cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Primary care physicians' use of lumbar spine imaging tests: effects of guidelines and practice pattern feedback.

Objective To reduce variability in primary care physicians’ use of procedures for imaging the lumbar spine.
Comparison of high-dose CY and growth factor with growth factor alone for mobilization of stem cells for transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma

We retrospectively analyzed outcomes of 716 patients with multiple myeloma who were mobilized using CY and growth factor (n=370) or growth factor alone (n=346) before SCT. Patients receiving CY had higher stem cell yields than the growth factor only group (median number of apheresis sessions needed to achieve stem cell collection goals, two vs four sessions, respectively (P=0.001)). However, patients treated with CY required more time for engraftment of platelets and neutrophils (P<0.001 for both). For patients receiving CY, 75% achieved engraftment (defined as a platelet count of 50 x 10(9)/l) by day 39, whereas 75% of patients not receiving CY achieved engraftment by day 18. Similar results were observed for neutrophil engraftment. These differences did not affect the duration of hospitalization, but patients treated with CY had a higher incidence of post transplant nonstaphylococcal bacteremia. For CY-mobilized patients, considerably faster platelet engraftment (5 fewer days) resulted if stem cell reinfusion occurred more than 30 days after the first apheresis session. Our data suggested that CY damaged the microenvironment and slowed engraftment. By lengthening the period between the completion of apheresis and stem cell reinfusion, the microenvironment may recover and result in faster engraftment.
Deployment and early experience with remote-presence patient care in a community hospital

Background The introduction of the RP6 (InTouch Health, Santa Barbara, CA, USA) remote-presence “robot” appears to offer a useful telemedicine device. The authors describe the deployment and early experience with the RP6 in a community hospital and provided a live demonstration of the system on April 16, 2005 during the Emerging Technologies Session of the 2005 SAGES Meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Gel permeation chromatography of dextrans in parenteral solutions: Calibration procedure development and method validation

We describe development and validation of a gel permeation chromatographic (GPC) method for dextrans in parenteral solutions. The GPC method was adopted from USP monographs on Dextran 40 and Dextran 70 raw materials. The method was optimized with a mobile phase flow rate of 1 mL/min and column temperature of 40 degrees C, to sharpen dextran and dextrose peaks. An easy-to-use, curve-fitting program capable of non-linear regression was developed in-house, using Microsoft Excel and its Solver add-in to successfully meet the GPC calibration requirements for dextrans and dextrose, i.e., the experimental molecular weights within 100+/-5% of the known molecular weights for dextrans and molecular weight of dextrose within 180+/-2 Da. The GPC method was validated in terms of its stability indicating nature, robustness (column temperature of 40+/-3 degrees C), accuracy (lack of effects of pH and concentration of dextrans or matrix components), and precision (repeatability and intermediate). Molecular weight distribution of dextrans were unchanged when the dextran containing test solutions were subjected to forced degradation using heat, light (daylight and UV light), extreme alkaline conditions or oxidative conditions. The method was capable of detecting changes in molecular weight distribution caused by degradation under extreme acidic conditions and heat, thereby confirming the stability indicating nature of the method. The concentration of Dextran 40 and Dextran 70 (75-125% of the nominal assay concentration), matrix components (108-111% of their nominal concentrations), and solution pH (pH 3-7 for Dextran 40 solutions and pH 4-7 for Dextran 70 solutions) did not affect the measured molecular weight distribution of Dextran 40 or Dextran 70. The method was precise with %R.S.D. of less than 1% for M (W) values of Dextran 40 or Dextran 70.
Norethindrone plasma levels in human subjects

Abstract An analytical procedure for the estimation of norethindrone (17β-hydrox-19-nor-17α-pregn-4-en-20-yn-3-one) in human plasma has been developed. After extraction and purification on a silver ion exchange column, norethindrone is converted to a methoxime-trimethylsilyl ether derivative and measured by a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer-accelerating voltage alternator system. Norethindrone- 13 C 20,21 −7−2 H is used as a carrier and internal standard. Results correlated well with those obtained by radiochromatography. Maximum plasma levels of norethindrone in chronically treated and naive subjects ranged from 17–38 ng/ml.
Developing multifunctional tissue simulating phantoms for quantitative biomedical optical imaging

Many advantages of biomedical optical imaging modalities include low cost, portability, no radiation hazard, molecular sensitivity, and real-time non-invasive measurements of multiple tissue parameters. However, clinical acceptance of optical imaging is hampered by the lack of calibration standards and validation techniques. In this context, developing phantoms that simulate tissue structural, functional, and molecular properties is important for reliable performance and successful translation of biomedical optical imaging techniques to clinical applications. Over the years, we have developed various tissue simulating phantoms to validate imaging algorithms, to optimize instrument performance, to test contrast agents, and to calibrate acquisition systems. We also developed phantoms with multimodal contrasts for co-registration between different imaging modalities. In order to study tissue dynamic changes during medical intervention, we develop gel wax phantoms to simulate tissue optical and mechanical dynamics in response to compression load. We also dispersed heat sensitive microbubbles in agar agar gel phantoms to simulate heatinduced tissue coagulative necrosis in a cancer ablation procedure. The phantom systems developed in our lab have the potential to provide standardized traceable tools for multimodal imaging and image-guided intervention.
Serotonergic pharmacotherapy promotes cortical reorganization after spinal cord injury

