cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wireless cardiac action potential transmission with ultrasonically inserted silicon microprobes

This paper reports on the integration of ultrasonically inserted horn-shaped cardiac probes with wireless transmission of 3D cardiac action potential measurement for applications in ex vivo preparations such as monitoring the onset of ventricular fibrillation. Ultrasonically inserted silicon horn probes permit reduced penetration force during insertion, allowing silicon, a brittle material, to penetrate cardiac tissue. The probes also allow recording from multiple sites that are lithographically defined. An application-specific integrated circuit has been designed with a 40 dB amplifying stage and a frequency modulating oscillator at 95 MHz to wirelessly transmit the recorded action potentials. This ultrasonically inserted microprobe wireless system demonstrates the initial results in wireless monitoring of 3D action potential propagation, and the extraction of parameters of interest including the action potential duration and diastolic interval.
An open study of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in treatment-resistant depression with Parkinson’s disease

Objective Major depression is a common concomitant of chronic central nervous system disorders, notably Parkinson’s disease (PD). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been investigated as a potential treatment for depression in PD and for the movement disorder of PD, but comprehensive testing in multiple areas of performance has seldom been carried out within a single study. We studied the effect of left dorsolateral prefrontal rTMS on several different functional domains.
On the equilibrium geometries of anthracene trimer and naphthalene tetramer: comparison of the exp-6-1 and HFD structure predictions with experiment

Abstract Energy minimizations using Hartree–Fock dispersion (HFD) model and exp-6-1 potentials predict very different global minima for anthracene trimer and naphthalene tetramer. Comparison of the predicted geometries with available experimental data demonstrates the clear superiority of the HFD model in structure prediction.
Identification of linear directions in multivariate adaptive spline models

Identifying linear directions in multivariate regression has been a statistical challenge and has attracted particular attention since projection pursuit was developed. To this end, we propose and investigate the use of linear discriminant analysis and projection Hessian directions in conjunction with multivariate adaptive regression splines. Simulation studies in a variety of settings demonstrate the usefulness of our approach in revealing both the functional forms and the linear substructures based on the observed data. Mathematical results are also provided to support our approach. Comparisons are made between our approach and existing approaches, and the improvements are evident. Depending on the circumstance, the extent of improvement can be substantial.
Proximal radial artery as inflow site for native arteriovenous fistula.

Abstract Background Most vascular surgeons favor an initial radial-cephalic anastomosis at the wrist for dialysis access when possible. As populations age and more chronically ill patients are offered dialysis, this native arteriovenous fistula (NAVF) is less frequently available. A brachial-cephalic anastomosis is generally considered to be the second choice for NAVF site. We report our experience in a series of patients where the proximal radial artery (PRA) serves as the primary inflow vessel. Study design We reviewed 139 consecutive dialysis access operations performed by the senior author. One hundred fourteen had an NAVF constructed. Seventy-three of these procedures in 71 patients involved the PRA as arterial inflow and are the subject of this report. Results Mean age was 57 years. Thirty-six of the 71 were men. Seventy-one percent of the patients were diabetic and more than half had previous access surgery. Twenty-nine patients underwent preoperative ultrasonographic evaluation for feasibility and planning of the NAVF fistula. The 1-month patency rate for patients undergoing PRA fistula was 98%. Cumulative patency was 80% during the followup period of up to 42 months. No infectious or ischemic complications were noted during the study period. Conclusions We find the anterior position and mobility of the PRA offers a simple and tension-free anastomosis to the median antebrachial vein or one of its tributaries. This anastomotic site frequently allows dialysis in both the forearm and upper arm. The PRA allows for adequate arterial inflow while avoiding the risk of steal syndrome found with brachial artery fistulas. More extensive procedures or use of prosthetic grafts can be avoided.
Corneal allografts fail to express ia antigens.

Although the surface determinants encoded by class I genes of the major histocompatibility complex (murine K/D; human HLA-A/B/C) are expressed on virtually all nucleated cells, the molecular products of class II genes (murine I, human HLA-D/DR) are expressed only on B lymphocytes, macrophages, sperm and certain subsets of T lymphocytes, especially suppressor cells1,2. Controversy exists concerning the expression of class II antigens on cells of the epidermis. On the one hand, Hammerling et al.3 and Frelinger et al.4 have used serological methods to detect Ia antigens on epidermal cells. On the other hand, fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated antisera have been used to show that human and guinea pig class II alloantigens are only expressed on Langerhans cells in the epidermis5–7. Recently, Rowden et al.8 have convincingly demonstrated that Ia antigens are expressed exclusively on Langerhans cells within murine epidermis. We have now shown that cornea, which is an epidermal tissue devoid of Langerhans cells, does not express Ia antigens.
Breaking Down the Barrier: The effects of HIV-1 on the Blood-Brain Barrier

