patients improved or remained stable, and 14 experienced deterioration (8 resulting from a rebleed, 2 caused by persistent arteriovenous shunting, and 4 related to radiation-induced changes). CONCLUSION: By using repeat GKS, we achieved a 55% angiographic cure rate. Although radiation-induced changes as visualized on magnetic resonance imaging occurred in 48 patients (39%), only 4 patients (3.6%) developed permanent neurological deficits. These findings may be useful in deciding the management of AVMs in whom total obliteration after initial GKS was not achieved.
Interaction effects on surface-enhanced Raman scattering activities in silver sols

Abstract The presence of anions due to either the preparation process or the addition of external solution in silver sols may affect the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) of sample molecules. We have recorded a series of SERS spectra of benzoic acid (BA) and p -aminobenzoic acid (PABA) in the presence of different chloride ion concentrations, and studied their chloride ion effects on the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activities of the borohydride-reduced silver sols. For both organic acids, SERS could be observed without the coexistence of chloride ions. In the presence of small amount of chloride ion, the intensity of the Raman scattering did not vary significantly. The UV–VIS spectra of the selected samples in the silver sols have been collected to investigate the adsorption state that might be affected by chloride ions. It was noted that the variation of the SERS intensity could arise from the change of the molecular adsorption state upon the addition of the chloride ions. The possible adsorption mechanism and the orientation of adsorbed molecules were discussed. SERS spectra of a variety of compounds in silver sols prepared with different methods have been collected. The existence of ions from the preparation process might play a role in explaining the SERS activities of the sols.
p54nrb is a component of the snRNP-free U1A (SF-A) complex that promotes pre-mRNA cleavage during polyadenylation

The U1 snRNP-A (U1A) protein has been known for many years as a component of the U1 snRNP. We have previously described a form of U1A present in human cells in significant amounts that is not associated with the U1 snRNP or U1 RNA but instead is part of a novel complex of non-snRNP proteins that we have termed snRNP-free U1A, or SF-A. Antibodies that specifically recognize this complex inhibit in vitro splicing and polyadenylation of pre-mRNA, suggesting that this complex may play an important functional role in these mRNA-processing activities. This finding was underscored by the determination that one of the components of this complex is the polypyrimidine-tract-binding protein-associated splicing factor, PSF. In order to further our studies on this complex and to determine the rest of the components of the SF-A complex, we prepared several stable HeLa cell lines that overexpress a tandem-affinity-purification-tagged version of U1A (TAP-tagged U1A). Nuclear extract was prepared from one of these cell lines, line 107, and affinity purification was performed along with RNase treatment. We have used mass spectrometry analysis to identify the candidate factors that associate with U1A. We have now identified and characterized PSF, p54(nrb), and p68 as novel components of the SF-A complex. We have explored the function of this complex in RNA processing, specifically cleavage and polyadenylation, by performing immunodepletions followed by reconstitution experiments, and have found that p54(nrb) is critical.
A New Role for an Old Friend: NFAT and Stem Cell Quiescence

NFAT proteins are calcium-regulated transcription factors that play a critical role during the timing and activation of many vertebrate tissues. A recent paper in Cell (Horsley et al., 2008) demonstrates a role of the calcineurin-NFAT-CDK4 pathway in maintaining hair follicle stem cell quiescence.
Estimation of sparse null space functions for compressed sensing in SPECT

Compressed sensing (CS) [1] is a novel sensing (acquisition) paradigm that applies to discrete-to-discrete system models and asserts exact recovery of a sparse signal from far fewer measurements than the number of unknowns [1- 2]. Successful applications of CS may be found in MRI [3, 4] and optical imaging [5]. Sparse reconstruction methods exploiting CS principles have been investigated for CT [6-8] to reduce radiation dose, and to gain imaging speed and image quality in optical imaging [9]. In this work the objective is to investigate the applicability of compressed sensing principles for a faster brain imaging protocol on a hybrid collimator SPECT system. As a proofof- principle we study the null space of the fan-beam collimator component of our system with regards to a particular imaging object. We illustrate the impact of object sparsity on the null space using pixel and Haar wavelet basis functions to represent a piecewise smooth phantom chosen as our object of interest.
Effect of a Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement on Infection and Quality of Life: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background: Use of multivitamin and mineral supplements is common among U.S. adults, yet few well-designed trials have assessed the reputed benefits. Objective: To determine the effect of a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement on infection and well-being. Design: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Setting: Primary care clinics at two medical centers in North Carolina. Participants: 130 community-dwelling adults stratified by age (45 to 64 years or ≥65 years) and presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Intervention: Multivitamin and mineral supplement or placebo taken daily for 1 year. Measurements: Incidence of participant-reported symptoms of infection, incidence of infection-associated absenteeism, and scores on the physical and mental health subscales of the Medical Outcomes Study 12-Item Short Form. Results: More participants receiving placebo reported an infectious illness over the study year than did participants receiving multivitamin and mineral supplements (73% vs. 43%; P < 0.001). Infection-related absenteeism was also higher in the placebo group than in the treatment group (57% vs. 21%; P < 0.001). Participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus (n = 51) accounted for this finding. Among diabetic participants receiving placebo, 93% reported an infection compared with 17% of those receiving supplements (P < 0.001). Medical Outcomes Study 12-Item Short Form scores did not differ between the treatment and placebo groups. Conclusions: A multivitamin and mineral supplement reduced the incidence of participant-reported infection and related absenteeism in a sample of participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus and a high prevalence of subclinical micronutrient deficiency. A larger clinical trial is needed to determine whether these findings can be replicated not only in diabetic persons but also in any population with a high rate of suboptimal nutrition or potential underlying disease impairment.
Microbial responses to nitrogen additions in alpine tundra soil

