cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distinct lineages of influenza virus H4 hemagglutinin genes in different regions of the world.

Abstract To understand the determinants of influenza virus evolution, phylogenetic relationships were determined for nine hemagglutinin (HA) genes of the H4 subtype. These genes belong to a set of viruses isolated from several avian and mammalian species from various geographic locations around the world between 1956 and 1985. We found that the HA gene of the H4 subtype is 1738 nucleotides in length and is predicted to encode a polypeptide of 564 amino acids. The connecting peptide, which is removed from the precursor polypeptide by peptidases to yield the mature HA1 and HA2 polypeptides, contains only one basic amino acid. This type of connecting peptide is a feature of all avian avirulent HAs. On the basis of pairwise nucleotide sequence homology comparisons the genes can be segregated into two groups: influenza virus genes isolated in North America and those isolated from other parts of the world. A high degree of homology exists between pairs of genes from viruses of similar geographic origin. The nucleotide sequences within a group differ by 1.5 to 10.6%; in contrast, between groups the differences range from 15.8 to 19.4%. An evolutionary tree for the nine sequences suggests that North American isolates have diverged extensively from those circulating in other parts of the world. Geographic barriers which determine flyway outlay may prevent the gene pools from extensive mixing. The lack of correlation between date of isolation and evolutionary distance suggests that different H4 HA genes cocirculate in a fashion similar to avian H3 HA genes (H. Kida et al. , 1987, Virology 159,109–119) and influenza C genes (D. Buonagurio et al. , 1985, Virology 146, 221–232) implying the absence of selective pressure by antibody that would give a significant advantage to antigenic variants. In contrast to avian influenza virus genes, human influenza virus genes evolve rapidly under the selective pressure of antibody.
COMPARISON OF FISCHER ASSAY DATA GENERATED BY FOUR LABORATORIES

Inter- and intra-laboratory comparison of Fischer assay data and testing of these data by correlation analysis indicate good correlation but varied amounts of scatter in the data. The scatter seems to be due to both mechanical and analytical factors; it is possible that non-uniform sample preparation is a dominant factor in causing scatter, but variable analytical results are also apparent. The range in precision of the Fischer assay data is generally small and probably does not seriously affect the accuracy of the calculated shale-oil resources. It is highly desirable to have an accurate and uniform assay method to determine the oil yield of oil shales. If inter- and intra-laboratory precision is to be maintained, it is imperative that sample preparation and analytical conditions are uniform and closely supervised. 7 figures.
Renal Effects of Bumetanide

: Upon administration of bumetanide in normal human subjects, both glomerular filtration rate and effective renal plasma flow were increased, in approximately proportional amounts. Sodium excretion rose to 16 per cent of filtered load, whereas there was a chloriuresis of 23 per cent. During maximal water diuresis, the drug caused an increase in urine flow rate associated with a rise in osmolal clearance and no change in solute-free water clearance. Intravenous injection of the drug during hypertonic saline infusion into hydropenic subjects resulted in the virtual abolition of water abstraction from the collecting duct. The drug caused a modest increase in phosphate excretion but no change in the percentage of filtered bicarbonate excreted. Furthermore, neither urinary pH nor net hydrogen ion excretion was altered by the drug. The data suggest that bumetanide has its major action in the loop of Henle but that it also inhibits sodium transport in the proximal tubule. In addition, the nature of the proximal action does not appear to be related to a carbonic anhydrase inhibitory effect. These latter observations regarding the proximal action of the drug were verified by micropuncture studies performed in the dog.
Color and its application in maxillofacial prosthetics

The use of loose and vague current terminology, such as weak, strong, clean, dirty, dull, bright, etc., can be confusing if one does not understand the three dimensions of color: hue, chroma, and value. ~ Hue describes and differentiates one color from another, e.g., red from green or blue, etc. Chroma describes the degree or amount of hue present in an object. Therefore a low chroma indicates very little hue (low saturation); conversely a high chroma indicates a greater amount of color. Value is the proportion of white and black in a hue on a scale going from black to white; it distinguishes a light color from a dark color. Ostwald's ~ value triangle (Fig. 1) aids in understanding the terms trots, shades, and tones. Tints indicate the lightening of a hue, i.e., an increase in value, while shades indicate the darkening of a hue, i.e., a decrease in value. Tones are the greyed colors that distinguish the chroma of the hue. However, the terms tint and shade, when used as verbs, designate the addition of other colorants to produce the desired color effect.
THEORETICAL MODEL TO ESTIMATE RENAL NET ACID EXCRETION

