cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analytic response time model for distributed systems

Network designers are faced with a combinatorial explosion of choices not only among various vendors' workstations, hosts and servers, but also among application distribution strategies, communication media, communication protocols, and network topologies. To study performance trade-offs among various designs, the authors have developed a generic system thruput and response time model for distributed systems. We have applied the model to actual customer networks.The modeller describes the system in a language of model statements describing operations, resources, submodels, parameters and transactions flows. Model statements are “compiled” into arrays that form the input to the analytical queueing network model.The modeling package is written in APL2 and is based on an earlier VSAPL package developed for manufacturing planning. Since the package is designed with an open set of submodel types, and since APL2 is portable across many architectures and operating systems, we can easily integrate non-APL2 code.
Architectural Mismatch: Why Reuse Is Still So Hard

In this article, David Garlan, Robert Allen, and John Ockerbloom reflect on the state of architectural mismatch, a term they coined in their 1995 IEEE Software article, "Architectural Mismatch: Why Reuse Is So Hard." Although the nature of software systems has changed dramatically since the earlier article was published, the challenge of architectural mismatch remains an important concern for the software engineering field.
Monoaminergic antagonists which block naloxone-induced release of luteinizing hormone bind selectively to hypothalamic opiate receptors.

Abstract The possibility that adrenergic receptor antagonists which prevent naloxone-induced release of luteinizing hormone (LH) in vivo exert their action by direct competition with naloxone for hypothalamic opiate receptors was investigated in vitro in immature female rats. First, 26-day-old rats were injected with prazosin, an α 1 -adrenergic blocker, or yohimbine, an α 2 -adrenergic blocker, before receiving naloxone (2.5 mg/kg body wt.). Both adrenergic antagonists prevented naloxone-provoked LH secretion in a dose-dependent manner with yohimbine exhibiting a slightly greater potency. In a separate experiment hypothalami from 26-day-old rats were removed, membrane pellets prepared and incubated with [ 3 H]naloxone in the presence of increasing concentrations of naloxone or various monoamine-active substances. Phentolamine, prazosin and yohimbine were the most effective competitors for naloxone binding sites while pronethalol, methysergide and metergoline were far less effective. These findings parallel the relative inhibitory potencies of these compounds in vivo for preventing naloxone-induced LH release as shown here and in a previous report 5 . Clonidine and l -phenylephrine, both α-adrenergic agonists, also showed activity in the binding assay. Surprisingly, α-methyl-p-tyrosine and 5-hydroxytryptophan, substances which substitute for monoamine precursors early in the biosynthetic pathway, also displaced [ 3 H]naloxone from hypothalamic receptors. These results offer a mechanism for the modulating effects of monoamine-active drugs on opiate antagonist-induced LH release and may have significance for inhibition of LH secretion by endogenous opiates.
A nomogram to predict exercise capacity from a specific activity questionnaire and clinical data

Recent investigations suggested that clinical exercise testing can be optimized by individualizing the protocol, depending on the purpose of the test and the subject tested. This requires some knowledge of a patient's exercise capacity before beginning the test. The accuracy of a simple physical activity questionnaire and readily available clinical data in predicting subsequent treadmill performance was examined. A brief, self-administered questionnaire (VSAQ) was developed for veterans who were referred to exercise testing for clinical reasons. The VSAQ was designed to determine which specific daily activities were associated with symptoms of cardiovascular disease (fatigue, chest pain and shortness of breath). Two hundred twelve consecutive patients (mean age 62 +/- 8 years) referred for maximal exercise testing were studied. Clinical and demographic variables were added to VSAQ responses in a stepwise regression model to determine their ability to predict treadmill performance. Only metabolic equivalents by VSAQ, and age were significant predictors of treadmill performance; these 2 variables yielded R = 0.82 (SEE 1.43; p < 0.001), and explained 67% of the variance in exercise capacity. The regression equation reflecting the relation between age, VSAQ and exercise capacity was: achieved metabolic equivalents = 4.7 + 0.97 (VSAQ) - 0.06 (age). Using this equation, a nomogram was developed. Incorporating the VSAQ with the nomogram requires only a few minutes, and yields a reasonably accurate estimate of a patient's exercise capacity. Although the present equation is population-specific, a similar approach in different populations may be useful for individualizing protocols for clinical exercise testing.
The pepper tree, Schinus molle L.