Abstract Soil nitrogen transformations were measured the year following nitrogen fertilization of alpine Kobresia myosuroides meadows to determine the influence of greater plant production and N content on net N mineralization and the microbial N pool. Previously fertilized soils contained substantially greater amounts of organic N than control soils. The average increase in soil organic N accounted for 75% of total added N and, although variable, this quantity suggests a large capacity for retention of added N in these soils. Nitrogen transformations and more active pools also responded to fertilization. Net N mineralization, nitrification and soil inorganic N concentrations clearly were higher in fertilized than in control plots throughout the snow-free season. The most pronounced increase in mineralization in fertilized relative to control soils occurred during the second half of the snow-free period (mid-July-October), primarily after the short alpine growing season (June-mid-August). Although the soil microbial N pool was not affected by fertilization during the growing season, microbial N did increase in the fall in fertilized compared to control soils, coinciding with the time of greatest N mineralization. The late season net uptake of N into the microbial pool exceeded by several times present rates of anthropogenic N inputs to these soils, and the microbial biomass may act as an increasingly important short-term sink for available N if N deposition to these areas continues to increase.
Dissolution of styrene–butadiene block copolymers in biodiesel

The goal of this study was to investigate the dissolution behavior of styrene–butadiene block copolymers in biodiesel with an eye toward developing a promising method of plastic waste disposal by burning them with engine fuel. The dissolution kinetics was investigated by high-throughput Fourier transform infrared microscopy, and the effect of the dissolution temperature on the kinetics was quantified. The activation energy of dissolution was estimated from the dissolution kinetics, and it was shown that the styrene–butadiene copolymers had higher activation energies than the neat polystyrene. The experimental studies were complemented by molecular dynamics simulations to calculate the Flory–Huggins parameters between styrene and butadiene polymers and methyl esters. The shear viscosity of the block copolymer solutions in biodiesel was measured to ascertain their suitability as fuel mixtures. Finally, the mechanical properties of the styrene–butadiene block copolymers were compared to that of poly(ethylene terephthalate). Together, these studies suggest that styrene–butadiene block copolymers may offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to poly(ethylene terephthalate). © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
The Medical Home Concept and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: a Comfortable Habitat!

Patient-centered interdisciplinary health care for children with chronic medical disorders represents an evolution from the traditional "stop and go" treatment for acute illnesses. This model for health care delivery has been called the "medical home," a concept that was originally developed in pediatrics for the care of children with special needs. Patient and family-centered, comprehensive, interdisciplinary, culturally effective, and readily accessible health care delivery is desirable for the care of children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. As children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) become adolescents and young adults, transfer of this health care delivery model to adult endocrinologists is appropriate.
A Pitfall to Avoid When Issuing Transit Signal Priority Treatments under Coordinated Control Strategies

Transit Signal Priority (TSP) is an advanced control mechanism to facilitate transit vehicle operations along signalized arterials. In practical application, TSP systems are integrated with coordinated signal control strategies. People take for granted the reduced transit delays through TSP treatments. However, due to conflicts between TSP control schemes and coordinated signal control strategies along signalized arterials, the benefits achieved by transit vehicles may be washed out to some extent. Our recent study for optimizing the South Snohomish Regional Transit Signal Priority (SS-RTSP) system operations found that transit vehicle delays over a signal-coordinated corridor can be lengthened by TSP treatments in some scenarios. A VISSIM-based simulation model is developed to emulate TSP system operations along the SR-99 arterial covering 13 intersections, in the City of Lynnwood, Washington. Various transit operation scenarios under diverse coordinated signal control plans are designed. Theoretical analysis is also provided to formulate the transit travel process. The research findings indicated that to achieve the best operational efficiency, the compatibility between TSP control schemes and signal control coordination should be strengthened to minimize transit disruption to signal coordination.
Novel M(II)–Hg(II) coordination polymers generated from metal-containing building blocks M(2-pyrazinecarboxylate)2 · (H2O)2 (M=Cu, Ni, Co) and HgCl2