Natural food is originated from cell material with constant pH. Patients fed natural food show renal net acid excretion (NAE) far below maximum. During parenteral nutrition or under synthetic diets high NAE was observed. Therefore, a model was developed to calculate NAE under a synthetic diet from the analytical data of this diet. According to Relman (J.Clin. Invest. 40, 1621, 1961) NAE corresponds to the difference of urinary anions [sulfate (SO4) + organic acids (OA) + chloride (Cl) + phosphate (P)] and urinary cations [sodium (Na) + potassium (K) + calcium (Ca) + magnesium (Mg)]. If urinary excretion of each parameter can be estimated from the data of intake, NAE can be predicted. In steady state conditions the urinary excretion of electrolytes correlates with their intestinal absorption, which can be estimated from intake and absorption rate. Absorption from the gut was estimated in the following way: Na + Cl: 100%; K: 90%; Ca: 0.17 × Ca intake (mg) + 60; Mg: 0.39 × Mg intake (mg) −23; P: 0.642 × P intake (mg) − 11. 75% of the ingested organic sulfur (methionine and cystine) is oxidized to SO4 and excreted in the urine. OA excretion is almost independent from the diet (38 meq/d/1.73m2). The usefulness of this theoretical model to estimate NAE was demonstrated in acid-base studies of children with phenylketonuria receiving two synthetic amino acid mixtures (PAM with a high NAE of 4-6 meq/kg/d, PAM74 with a low NAE of 1 meq/kg/d).
Influence of UV‐B radiation and putrescine on shoot and root growth of cucumber seedlings grown in nutrient solution

Abstract Poinsett cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) seedlings were grown in growth chambers in nutrient solution containing 0 or 500 μM putrescine (Put) and were exposed to 0.2 or 15 kJ‐m‐2 day1 of biologically effective UV‐B radiation to determine the comparative sensitivity of shoots and roots to increased UV‐B and the possible protective effect of polyamines. Shoot growth in UV‐B‐treated plants was reduced 48%, root growth 63%, total leaf area 38%, and specific leaf weight (SLW) 22%. This was in contrast to previous reports of increased SLW in cucumber plants grown in vermiculite or in a peat‐vermiculite mix. Putrescine treatment increased leaf area in the second and third leaf and total leaf area and Put also increased dry weight of shoots, but had no effect on dry weight of roots or on SLW. The Put treatment was ineffective in ameliorating UV‐B induced leaf chlorosis. This is the first report of greater sensitivity of roots to UV‐B radiation than of shoots in plants grown in solution culture. This could ...
On the in vitro culture of intracellular symbiotes of cockroaches.

Abstract Efforts were made to verify the culture of the intracytoplasmic bacteroids of cockroaches. Experiments are described which show that by sterilizing the fat body, the bacteroids are killed before they are inoculated into the culture tubes, leading to our conclusion that the cultured organisms are contaminants. The possibility of reinfecting aposymbiotic cockroaches with the cultured forms is discredited. Evidence is presented that residual bacteroids, in insects rendered “aposymbiotic” by antibiotics, may be mistaken for the inoculated organisms.
Intrapersonal variations in stage of moral reasoning among adolescents as a function of situational context

On a set of classical moral dilemmas and on a set of practical moral dilemmas 60 randomly selected eighth- and twelfth-grade students were asked to (a) judge the actions of others (judgment) and (b) reach a personal decision and give reasons for what they would do (deliberation). The interviews were transcribed and scored for stage of moral reasoning. Stage of moral reasoning associated with deliberation on practical moral dilemmas was found to be significantly lower than their moral judgment on classical moral dilemmas. An explanation was presented which combined social learning and cognitive-developmental moralization theory.
On-line Literature Retrieval: An Alternative Research Strategy.