Cortical reorganization plays a significant role in recovery of function after injury of the central nervous system. The neural mechanisms that underlie this reorganization may be the same as those normally responsible for skilled behaviors that accompany extended sensory experience and, if better understood, could provide a basis for further promoting recovery of function after injury. The work presented here extends studies of spontaneous cortical reorganization after spinal cord injury to the role of rehabilitative strategies on cortical reorganization. We use a complete spinal transection model to focus on cortical reorganization in response to serotonergic (5-HT) pharmacotherapy without any confounding effects from spared fibers left after partial lesions. 5-HT pharmacotherapy has previously been shown to improve behavioral outcome after SCI but the effect on cortical organization is unknown. After a complete spinal transection in the adult rat, 5-HT pharmacotherapy produced more reorganization in the sensorimotor cortex than would be expected by transection alone. This reorganization was dose dependent, extended into intact (forelimb) motor cortex, and, at least in the hindlimb sensorimotor cortex, followed a somatotopic arrangement. Animals with the greatest behavioral outcome showed the greatest extent of cortical reorganization suggesting that the reorganization is likely to be in response to both direct effects of 5-HT on cortical circuits and indirect effects in response to the behavioral improvement below the level of the lesion.
Comparison of CBS-QB3, CBS-APNO, and G3 Predictions of Gas Phase Deprotonation Data

The G3, CBS-QB3, and CBS-APNO methods have been used to calculate ΔH and ΔG values for deprotonation of seventeen gas-phase reactions where the experimental values are reported to be accurate within one kcal/mol. For these reactions, the mean absolute deviation of these three methods from experiment is 0.84 to 1.26 kcal/mol, and the root-mean-square deviation for ΔG and ΔH is 1.43 and 1.49 kcal/mol for the CBS-QB3 method, 1.06 and 1.14 kcal/mol for the CBS-APNO method, and 1.16 and 1.28 for the G3 method. The high accuracy of these methods makes them reliable for calculating gas-phase deprotonation reactions, and allows them to serve as a valuable check on the accuracy of experimental data reported in the National Institutes of Standards and Technology database.
Ionospheric Data Assimilation Three‐Dimensional (IDA3D): A global, multisensor, electron density specification algorithm

[1] With the advent of the Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements (from both ground-based and satellite-based receivers), the number of available ionospheric measurements has dramatically increased. Total electron content (TEC) measurements from GPS instruments augment observations from more traditional ionospheric instruments like ionospheric sounders and Langmuir probes. This volume of data creates both an opportunity and a need for the observations to be collected into coherent synoptic scale maps. This paper describes the Ionospheric Data Assimilation Three-Dimensional (IDA3D), an ionospheric objective analysis algorithm. IDA3D uses a three-dimensional variational data assimilation technique (3DVAR), similar to those used in meteorology. IDA3D incorporates available data, the associated data error covariances, a reasonable background specification, and the expected background error covariance into a coherent specification on a global grid. It is capable of incorporating most electron density related measurements including GPS-TEC measurements, low-Earth-orbiting “beacon” TEC, and electron density measurements from radars and satellites. At present, the background specification is based upon empirical ionospheric models, but IDA3D is capable of using any global ionospheric specification as a background. In its basic form, IDA3D produces a spatial analysis of the electron density distribution at a specified time. A time series of these specifications can be created using past specifications to determine the background for the current analysis. IDA3D specifications are able to reproduce dynamic features of electron density, including the movement of the auroral boundary and the strength of the trough region.
Omniscient organizations and bodily observations: electronic surveillance in the workplace

Explores the extent of employee surveillance in the western world and queries why the USA uses surveillance measures to a greater extent than other developed nations. Suggests that American managers choose surveillance methods which include the control of workers’ bodies in the production process. Lists the batteries of tests and monitoring to which US employees can now be subjected – including searching employee computer files, voice/e‐mail, monitoring telephone calls, drug tests, alcohol tests, criminal record checks, lie detector and handwriting tests. Notes also the companies which are opposed to worker and consumer privacy rights. Pinpoints the use of surveillance as a means to ensure that employees do not withold production. Reports that employees dislike monitoring and that it may adversely affect their performance and productivity. Argues that Americans like to address complex social problems with technological means, there are no data protection laws in the USA, and that these two factors, combin...
New investigation findings on the 2006 Danvers, MA explosion