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) primarily infects CD4(+) T cells and cells of the monocyte-macrophage lineage, resulting in immunodeficiency in an infected patient. Along with this immune deficiency, HIV-1 has been linked to a number of neurological symptoms in the absence of opportunistic infections or other co-morbidities, suggesting that HIV-1 is able to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), enter the central nervous system (CNS), and cause neurocognitive impairment. HIV-1-infected monocyte-macrophages traverse the BBB and enter the CNS throughout the course of HIV-1 disease. Once in the brain, both free virus and virus-infected cells are able to infect neighboring resident microglia and astrocytes and possibly other cell types. HIV-1-infected cells in both the periphery and the CNS give rise to elevated levels of viral proteins, including gp120, Tat, and Nef, and of host inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and chemokines. It has been shown that the viral proteins may act alone or in concert with host cytokines and chemokines, affecting the integrity of the BBB. The pathological end point of these interactions may facilitate a positive feedback loop resulting in increased penetration of HIV into the CNS. It is proposed in this review that the dysregulation of the BBB during and after neuroinvasion is a critical component of the neuropathogenic process and that dysregulation of this protective barrier is caused by a combination of viral and host factors including secreted viral proteins, components of the inflammatory process, the aging process, therapeutics, and drug or alcohol abuse.
Vibrationally excited NO2 from CH3NO2 and 2-C3H7NO2 photodissociation

Abstract We observe vibrationally excited NO 2 from photodissociation of CH 3 NO 2 and 2-C 3 H 7 NO 2 by means of laser induced fluorescence. This approximate method shows very large vibrational excitation in all frequencies of NO 2 . The result is interpreted as an indirect predissociation.
Ladder network prediction of transients in linear spatially inhomogeneous cables

Abstract A numerical method is described for finding steady state and transient responses in electrically linear, spatially inhomogeneous cables. Spatial inhomogeneities are incorporated by representing the cable by a number of finite length uniform cylindrical segments, each having the radius and electrical characteristics of a small region along the cable. Input waveforms are approximated by truncated Fourier series of sinusoidal components. Output waveforms are produced by multiplying the input Fourier series sinusoids by their respective transfer functions between input and output points on the cable and summing the resultant output point sinusoids. The transfer functions, representing attenuation and phase shift for each input sinusoid, are obtained by numerical analysis of an electrical ladder network derived from the cylindrical segment model of the cable. Results are shown for application of this method to both cylindrical and expanding radius cable geometries.
The activation of protein kinase C by the polyphosphoinositides phosphatidylinositol 4,5-diphosphate and phosphatidylinositol 4-monophosphate

Abstract Protein kinase C(PKC) is a Ca2+- and phospholipid-dependent protein kinase which can be activated by diacylglycerol, a product of polyphosphoinositide hydrolysis. In this report, we show that the polyphosphoinositides L-α-phosphatidylinositol 4-monophosphate (PI 4P) and L-α-phosphatidylinositol 4,5-diphosphate (PI 4,5DP) can serve as phospholipid cofactors of isolated rat brain PKC. The order of potency of the phosphoinositides in the activation of PKC, PI > PI 4P > PI 4,5DP, shows a negative correlation with the degree of acidity of the phospholipid head group, whether 1 mM Ca2+ or 200 nM TPA is present in the reaction assay mixture. Although the polyphosphoinositides are by themselves weaker activators of PKC than PI, small amounts of PI 4,5DP cause a two-fold enhancement of PKC in the presence of Ca2+ and PI. While the endogenous phospholipid cofactors of PKC remain to be identified, these results suggest that the small amounts of polyphosphoinositides which are present in cell membranes may play a direct role in the activation of PKC in vivo, by serving as phospholipid cofactors of the enzyme.
A multi-level communication architecture of smart grid based on congestion aware wireless mesh network

The advent of the smart grid promises to usher in an era that will bring intelligence, efficiency, and optimality to the power grid. Most of these changes will occur as an Internet-like communications network is superimposed on top of the current power grid. The communication environment of the smart grid should be more robust, reliable, and efficient. In order to address this issue, this work proposes a Smart Grid Communication Network (SGCN) by deploying wireless mesh network technologies consisting of 802.15.4 Zigbee, 802.11, and the WiMAX standards. These are applied in different levels of the home area network (HAN), neighborhood area network (NAN), and the Wide Area Network (WAN). Simulation results demonstrate that this is a promising methodology for a more efficient communication environment.
ACCURATE REDSHIFTS AND CLASSIFICATIONS FOR 110 RADIO-LOUD ACTIVE GALACTIC NUCLEI