The efficacy of using comprehensive database search strategies in performing a literature retrieval is investigated. The D1.4LOG service was used with DIALINDEX subject category options as the major search vehicle. Databases from the DIALINDEX subject categories PSYCH (which includes PsycINFO) and MEDICINE were accessed with two sample searches. The results indicated that databases other than PsychINFO provided relevant citations. Overlap of citations among databases was negligible. The findings suggest that on-line literature retrieval involving psychological topics should include comprehensive database strategies. Several major commercial services offers such options.
Transaortic Excision of Left Ventricular Papillary Fibroelastoma

Transthoracic echocardiography in a 75-year-old woman with fatigue, dizziness, and left-sided weakness, demonstrated a 3.5 × 3-cm mass in the left ventricle, near the apex. The mass was excised via the aorta. Histology indicated a papillary fibroelastoma. Such tumors rarely arise from the ventricular endocardium.
Portrayals of Technoscience in Video Games: A Potential Avenue for Informal Science Learning

Given the proliferation of video games and their potential to contribute to informal science learning and perception formation, we provide an assessment of how commercial video games portray techno...
Current research results on the technical basis for environmental qualification of safety-related digital I&C hardware in nuclear power plants☆

Abstract This paper presents progress to date of an NRC-sponsored confirmatory research program initiated to address hardware issues associated with the use of safety-related digital instrumentation and control (I&C) hardware in nuclear power plants. In particular, the potential vulnerability of digital technology to environmental stress effects and means for establishing environmental compatibility for digital I&C systems were studied. The research approach involved evaluating existing military and industrial guidance, identifying the most significant environmental stressors and, for advanced I&C systems in nuclear power plants, investigating the likely failure modes—both at the integrated circuit and system level—for digital technologies under varying levels of environmental stress. Environmental stressors used in the studies included smoke exposure, electromagnetic and radio-frequency interference (EMI/RFI), temperature, and humidity. The insights gained from these studies are being used to recommend appropriate methods for qualifying safety-related digital equipment in nuclear power plants. To characterize the EMI/RFI environment at current LWRs and to estimate the expected environment at ALWRs, ORNL conducted a long-term survey of ambient electromagnetic conditions at several nuclear power plants. A representative sampling of power plant conditions (reactor type, operating mode, site location) were monitored over extended observation periods (e.g., continuous measurements for up to 5 weeks at a single location) were selected to more completely determine the characteristic electromagnetic environment for nuclear power plants. The results of this study contributed to the technical basis for a Nuclear Regulatory Commission Draft Regulatory Guide (DG-1029) issued for comment in 1998.
Prospective randomized trial of emergency portacaval shunt and emergency medical therapy in unselected cirrhotic patients with bleeding varices

A prospective randomized trial was conducted in unselected, consecutive patients with bleeding esophageal varices resulting from cirrhosis comparing (1) emergency portacaval shunt performed within 8 hr of initial contact (21 patients) with (2) emergency medical therapy (intravenous vasopressin and esophageal balloon tamponade) followed in 9 to 30 days by elective portacaval shunt in survivors (22 patients). All patients underwent the same diagnostic workup within 3 to 6 hr of initial contact, and received identical supportive therapy initially. All patients were followed up for at least 10 yr. The protocol contained no escape or crossover provisions. There were no statistically significant differences between the two treatment groups in the incidence of any of the clinical variables, results of laboratory tests or degree of portal hypertension. Child's risk classes in the shunt group were A—2 patients, B—8 patients and C—11 patients, whereas in the medical group they were A—10 patients, B—5 patients, and C—7 patients, a significant difference (p < 0.01) that might have favored emergency medical treatment. Bleeding was controlled initially and permanently by emergency shunt in every patient, but by medical therapy in only 45% (p < 0.001). Mean requirement for blood transfusion was 7.1 ± 2.6 units in the shunt group and 21.4 ± 2.6 units in the medical group (p < 0.001). Eighty-one percent of the patients in the shunt group were discharged alive compared with 45% in the medical group (p = 0.027). Five- and 10-yr observed survival rates were 67% and 57%, respectively, after emergency shunt compared with 18% and 18%, respectively, after the combination of emergency medical therapy and elective shunt (p < 0.01). These survival rates produced by emergency shunt performed within 8 hr of initial contact confirm the effectiveness of this procedure observed in our previous unrandomized studies. (Hepatology 1994;20:863–872).
Nephrotic syndrome associated with chronic graft-versus-host disease after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is the most common late complication of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) causing significant morbidity and mortality. The kidneys are not considered a target organ for cGVHD in humans, although animal models show renal damage. Renal involvement in patients with cGVHD, presenting as nephrotic syndrome (NS), has rarely been reported in patients who received allogeneic transplantation. Herein we describe, by far, the largest series of nine patients with NS associated with cGVHD, including two patients who received a reduced-intensity regimen. Pathological features of membranous nephropathy were the most common finding on renal biopsy. The clinical course of the NS was temporally associated with the classical features of cGVHD in all but one of the nine cases. The clinicopathologic features of NS in our series as well as reports in the literature demonstrate an immunopathologic process typical of antibody-mediated damage consistent with cGVHD. Treatment directed against antibody-mediated damage, such as anti-B-cell antibody may play an important role in ameliorating NS associated with cGVHD.
Isolation of the mitochondrial benzodiazepine receptor: association with the voltage-dependent anion channel and the adenine nucleotide carrier.