Abstract On November 22, 2006 the largest explosion in the history of Massachusetts occurred in Danvers, MA at approximately 2:46 am. This paper presents a detailed analysis into the potential causes and lessons learned from the Danvers explosion. Other investigative groups concluded that the cause of the explosion was an overheated production tank. However, the analyses presented here demonstrate that their proposed scenario could not have occurred and that other potential causes are more likely. Using the computational fluid dynamics tool FLACS, it was possible to investigate the chain of events leading to the explosion, including: (1) evaluating various leak scenarios by modeling the dispersion and mixing of gases and vapors within the facility, (2) evaluating potential ignition sources within the facility of the flammable fuel–air mixture, and (3) evaluating the explosion itself by comparing the resulting overpressures of the exploding fuel–air cloud with the structural response of the facility and the observed near-field and far-field blast damage. These results, along with key witness statements and other analyses, provide valuable insight into the likely cause of this incident. Based on the results of our detailed analysis, lessons learned regarding the investigative procedure and methods for mitigating this and future explosions are discussed.
Growth Consequences of Terrorism in Western Europe

SUMMARY This paper presents panel estimates for 18 Western Europe countries to ascertain the separate impacts of domestic and transnational terrorism on income per capita growth for 1971–2004. The paper merges domestic and transnational terrorist events in order to attribute growth impacts to the two broad categories of terrorism. Each additional transnational terrorist incident per million persons reduces economic growth by about 0.4 percentage points. Domestic terrorism has a much smaller effect on growth that is about half this size. Terrorism's negative impact on growth is related to the scale of terrorism in the sample countries in order to give a better idea of what is the average consequence in most sample countries. These negative impacts are shown to stem from domestic and transnational terrorism's adverse influence on investment shares. Counterterrorism efforts also augment government spending, which crowds out growth-promoting investment. We show that the pathway by which domestic and transnational terrorism influences growth differs. For example, transnational terrorism works more through the crowding out of investment, while domestic terrorism works more through the increase in government expenditure increases. A host of sensitivity tests are performed to support our empirical model. Policy recommendations conclude the paper – e.g., measures to curb transnational terrorist attacks have a higher economic payoff than similar measures to reduce domestic terrorist events. Since transnational terrorism has a larger impact on income per capita growth than does domestic terrorism, West European efforts to curb transnational terrorism will have a greater economic dividend than efforts to limit domestic terrorism.
Time-dependent approach to high-resolution spectroscopy and quantum dynamics of Rydberg atoms in crossed magnetic and electric fields

We present a general time-dependent approach for efficient and accurate treatment of high-resolution spectrocopy and quantum dynamics. The procedure is applied to an ab initio time-dependent study of three-dimensional Rydberg H atoms in crossed magnetic and electric fields with spectral accuracy. Good agreement with the high-resolution experimental photoabsorption spectrum is obtained line by line, including a regime well above the Stark saddle point. We have further explored the physical origin of several unexplored perplexing phenomena in the higher-energy regime observed in the experiment.
A study of the MMPI clinical and research scales for post-traumatic stress disorder diagnostic utility

Controversy exists as to the utility of the MMPI in diagnosing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies of an empirically developed PTSD Subscale for the MMPI have had conflicting results. In this study 84 MMPI clinical and research scales, including the PTSD Subscale, of 234 Vietnam War veterans (+PTSD=117, -PTSD=117) were compared to determine the clinical usefulness of the scales for differential diagnosis of PTSD. The veterans were all inpatients applying for admission to a PTSD treatment program. The MMPI clinical profile for PTSD was corroborated, though it had little statistically significant difference than the average profile of the -PTSD group. The PTSD Subscale was slightly better than chance in classifying veterans. A number of research scales were found to be as or more accurate than the PTSD Subscale in terms of true hit rates.
Lossless Linear Transformation of Sensor Data for Distributed Estimation Fusion

In distributed estimation fusion, processed data from each sensor is sent to the fusion center. By taking linear transformation of the raw measurements of each sensor, two optimal distributed fusion algorithms are proposed in this paper. Compared with existing fusion algorithms, they have three nice properties. First, they are optimal in the sense that they are equivalent to the optimal centralized fusion. Second, their communication requirements from each sensor to the fusion center are equal to or less than those of the centralized and most existing distributed fusion algorithms. Third, they do not need the inverses of estimation error covariance matrices, which are assumed to exist in most existing algorithms but can not be guaranteed to exist. So the proposed algorithms can be applied in more cases. Pros and cons of these two new algorithms are analyzed. A possible way to reduce the computational complexity of the new algorithms, an extension to the case of a singular covariance matrix of measurement noise, and an extension to the reduced-rate communication case for some simple systems are also discussed.
Price and quality effects on the demand for U.S. graduate business programs

This study identifies the factors that influence the demand for U.S. graduate business programs, using the entire population of schools as the basis for analysis. The study found that higher education institutions, at least graduate business programs, are not immune to the market forces of cost, quality, and trend. Schools that provide better value enjoy success, and those that do not, endure setbacks. Program demand was most sensitive to the tuition change and was moderately elastic. Schools that increased their tuition faster than others suffered significant enrollment declines. In addition, programs that were either accredited by the International Association for Management Education, publicly funded schools, or located in regions with generally rising enrollments enjoyed increased enrollments. Those that were either not accredited, private schools, or less favorably located suffered declines.
Model-based design of experiments for cellular processes