We report accurate redshifts of 110 active galaxies (mostly radio-loud objects at z < 0.4) observed in the course of a survey to find broad, double-peaked emission lines. These redshifts are measured from the narrow emission lines of these objects and are accurate to at least one part in 104. For each object we determine a redshift from high- and low-ionization lines separately, as well as an average redshift from all the available lines. We find that in about 15% of cases, the low-ionization lines yield a slightly higher redshift than the high-ionization lines; the average redshift difference amounts to a velocity difference of approximately 80 km s-1. In addition to the redshift measurements we also report revised redshifts for two objects as well as new classifications for three narrow-line objects.
Microwave Studies of Degenerate Band Edge Photonic Crystals

Novel photonic metamaterials have been engineered from spatially periodic, strongly birefringent dielectric materials and have been studied with microwaves to demonstrate extraordinary field amplitude growth within their structure at the photonic band edge transmission resonances.
A new process for catalytic liquefaction of coal using dispersed MoS2 catalyst generated in situ with added H2O

Abstract We have found that adding a proper amount of water can dramatically improve conversion of a sub-bituminous coal in solvent-free liquefaction under at 350°C using ammonium tetrathiomolybdate (ATTM) as precursor to dispersed MoS 2 catalyst H 2 pressure. However, adding water to catalytic reactions at 400°C decreased coal conversion, although water addition to the non-catalytic runs was slightly beneficial at this temperature. We further examined the effect of water in solvent-mediated runs in addition to “dry” tests and explored a temperature-programmed liquefaction (TPL) procedure to take advantage of the synergetic effect between water and dispersed Mo catalyst precursor at low temperatures for more efficient coal conversion. The TPL using ATTM with added water at 350°C, followed by water removal and subsequent reaction at 400°C gave good coal conversion and oil yield. Model reactions of dinaphthyl ether (DNE) were also carried out to clarify the effect of water. Addition of water to ATTM substantially enhanced DNE conversion at 350°C. The combination of data from one-step and two-step tests of DNE and coal at 350–400°C revealed that water results in highly active MoS 2 catalyst in situ generated at 350°C, but water does not promote the catalytic function or reaction once an active catalyst is generated. Using ATTM coupled with water addition and removal and temperature-programming may be an effective strategy for developing a better coal conversion process using dispersed catalysts.
Colonization with broad-spectrum cephalosporin-resistant Gram-negative bacilli in intensive care units during a nonoutbreak period: Prevalence, risk factors, and rate of infection

Objective: To define the epidemiology of broad-spectrum cephalosporin-resistant Gram-negative bacilli in Intensive care units (ICUs) during a nonoutbreak period, including the prevalence, the risk factors for colonization, the frequency of acquisition, and the rate of infection. Design: Prospective cohort study. Setting: Tertiary care hospital. Patients : Consecutive patients admitted to two surgical ICUs. Main Outcome Measurements : Serial patient surveillance cultures screened for ceftazidime (CAZ) resistance, antibiotic and hospital exposure, and Infections. Results: Of the 333 patients enrolled, 60 (18%) were colonized with CAZ-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (CAZ-RGN) at admission. Clinical cultures detected CAZ-RGN in only 5% (3/60) of these patients. By using logistic regression, CAZ-RGN colonization was associated with duration of exposure to cefazolin (odds ratio, 10.3; p ≤.006) and to broad-spectrum cephalosporins/penicllins (odds ratio, 2; p <.03), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation III score (odds ratio, 1.2; p ≤.008), and previous hospitalization (odds ratio, 3.1; p≤.006). Of the 100 patients who remained in the surgical ICU for ≥3 days, 26% acquired a CM; RGN. Of the 14 infections caused by CAZ-RGN, 11 (79%) were attributable to the same species present In surveillance cultures at admission to the surgical ICU. Conclusions: Colonization with CAZ-RGN was common and was usually not recognized by clinical cultures. Most patients colonized or infected with CAZ-RGN had positive surveillance cultures at the time of admission to the surgical ICU, suggesting that acquisition frequently occurred in other wards and Institutions. Patients exposed to first-generation cephalosporins, as well as broad-spectrum cephalosporins/penicillins, were at high risk of colonization with CAZ-RGN. Empirical treatment of nosocomial Gram-negative Infections with broad-spectrum cephalosporins, especially in the critically ill patient, should be reconsidered.
Characteristics of Nucleate Boiling With Gold Nanoparticles in Water

An experiment was designed to test the pool boiling performance of 3 nm gold nanofluid on a flat circular copper coupon. Compared to pure water, an increase of up to 175% in the critical heat flux was seen with gold nanofluids. However, a 25-30% deterioration in the heat transfer coefficient was also observed. The heating surface was observed before and after boiling with a scanning electron microscope. A thin, dark film was observed on the surface, which was due to the deposition of gold particles.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Modulating actions of estradiol on gonadotropin-releasing hormone—stimulated prolactin secretion in postmenopausal individuals