Abstract The mitochondrial benzodiazepine receptor (mBzR) has been solubilized with retention of reversible ligand binding, and the associated subunits were characterized. mBzR comprises immunologically distinct protein subunits of 18-, 30-, and 32-kDa. The 18-kDa protein is labeled by the isoquinoline carboxamide mBzR ligand [3H]PK14105, whereas the 30- and 32-kDa subunits are labeled by the benzodiazepine (Bz) ligands [3H]flunitrazepam and [3H]AHN-086. Selective antibodies and reagents identify the 32- and 30-kDa proteins as the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) and the adenine nucleotide carrier (ADC), respectively. While isoquinoline carboxamide and Bz ligands target different subunits, they interact allosterically, as the binding of Bz and isoquinoline carboxamide ligands is mutually competitive at low nanomolar concentrations. Moreover, eosin-5-maleimide and mercuric chloride inhibit [3H]PK11195 binding to the intact receptor via sulfhydryl groups that are present in ADC. VDAC and ADC, outer and inner mitochondrial membrane channel proteins, respectively, together with the 18-kDa subunit, may comprise mBzR at functionally important transport sites at the junction of two mitochondrial membranes.
Comparison of the peptide maps of antibodies against and acidic and a basic determinant group

Abstract Antibodies were isolated from the serum of rabbits injected with azophenyl-arsonate-BSA or azophenyltrimethylammonium-BSA. The structures of antibodies formed against the two haptens and also those formed against BSA were compared by finger-printing. No repoducible differences could be detected in the peptide patterns of the univalent fragments obtained by the papain digestion of the antibodies from pooled immune sera against each of the tow antigens. When the two hapten-specific antibody species were each prepated from single antisera, a difference involving a single peptide spot was observed. The same difference was found in the peptide maps of the BSA-specific antibody fragments. This suggests that the small difference between the fingerprints in the hapten-specific antibodies may arise from genetic differences in the globulin pattern of the two rabbits or from differences in the organ distribution of the two antigens rather than from the different immunological specificity of the two haptens. A small portion of the peptides obtained by tryptic digestion of the antibodies or their univalent fragments does not migrate upon electrophoresis or chromatography but remains at the origin. It was found that this immobolie material si rich in sulfur amino acids.
Temperature dependence of lattice disorder in Ar-irradiated (1 0 0), (1 1 0) and (1 1 1) MgO single crystals

Abstract To better appreciate dynamic annealing processes in ion irradiated MgO single crystals of three low-index crystallographic orientations, lattice damage variation with irradiation temperature was investigated. Irradiations were performed with 100 keV Ar ions to a fluence of 1 × 10 15 Ar/cm 2 in a temperature interval from −150 to 1100 °C. Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy combined with ion channeling was used to analyze lattice damage. Damage recovery with increasing irradiation temperature proceeded via two characteristic stages separated by 200 °C. Strong radiation damage anisotropy was observed at temperatures below 200 °C, with (1 1 0) MgO being the most radiation damage tolerant. Above 200 °C damage recovery was isotropic and almost complete recovery was reached at 1100 °C. We attributed this orientation dependence to a variation of dynamic annealing mechanisms with irradiation temperature.
Towards Shape Control of Metal Oxide Nanocrystals in Confined Molten Media