Model-based design of experiments (MBDOE) assists in the planning of highly effective and efficient experiments. Although the foundations of this field are well- established, the application of these techniques to understand cellular processes is a fertile and rapidly advancing area as the community seeks to understand ever more complex cellular processes and systems. This review discusses the MBDOE paradigm along with applications and challenges within the context of cellular processes and systems. It also provides a brief tutorial on Fisher information matrix (FIM)-based and Bayesian experiment design methods along with an overview of existing software packages and computational advances that support MBDOE application and adoption within the Systems Biology community. As cell- based products and biologics progress into the commercial sector, it is anticipated that MBDOE will become an essential practice for design, quality control, and production. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. How to cite this article:
Arousal interventions for athletic performance: Influence of mental preparation and competitive experience

Abstract Mental preparation, or “psych-up” strategies have been assumed to promote physical arousal which subsequently improves certain athletic performances. The present experiment examined the role of arousal changes in the use of psych-up strategies on a physical strength task and a reaction time-decision task for subjects varying in competitive experience. Eighty-four subjects were reliably divided into high, moderate, or low competitive experience groups and randomly assigned to one of three mental preparation strategies. These strageies, which the subjects employed during a mental preparation period for both tasks, were either: (a) a self-generated arousal strategy, (b) a prescribed arousal strategy, or (c) a placebo-control strategy. While heart rate was being monitored, each subject completed a baseline trial, then one trial following a 45 sec mental preparation period and one trial following a 45 sec distraction interval. Order of presentation of tasks and order of presentation of distraction and...
Prevalence of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacter cloacae in the Asia-Pacific Region: Results from the SENTRY Antimicrobial Surveillance Program, 1998 to 2001

Enterobacter cloacae strains from hospitalized patients with a range of infections were collected by 17 laboratories in the Asia-Pacific region and South Africa. Isolates for which ceftriaxone MICs were above 1 μg/ml and/or ceftazidime MICs were above 2 μg/ml, as well as 46 strains for which ceftriaxone and/or ceftazidime MICs were at or below these values, were screened for levels of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production through the use of broth microdilution for the detection of clavulanate enhancement of the activity of ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, and cefepime. Of the isolates examined, ceftriaxone and/or ceftazidime had elevated MICs for 44%, of which 36% were ESBL positive. ESBL-positive strains were commonly susceptible to piperacillin-tazobactam and more frequently resistant to several other antimicrobials studied. A cefepime MIC above 0.25 μg/ml had the highest sensitivity (100%) and specificity (74%) for predicting the presence of an ESBL.
Commentary: The veteran: “A need to talk but no one wanted to hear about it”

COMMENTARY ON Patton CM, Hung M, Lawrence BD, et al. Psychological distress in a Department of Veterans Affairs spine patient population. Spine J 2012;12:798–803 ( in this issue ).
Duration of intra-aortic balloon pump use and related complications.

AbstractBackground: Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) use may be associated with complications; however, in certain patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with hemodynamic instability refractory to medical management its use may become necessary.Methods: 36 STEMI patients with IABP placement for hemodynamic instability after percutaneous coronary intervention were studied. IABP duration ranged from one to seven days (median two days). Based on median time, patients were divided into two groups: IABP duration ≤ 2 days (n = 27) or > 2 days (n = 9). Vascular complications and incidence of bleeding were compared.Results: Mean IABP duration was 1.4 ± 0.5 and 4.1 ± 1.3 days in ≤ 2 day and > 2 day groups, respectively (P 2 day groups, respectively (P < 0.05). Complications (vascular, access site bleed...
Efficacy of a volatile formulation of hydroprene (Pointsource) to control Tribolium castaneum and Tribolium confusum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

Three- and 4-week-old Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), the red flour beetle, and Tribolium confusum (du Val), the confused flour beetle, were exposed at five different temperature–relative humidity (r.h.) combinations to a volatile formulation of the insect growth regulator (IGR) hydroprene (called Pointsourcet). Typical effects associated with IGR exposure, such as arrested larval growth, morphological deformities in adults, twisted and deformed wings, and incomplete adult emergence were produced in both species. Tribolium castaneum and T. confusum were susceptible to Pointsourcet, but T. castaneum appeared to be the more susceptible species. More 3-week-old larvae of both species were arrested in that stage compared to the 4-week-old larvae. Nearly all of the 3- and 4-week-old T. castaneum larvae that were able to complete development to the adult stage quickly died after they emerged and were grossly morphologically deformed. In contrast, some emerged adult T. confusum remained alive after they emerged and were not deformed in any manner or had only twisted and incomplete wings. A greater percentage of larvae of both species were arrested in the larval stage and more adults died after they emerged in exposure studies conducted at 321C, 75% r.h. as compared with 321C, 30% r.h., but the reverse was true for exposures conducted at 271C. Pointsourcet appears to have excellent potential for use in controlling Tribolium species within indoor facilities. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.
Conformational Adaptation Drives Potent, Selective and Durable Inhibition of the Human Protein Methyltransferase DOT1L