Abstract A new class of M(II)–Hg(II) (M=Cu(II), Co(II), Ni(II)) mixed-metal coordination polymers, Cu(2-pyrazinecarboxylate)2HgCl2 (4), [Co(2-pyrazinecarboxylate)2(HgCl2)2] · 0.61H2O (5) and [Ni(2-pyrazinecarboxylate)2(HgCl2)2] · 0.77H2O (6), have been prepared by self assembly of metal-containing building blocks, M(2-pyrazinecarboxylate)2 · (H2O)2 (M=Cu(II), Co(II), Ni(II)), with HgCl2. Compounds 4–6 were characterized fully by IR, elemental analysis and single crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound 4 crystallized in the monoclinic space group C2/c, with a=17.916(5) A, b=7.223(2) A, c=13.335(4) A, β=128.726(3)°, V=1346.2(6) A3, Z=4. It contains alternating Hg(II) and Cu(II) metal centers that are cross-linked by 2-pyrazinecarboxylate spacers and chlorine co-ligands to generate a unique three-dimensional Hg(II)–Cu(II) mixed metal framework. Compound 5 crystallized in the triclinic space group P 1 , with a=6.3879(7) A, b=6.6626(8) A, c=13.2286(15) A, α=96.339(2)°, β=91.590(2)°, γ=113.462(2)°, V=511.71(10) A3, Z=1. Compound 6 also crystallized in the triclinic space group P 1 , with a=6.3543(8) A, b=6.6194(8) A, c=13.2801(16) A, α=96.449(2)°, β=92.263(2)°, γ=113.541(2)°, V=506.67(11) A3, Z=1. Compounds 5 and 6 are isostructural and in the solid state the Hg(II)⋯M(II)⋯Hg(II) units are connected by Hg2Cl2 linkages to produce a novel M(II)–Hg(II) (MCo(II), Ni(II)) zigzag mixed-metal chain, in which a new type of M–M′–M′–M array was observed. The metal containing building blocks, M(2-pyrazinecarboxylate)2 · (H2O)2 (MCu(II), Co(II), Ni(II)), exhibit different connectivities to HgCl2 depending on the metal cation contained within them.
The origin and early differentiation of the egg chamber of Drosophila melanogaster.

The egg chamber of Drosophila melanogaster consists of 16 interconnected cells surrounded by a monolayer of follicle cells. Each 16 cell cluster (from which the oocyte and 15 nurse cells differentiate) arises within the germarial region of an ovariole. To study the ultrastructure of the early stages in the formation and differentiation of egg chambers, a three dimensional reconstruction was made from serial thin sections through a germarium from a 24-hour old, virgin female. The germarium was found to be subdivided into three regions: (1) The mitotically active area where clusters of 16 cells originate from a series of cystocyte divisions, (2) the region where these cells interact with mesodermal cells, and (3) the region where the germarial cyst is transformed into the first egg chamber in the vitellarium. Since cystocytes were found to decrease in size with each division, the possibility exists that cell size may determine when the divisions cease. Models are presented which mimic with varying degrees of success the developmental changes the germarial cells undergo with time. Hypothesis are developed to explain why stem line oogonia are restricted to the anterior portion of the germarium, why mesodermal cells first interact with cystocytes in region 2, and why the oocyte is oriented posteriorly. The nuclear differentiations of the component cells of the chamber are described and correlated with observed differences in radiosensitivity. Symbionts were observed in the germaria of several strains of Drosophila, and the bearing of these findings upon nutritional studies is discussed.
Mechanisms of ubiquitin transfer by the anaphase-promoting complex

The anaphase-promoting complex (APC) is a ubiquitin-protein ligase required for the completion of mitosis in all eukaryotes. Recent mechanistic studies reveal how this remarkable enzyme combines specificity in substrate binding with flexibility in ubiquitin transfer, thereby allowing the modification of multiple lysines on the substrate as well as specific lysines on ubiquitin itself.
Multiple priority customer service guarantees in cluster computing

Cluster computing is an efficient computing paradigm for solving large-scale computational problems. Resource management is an essential part in such a computing system. A service provider uses computational resources to process a customer's service request. In an effort to maximize a service provider's profit, it becomes commonplace and important to prioritize services in favor of customers who pay higher fees. In this paper, we present an approach for optimal resource management in cluster computing that minimizes the total cost of computer resources owned by a service provider while satisfying multiple priority customer service requirements. Simulation examples show that the proposed approach is efficient and accurate for resource management in a cluster computing system with multiple customer services.
Experimental evidence for insect impact on populations of short-lived, perennial plants, and its application in restoration ecology

Summary of the results of the insecticide exclusion of inflorescence-feeding insects from developing flowerheads, 1984-1990, according to insecticide spray, water-only spray, and no spray treatments (see text): (A) number of flowers initiated; (B) number of viable, undamaged (good) seeds for release; (C) average number of seedlings established by each plant; and (D) number of flowering adults that were even- tually produced per parent plant (adapted from Louda et al. 1990b, Louda & Potvin 1 994). contained three such plots, with either a complete enclosure cage of 1.25 cm (0.5 in.) hardware cloth, a comparable cage that was open on two sides and the top, or no cage. Five replicates were placed within grass vegetation, and five were placed in open areas near a large blowout in September 1984. Seedling emergence, growth, and survival were monitored over the next two years. The results under these experimental conditions show that overall germination rates were low, and that postdispersal seed predation had a small, but signifi- cant, effect on seedling recruitment in the open habitat associated with blowouts (Fig. 5.4).
Comparative observations on inorganic and organic lead neurotoxicity.