The temporal aspects of estrogen treatment on serum prolactin concentrations basally and in response to a 10 μg intravenous injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone were assessed in eight postmenopausal women. The response of prolactin to gonadotropin-releasing hormone stimulation was compared with that of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone obtained simultaneously. Basal serum prolactin increased significantly (p 2 = 0.266; p=0.0011). Gonadotropin-releasing hormone induced a significant increase in serum prolactin concentrations, which was greater after 5 to 10 days of estrogen treatment compared with that in the estrogen-depleted state (p = 0.031). No correlation was found between gonadotropin-releasing hormone-stimulated prolactin and luteinizing hormone or follicle-stimulating hormone release. These data demonstrate that estrogen treatment of previously hypoestrogenemic postmenopausal women potentiates gonadotropin-releasing hormone-stimulated prolactin release. Furthermore, our data suggest that the previously described paracrine interaction between the gonadotropens and lactotropes exerted by gonadotropin-releasing hormone does not appear to be mediated via increased gonadotropin release.
Effect of neurocatin on the activity of monoamine oxidase B in rat brain synaptosomes.

Neurocatin, a small (about 2,000 Dalton) neuroregulator isolated from mammalian brain, is a powerful effector of monoamine oxidase B in rat brain synaptosomes. Incubation of intact synaptosomes with neurocatin caused an inhibition of the enzyme dependent on the concentration of neurocatin. This inhibition became statistically significant at a neurocatin concentration of 10 ng/200 μl and was significant at all higher neurocatin concentrations. At 40 ng/200 μl, neurocatin inhibited monoamine oxidase B activity by about 60%. This inhibitory effect was almost completely abolished by breaking the synaptosomal membrane by hypotonic buffer prior to incubation with neurocatin. In addition, incubation of the synaptosomes in calcium free medium almost completely abolished the inhibitory effect of neurocatin on monoamine oxidase B. The inhibition appeared to involve covalent modification of the enzyme mediated by a neurocatin receptor(s). Measurements of the kinetic parameters of the enzyme showed that 20 ng of neurocatin caused a statistically significant decrease in Vmax (by 20%) with no significant change in KM, compared to controls. Inhibition of monoamine oxidase by neurocatin is potentially of great clinical importance because this enzyme plays a major role in catabolism of the biogenic amines and alterations in its activity is believed to contribute to several neurological disorders.
Importance of Recovery of E. coli in Water Following Ultraviolet Light Disinfection

AbstractEscherichia coli photorepair and dark recovery was investigated in two different water sources. Sterilized drinking water and wastewater effluent treated for reuse were spiked with either wild E. coli isolate or a laboratory-purchased E. coli strain and ultraviolet (UV)-irradiated at fluences from 40 to 120 mJ/cm2. Although no threshold UV fluence was established after which E. coli photo and dark repair did not proceed, the extent of repair was generally low, not exceeding 0.5 log. Contrary to the repair results, the 48-h regrowth of E. coli disinfection survivors reached up to 3 log, likely due to the remaining inactivated E. coli cells that served as a source of biodegradable carbon postdisinfection. Although it is proposed that concerns regarding bacterial repair under drinking and reuse water UV disinfection conditions are overestimated based on experiments at low UV fluences, the long-term postdisinfection safety of water may be underestimated for conditions of low or no disinfection residu...
Homeostasis in the breast: It takes a village

Progression from normal to malignant phenotype involves aberrations in the reciprocal interactions of multiple cell types with each other and with other components of the microenvironment. In this issue of Cancer Cell, demonstrate that progression to breast cancer involves genotypic as well as gene expression changes that are cell type-specific, suggesting that targeted therapies delivered to the tumor may need to include drugs targeted not only to the tumor cells, but also to the other cell types in the tumor microenvironment.
Wireless sensor applications in extreme aeronautical environments

NASA aeronautical programs require rigorous ground and flight testing. Many of the testing environments can be extremely harsh. These environments include cryogenic temperatures and high temperatures (greater than 1500°C). Temperature, pressure, vibration, ionizing radiation, and chemical exposure may all be part of the harsh environment found in testing. This paper presents a survey of research opportunities for universities and industry to develop new wireless sensors that address anticipated structural health monitoring (SHM) and testing needs for aeronautical vehicles. Potential applications of passive wireless sensors for ground testing and high altitude aircraft operations are presented. Some of the challenges and issues of the technology are also presented.
4472 Endoscopic evaluation of hematochezia in persons under age 50.