DOT1L is the human protein methyltransferase responsible for catalyzing the methylation of histone H3 on lysine 79 (H3K79). The ectopic activity of DOT1L, associated with the chromosomal translocation that is a universal hallmark of MLL-rearranged leukemia, is a required driver of leukemogenesis in this malignancy. Here, we present studies on the structure-activity relationship of aminonucleoside-based DOT1L inhibitors. Within this series, we find that improvements in target enzyme affinity and selectivity are driven entirely by diminution of the dissociation rate constant for the enzyme-inhibitor complex, leading to long residence times for the binary complex. The biochemical K(i) and residence times measured for these inhibitors correlate well with their effects on intracellular H3K79 methylation and MLL-rearranged leukemic cell killing. Crystallographic studies reveal a conformational adaptation mechanism associated with high-affinity inhibitor binding and prolonged residence time; these studies also suggest that conformational adaptation likewise plays a critical role in natural ligand interactions with the enzyme, hence, facilitating enzyme turnover. These results provide critical insights into the role of conformational adaptation in the enzymatic mechanism of catalysis and in pharmacologic intervention for DOT1L and other members of this enzyme class.
Motion of a charged particle in a randomly varying magnetic field

The motion of a charged particle in a randomly varying uniform magnetic field is investigated. Stability of the mean position and mean square displacement are determined rigorously in the case of random binary variations (telegraph signal). It is found that the mean position can be stable if the fluctuating part of the magnetic field is large enough compared to the uniform background. The stability regions are obtained in the parameter plane. It is also found that the mean square displacement can be unstable even in the region where the mean is stable. After an initial diffusive motion (with a calculable diffusion coefficient), the charged particle either acquires wild oscillations in its trajectory (stable mean, unstable mean square) or quickly leaves the region where it started (unstable mean).
Dynamic analysis identifies novel roles for DLG-1 subdomains in AJM-1 recruitment and LET-413-dependent apical focusing

Cell-cell junctions are composed of a diverse array of specialized proteins that are necessary for the movement and integrity of epithelia. Scaffolding molecules, such as membrane-associated guanylate kinases (MAGUKs) contain multiple protein-protein interaction domains that integrate these proteins into macromolecular complexes at junctions. We have used structure-function experiments to dissect the role of domains of the Caenorhabditis elegans MAGUK DLG-1, a homolog of Drosophila Discs large and vertebrate SAP97. DLG-1 deletion constructs were analyzed in directed yeast two-hybrid tests as well as in vivo in a dlg-1 null mutant background. Our studies identify novel roles for several key domains. First, the L27 domain of DLG-1 mediates the physical interaction of DLG-1 with its binding partner, AJM-1, as well as DLG-1 multimerization. Second, the PDZ domains of DLG-1 mediate its association with the junction. Third, using dynamic in vivo imaging, we demonstrate that the SH3 domain is required for rapid lateral distribution of DLG-1 via a LET-413/Scribble-dependent pathway. Finally, we found that inclusion of the SH3 domain can ameliorate dlg-1 mutant phenotypes, but full rescue of lethality required the complete C terminus, which includes the GUK and Hook domains, thereby demonstrating the importance of the C-terminus for DLG-1 function. Our results represent the first in vivo analysis of requirements for the L27 domain of a Discs-large/SAP97 protein, identify a crucial LET-413/Scribble regulatory motif and provide insight into how MAGUK subdomains function to maintain epithelial integrity during development.
Changing approaches to rectal prolapse repair in the elderly

Aim: The abdominal approach to rectal prolapse is associated with lower rates of recurrence but a higher chance of complications and has been traditionally reserved for younger patients. However, longer life expectancy and wider use of laparoscopic techniques necessitates another look at the abdominal approach in older patients. Methods: This was a retrospective review of data from patients undergoing abdominal repair of rectal prolapse between 2005 and 2011. Results: Forty-six abdominal repairs (laparoscopic or open suture rectopexy, sigmoidectomy and rectopexy and low anterior resection) were performed during the study period. Twenty-nine repairs (63%) were performed in patients under the age of 70 (average age 51) and 17 (37%) in patients older than 70 (average age 76; range 71–89). Most of the cases performed during the initial 3 years of the study were via laparotomy. However, in the last 4 years, the laparoscopic approach was used in 83% of younger patients and 69% of older patients. Average length of stay was 2.6 days for younger and 3.8 days for older patients. Both groups had similar rates of re-admission: 20% vs 23%. The rate of wound infection was higher in the younger patients (5% vs nil). However, rates of urinary tract infection, two instances (10%) vs four (30%), urinary retention, one instance (5%) vs two (15.4%), ileus, one instance (5%) vs two (15.4%) were higher in the older group. Conclusion: Wider use of laparoscopy has precipitated a change in the approach to rectal prolapse in older patients. Although associated with a slightly higher rate of post-operative complications, the abdominal approach to rectal prolapse is feasible, safe and effective in patients older than 70 years.
Lasing action in waveguide systems and the influence of rough walls