Environmental and occupational exposure to lead still generates concern, and recent studies have focused such concern on the role of body burden of lead during the fetal/neonatal period, especially in the genesis of disturbed central nervous system development. This discussion provides some comparative observations on the neurotoxicity of inorganic and organic lead species. The characteristics acute, predominantly cerebellar encephalopathy associated with neonatal high lead exposure contrasts to the subtle, axo-dendritic disorganization shown to be associated with low-level neonatal inorganic Pb2+ exposure. There is a preferential involvement of the hippocampus in both low-level inorganic Pb2+ and organolead exposure, and the clinical syndromes of irritability, hyperactivity, aggression, and seizures are common features of disturbed hippocampal function. Neurotransmitter system abnormalities have been described with inorganic Pb2+, but recent attention has focused on the abnormalities in glutamate, dopamine and/or gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) uptake, efflux, and metabolism. Abnormalities of GABA and glutamate metabolism are also found with the organolead species. While the pathogenesis is still unclear, the interactive role of Pb2+ on mitochondrial energy metabolism, Ca2+ uptake, intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, and neurotransmitter influx/efflux is considered. Consideration is given to low-dose inorganic Pb2+ and organolead effects on mitochondrial and/or plasmalemmal membranes inducing either Cl-/OH- antiport-linked depolarization, inhibition of intracellular ATP biosynthesis and transduction. and/or abnormalities induced due to the preferential affinity of Pb2+ for intracellular Ca2(+)-cytoplasmic protein, e.g. calmodulin. Testable hypotheses are presented that may provide an understanding of the pathogenesis underlying dystrophic neuronal development under the influence of inorganic or organolead intoxication.
Child maltreatment reporting patterns and predictors of substantiation: comparing adolescents and younger children.

Adolescents, and especially male adolescents, make up a disproportionately smaller portion of maltreatment reports compared to younger children. This study used the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System to better understand the characteristics of adolescents reported to Child Protective Services (CPS), to examine whether these characteristics changed over time, and to determine whether certain child or CPS report characteristics predicted CPS involvement. Although adolescents were the focal group, younger children were also analyzed for comparison. Between 2005 and 2010, reports of neglect and the proportion of children of Hispanic and unknown racial/ethnic origins increased. Concurrently, the proportion of cases resulting in CPS involvement declined. Although race/ethnicity predicted CPS involvement, this pattern was not consistent across all age groups or races/ethnicities. The type of alleged maltreatment did not typically predict CPS involvement; however, allegations of sexual abuse among school-aged children and adolescents, particularly among girls, were more likely to result in CPS involvement. These findings can assist child welfare professionals in determining appropriate services tailored to families and developing prevention programs targeting adolescents. Language: en
Consumption of Green Tea Extract Results in Osteopenia in Growing Male Mice

Consumption of green tea may reduce body weight gain. Although many disorders are related to obesity, bone mass is positively correlated with body mass. Therefore, our purpose in this study was to determine the effects of green tea extract (GTE) on bone mass and architecture in rapidly growing lean [C57BL/6 wild type (WT)] and genetically obese, leptin-deficient (ob/ob) male mice. Five-week-old lean and ob/ob mice were assigned to diets containing GTE at 0, 1, or 2% for 6 wk. Femoral and lumbar vertebral bone volume and architecture were evaluated by micro-computed tomography (μCT). Following μCT analysis, femora were ashed to determine bone mineral content and density. Compared with WT mice, ob/ob mice had shorter femora (P < 0.001), lower femoral bone volume (P < 0.001), and lower femoral bone mineral content (P < 0.001), but higher cancellous bone volume in lumbar vertebrae (P < 001). Neither genotype nor treatment affected femoral bone mineral density, indicating normal mineralization. GTE consumption resulted in lower femur length, volume, mineral content, cortical volume, and cortical thickness (P < 0.001), as well as lower cancellous bone volume/tissue volume (P < 0.008) and trabecular thickness (P < 0.004) in lumbar vertebrae. The results indicate that leptin is not essential for the reduced gains in body weight and bone mass due to GTE in growing mice and suggest that consumption of large quantities of green tea may reduce the rate of bone accumulation during growth.
Reliability and Validity of Play-Based Assessments of Motor and Cognitive Skills for Infants and Young Children: A Systematic Review