Schinus molle, in its native habitat, Peru, is used variously as a mildly alcoholic beverage (fruit), medicine (leaf extracts and sap), and infrequently as a yellow dye and tannin. The species has been introduced into Mexico, the southwestern United States and southern Europe, but in none of these areas is the plant much more than an infrequent ornamental.
Reversible, field induced agglomeration in magnetic colloids☆

Abstract Reversible agglomeration of magnetic particles (20–300-A diameter) in a colloidal suspension has been induced by applying various magnetic fields: nonuniform static fields and uniform ac or dc fields of magnitudes from 2.5 to 230 Oe. A sensitive Colpitts oscillator circuit monitored the spatial and temporal variations in magnetization in a vertical 11-cm column of magnetic fluid. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that spherical agglomerates of 10 7 –10 9 particles are formed and settle gravitationally. The agglomeration was most pronounced in a commercially available water-base, 200-G ferrofluid; 20% of the particles formed agglomerates of ≥ 10 7 particles and settled out in 1 hr in a 230-Oe uniform ac or dc field. This effect was present to a lesser extent in other fluids (200-G ester base, 3% of the particles agglomerate in 1 hr; 200-G hydrocarbon base, ∼ 0.05% in 2 hr). Electron micrograph studies indicate that all sizes of particles participate in the agglomeration. Centrifuge experiments show that the agglomerates are not limited by close packing upon settling to the bottom of the tube. The Colpitts oscillator should be useful in determining the stability of magnetic fluids used in applications such as magnetic ink printers, metal separation, etc. It may also be useful in experimental investigation of agglomeration hypotheses because the extent of the agglomeration can be conveniently controlled via the applicatioa of magnetic fields.
High temperature-short time glycation to improve heat stability of whey protein and reduce color formation

Abstract Glycation of whey protein isolate (WPI) improves functionalities such as heat stability. Conventionally, glycation is achieved by heating at
Rapid quantification of indinavir in human plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection

Abstract A rapid, sensitive and specific high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) procedure for the quantification of indinavir, a potent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitor, in human plasma is described. Following C 18 solid-phase extraction, indinavir was chromatographed on a reversed-phase C 8 column using a simple binary mobile phase of phosphate buffer–acetonitrile (60:40, v/v). UV detection at 210 nm led to an adequate sensitivity without interference from endogenous matrix components. The limit of quantification was 25 ng/ml with a 0.1 ml plasma sample. The standard curve was linear across the range from 25 to 2500 ng/ml with an average recovery of 91.4%. The mean relative standard deviations for concentrations within the standard curve ranged between 1.4 and 9.7%. Quality control standards gave satisfactory intra- and inter-assay precision (R.S.D. from 3.5 to 15.8%) and accuracy within 15% of the nominal concentration. Sample handling experiments, including HIV heat inactivation, demonstrated analyte stability under expected handling processes. The assay is suitable for the analysis of samples from adult and pediatric patients infected with HIV.
Study of the products of the reactions of N2(A3Σu+): The effect of vibrational energy in N2(A)

Abstract The reactions of electronically excited N 2 (A 3 Σ u + ) molecules with selected small molecules have been studied in a discharge-flow system. A method is described for probing, with high sensitivity, the dependence of total quenching rate constants and reaction pathways on vibrational energy in the N 2 (A) state. Highly characteristic behavior is observed in the reactions with NH 3 , CH 3 OH, NO and O 2 .
Evidence for a less differentiated subpopulation of lymphocytes in people of advanced aged

Abstract The ratio of the lactate dehydrogenase subunits, H/M, is shifted toward lower values in thymocytes, and in high-density T cells in normal peripheral blood. The results presented here indicate that the T cells, but not B cells or monocytes, of donors greater than 75 years' old have a significantly reduced H/M ratio relative to young adults. This reduced H/M ratio appears to be correlated with a diminished percentage of OKT3 positive cells in the old donors. However, the density distribution of cells from young and old on Percoll® gradients indicates that the T cells with lower H/M ratio in the elderly may represent a distinct, and possibly unique, less differentiated T cell type.
There Are Several Principals— Each One Worthy of Research

In defense of the argument made in "Courage in the Service of Virtue," in effect that courageous military advice better serves the republic when it accounts for political competition facing civilian principals, the author answers the complaint that his analysis accorded too much deference to the executive and ignored Congress and the people the real principals of American civil–military relations. The principal–agent model has more than one useful application, and executive authority over the U.S. military is both more fragile and more important for democratic control than the critics imply.
Active frequency stabilization of a 1.062-μm, Nd:GGG, diode-laser-pumped nonplanar ring oscillator to less than 3 Hz of relative linewidth

We present results on the frequency stabilization of two diode-laser-pumped ring lasers that are independently locked to the same high-finesse interferometer. We measure the relative frequency stability by locking the lasers one free spectral range apart and observing the heterodyne beat note. The resultant beat note width of 2.9 Hz is consistent with the theoretical system noise-limited linewidth and is appoximately 20 times that expected for shot-noise-limited performance.
A two focal plane method for digital quantification of nuclear immunoreactivity in large brain areas using NIH-image software.

In principle, digital acquisition of cell-count data from serially-sectioned immunocytochemical material is a straightforward enterprise. First, a serial brain section is magnified by use of a microscope interfaced to a computer. Then, using appropriate hardware and software, a digital image is captured, and cellular profiles of interest are segmented from background objects according to mean grayscale intensity and pixel area. Ideally, the cells of interest would be uniformly distinguishable from other objects or areas of the image, with respect to grayscale intensity and size. However, due to non-uniformity in background staining of neuropil, immunocytochemical material often departs markedly from this ideal situation. As a consequence, determining grayscale intensity and cell size cutoff values which separate cells of interest from background becomes laborious and arbitrary. This problem can be diminished by increasing the magnification of the digitized image, which increases the figure-ground resolution of the image. However, high-magnification images make tissue navigation difficult and require that multiple images be captured. This paper describes a two focal plane procedure for obtaining cell counts from nuclear-stained immunocytochemistry material. This procedure allows the capturing and cell counting of relatively low-magnification images with high digital figure-ground resolution.
Unusual case of a swollen painful toe in a young man.