On the basis of the finite-difference time domain method, we have calculated the temporal evolution of the electromagnetic field inside a waveguide system that is bounded by perfectly conducting walls. Part of the waveguide is filled with an active medium whose amplifying properties resulting from stimulated emission processes are modeled by introducing a frequency-dependent conductivity to Maxwell’s equations. An electric noise current that is randomly distributed throughout the gain region is used to model spontaneous emission processes. The feedback provided by the reflections from the walls of the waveguide and the interfaces between the active part and the adjacent vacuum leads to lasing for a sufficiently strong gain medium. Besides this conventional feedback, we also use rough walls for the part of the waveguide that is filled with the gain medium and investigate the influence of this roughness on the output intensity, the frequency spectrum of the emitted light, and the lasing threshold.
Catastrophe models for cognitive workload and fatigue in a vigilance dual task

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated two cusp catastrophe models for cognitive workload and fatigue for a vigilance dual task, the role of emotional intelligence and frustration in the performance dynamics, and the dynamics for individuals and teams of two participants. BACKGROUND: The effects of workload, fatigue, practice, and time on a specific task can be separated with the two models and an appropriate experimental design. Group dynamics add further complications to the understanding of workload and fatigue effects for teams. METHOD: In this experiment, 141 undergraduates responded to target stimuli that appeared on a simulated security camera display at three rates of speed while completing a jigsaw puzzle. Participants worked alone or in pairs and completed additional measurements prior to or after the main tasks. RESULTS: The workload cusp verified the expected effects of speed and frustration on change in performance. The fatigue cusp showed that positive and negative changes in performance were greater if more work on the secondary task was completed and whether the participants who started with the fast vigilance condition demonstrated less fatigue. CONCLUSION: The results supported the efficacy of the cusp models and suggested, furthermore, that training modules that varied speed of presentation could buffer the effects of fatigue. APPLICATION: The cusp models can be used to analyze virtually any cognitively demanding task set. The particular results generalize to vigilance tasks, although a wider range of conditions within vigilance tasks needs to be investigated further. Language: en
A time series model of long-term NSFNET backbone traffic

We used time series analysis to create detailed forecasts of future NSFNET backbone traffic. The resulting autoregressive integrated moving average process (ARIMA) model made quite accurate forecasts of traffic levels up to a year in advance. It appears that the model can make reasonable predictions for two or more years into the future, suggesting that ARIMA modeling has great promise as a tool for long-range NSFNET forecasting and planning. >
High Chrome Refractory Characterization: Part II. Accumulation of Spinel Corrosion Deposits in Radioactive Waste Glass Melters

High Cr2O3 containing Monofrax™ K-3 is a robust refractory that is used in radioactive waste glass melters worldwide. Monofrax™ K-3 contains highly reduced phases. Conversely, many of the radioactive feeds being processed are highly oxidizing. The K-3 refractory corrosion rates in oxidizing (high nitrate) feeds were ~1.8–2.8 times higher than the rates determined using reducing feeds. The corrosion product formed is a mixture of spinel and glass (slag) that can accumulate on the melter floor. A methodology to calculate the depth of slag deposits from refractory corrosion is presented and verified with slag measurements from the Defense Waste Processing Facility (DWPF) melter after it had processed oxidized feeds for 1.75 years. The calculations show that had the facility continued to process oxidized feeds the melter lifetime (based on when the deposits could have reached and blocked the pour spout riser) would have been ~4.5 years. The DWPF changed to a reducing flow sheet after ~3 years of operation. The lifetimes of Melter #1 and Melter #2, assuming a failure due to pour spout blockage, are calculated as 7.7–12 years based on corrosion rates measured with reducing feeds. Lifetimes of 9 and >11 years have actually been achieved.
Trade facilitation and economic development : measuring the impact

The authors analyze the relationship between trade facilitation, trade flows, and GDP per capita in the Asia-Pacific region for the goods sector. They define and measure trade facilitation using four broad indicators. These are constructed using country-specific data for port efficiency, customs environment, regulatory environment, and electronic-business usage. They estimate the relationship between these indicators and trade flows using a gravity model. The model includes tariffs and other standard variables. The authors find that enhanced port efficiency has a large and positive effect on trade. Regulatory barriers deter trade. The results also suggest that improvements in customs and greater electronic-business use significantly expands trade, but to a lesser degree than the effect of ports or regulations. The authors then estimate the benefits of specific trade facilitation efforts by quantifying differential improvement by members of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in these four areas. Based on a scenario in which APEC members below average improve capacity halfway to the average for all members, the authors find that intra-APEC trade could increase by $254 billion. This represents approximately a 21 percent increase in intra-APEC trade flows, about half coming from improved port efficiencies in the region. Using Dollar and Kraay's estimate of the effect of trade on per capita GDP, these improvements in trade facilitation suggest an increase in APEC average per capita GDP of 4.3 percent.
The Wake of St. Vincent