Background Play is vital for development. Infants and children learn through play. Traditional standardized developmental tests measure whether a child performs individual skills within controlled environments. Play-based assessments can measure skill performance during natural, child-driven play. Purpose The purpose of this study was to systematically review reliability, validity, and responsiveness of all play-based assessments that quantify motor and cognitive skills in children from birth to 36 months of age. Data Sources Studies were identified from a literature search using PubMed, ERIC, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases and the reference lists of included papers. Study Selection Included studies investigated reliability, validity, or responsiveness of play-based assessments that measured motor and cognitive skills for children to 36 months of age. Data Extraction Two reviewers independently screened 40 studies for eligibility and inclusion. The reviewers independently extracted reliability, validity, and responsiveness data. They examined measurement properties and methodological quality of the included studies. Data Synthesis Four current play-based assessment tools were identified in 8 included studies. Each play-based assessment tool measured motor and cognitive skills in a different way during play. Interrater reliability correlations ranged from .86 to .98 for motor development and from .23 to .90 for cognitive development. Test-retest reliability correlations ranged from .88 to .95 for motor development and from .45 to .91 for cognitive development. Structural validity correlations ranged from .62 to .90 for motor development and from .42 to .93 for cognitive development. One study assessed responsiveness to change in motor development. Limitations Most studies had small and poorly described samples. Lack of transparency in data management and statistical analysis was common. Conclusions Play-based assessments have potential to be reliable and valid tools to assess cognitive and motor skills, but higher-quality research is needed. Psychometric properties should be considered for each play-based assessment before it is used in clinical and research practice.
Theoretical study of penalized-likelihood image reconstruction for region of interest quantification

Region of interest (ROI) quantification is an important task in emission tomography (e.g., positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography). It is essential for exploring clinical factors such as tumor activity, growth rate, and the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. Statistical image reconstruction methods based on the penalized maximum-likelihood (PML) or maximum a posteriori principle have been developed for emission tomography to deal with the low signal-to-noise ratio of the emission data. Similar to the filter cut-off frequency in the filtered backprojection method, the regularization parameter in PML reconstruction controls the resolution and noise tradeoff and, hence, affects ROI quantification. In this paper, we theoretically analyze the performance of ROI quantification in PML reconstructions. Building on previous work, we derive simplified theoretical expressions for the bias, variance, and ensemble mean-squared-error (EMSE) of the estimated total activity in an ROI that is surrounded by a uniform background. When the mean and covariance matrix of the activity inside the ROI are known, the theoretical expressions are readily computable and allow for fast evaluation of image quality for ROI quantification with different regularization parameters. The optimum regularization parameter can then be selected to minimize the EMSE. Computer simulations are conducted for small ROIs with variable uniform uptake. The results show that the theoretical predictions match the Monte Carlo results reasonably well.
Provably Convergent Multifidelity Optimization Algorithm Not Requiring High-Fidelity Derivatives

functions, does not alter the con- vergence proof of the optimization algorithm, and is shown to be robust to poor low-delity information. The algorithm is compared with an unconstrained single-delity quasi-Newton algorithm and two
Structural Organization of the Mammalian Auditory Hair Cells in Relation to Micromechanics

The mammalian auditory sensory cells are mechano-receptors characterized by sensory stereocilia, the cuticular plate, and the polarized cell body, innervated by the afferent and efferent nerve endings. The auditory sensory cells in mammals are further specialized into two functional groups (inner hair cells vs. outer hair cells) that are morphologically distinct from each other with differing innervation patterns. There is good evidence to suggest that the inner hair cells are largely responsible for auditory sensitivity and the outer hair cells are responsible for auditory tuning (Liberman & Kiang, 1984). The role of the outer hair cell in frequency selectivity is thought to be the result of its interaction with the inner hair cell. Recent evidence suggests that the outer hair cell of the cochlea is motile. It has been suggested that this outer hair cell motility is responsible for generating the otoacoustic emission and tuning of the auditory sensory response by exerting influence on the micromechanical environment of the inner hair cell stereociliary bundles. Thus, motile activity of the outer hair cell may have a direct bearing on the micromechanics of the cochlea. This paper is an attempt to review the current data of the sub-structural organization of the mammalian auditory hair cell that are relevant to the sensory transduction process and cell motility.
Concepts and Algorithms for Terminal-Area Traffic Management

The nation's air-traffic-control system is the subject of an extensive modernization program, including the planned introduction of advanced automation techniques. This paper gives an overview of a concept for automating terminal-area traffic management. Four-dimensional (4D) guidance techniques, which play an essential role in the automated system, are reviewed. One technique, intended for on-board computer implementation, is based on application of optimal control theory. The second technique is a simplified approach to 4D guidance intended for ground computer implementation. It generates advisory messages to help the controller maintain scheduled landing times of aircraft not equipped with on-board 4D guidance systems. An operational system for the second technique, recently evaluated in a simulation, is also described.
Of euphemisms and euthanasia: the language games of the Nazi doctors and some implications for the modern euthanasia movement

Euphemisms are place-holders for important concepts. They may disguise a practice which one might abhor if it were given another name. In Nazi Germany during World War II, euphemisms were used to desensitize physicians and society to the horrors of a program of euthanasia. This article examines some of the euphemisms used by the Nazi physicians to redefine medicalized killing, compares the Nazi language games with those of contemporary proponents of medicalized killing, and concludes that the consistent application of euphemisms for medicalized killing significantly weakens arguments against assisted killing.We should watch the way we talk. Human society can be described as a long conversation about what matters. In this conversation, the language we use to describe our social practices not only reveals our attitudes and virtues, it shapes them (Winslow, 1994, p. 1).
Cost-effective designs of WDM optical interconnects