Background: Hematochezia is a common symptom among young persons and may be a sign of serious colonic pathology. Evaluation of the entire colon is widely recommended for persons over age 50 years with rectal bleeding. In younger patients, the appropriate recommendations are less clear. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of underlying disease in young persons presenting with rectal bleeding. Methods: Retrospective cross sectional study of persons under age 50 years undergoing outpatient colonoscopy (COL) or sigmoidoscopy (SIG) for hematochezia. Eligible subjects were identified from the endoscopy database at the University of Pennsylvania Health System. Persons with a known history of inflammatory bowel disease, colonic polyps, colorectal cancer, AVMs, ischemic colitis, radiation proctitis, or abnormal barium studies were excluded. Pathology reports were reviewed for all persons identified as having polyps or mass lesions. If persons underwent more than one procedure for hematochezia, only the first was considered in these analyses. Results: 570 patients (309 F / 261 M) met our inclusion criteria. Of these, 232 (41%) underwent COL and 338 (59%) underwent SIG. Persons over age 40 years were significantly more likely to undergo COL (54% vs 30%, p
Plasma catecholamines: Arterial-venous differences and the influence of body temperature

Abstract Using sensitive radio-enzymatic assays, levels of plasma total catecholamines and norepinephrine in rats change dramatically with changes in body temperature. The decrease in plasma catecholamines induced by warming the animal is reflected in an apparent arterio-venous difference when arterial blood is obtained at room temperature and tail sampling is aided by heat induced vasodilation. Combined blockade of extraneuronal and neuronal uptake reduces this arterio-venous difference. Blood samples obtained from the decapitated trunk of the rat contain similar levels of plasma catecholamines as those obtained from indwelling carotid catheters. Blood levels of dopamine-betahydroxylase were similar whether obtained by venous sampling during heat-induced vasodilation, decapitation or indwelling arterial cannula.
Trading expertise: The rise and demise of an industry/government committee on survey trawl design

Understanding how industry-science collaborations work and how the resulting knowledge is used is critical for improving the incorporation of fishers' knowledge in policy-making. We use the concept of 'trading zones' to analyze a collaborative effort to integrate fishers' and scientists' expertise in the Northeast U.S.: the Trawl Survey Advisory Panel. The aim of this collaboration was to improve the production of knowledge for fisheries management by developing a new and improved trawl system (survey net and gear) for the routine data-gathering survey carried out by the federal government. The collaboration was expected to increase the legitimacy and credibility of the science by increasing transparency through a participatory process that made use of fishers' contributory knowledge. We describe how this collaboration shifted among “trading zones,” as well as the role of boundary processes in this transition. Although the government scientists invested heavily in the collaboration, they were ultimately not able keep the process going, as industry members left, sensing that their expertise was not appreciated, boundaries had been erected, and the trading zone for genuine collaboration was closed.
Promoting Sociolinguistic Competence in the Classroom Zone of Proximal Development.

This article explores the microgenetic development of learners’ understanding of sociolinguistic variation in French during an instructional conversation (IC) that followed a language analysis task in which learners attempted to formulate hypotheses about the nature of language variation. During the IC, the instructor led students toward a conceptual understanding of variation in French by providing appropriate graduated (i.e. from implicit or strategic to explicit) mediation that was sensitive to the class’s zone of proximal development (ZPD). Teacher–student collaborative interaction within a group’s ZPD has the potential to develop learners’ conceptual understanding of variation, which can provide an important orienting basis for the development of their performance abilities. The transcript of the IC is analysed and discussed with regard to the amount and type(s) of mediation the instructor provides and opportunities for development created in this type of collaborative interaction.
Should We Redesign Forecasting Competitions

The M3-Competition continues to improve the design of forecasting competitions: It examines more series than any previous competition, improves error analyses and includes commercial forecasting programs as competitors. To judge where to go from here, I step back to look at the M-Competitions as a whole. I discuss the advantages of the M-Competitions in hopes that they will be retained, describe how to gain additional benefit from future competitions, and finally, describe a low-cost approach to competitions.
Tropical Cyclone Formation in a Sheared Environment: A Case Study

Abstract The development of Hurricane Danny (1997) from depression to hurricane was examined using cloud-to-ground lightning data, reconnaissance aircraft data, and satellite imagery. Vertical wind shear between 850 and 200 hPa of 5–11 m s−1 produced persistent downshear convective outbreaks that became progressively more intense and closer to the center during the development. Early in the period the storm intensified steadily in the presence of this downshear convection. During the last and most intense outbreak, a second vortex appeared to develop within the convection. Evidence is presented that the new downshear vortex became the dominant vortex and absorbed the original. Based on these events, it is hypothesized that the presence of moderate vertical wind shear accelerated the early development process. Equivalent potential temperature fields within 500 m of the surface were examined. Only well after the period of vortex interaction did the characteristic mature tropical cyclone radial profile of eq...
View-invariant motion trajectory-based activity classification and recognition