Abstract The island of St. Vincent and the other Windward Islands in the southeastern Caribbean were chosen as a field site for the study of weak mountain wakes. By the authors’ definition, a “weak wake” forms when the potential vorticity generated by a mountain is not strong enough to advect itself into eddies; rather, it is simply advected downstream by the ambient flow. GOES-8 and Landsat sunglint images unambiguously revealed that the mountainous Windward Islands have remarkably long straight wakes. The length of St. Vincent’s wake exceeds 300 km although its width is only 20 km. Near the islands, the wake structures reflect the details of the island topography. These wakes do not exhibit any obvious diurnal effect. Boat surveys in the lee of St. Vincent confirmed the existence of features seen in the images: the sharp wake boundary, the small valley-induced jet embedded in the near wake, and the absence of any reverse flow. Aircraft surveys gave evidence of descent over the island and showed that the...
Sickle cell anemia. Pathophysiology and treatment.

Revue de la physiopathologie de cette hemoglobinopathie. Traitement symptomatique: transfusions sanguines, traitement des crises notamment par le zinc et par l'induction d'hyponatremie, prophylaxie des infections. Traitement prophylactique: inhibiteurs de gelation, agents actifs sur les membranes
Abstract 5366: Chronic, low-dose treatment with sulforaphane inhibits growth of breast cells.

Epidemiological data indicate that dietary consumption of cruciferous vegetables may reduce the risk of many cancers including breast cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain high levels of glucosinolates; stable phytochemicals that when metabolized produce cancer-preventing active isothiocyanates. Isothiocyanates, such as sulforaphane (SFN) found in broccoli sprouts, are thought to prevent tumorigenesis through epigenetic mechanisms controlling the expression of tumor-related genes. Ingestion of broccoli sprouts results in rapid distribution of SFN to breast epithelium, however, the effect of chronic exposure to low levels of SFN on the growth of breast cells has not been fully explored. In the present study we assessed the effect of SFN on the growth of an immortalized breast cell line (MCF10A), and two breast cancer cell lines; the estrogen receptor positive MCF-7 cell line, and the estrogen receptor negative TMX2-28 cell line. We first determined the seeding densities for each cell line that resulted in 80% confluence after three days of growth in T-25 flasks: MCF10A (1 x 10 6 ), MCF-7 (8 x 10 5 ), and TMX2-28 (5 x 10 5 ) per 5 mL. Next, cells from each line were plated at the predetermined seeding densities in T-25 flasks and treated with either SFN (5 μM) or vehicle (0.02% DMSO) for up to 40 days. Every third day, cell cultures were photographed, after which the cells were resuspended in culture medium, counted using a hemocytometer, and the predetermined numbers of cells (seeding numbers) were returned to T-25 flasks and treated with SFN or vehicle. Cells not needed for seeding the flasks were archived for future analysis of gene expression and DNA methylation. Treatment with SFN decreased cell growth. After 22 days of treatment with SFN, mean proliferation of both the MCF10A and MCF-7 cell cultures was inhibited by 62% (t = 2.8; p = 0.02) and 72% (t = 2.6; p = 0.02), respectively. In contrast, the decrease in proliferation of TMX2-28 cells treated with SFN was not statistically significant (t = 1.2; p = 0.255) from the vehicle control at 22 days. However, by day 40, TMX2-28 cell cultures treated with SFN showed a significant decrease in mean proliferation 36% (t = 2.2; p = 0.04). Ongoing studies are examining the epigenetic mechanisms by which SFN decreased cell proliferation. Citation Format: Ashley L. Silvia, Eva P. Browne, Kathleen F. Arcaro. Chronic, low-dose treatment with sulforaphane inhibits growth of breast cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5366. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-5366
Surgically induced ovulation in the polycystic ovary syndrome: wedge resection revisited in the age of laparoscopy