Optical communication, in particular, wavelength-division-multiplexing (WDM) technique, has become a promising networking choice to meet ever-increasing demands on bandwidth from emerging bandwidth-intensive computing/communication applications, such as data browsing in the World Wide Web, multimedia conferencing, e-commerce, and video-on-demand services. As optics becomes a major networking media in all communications needs, optical interconnects will inevitably play an important role in interconnecting processors in parallel and distributed computing systems. We consider a cost-effective design of WDM optical interconnects for current and future generation parallel and distributed computing and communication systems. We first categorize WDM optical interconnects into two different connection models based on their target applications: the wavelength-based model and the fiber-link-based model. Most of existing WDM optical interconnects belong to the first category. We then present a minimum cost design for WDM optical interconnects under wavelength-based model by using sparse crossbar switches instead of full crossbar switches in combination with wavelength converters. For applications that use the fiber-link-based model, we show that network cost can be significantly reduced, and present such a minimum cost design for WDM optical interconnects under this model. Finally, we generalize the idea used in the design for the fiber-link-based model to WDM optical interconnects under the wavelength-based model, and obtain another new design that can trade off switch cost with wavelength converter cost in this type of WDM optical interconnect. The results in this paper are applicable to any emerging optical switching technologies, such as SOA-based and MEMS-based technologies.
A defect of red blood cell potassium transport in acute myocardial infarction.

Abstract The ouabain-sensitive (OS) and ouabain-insensitive (OI) K uptake and K content of red blood cells (RBC) were measured in 23 normal subjects, in 10 patients with myocardial infarction (MI) in the acute stage and after subsidence of acute symptoms, and in 13 patients with acute noncardiac diseases. Total and OS K uptake were lower (p
MSPI RESTRICTION FRAGMENT LENGTH POLYMORPHISM AT THE GLYCOPROTEIN HORMONE ALPHA -SUBUNIT LOCUS: ASSOCIATION OF CERTAIN GENOTYPES WITH NEOPLASIA

Abstract A restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) in the human glycoprotein hormone common α-subunit gene has been identified and partially characterized in normal lymphocytes and placentae, established tumor cell lines, and tumor biopsy samples. High molecular weight DNA was digested with the restriction endonuclease MspI, separated by electrophoresis in agarose gels, transferred to nylon membranes by the method of Southern, and hybridized to 32 P -labeled human chorionic gonadotropin α-subunit cDNA. After autoradiography, bands were detected at 5.3, 3.3, 2.1, 1.6, 0.8 and 0.6 kbp. Presence of the 5.3, 3.3 and 0.6 kbp bands was invariant and uninformative. Patterns missing the 0.8 kbp band and both the 2.1 and 1.6 kbp bands are consistent with separate alleles that occur in placental and lymphocyte DNA with frequencies of 0.44 (15/34) and 0.06 (2/34), respectively. Presence of all three bands (2.1, 1.6 and 0.8 kbp) is indicative of heterozygosity, occurring at a frequency of 0.50 (17/34). Additional restriction patterns, not yet observed in DNA isolated from term placentae or circulating lymphocytes, were detected in DNA obtained from tumor cell lines and fresh tumor tissues at frequencies of 0.79 (15/19) and 0.59 (10/17), respectively. Thus, particular α-subunit genotypes are disproportionately represented in tumor-derived DNA, occurring at frequencies 10- to 13-times higher than would be predicted from their occurrence in normal tissue. Paired normal and tumor tissues from the same individual exhibited identical hybridization patterns, suggesting that this RFLP may be representative of a predisposition toward a variety of neoplasias rather than indicative of a change in DNA structure at or near this locus as a result of tumor development.
Understanding Variations in the Use of Surgery

This chapter details the origins of the study of variations in health care, with special attention to variations in the use, indications, and outcomes in surgery. We review the initial studies that demonstrated the value of this methodology, and describe how the study of variations allows insight into surgical practice. Finally, we will review the ways limiting variation can improve patient outcomes across a variety of surgical specialties, and inform health policy efforts aimed at limiting disparities in the use and outcomes of surgical procedures.
Pediatric Cortical Vein Thrombosis: Frequency and Association With Venous Infarction.