Spray synthesis is a robust route to compositionally complex materials as fine powders; however, the solid-state synthetic conditions in most cases limit access to discrete nanoparticles with defined structural features. Yet, by maintaining a dynamic droplet phase through integration of molten salt chemistry, product formation can proceed in manners similar to lower temperature solution routes to nanomaterials. This Focus Review connects concepts from classical nucleation theory and molten salt chemistry to provide a framework for nanocrystal formation via aerosol-assisted molten salt synthesis (AMSS). Examples of metal oxide nanocrystal formation by AMSS are surveyed and highlight how the spatial and temporal confinement of aerosol droplets limits crystal growth in molten media. Ultimately, we strive to provide practical guidelines, not limited to AMSS, towards the synthesis of compositionally complex materials as shape-defined nanocrystals.
RESEARCH BRIEF RATES OF RETURN TO CITATION

Research shows that the rates of return to citation are substantial in the context of the academic reward system. Since quantitative performance measures, notably publication and citation counts, are associated strongly with life‐cycle remuneration and career mobility, both should be utilised in research assessment exercises. This paper brings together empirical findings from the non‐interacting research literatures of economics and information science to make the case for using citation rates as a valid and cost‐effective proxy for quality in certain disciplines.
Equation for lines of flow in vicinity of discharging artesian well

The problem of the motion of water in the neighborhood of a discharging artesian well is one of enough theoretical interest to merit its consideration, while at the same time it has practical applications. So far as I could find the equations of the flow-lines are not stated in the literature except as the general equation for lines of flow under all conditions given by Slichter (C. S. Slichter, Theoretical investigation of the motion of ground-water, U.S. Geol. Sur., Nineteenth Ann. Rept., pt. 2, pp. 333–336, 1899).
Construct Validity of the Social Coping Questionnaire

cQ. the current study provides construct validity evidence for the S cQ by comparing it with the Myers-Briggs type indicator (MB ti). upon entrance to a residential academy, 339 gifted adolescents completed the S cQ and the MB ti. results were similar to previous research with gifted adolescents in terms of the factor structure of the S cQ, a high frequency of intuitive ( n) and intuitive/Perceiving (n P) codes on the MB ti, and gender differences on both measures. Participants were most likely to use social interaction and least likely to focus on popularity/conformity in their social coping. correlations between the S cQ and MBti were in expected directions, but were not large in magnitude; they provided evidence for the construct validity of the S cQ.
Enhancing specific strength and stiffness of phenolic microsphere syntactic foams through carbon fiber reinforcement

Composite syntactic foams with different densities were fabricated with hollow phenolic microspheres, a phenolic resin binder, and a small addition of chopped carbon fibers. Compressive, shear, and tensile properties were studied for the syntactic foams with and without carbon fibers. Two fiber layer orientations, either parallel (P-type) or perpendicular (N-type) to the loading direction, were considered in the mechanical testing. For N-type foams, mechanical properties were weakly dependent on foam density. For P-type foams, the mechanical properties of the foams were strongly dependent on the strength of the supporting matrix. The specific strength and specific stiffness of the P-type foams were significantly enhanced compared with the neat foams. These findings indicate that fiber reinforcement is an effective way to enhance the mechanical performance of syntactic foams, and the enhanced performance should lead to applications as a foam core material for sandwich structures. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Use of Quality Indicators in Physical Therapist Practice: An Observational Study