History of the present illness A 25-year-old man with a history of epilepsy developed a gradually progressive swollen, red, and painful left first toe. There was no preceding trauma. There were no fevers or chills, and no other extremities were involved. He had never had these symptoms in the past. He was seen initially by his primary care provider, who diagnosed cellulitis and prescribed cephalexin 500 mg 3 times a day for 1 week, with no improvement. A trial of colchicine 0.6 mg twice a day was attempted for 1 week, but this also generated no improvement and a referral was made to rheumatology. At the initial rheumatologic evaluation the patient reported that his symptoms had started in September, and had been present for close to 2 months. He described the left first toe as “swelling up like a globe.” The second toe developed pain and swelling within 2–3 weeks, although not as severe. By 1 month the pain had spread to his left ankle. Walking was becoming much more difficult due to the pain. He was taking ibuprofen, with minimal improvement. He denied systemic symptoms. There was no eye redness or pain, no burning with urination or penile discharge, no back pain, and no nausea or vomiting, and his bowels were normal. There was no history of psoriasis.
Contributions to the Lichen Flora of Pennsylvania — Further New and Interesting Reports of Lichens and Lichenicolous Fungi

Abstract. The following species are reported for the first time from Pennsylvania: Chaenotheca chrysocephala, Cladonia brevis, C. crispata, C. farinacea, C. floridana, Cystocoleus ebeneus, Diplotomma alboatrum, Fuscidea recensa, Lecanora semipallida, Lecidea auriculata, Melanelia panniformis, M. sorediata, Mycoblastus sanguinarius, Parmelia omphalodes, Parmotrema gardneri, Phaeosporobolus alpinus, Porpidia contraponenda, Thrombium epigaeum, and Umbilicaria deusta. Modern populations of the following species are reported, and records of their historical occurrences are discussed: Cladonia atlantica, C. mitis, C. stellaris, Parmeliopsis hyperopia, and Porpidia soredizodes.
Persistent melanocytic nevi: a review and analysis of 205 cases.

Background: Melanocytic nevi can recur or persist if not completely excised and are capable of mimicking malignant melanoma, both clinically and histologically. Objective: To characterize the impact of anatomic site, biopsy method, size, margin involvement and type of original melanocytic nevus on recurrence/persistence of melanocytic nevi. Secondarily, we sought to determine if the original type of melanocytic nevus could be determined solely from microscopic examination of the recurrent/persistent nevus. Methods: One hundred and eighty-five patients with 205 persistent nevi were identified. Of these, 108 cases had original biopsy specimens available for review. Location, original biopsy size, biopsy method, margins and interval to recurrence were recorded for each. A group of 232 non-persistent nevi was established as a control population. Results: There was a female predominance in persistent nevi with the back being the most common site for persistence. Dysplastic melanocytic nevi were the most likely to persist. Accurate determination of the original type of melanocytic nevus from microscopic examination of the persistent nevus was possible in only 67% of the cases. Conclusion: Clinicians should take larger and deeper biopsies of clinically dysplastic and conventional melanocytic nevi on the back to prevent recurrences. Grading atypia of the persistent melanocytic nevi is unreliable. Sommer LL, Barcia SM, Clarke LE, Helm KF. Persistent melanocytic nevi: a review and analysis of 205 cases.
Fenugreek: a naturally occurring edible spice as an anticancer agent.

In recent years, various dietary components that can potentially be used for the prevention and treatment of cancer have been identified. In this study, we demonstrate that extract (FE) from the seeds of the plant Trigonella foenum graecum, commonly called fenugreek, are cytotoxic in vitro to a panel of cancer but not normal cells. Treatment with 10-15 ug/mL of FE for 72h was growth inhibitory to breast, pancreatic and prostate cancer cell lines (PCa). When tested at higher doses (15-20 ug/mL), FE continued to be growth inhibitory to PCa cell lines but not to either primary prostate or htert-immortalized prostate cells. At least part of the growth inhibition is due to induction of cell death, as seen by incorporation of Ethidium Bromide III into cancer cells exposed to FE. Molecular changes induced in PCa cells are: in DU-145 cells: down regulation of mutant p53, and in PC-3 cells up regulation of p21 and inhibition of TGF-β induced phosphorylation of Akt. The surprising finding of our studies is that death of cancer cells occurs despite growth stimulatory pathways being simultaneously up regulated (phosphorylated) by FE. Thus, these studies add another biologically active agent to our armamentarium of naturally occurring agents with therapeutic potential.
The Numbers Game: The Statistical Heritage in Intercollegiate Athletics.