Motion trajectories provide rich spatio-temporal information about an object's activity. The trajectory information can be obtained using a tracking algorithm on data streams available from a range of devices including motion sensors, video cameras, haptic devices, etc. Developing view-invariant activity recognition algorithms based on this high dimensional cue is an extremely challenging task. This paper presents efficient activity recognition algorithms using novel view-invariant representation of trajectories. Towards this end, we derive two Affine-invariant representations for motion trajectories based on curvature scale space (CSS) and centroid distance function (CDF). The properties of these schemes facilitate the design of efficient recognition algorithms based on hidden Markov models (HMMs). In the CSS-based representation, maxima of curvature zero crossings at increasing levels of smoothness are extracted to mark the location and extent of concavities in the curvature. The sequences of these CSS maxima are then modeled by continuous density (HMMs). For the case of CDF, we first segment the trajectory into subtrajectories using CDF-based representation. These subtrajectories are then represented by their Principal Component Analysis (PCA) coefficients. The sequences of these PCA coefficients from subtrajectories are then modeled by continuous density hidden Markov models (HMMs). Different classes of object motions are modeled by one Continuous HMM per class where state PDFs are represented by GMMs. Experiments using a database of around 1750 complex trajectories (obtained from UCI-KDD data archives) subdivided into five different classes are reported.
Phase I and phase II of short-term mechanical restitution in perfused rat left ventricles

We examined the contributions of the Ca2+ channels of the sarcolemma and of the sarcoplasmic reticulum to electromechanical restitution. Extrasystoles (F1) were interpolated 40–600 ms following a s...
A mammalian pseudogene lncRNA at the interface of inflammation and anti-inflammatory therapeutics

Pseudogenes are thought to be inactive gene sequences, but recent evidence of extensive pseudogene transcription raised the question of potential function. Here we discover and characterize the sets of mouse lncRNAs induced by inflammatory signaling via TNFα. TNFα regulates hundreds of lncRNAs, including 54 pseudogene lncRNAs, several of which show exquisitely selective expression in response to specific cytokines and microbial components in a NF-κB-dependent manner. Lethe, a pseudogene lncRNA, is selectively induced by proinflammatory cytokines via NF-κB or glucocorticoid receptor agonist, and functions in negative feedback signaling to NF-κB. Lethe interacts with NF-κB subunit RelA to inhibit RelA DNA binding and target gene activation. Lethe level decreases with organismal age, a physiological state associated with increased NF-κB activity. These findings suggest that expression of pseudogenes lncRNAs are actively regulated and constitute functional regulators of inflammatory signaling. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00762.001
Hospital discharge transactions: a data warehouse component

The Comprehensive Assessment for Tracking Community Health (CATCH) methodology, under development at the University of South Florida, provides a systematic framework for community level assessment that can be a valuable tool for resource allocation and healthcare policy formulation. The community-level focus employers local decision-makers and provides a clear methodology for organizing and interpreting the data. The CATCH methodology has been successfully used to produce many community reports, but each application requires time consuming data collection and analysis activities. A data warehouse is being constructed to support the current methodology as well as future initiatives. This paper reports on some aspects of this on-going data warehouse project, focusing on hospital discharge data. This data is used to derive a set of CATCH indicators, but is also a powerful data warehouse component itself. The paper describes the design and development of a transaction oriented data warehouse component, based on hospital discharge data.
Estim ation of intracellular carbon and silica content of diatoms from natural assemblages using morphometric techniques1

Electron microscopic morphometric techniques were used to measure accurately the cytoplasm and frustule volumes of 12 naturally occurring planktonic diatoms in the Laurentian Great Lakes. In addition, cytoplasm volumes were measured in 6 other algal species. Estimates of carbon content were then made by converting measured cytoplasm volumes to carbon biomass. From these measurements and conversions, the average percent carbon by dry weight was found to be 19% (range lo-30%) for diatoms and 35% (range 29-43%) for the nondiatom species. These values are lower than those previously reported. This is probably due to two facts: our estimates do not include extracellular carbon that may be associated with the cells, and vacuole relative volume (% of total cell volume) ranged from 22 to 70% in diatoms and 2 to 29% for nondiatoms. The carbon content of cells with lower vacuole volumes more closely approximate those previously reported. Our estimations of percent silica by dry weight of diatoms averaged 60% (range 40-78%). Our values for silica content are closer to those reported for naturally occurring populations than to those for cultured populations. Estimation of biomass in individual phytoplankton populations in a mixed assemblage remains a complex problem. Traditionally, biovolume estimates have been used to assess the importance of certain species through conversion to organic carbon content, ash-free dry weight, or chlorophyll (Paasche 1960; Mullin et al. 1966; Strathmann 1967). The return to biovolume estimates is an attempt to escape the limitations of secondary measurement techniques such as Chl
Characterization of the Group Antigen of Chlamydia trachomatis