Background The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 contain provisions specific to health care quality that apply to physical therapists. Published evidence examining gaps in the quality of physical therapy services is limited. Objective The primary purpose of this study was to determine the use of quality indicators in physical therapist practice. Design This was an observational study. Methods All members of the Orthopaedic and Private Practice sections of the American Physical Therapy Association were invited to participate by completing an electronic survey. The survey included 22 brief patient descriptions, each followed by questions regarding the use of examinations and interventions based on the 2009 list of Medicare-approved quality measures. Separate multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine the odds ratios related to the performance of each examination and intervention on more than 90% of patients, given perceptions of its importance to care, the burden of performing it, and the level of evidence supporting its use. Results Participants (n=2,544) reported a relatively low frequency of performing examinations and interventions supporting primary and secondary prevention (3.6%–51.3%) and use of standardized measures (5.5%–35.8%). Perceptions of high importance and low burden were associated with greater odds of performing an examination or intervention. Importance and burden were more influential factors than the perceived availability of evidence to support use of identified techniques. Limitations The survey was not assessed for test-retest reliability. A low response rate was a source of potential bias. Conclusion The study findings suggest that physical therapists may not see themselves as providers of primary or secondary prevention services. Patient management strategies associated with these types of services also may be perceived as relatively unimportant or burdensome.
A method for selecting radiation-sensitive mutants of Escherichia coli.

A method for obtaining by selection a certain class of sensitive mutants of Escherichia coli is reported. The method depends upon contra-selection by irradiated T1 bacteriophage. (auth)
Crosstalk between NDR kinase pathways coordinates cell cycle dependent actin rearrangements

Regulation of cytoskeletal remodeling is essential for cell cycle transitions. In fission yeast two NDR kinase signaling cascades, MOR and SIN, regulate the actin cytoskeleton to promote polarized growth during interphase and cytokinesis respectively. Our understanding of how these signaling pathways are coordinated to assist transition between the two cell-cycle stages is limited. Here, we review work from our laboratory, which reveals that cross talk between the SIN and MOR pathways is required for inhibition of interphase polarity programs during cytokinesis. Given the conservation of NDR kinase signaling pathways, our results may define general mechanisms by which these pathways are coordinated in higher organisms.
Impedance spectroscopy studies of electroporated human breast cancer cells

The passive, electrical impedance characteristics of electroporated, MCF-7 human breast cancer is described in this paper. For this purpose, an Autolab impedance spectroscope was used. The electroporation protocol consisted of 200V/cm, 40ms, and 1200V/cm, 200μs pulses. The impedance characteristics of these cells displayed a negative fractal power law as expected for dielectrics. They also exhibited single dispersion Cole-Cole model. Our experiments demonstrated that the various electroporation treatment parameters result in the different curvatures of Cole-Cole model. This phenomenon proves that the effects of electroporation drug delivery to cells could be controlled in real time by monitoring impedance characteristics.
Correlation functions of adsorbed fluids in porous glass: a computer simulation study

We have prepared a series of model porous glasses using a recently developed molecular dynamics procedure (Gelb, L. D. and Gubbins, K. E., 1998, Langmuir, 14, 2097) that mimics the experimental processes that produce Vycor and controlled pore glasses. Using Grand Canonical Monte Carlo simulations we have measured nitrogen adsorption isotherms in these models and determined the radial distribution functions and structure factors for the adsorbate at several different pressures. These correlation functions show long-wavelength fluctuations which at low density are controlled by the glasses surface—surface correlation functions and at high density are controlled by the glasses void—void correlation functions. The structure factor data at low density can be used to extract a characteristic pore diameter which agrees well with that obtained by a geometrical analysis of the pore structure. Significant qualitative differences in S(k) are found between 30% porous and 50% porous materials.
Vitrectomy in Eyes at Risk for Macular Hole Formation

Fifteen eyes believed to be at increased risk for macular hole formation underwent vitrectomy in an attempt to prevent macular hole formation. Full-thickness macular holes have not developed in 10 of 11 eyes with stage 1 macular holes. Four eyes were noted to have small full-thickness foveal defects (stage 2 macular holes) at the time of vitrectomy. Two of the four eyes have not progressed to macular hole formation and have 20/25 visual acuity. All patients have been followed for a minimum of 13 months (median, 18 months). The 12 eyes that have not experienced macular hole formation have had a significant (P less than 0.001) improvement in vision with seven (58%) attaining visual acuity of 20/25 or better. The postoperative foveal electroretinogram (ERG) amplitude was higher than the preoperative amplitude in five of the six eyes tested.
The cross Time-Frequency Distribution Series for Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) applications