Background and Purpose— Cortical vein thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon site of involvement in cerebral sinovenous thrombosis. Few reports have described pediatric CVT, and none has differentiated its unique attributes. This study assessed the clinical features and radiographic outcome of a cohort of children with cerebral sinovenous thrombosis, comparing those with CVT to those without CVT. Methods— Children diagnosed with cerebral sinovenous thrombosis were retrospectively reviewed and separated into 2 groups based on the presence or absence of cortical vein involvement. Results— Fifty patients met inclusion criteria, including 12 with CVT. The CVT group was more likely to present with seizure ( P =0.0271), altered mental status ( P =0.0271), and a family history of clotting disorder ( P =0.0477). Acute imaging of the CVT group more commonly demonstrated concurrent superior sagittal sinus thrombosis ( P =0.0024), parenchymal hemorrhage ( P =0.0141), and restricted diffusion ( P P =0.0449), and venous infarction ( P =0.0007). Conclusions— In our cohort, CVT was significantly associated with seizures at presentation, hemorrhage and restricted diffusion on acute imaging, as well as neurological disability and venous infarction at follow-up. Involvement of cortical veins in cerebral sinovenous thrombosis is associated with an increased risk of infarction and adverse outcome in children.
Magnetic properties of the layered III-VI diluted magnetic semiconductor Ga1−xFexTe

Magnetic properties of single crystalline Ga1−xFexTe (x = 0.05) have been measured. GaTe and related layered III-VI semiconductors exhibit a rich collection of important properties for THz generation and detection. The magnetization versus field for an x = 0.05 sample deviates from the linear response seen previously in Ga1−xMnxSe and Ga1−xMnxS and reaches a maximum of 0.68 emu/g at 2 K in 7 T. The magnetization of Ga1−xFexTe saturates rapidly even at room temperature where the magnetization reaches 50% of saturation in a field of only 0.2 T. In 0.1 T at temperatures between 50 and 400 K, the magnetization drops to a roughly constant 0.22 emu/g. In 0 T, the magnetization drops to zero with no hysteresis present. The data is consistent with Van-Vleck paramagnetism combined with a pronounced crystalline anisotropy, which is similar to that observed for Ga1−xFexSe. Neither the broad thermal hysteresis observed from 100-300 K in In1−xMnxSe nor the spin-glass behavior observed around 10.9 K in Ga1−xMnxS are observed in Ga1−xFexTe. Single crystal x-ray diffraction data yield a rhombohedral space group bearing hexagonal axes, namely R3c. The unit cell dimensions were a = 5.01 A, b = 5.01 A, and c = 17.02 A, with α = 90°, β = 90°, and γ = 120° giving a unit cell volume of 369 A3.
Comparative Study of Application-Oriented Dynamic Traffic Flow Simulation Models for Urban Networks

Dynamic traffic flow models are an important tool to study the urban dynamic traffic flows.INTEGRATION,DYNASMART-X,DYNASMART-P,DynaMIT and DynaMIT-P are five application-oriented dynamic traffic flow models currently available in the world.This paper presents a comparative analysis from perspectives of the purpose of the model development,model functions,and model output evaluation indicators to be propitions to select reasonable models for different applications.
Interfacial characteristics and properties of a low-clad-ratio AA4045/AA3003 cladding billet fabricated by semi-continuous casting

A low-clad-ratio AA4045/AA3003 cladding billet was fabricated using a semi-continuous casting process and was subsequently extruded indirectly into a cladding pipe. The temperature distribution near the interface was measured. The microstructures, elemental distribution, Vickers hardness around the bonding interface, and the interfacial shear strength were examined. The results showed that the interface temperature rebounded when AA4045 melt contacted the supporting layer. The two alloys bonded well, with few defects, via the diffusion of Si and Mn in the temperature range from 569°C to 632°C. The mean shear strength of the bonding interface was 82.3 MPa, which was greater than that of AA3003 (75.8 MPa), indicating that the two alloys bonded with each other metallurgically via elemental interdiffusion. Moreover, no relative slip occurred between the two alloys during the extrusion process.
Subject encodings and retrieval interference

Interference has been identified as a cause of processing difficulty in linguistic dependencies, such as the subject-verb relation (Van Dyke and Lewis, 2003). However, while mounting evidence implicates retrieval interference in sentence processing, the nature of the retrieval cues involved - and thus the source of difficulty - remains largely unexplored. Three experiments used self-paced reading and eyetracking to examine the ways in which the retrieval cues provided at a verb characterize subjects. Syntactic theory has identified a number of properties correlated with subjecthood, both phrase-structural and thematic. Findings replicate and extend previous findings of interference at a verb from additional subjects, but indicate that retrieval outcomes are relativized to the syntactic domain in which the retrieval occurs. One, the cues distinguish between thematic subjects in verbal and nominal domains. Two, within the verbal domain, retrieval is sensitive to abstract syntactic properties associated with subjects and their clauses. We argue that the processing at a verb requires cue-driven retrieval, and that the retrieval cues utilize abstract grammatical properties which may reflect parser expectations.
Duty to Treat versus Personal Safety.