Abstract A lipid complement-fixing group antigen is shared by all chlamydiae including trachoma organisms. A water-soluble polysaccharide antigen was obtained by alkali saponification from partially purified water-insoluble lipid antigen preparations made from three trachoma strains. The extracted antigen failed to fix complement with antibody but was capable, as a hapten, of inhibiting complement fixation by prior reaction with the antibody. This antigen diffused readily in agarose, producing a reaction of identity with several trachoma strains. The antigen could also be absorbed onto untreated rabbit red blood cells for passive hemagglutination. It is concluded that polysaccharide antigen is responsible for the group reactivity of these organisms and can be obtained from the lipid antigen by alkali saponification.
From processing interval-valued fuzzy data to general type-2: Towards fast algorithms

It is known that processing of data under general type-1 fuzzy uncertainty can be reduced to the simplest case - of interval uncertainty: namely, Zadeh's extension principle is equivalent to level-by-level interval computations applied to α-cuts of the corresponding fuzzy numbers. However, type-1 fuzzy numbers may not be the most adequate way of describing uncertainty, because they require that an expert can describe his or her degree of confidence in a statement by an exact value. In practice, it is more reasonable to expect that the expert estimates his or her degree by using imprecise words from natural language - which can be naturally formalized as fuzzy sets. The resulting type-2 fuzzy numbers more adequately represent the expert's opinions, but their practical use is limited by the seeming computational complexity of their use. It turns out that for the practically important case of interval-valued fuzzy sets, processing such sets can also be reduced to interval computations - and that this idea can be naturally extended to arbitrary type-2 fuzzy numbers.
Radiology’s Value Chain

A diagnostic radiology value chain is constructed to define its main components, all of which are vulnerable to change, because digitization has caused disaggregation of the chain. Some components afford opportunities to improve productivity, some add value, while some face outsourcing to lower labor cost and to information technology substitutes, raising commoditization risks. Digital image information, because it can be competitive at smaller economies of scale, allows faster, differential rates of technological innovation of components, initiating a centralization-to-decentralization technology trend. Digitization, having triggered disaggregation of radiology's professional service model, may soon usher in an information business model. This means moving from a mind-set of "reading images" to an orientation of creating and organizing information for greater accuracy, faster speed, and lower cost in medical decision making. Information businesses view value chain investments differently than do small professional services. In the former model, producing a better business product will extend image interpretation beyond a radiologist's personal fund of knowledge to encompass expanding external imaging databases. A follow-on expansion with integration of image and molecular information into a report will offer new value in medical decision making. Improved interpretation plus new integration will enrich and diversify radiology's key service products, the report and consultation. A more robust, information-rich report derived from a "systems" and "computational" radiology approach will be facilitated by a transition from a professional service to an information business. Under health care reform, radiology will transition its emphasis from volume to greater value. Radiology's future brightens with the adoption of a philosophy of offering information rather than "reads" for decision making. Staunchly defending the status quo via turf wars is unlikely to constitute a forward-looking, competitive strategy.
Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) Studies of Flame-Retardant Rayon Fibers:

The thermal behavior of flame-retardant fibers in which the flame-retardant chemical trapped inside the regenerated cellulose has now been studied, by differential thermal analysis (DTA) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The thermograms obtained in a dynamic air atmosphere resemble those previously reported elsewhere for cellulosic materials treated with flame retardants in the conventional manner. In all cases, it has been found that the thermal degradation of the flame-retardant fibers begins at a lower temperature than for the control. A smaller quantity of flammable volatile matter is evolved and a much larger residue remains when the pyrolysis is complete. The total area of the exothermic peaks is, therefore, much smaller for the flame-retardant fibers than for the control.When the same flame-retardant fibers are heated in a nitrogen atmosphere, it can be easily seen that the onset of decomposition occurs quite suddenly at a definite temperature and clearly involves a reaction between the flame r...
Locally invertible rate-1/n convolutional encoders

It is shown that a rate-1/n convolutional encoder is nondegenerate and noncatastrophic if and only it is locally invertible. Upper and lower bounds on the number of consecutive all-zero outputs of an encoder starting in a nonzero state are derived using local invertibility of rate-1/n encoders. >
Correction of depressed scars following Mohs' surgery: the role of collagen implantation.

The results of injections of Zyderm™ collagen implant in six patients for correction of depressed scars on the nose resulting from Mohs' surgery are presented. Two cases are illustrated. Three of the six patients achieved 85–100% correction after completion of their series of injections. The one patient who achieved 100% correction subsequently experienced 15–20% regression, although none of the other five patients showed regression of the correction achieved.
The current state of investigations regarding the thermospheric midnight temperature maximum (MTM)