Objective To provide an up-to-date comprehensive review of published data on laparoscopic methods of ovulation induction in the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Areas to be considered include the historical background of these procedures, their outcomes as reported in the literature, and their potential adverse effects. Through the careful review of these issues, some recommendations for clinical use and further study are offered. Design Relevant studies were identified through a the search of a computerized bibliographic database of holdings in the National Library of Medicine as well as the manual scanning and cross-referencing of relevant medical journals. Results Twenty-nine relevant studies were identified in the English language literature. These studies consist almost exclusively of uncontrolled case series. Pregnancies after laparoscopic ovulation induction procedures have been reported in an average of 55% of treated subjects (range 20% to 65%). Potential advantages of laparoscopic ovulation induction over gonadotropin therapy may include possible cost savings, serial repetitive ovulatory events resulting from a single treatment, no increased risk of ovarian hyperstimulation or multiple gestation, and the prospect for a higher live birth rate owing to a seemingly lower incidence of miscarriage. Reported adverse effects include a high rate of intra-abdominal adhesion formation and a single case of iatrogenic premature menopause due to postoperative ovarian atrophy. Conclusions The available circumstantial evidence suggests that laparoscopic procedures designed to induce ovulation may be of value in the PCOS subject who, despite an exhaustive trial of clomiphene citrate therapy, remains anovulatory and is unable or unwilling to undergo gonadotropin therapy. However, because of the risks of postoperative ovarian adhesions, carefully constructed controlled trials must be performed before these procedures can be viewed as efficacious and safe.
Multifunctional Surface Manipulation Using Orthogonal Click Chemistry.

Polymer brushes are excellent substrates for the covalent immobilization of a wide variety of molecules due to their unique physicochemical properties and high functional group density. By using reactive microcapillary printing, poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate) brushes with rapid kinetic rates toward aminolysis can be partially patterned with other click functionalities such as strained cyclooctyne derivatives and sulfonyl fluorides. This trireactive surface can then react locally and selectively in a one pot reaction via three orthogonal chemistries at room temperature: activated ester aminolysis, strain promoted azide–alkyne cycloaddition, and sulfur(VI) fluoride exchange, all of which are tolerant of ambient moisture and oxygen. Furthermore, we demonstrate that these reactions can also be used to create areas of morphologically distinct surface features on the nanoscale, by inducing buckling instabilities in the films and the grafting of nanoparticles. This approach is modular, and allows for the devel...
Clinically Significant Interactions with Cholinesterase Inhibitors and Other Antidementia Agents

Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) and the NMDA receptor antagonist memantine are the currently approved treatment options for patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Due largely to the lack of alternatives, these same medications are consequently used off-label to treat the many other forms of dementia, too. Future treatments for AD may include disease-modifying agents targeting amyloid beta production or aggregation including several immunotherapies. Potential drug interactions with these medications are limited since neither the ChEIs nor memantine is known for strong inhibition or induction of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 or CYP2D6 may increase the concentrations of donepezil or galantamine leading to increased or reappearance of adverse events, typically GI related. Clinically significant interactions due to protein binding, glucuronidation, and p-glycoprotein are unlikely. Pharmacodynamic interactions may occur with ChEIs when other drugs affecting the cholinergic system are administered concomitantly. Similar pharmacodynamic interactions with memantine are unlikely. The clinical consequences of drug interactions with any of the ChEIs or memantine would most likely present as increased adverse events typical for these medications. Clinicians should monitor for increased cholinergic effects and potentially adjust dosage of ChEIs when drugs with potential pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interactions are added to patient therapy for dementia.
Curves of genus greater than one

In this chapter we shall look at an area which has attracted a growing amount of attention in recent years, namely work on curves of genus greater than one. This has come about as the theory of elliptic curves (or curves of genus one) has reached a remarkably advanced state. Work with curves of genus two has been proceeding for over a century but only in the last few years have there been a lot of arithmetical calculations with such curves. There are three basic diophantine questions one can ask about a curve of genus greater than one: Can one compute C (ℚ), the set of rational points? By a theorem of Faltings this set is known to be finite. Can one compute C (ℤ), the set of integral points? Can one compute the explicit structure of the Jacobian of C ? The Jacobian is an algebraic group which is associated with the curve. We shall return to this below. Clearly if we can give an efficient algorithmic answer to the first question then we already have an efficient algorithm for the second. For the current state of knowledge on curves of genus two the reader should consult [26] and [156]. Curves of higher genus have attracted attention from theoreticians but little is known of how to solve the basic diophantine problems on such curves efficiently.
Micro-/Nano-Scale Biointerfaces, Mechanical Coupling and Cancer Therapy

The interaction between cancer cells and their microenvironment is an indispensable link in cancer progression that occurs on the interfaces between them and presents typical biointerfacial behavior. Recently, the cancer cell/microenvironment interface has begun to attract more attention because of its fundamental roles in cancer growth and metastasis, which is promising for the efficacy of anti-cancer drugs and other important effects. In this review, we focused on mechanical coupling of the biointerfaces and their application in cancer early diagnosis, the pharmacology of anticancer agents and the design of the anticancer drug carriers. Newly developed strategies for cancer therapy based on mechanical coupling, such as correcting cell mechanics defects, tunable rigidity for drug delivery and topography-coupled-mechanical drug design, and drug screening, provide a proof of concept that cell mechanics offer a rich drug target space, allowing for the possible corrective modulation of tumor cell behavior. Biomechanopharmacology is therefore important to recognize the biomechanical factors and to control them not only for improvement in our knowledge of cancer but also for the development of new drugs and new uses of old drugs.