Data and intercollegiate athletics have a long heritage together. The evolution of this relationship from game statistics to the current age of compliance is well documented.
Chemischer Fingerabdruck von fossilen Harzen und rezenten Pflanzenexsudaten

Bernstein ist einer der wenigen Edelsteine mit organischer Struktur. Er ist die fossile Form klebriger Pflanzenexsudate (Harze). Untersuchungen mit modernen analytischen Methoden liefern Strukturdaten und geben Aufschluss uber die Pflanzenart, die das ursprungliche Harz produziert hat. Durch massenspektrometrische Analyse der gaschromatographisch getrennten Stoffe konnen Verbindungen identifiziert werden, auf deren Grundlage eine zuverlassige Klassifizierung der verschiedenen Bernsteinarten moglich ist. Mithilfe der NMR-Spektroskopie an festem Bernstein wird die Klassifizierung erganzt. NMR-Spektroskopie ermoglicht auch die Charakterisierung moderner Harze sowie anderer Arten von Pflanzenexsudaten, z. B. Gummi, Gummiharz und Kinogummis, die zwar in ihrem Erscheinungsbild den Harzen stark ahneln, jedoch ganz anders aufgebaut sind.
No free energy lunch.

Prediction of a protein's affinity for a ligand has been improved through fundamental physical modeling.
Ensuring network connectivity for nonholonomic robots during decentralized rendezvous

In a multi-robot system, robots are typically required to collaborate over a communication network to achieve objectives cooperatively. Due to the limited communication and sensing capabilities on each robot, the cooperative objective must be accomplished while ensuring that specified robots stay within each other's sensing and communication ranges and that the overall network remains connected. In this paper, a dipolar navigation function and corresponding time-varying continuous controller is developed for repositioning and reorienting a group of wheeled robots with nonholonomic constraints. Only local sensing feedback information from neighbors is used to navigate the robots and maintain network connectivity, which indicates that communication is available when required for various tasks, but communication is not required for navigation. Simulation results demonstrate the performance of the developed approach.
Effect of stimulation of hypothalamus and reticular activating system on production of cardiac arrhythmia.

Changes in blood pressure and the electrocardiogram were studied before and after the stimulation of the hypothalamus (anterior, lateral, and posterior) and the reticular formation of the pons in anesthetized cats. The stimulation of the anterior hypothalamus produced a rise of blood pressure and usually bradycardia; tachycardia was rarely observed. Arrhythmias were not observed, and the electrocardiographic changes consisted only of slight ST elevation and deepening of the T waves. Stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus produced a rise in blood pressure of a lesser magnitude than that of the anterior hypothalamus but was associated with a transitory phase of A-V dissociation and frequent premature systoles. Stimulation of the posterolateral hypothalamus resulted in the same rise in blood pressure as that of stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus and was accompanied by nodal rhythms, aberrant ventricular conduction, and fusion beats. Stimulation of the reticular formation produced a rise in blood pressu...
Spatial variability in the vegetation structure and composition of an East African rain forest

We conducted a study of spatial variation in tree community structure and composition in the Kakamega Forest of western Kenya. We compared the tree communities at two sites, Buyangu and Isecheno, separated by approximately 11 km of contiguous forest. All trees ‡15 cm d.b.h. were censused along transects covering 4.95 ha at Buyangu and 4.15 ha at Isecheno. The structure of the forest at the two sites was similar as mean d.b.h. was comparable and stem size class distribution did not differ significantly. However, species richness and stem density were both much higher at Buyangu. The disparity in stem density may be because of the greater abundance at Isecheno of a semi-woody undergrowth species, Brillantaisia nitens Lindau, believed to inhibit the establishment of tree seedlings. Floristic composition varied strikingly between sites, with 52% of the species occurring only at one site. Densities of those species present at both sites often differed markedly between sites. Potential sources of these intersite differences in floristic composition include small disparities in rainfall, soil composition, elevation, and temperature as well as past differences in anthropogenic disturbance and in large mammal distribution and abundance. Floristic differences between Buyangu and Isecheno appear to be at least partly responsible for the substantial dietary differences between redtail monkeys (Cercopithecus ascanius Audebert) at these sites.
Chemically Assisted ion-Beam Etching of Sol-Gel Derived Pzt, Plzt And LITaO3 Thin Films for Silicon Based Device Integration

Wet chemical, reactive ion etching and reactive ion-beam etching of sol-gel prepared PZT (54/46) [Pb(Zr,Ti)O3], Lanthanum doped PZT [PLZT (9/65/35)] and LiTaO3 have been investigated. Wet chemical etching using an HCI-HF solution, reactive-ion etching using a SF6 plasma and chemically assisted ion-beam etching (CAIBE) using a xenon plasma and chlorine reactive gas were used. Etch rates for each method were determined and the ability to define small features in the thin film ferroelectric was investigated. It was found that for structures smaller than approximately 20 × 20 μm2, chemically assisted ion beam etching provided by far the best results. 3 × 3 μm2 capacitor and 2 μm wide optical waveguide structures in PZT, PLZT respectively, were successfully fabricated using a CAIBE system. An etch depth monitor enabled accurate in-situ etch rate monitoring of the PLZT and PZT thin films.
Transcriptional influence of two poly purine-pyrimidine tracts located in the HSD11B2 (11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2) gene.