Abstract The thermospheric midnight temperature maximum (MTM) is an upper atmospheric effect found at low latitudes. It is accompanied by an increase in pressure and a signature poleward abatement or reversal in the meridional neutral winds. The MTM exhibits a poleward propagation away from the geographic equator with two secondary maxima developing at approximately ±15° latitude. In this paper, we review early works and recent efforts regarding the MTM. Outstanding questions dealing with seasonal and longitudinal dependencies of the MTM's basic characteristics are discussed. All-sky imaging systems at Arequipa and El Leoncito observed the propagation of 6300 A airglow enhancements related to the MTM past 35°S latitude. This provides useful information on the upper latitude limit of the MTM. TIEGCM modeling efforts simulate the MTM through upward propagating semi-diurnal tides but have difficulty reproducing accurately its amplitude and occurrence time. It is suggested that the role of the terdiurnal tidal mode may be more important than previously thought. Recent comparative observation and modeling studies of MTM related 6300 A emission proved unsuccessful. We report that the amplitude of the modeled MTM was not strong enough to instigate the ‘midnight collapse’ of the F-region needed to produce the airglow signature.
Safety-cost trade-offs in medical device reuse: a Markov decision process model

Healthcare expenditures in the US are approaching $2 trillion, and hospitals and other healthcare providers are under tremendous pressure to rein in costs. One cost-saving approach which is gaining popularity is the reuse of medical devices which were designed only for a single use. Device makers decry this practice as unsanitary and unsafe, but a growing number of third-party firms are willing to sterilize, refurbish, and/or remanufacture devices and resell them to hospitals at a fraction of the original price. Is this practice safe? Is reliance on single-use devices sustainable? A Markov decision process (MDP) model is formulated to study the trade-offs involved in these decisions. Several key parameters are examined: device costs, device failure probabilities, and failure penalty cost. For each of these parameters, expressions are developed which identify the indifference point between using new and reprocessed devices. The results can be used to inform the debate on the economic, ethical, legal, and environmental dimensions of this complex issue.
Quantitative prediction of ischemic stroke tissue fate

Accurate prediction of ischemic tissue fate could aid clinical decision-making in the treatment of acute stroke. We investigated predictions of tissue fate for three (30-min, 60-min and permanent) stroke models in rats. Quantitative cerebral blood flow (CBF), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and spin-spin relaxation time constant (T2) were acquired during the acute phase and at the end point followed by histological examination. Probability-of-infarct profiles based on ADC and CBF data were constructed using a training dataset. Probability-of-infarct maps were predicted using only acute stroke data from a separate experimental dataset, revealing the likelihood offuture infarction. Performance measures of sensitivity and specificity showed accurate predictions. Sensitivities (meanSD) for the 30-min, 60-min and permanent stroke were, respectively, 82 � 6%, 82 � 7%, and 86 � 4%, specificities were 83 � 5%, 86 � 5%, and 89 � 6%, and the areas under the receiver operating curve were 87 � 3%, 90 � 4%, and 93 � 3%. Importantly, to improve prediction accuracy, we took into account regional susceptibility to infarction. Spatial frequency-of-infarct maps were constructed and predictions were made by taking the weighted average of the probability-of-infarct map and spatial frequency-of-infarct map. The optimal weighting coefficient of spatial frequency-of-infarct was small (10%) for the permanent occlusion group but surprisingly large (40%) for the reperfusion groups, indicating that regional susceptibility of infarction was important for accurate prediction in reperfusion stroke. We concluded that the likelihood of cerebral infarction in rats can be accurately predicted and that accounting for regional susceptibility of infarct further improves prediction accuracy. Predictive models have the potential to provide a valuable quantitative framework for clinicians to consider different stroke treatment options. Copyright # 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structures for policy implementation: An analysis of national legislation 1965-66 and 1993-94

Public administration has long considered the administrative agency as the core institution shaping action. But specialists in policy implementation, in particular, have suggested that networks spanning multiple organizations may be important phenomena. National legislation from two Congresses is analyzed to determine the kinds of structures explicitly stipulated or encouraged for new or amended programs. The most important questions have to do with the extent to which single-agency or networked (multiactor) structures are used and the relative degree to which intergovernmental versus intragovernmental programs are prominent. The evidence shows that the great majority of legislation requires multiactor structures spanning governments, sectors, and/or agencies; intergovernmental programs are especially prominent; and the multiactor character of the structures has remained relatively constant. These findings carry implications for the study and practice of public administration.
Common roots: a contextual review of HIV epidemics in black men who have sex with men across the African diaspora

Summary Pooled estimates from across the African diaspora show that black men who have sex with men (MSM) are 15 times more likely to be HIV positive compared with general populations and 8·5 times more likely compared with black populations. Disparities in the prevalence of HIV infection are greater in African and Caribbean countries that criminalise homosexual activity than in those that do not criminalise such behaviour. With the exception of US and African epidemiological studies, most studies of black MSM mainly focus on outcomes associated with HIV behavioural risk rather than on prevalence, incidence, or undiagnosed infection. Nevertheless, black MSM across the African diaspora share common experiences such as discrimination, cultural norms valuing masculinity, concerns about confidentiality during HIV testing or treatment, low access to HIV drugs, threats of violence or incarceration, and few targeted HIV prevention resources.