Physicians have an ethical responsibility to treat patients even at the risk of their own personal safety. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
Design Terms and Decision Constructs

Toward defining and utilizing “methodology” for HCI design, the relevant terminology must be made very clear. As stated earlier in this book, many terms have been used interchangeably, when they should not be. Some have also been used inconsistently or even totally incorrectly. This chapter presents a series of definitions that are useful for design decision-making. Some of the terms and constructs are illustrated. The cause-and-effect framework that was already implied by the use of decision schematics in earlier chapters is more fully developed in the next section. Then, after distinguishing, in Section 9.3, what is meant by design and the products thereof, the causes and effects are considered in the following order: inputs to a design decision in Section 9.4, and outcomes of such decisions in Section 9.5. But how do the inputs lead to the outcomes? Section 9.6 deals with criteria and constructs that can help in the decision-making process.
Relationship of breast MRI to recurrence rates in patients undergoing breast-conservation treatment.

The effect of pre-operative MRI on the in-breast tumor recurrence rate (IBTR) of patients undergoing breast-conservation treatment (BCT) remains uncertain. We began to routinely perform pre-operative MRI in 2006. Our goal was to determine the effect of pre-operative MRI on IBTR. Retrospective review of a prospective database of all patients undergoing BCT (n = 1396) from 2000 to 2010. IBTR were calculated using Kaplan–Meier estimates. 664 (47.6%) patients underwent pre-operative MRI. The use of MRI increased from 13.9% in 2000–2005 to 80.7% in 2006–2010. Ten percent of patients who underwent MRI were found to have an additional ipsilateral cancer, with a mean diameter of 1.6 cm. The IBTR for patients with and without MRI were 4% vs. 8% at 8 years (p = 0.04). In multivariate analysis, radiation therapy and endocrine therapy were associated with decreased IBTR, but MRI was not (RR 0.77 (0.45–1.28)). For 1030 patients with invasive cancer, the IBTR at 8 years with and without MRI was 4.2% vs. 7.3% (p = 0.28). For 366 DCIS patients with and without MRI, the IBTR was 3.6% vs. 10.9% (p = 0.06). In the subgroup of DCIS patients who did not receive radiation, the IBTR with and without MRI was 0% vs. 18.2% (p = 0.08). Patients with an additional cancer found by MRI had a higher IBTR at 8 years (10.1% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.02). In a study analyzing BCT patients from one time period who rarely had a pre-operative MRI and a subsequent time period where most patients had MRI, the use of MRI was associated with a decrease in the IBTR on univariate, but not multivariate analysis. Patients who had additional cancers detected had a significantly higher IBTR.
From Bottle-Fed Chimp to Bottlenose Dolphin: A Contemporary Appraisal of Winthrop Kellogg

This paper details the life and professional career of Winthrop Niles Kellogg (1898–1972). While the diversity of his research is noted, special attention is paid to three major projects: the ape and child study, the work on learning and conditioning, and the porpoise research. Kellogg’s work and his place in the history of psychology are assessed in terms of the contrast between American animal psychology and European ethology. It is concluded that Kellogg’s research, a blend of both traditions, was a forerunner of contemporary animal-behavior science.
Synthesis, Linear, and Nonlinear Optical Properties of Phosphonato‐Substituted Bithiophenes Derived from 2,2‐Dimethyl‐1,3‐propanediol

The synthesis, linear absorption, emission spectra, and third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) absorptions at 430 nm of two new series of chalcogenophosphonato-substituted bithiophenes, pdP(X)T2H and pdP(X)T2P(X)pd (pd = OCH2C(CH3)2CH2O; T = 2,5-C4H2S; X = O, S, Se) are reported. The X-ray crystal structures of pdP(X)T2H and pdP(X)T2P(X)pd (X = S, Se) have also been determined. The pdP(X)T2P(X)pd compounds show weak intermolecular aromatic π−π interactions while pdP(S)T2H shows S−π interactions. The compounds exhibit emission at wavelengths ranging from 380−400 nm. Some of the quantum yields are significantly larger than that of 2,2′-bithiophene. The linear absorption spectra, emission spectra, and emission quantum yields show distinct trends with respect to the chalcogen and the number of substituents attached to the 2,2′-bithiophene ring. NLO transmission measurements of pdP(X)T2P(X)pd (X = S, Se) indicate that saturated solutions of both compounds show significantly greater NLO absorption than do saturated solutions of bpP(X)T2P(X)bp (bp = 2,2′-biphenol, X = S, Se). Notably, the fluence at which the transmittance of a 0.27 M CH2Cl2 solution of pdP(Se)T2P(Se)pd falls to 50% is 0.2 J/cm2. This rivals the best blue nonlinear absorbers in literature. The excellent emission quantum yields and NLO absorptions make these compounds promising candidates for optical power limiting and as host materials for blue OLEDs.
Network Neutrality in Canada

Network neutrality is the principle that, to the extent feasible, Internet access providers (“ISPs”) should provide access to all content and applications without blocking or discriminating as to source, destination, application, content, or device. More than that, however, network neutrality in some ways crystallizes the ethos of the Internet and its promise of permissionless innovation. This paper reviews the current status of network neutrality and its regulation, including congestion-related asymmetrical practices like zero-rating; and makes recommendations relating to Internet interconnection and tostatutory language, in section I; to changes to how ITMPs are enforced, in section II; to any consideration of usage caps, in section III; and to any future regulatory review of network neutrality, in both sections II and III.