Alternating purine-pyrimidine (APP) sequences which might assume left handed DNA helical structures (Z-DNA) could influence the expression of genes in which they were located. There are two such repeat elements in the HSD11B2 (11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) gene. First, a CA repeat is located in the first intron. Deletion of this element in a minigene construct leads to a significant decrease (40%) in the expression of the HSD11B2 message in human cortical collecting duct cells. The second APP tract is located approximately 0.9 kb from the last exon or 4.8 kb from the intronic CA repeat element. Deleting this APP tract in a minigene decreases gene expression by 30%. The CA repeat along with its flanking sequences increases luciferase reporter gene expression if placed 5′ of the HSD11B2 promoter but not when placed downstream of the reporter gene. Similarly the second APP tract increases luciferase reporter gene expression when placed 5′ of the HSD11B2 promoter in an antisense orientation but not in a s...
Influence of Environmental Stresses on O/W Emulsions Stabilized by β-Lactoglobulin–Pectin and β-Lactoglobulin–Pectin–Chitosan Membranes Produced by the Electrostatic Layer-by-Layer Deposition Technique

This manuscript describes the influence of environmental stresses, such as pH, ionic strength, and heating, on the stability of multilayer emulsions formed from natural polyelectrolytes. A “primary” emulsion was prepared by homogenizing 10 wt% corn oil with 90 wt% aqueous β-lactoglobulin solution (0.5 wt% Blg, pH 7). This emulsion was mixed with aqueous pectin solution (0.4 wt%, 59% DE, pH 7) to yield emulsions containing 5 wt% corn oil, 0.225 wt% Blg, and 0.2 wt% pectin. The pH of this emulsion was then adjusted to pH 4 where anionic pectin adsorbs to the cationic protein-coated droplet surfaces and forms a “secondary” emulsion. This emulsion was rehomogenized to disrupt any flocculated droplets and was then added to chitosan solution (0.5 wt%, 90% DD, pH 4) to produce “tertiary” emulsions containing 2.5 wt% corn oil, 0.1125 wt% Blg, 0.1 wt% pectin, and 0.15 wt% chitosan. The stability of primary, secondary, and tertiary emulsions to pH (3–7), NaCl (0–500 mM), and thermal treatment (30 min at 30–90°C) was determined using particle size, ζ-potential, and microstructure analysis. Primary emulsions were unstable at all pH, salt concentrations, and thermal treatments. Secondary emulsions were stable to droplet aggregation and creaming at 30–90°C, at ≤100 mM NaCl, and at pH 3–5, whereas tertiary emulsions were stable at 30–60°C, at ≤100 mM NaCl, and at pH 3–6. These findings provide a better understanding of the possible use of these biopolymers to engineer O/W emulsion systems with improved physical stability.
Clinical Trials in Hypertension

Henry Black, ed. 606 pp. New York: Marcel Dekker; 2001. $225.00. ISBN 0-8247-02700 Large, randomized clinical trials of treatments with blood pressure–lowering drug regimens have a long history that is usually dated from the Veterans Administration (since renamed the Department of Veterans Affairs) (VA) Cooperative Study on Antihypertensive Drugs, which reported results from 1967–1972. This useful book collects in one 660-page volume a good part of that history, including an attempt (in the last 5 chapters) to give a flavor of ongoing activity. In all cases, the chapters are authored by ≥1 of the clinical and/or coordinating center leaders of the particular trial and thus often give insights into the thinking behind the design, conduct, and interpretation, which is otherwise not easily available. The chapters on completed trials also collect in 1 place the information from many separate publications on the methods and results of the trials; eg, upwards of 30 study reports are cited in the Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program (HDFP) chapter. The book’s organization is approximately chronological, which provides the reader who troubles to start at the beginning the special pleasure of (re)discovering many groundbreaking and still relevant features of …
Detecting and excluding significant left main coronary artery narrowing by echocardiography

Two-dimensional echocardiography (2-D echo) of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) was attempted in 50 patients undergoing arteriography to evaluate 2-D echo for recognition of significant stenosis of the LMCA. Although the echocardiographer was experienced and used rigorous technique, visualization of the LMCA adequate for making a judgment regarding lumen reduction was possible in only 37 patients (74%). Of the 10 studies with suspected positive findings for LMCA stenosis by 2-D echo, 4 yielded true-positive and 6 false-positive results. A study from 1 other patient with LMCA stenosis by angiography was erroneously interpreted as negative by 2-D echo. Analysis of arteriograms in the 6 patients with false positive 2-D echo readings failed to implicate significant proximal left anterior descending artery narrowing as the cause of the errors. Although 2-D echo was correct in indicating the presence or absence of LMCA stenosis in 30 of 37 patients, and the predictive value of a negative 2-D echo response was 96%, the noninvasive method appears to be inadequate as a screening test. Widespread use of the procedure is limited by the 26% failure rate for adequate studies in experienced hands, and the implications of the occasional false-negative finding. If LMCA stenosis is suspected by 2-D echo in a patient who needs arteriography, the special care given to this possibility by the arteriographer should not harm the patient.
Microhydrodynamics of sharp corners and edges: Traction singularities

Sharp corners and edges are ubiquitous in modem technology and found on the tip of an atomic force microscope (AFM) and the vertices and edges of clystalline materials. The microhydrodynamics of particles with sharp corners and edges are special in that geometric discontinuities give rise to traction singularities for viscous flow around the particles. Such traction fields are analyzed with both analytical and numerical solution of a second kind integral equation. The traction field in the vicinity of a vertex has a singular structure that is more intricate than simple superposition of the well-known edge singularities. The new insights into the structure of the vertex singularities are used to formulate and test spectral element strategies for numerical solution of viscous flow past sharp corners and edges. The best schemes constructed to date show remarkable agreement with the analytical results.
A cost comparison of MCA doppler velocimetry and OD450 in the management of red cell alloimmunized pregnancies

MANAGEMENT OF RED CELL ALLOIMMUNIZED PREGNANCIES SHANE REEVES, HONOR WOLFE, KENNETH MOISE, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Obstetrics and Gynecology Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina OBJECTIVE: To compare the cost of managing RBC alloimmunized pregnancies with middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (MCA-PSV) or amniotic fluid DOD450. STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective cohort study comparing the cost of management with DOD450 or MCA-PSV. Charges (normalized to 2005 institutional charges) were tabulated until initial cordocentesis or delivery. Cost was adjusted for GA at diagnosis, prior affected pregnancy, and severity of RBC alloimmunization. Pregnancy complications and neonatal outcomes were analyzed by Student’s t test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and Chi square. RESULTS: 44 patients were managed by DOD450 and 35 by MCA-PSV. There was no difference in maternal demographics, initial antibody titer, or antibody type. The MCA-PSV cohort had more prior affected pregnancies (35% vs. 19%), an earlier gestational age at diagnosis (23.5 wks vs. 26.8 wks), and more total intrauterine transfusions (13 vs 1). There was no difference in the gestational age at intervention or delivery, rate of IUFD, PPROM, chorioamnionitis, or preterm delivery. Neonatal outcomes (duration of NICU stay, neonatal anemia, postnatal peak bilirubin, and need for postnatal phototherapy or transfusions) were comparable. MCA-PSV had a significantly higher cost than management by DOD450 even after adjusting for the GA at diagnosis, severity of neonatal disease, and prior Rh-affected pregnancy. (Table 1). CONCLUSION: Management of RBC alloimmunization by assessment of amniotic fluid DOD450 appears to be associated with a lower cost and no increased risk of adverse perinatal outcome compared to MCA-PSV. Further study is needed to evaluate for differences in pregnancy complications and neonatal outcome.
Cancer as a cause of death among people with AIDS in the United States.

BACKGROUND People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and AIDS have an elevated risk for cancer. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), which has been widely available since 1996, has resulted in dramatic decreases in AIDS-related deaths. METHODS We evaluated cancer as a cause of death in a US registry-based cohort of 83,282 people with AIDS (1980-2006). Causes of death due to AIDS-defining cancers (ADCs) and non-ADCs (NADCs) were assessed. We evaluated mortality rates and the fraction of deaths due to cancer. Poisson regression assessed rates according to calendar year of AIDS onset. RESULTS Overall mortality decreased from 302 deaths per 1000 person-years in 1980-1989, to 140 deaths per 1000 person-years in 1990-1995, and to 29 deaths per 1000 person-years in 1996-2006. ADC-related mortality decreased from 2.95 deaths per 1000 person-years in 1980-1989 to 0.65 deaths per 1000 person-years in 1996-2006 (P < .01), but the fraction of ADC-related deaths increased from 1.05% to 2.47% in association with decreases in other AIDS-related deaths. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma was the most common cancer-related cause of death (36% of deaths during 1996-2006). Likewise, NADC-related mortality decreased from 2.21 to 0.84 deaths per 1000 person-years from the period 1980-1989 to the period 1996-2006 (P < .05), but the fraction of NADC-deaths increased to 3.16% during 1996-2006. Lung cancer was the most common NADC cause of death (21% of cancer-related deaths in 1996-2006). CONCLUSIONS Cancer-related mortality decreased in the HAART era, but because of decreasing mortality due to AIDS, cancers account for a growing fraction of deaths. Improved cancer prevention and treatment, particularly for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and lung cancer, would reduce mortality among people with AIDS.
The sensitivity analysis-based corrective control scheme of power system

Power system stability is divided into two main components, namely the transient stability involving short term dynamics and the voltage stability involving long term dynamics of power system. The two problems can be studied within a unified environment. The unified index of system stability can give a common measure of voltage stability and angle stability. Thus, the transient stability and the voltage stability can be considered in the corrective control scheme simultaneously. In this paper, the sensitivity analysis-based method is proposed to determine the corrective actions to improve the system transient stability and voltage stability.
Treatment Intensity Effects of Interactive Book Reading on Narrative Abilities in Preschool Children With SLI

This preliminary study examined the effects of interactive storybook reading on narrative abilities in 12 preschool children with specific language impairment (SLI) in two treatment intensity condi...
Adaptive multiple description coding for Internet video

Transmission of compressed video over unreliable networks such as the Internet will inevitably result in serious degradations in video quality. Therefore, multiple description coding (MDC) encodes the video signal into a number of bit streams (descriptions) such that receiving a description improves the video quality. Among the different MDC schemes, spatial/temporal sub-sampling is a low complexity encoding/decoding scheme, however these MDC schemes are vulnerable to varying channel conditions and visual content. To guarantee better image quality during transmission, we propose an adaptive scheme that alternates between two simple MDC schemes depending on the channel status and underlying visual content. The proposed scheme achieves substantial robustness over packet lossy networks. Furthermore, a multilayer perceptron (MLP) network is designed to provide an on-line decision mechanism with 85% accuracy. Experimental results suggest that our approach can achieve a superior video quality for a wide range of packet loss and video content.
Subpixel resolution in 3D television for teleoperation

Four trained human subjects were tested for subpixel resolution capabilities, by presenting two identical 3D targets at depths differing in disparity by fractions of a pixel difference. All four observers were able to use the subpixel information when evaluating the relative depth perceived between the two bars. With a viewing distance of 1.3 m, and a stereo camera rig configured to yield a pixel depth resolution of over 5 mm, the observers have demonstrated depth resolution of 1 mm. For high-precision teleoperation, that is, precision on the order of millimeters, these results may extend operator capabilities. >
Transcriptional mapping of two yeast genes coding for glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase isolated by sequence homology with the chicken gene.

Abstract Homology between the coding regions of the chicken and yeast glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) genes was directly demonstrated by the hybridization of cDNA clone coding for GAPDH in the chicken with Eco RI-digested yeast DNA. A yeast Eco RI fragment library in bacteriophage λ was screened using the chichen cDNA plasmid as probe, and two recombinant phages were isolated, each one containing a different GAPDH gene. The initiation and termination sites for the GAPDH mRNA were localized for the two different GAPDH genes and compared to those of other yeast genes. Measurements of the relative mRNA levels for the two genes show both genes are transcribed at about the same level when yeast are grown on glucose media.
Development of Exploration and Investigation in the Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus)

A cross-sectional study of the development of spontaneous exploratory behavior in the laboratory rat was conducted. Long-Evans hooded rat pups aged 11 to 28 days (n = 158, from 25 litters) were pla...
A framework for developing ecosystem-specific nutrient criteria: Integrating biological thresholds with predictive modeling

We present a novel ecosystem-specific framework for developing nutrient criteria from biological thresholds and predictive modeling (BTPM) and an application of this framework to lakes in Michigan, U.S. The four main components for the BTPM framework are: (1) to predict each ecosystem’s ‘expected nutrient concentration’ in the absence of human effects using a predictive model, (2) to identify important biological thresholds along a nutrient gradient (i.e., biological [BIO] benchmarks), (3) to determine each ecosystem’s current nutrient concentration, and (4) to use the above information to derive a nutrient criterion for each ecosystem using the BTPM algorithm. The BTPM framework is extremely flexible in that it can be applied to any aquatic ecosystem type or nutrient and the four components can be implemented in a variety of ways. Our BTPM framework has two additional features: it recognizes that prior to human disturbance, ecosystems varied in their natural nutrient concentrations, and it incorporates risk into the decision-making process. In the simplest scheme, a nutrient criterion is set at a BIO benchmark greater than the expected nutrient concentration. However, to protect ecosystems more conservatively, a criterion is set at current lake nutrient concentrations if current is less than the BIO benchmark. In our application of the BTPM framework, we developed total phosphorus (TP) criteria for a diverse set of 374 lakes in MI. The expected lake TP concentrations in the absence of human effects ranged from 3 m gL 21 to 24 m gL 21, suggesting that a single criterion approach would not be appropriate. We found two predominant benchmarks in the biological data along the TP gradient, one for zooplankton metrics at 8 m gL 21, and one for phytoplankton metrics at 18 m gL 21. We present the sequence of analyses and decisions that could be used to apply this approach in a management context using Michigan lakes as an example.
Divalent cation-induced cluster formation by polyphosphoinositides in model membranes

Polyphosphoinositides (PPIs) and in particular phosphatidylinositol-(4,5)-bisphosphate (PI4,5P2), control many cellular events and bind with variable levels of specificity to hundreds of intracellular proteins in vitro. The much more restricted targeting of proteins to PPIs in cell membranes is thought to result in part from the formation of spatially distinct PIP2 pools, but the mechanisms that cause formation and maintenance of PIP2 clusters are still under debate. The hypothesis that PIP2 forms submicrometer-sized clusters in the membrane by electrostatic interactions with intracellular divalent cations is tested here using lipid monolayer and bilayer model membranes. Competitive binding between Ca(2+) and Mg(2+) to PIP2 is quantified by surface pressure measurements and analyzed by a Langmuir competitive adsorption model. The physical chemical differences among three PIP2 isomers are also investigated. Addition of Ca(2+) but not Mg(2+), Zn(2+), or polyamines to PIP2-containing monolayers induces surface pressure drops coincident with the formation of PIP2 clusters visualized by fluorescence, atomic force, and electron microscopy. Studies of bilayer membranes using steady-state probe-partitioning fluorescence resonance energy transfer (SP-FRET) and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) also reveal divalent metal ion (Me(2+))-induced cluster formation or diffusion retardation, which follows the trend: Ca(2+) ≫ Mg(2+) > Zn(2+), and polyamines have minimal effects. These results suggest that divalent metal ions have substantial effects on PIP2 lateral organization at physiological concentrations, and local fluxes in their cytoplasmic levels can contribute to regulating protein-PIP2 interactions.
Dietary Fiber, Lung Function, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study

Recent data suggest beneficial effects of fiber intake on chronic respiratory symptoms in adults that are independent of antioxidant vitamin intake, but little is known about fiber consumption in relation to lung function and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The authors investigated the association of fiber intake with lung function and COPD in 11,897 US men and women from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study (1987-1989). After control for potential confounders, positive associations were found between lung function and fiber intake from all sources as well as from cereal or fruit alone. Compared with those in the lowest quintile, participants in the highest quintile of total fiber intake had a 60.2-ml higher forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV(1)) (p for trend < 0.001), 55.2-ml higher forced vital capacity (FVC) (p = 0.001), 0.4% higher FEV(1)/FVC ratio (p = 0.040), 1.8% higher percent predicted FEV(1) (p < 0.001), and 1.4% higher percent predicted FVC (p = 0.001). Adjusted odds ratios of COPD for the highest versus lowest quintiles of intake were 0.85 (p = 0.044) for total fiber, 0.83 (p = 0.021) for cereal fiber, and 0.72 (p = 0.005) for fruit fiber. This study provides the first known evidence that dietary fiber is independently associated with better lung function and reduced prevalence of COPD.
Alcohol dehydrogenase in Drosophila: isolation and characterization of messenger RNA and cDNA clone

Abstract The mRNA for alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) in D. melanogaster has been identified by translation in a cell-free system. The in vitro synthesized polypeptide, specifically precipitated by anti-ADH antibody, has identical subunit molecular weight (25,000 daltons) and tryptic peptide profile to the in vivo synthesized ADH. The poly A containing ADH-mRNA has been purified by specific precipitation of ADH-polysomes using anti-ADH antibody and S. aureus. Transformation of E. coli with the dA-tailed ADH-mRNA-complementary DNA hybrid annealed to the dT-tailed pBR322 yielded one plasmid which has been identified as the ADH-cDNA clone. The identification involved hybridization selection of ADH-mRNA and in vitro translation, in situ hybridization to the Adh locus on salivary gland polytene chromosomes and DNA sequencing. This ADH-cDNA plasmid contains 349 bases of the C-terminal protein coding and 180 bases of the 3' untranslated region.
Novel rational fraction approximations for passive network functions

In electrical engineering, the designer is often presented with the problem of synthesizing a circuit for which the mathematical specifications are unsuitable for physical realization. Hence, the engineer must approximate as well as possible the prescribed network function by another function which is realizable. This paper describes a new approximation method for solving the problem of realizing passive network transfer functions, where the realization is carried out through the use of passive, reciprocal, lumped, linear, and time-invariant elements.
Biosensing with Förster Resonance Energy Transfer Coupling between Fluorophores and Nanocarbon Allotropes

Nanocarbon allotropes (NCAs), including zero-dimensional carbon dots (CDs), one-dimensional carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and two-dimensional graphene, exhibit exceptional material properties, such as unique electrical/thermal conductivity, biocompatibility and high quenching efficiency, that make them well suited for both electrical/electrochemical and optical sensors/biosensors alike. In particular, these material properties have been exploited to significantly enhance the transduction of biorecognition events in fluorescence-based biosensing involving Forster resonant energy transfer (FRET). This review analyzes current advances in sensors and biosensors that utilize graphene, CNTs or CDs as the platform in optical sensors and biosensors. Widely utilized synthesis/fabrication techniques, intrinsic material properties and current research examples of such nanocarbon, FRET-based sensors/biosensors are illustrated. The future outlook and challenges for the research field are also detailed.
Fundamental Concepts in Stress Analysis

In this chapter the basic theorems of linear elasticity are reviewed, and some fundamental definitions in plasticity theory are discussed. These concepts form the basis of all types of stress analysis, and will be utilized in subsequent chapters for the analysis of the deformation distributions that cause residual stress fields.