Joint Time Frequency Analysis (JTFA) is a powerful analysis tool in SAR image processing. At the heart of this process are the Time-Frequency Representations (TFR's) such as the Wigner-Ville distribution (WVD), which is difficult to use because of its large cross-product terms. The pseudo-WV TFR reduces the cross terms by smoothing the integration defining the WV transform. The Time-Frequency Distribution Series (TFDS) mitigates the unwanted cross product terms by averaging only those expansion terms close to the signal. The cross-Wigner-Ville Distribution (CWVD) is a generalization of the cross correlation function to the time-frequency (TF) plane. Likewise, the cross- pseudo-WV and the cross-TFDS can be defined and applied to pairs of signals. The cross-TFDS is shown to reduce the cross terms seen in the cross-WV distribution. Two examples are shown using SAR data.
Physical limits on binary logic switch scaling

We examine the scaling limits of energy dissipation in a specific and concrete physical model - that of clocked quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA). Prototype QCA devices exist and have demonstrated true power gain, an essential feature for any general-purpose computational technology. Though present devices operate at cryogenic temperatures, much work has been done on molecular implementations which can operate at room temperature and are notably smaller than 1.5 nm. QCA represents a radical departure from CMOS, but is still a charge-based binary approach. We solve the equations of motion for the system in the presence of a thermal environment with no a priori assumptions about energy flow. We show directly the effect of the logical structure of the calculation on the heat generated by a circuit. These calculations point to the real nature of the thermodynamic limitations of scaling binary logic devices and suggest strategies for achieving the ultimate limits of device scaling.
Clinical review of the Resolute® zotarolimus-eluting stent for the treatment of coronary artery disease

Drug-eluting stents (DES) offer reduced rates of clinical and angiographic restenosis compared with bare-metal stents in patients with symptomatic coronary artery disease. Despite availability of multiple different DES, concerns remain regarding relative efficacy and long-term safety. A DES that has optimal efficacy that extends to higher risk cases – specifically to maintain low restenosis rates in patients with diabetes and in small vessels or long lesions – yet has minimal safety concerns is the goal. The Resolute® zotarolimus-eluting stent (R-ZES) is a new generation DES currently approved for use in Europe and awaiting approval in the USA. The R-ZES utilizes a novel biocompatible polymer on a cobalt–chromium stent platform in order to prolong the duration of drug elution and improve efficacy. This review will summarize the clinical data for the R-ZES in detail and discuss results in the context of the current landscape for percutaneous coronary intervention.
Education in biomedical engineering

The interface between electrical engineering and the life sciences has grown enormously over the past three decades, nearly keeping pace with the expanding disciplines themselves. In an era when one finds engineers applying automata theory to genetic control systems, coupled-oscillator theory to the growth of yeast or the synchronizing of circadian rhythms, control theory to the cardiovascular system, communication theory to sensory systems, and network theory to food chains, one is no longer justified in holding a stereotyped view of the "Bio-Medical Engineer," or in providing a specialized education to correspond to that stereotype. It is proposed that the undergraduate education of a bioengineer should introduce him to the breadth of that interface along which he eventually must choose a niche. Thus early specialization, both in engineering and in the life sciences is undesirable.
A 3D FDTD formulation using flux-corrected transport for accurate modeling of transient electromagnetic phenomena

A technique that will allow a second-order finite-difference formulation to be used to its fullest potential in both a stability and accuracy sense. The technique, flux corrected transport (FCT), uses a first-order differencing scheme together with a second-order scheme to produce a solution free of numerically induced diffusion and dispersion. The amount of low-order solution versus high-order solution that is used is determined on a node-by-node basis in a nonlinear manner. The overriding bound on FCT is preserving the conservative nature of the equations being integrated. Results are presented for a 3-D computational domain with a pulse excitation that can be introduced from any side. The domain is truncated with a Liao absorbing boundary condition on all external boundaries. Both free space propagation through the computational space and interaction with a scatterer are investigated. Solution time and accuracy are compared with the traditional Yee (1966) formulation on a staggered grid. Stability and accuracy are improved significantly over conventional finite-difference formulations. >
New Populations of Cylindropuntia ×viridiflora (Cactaceae) in Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona

Abstract: Cylindropuntia xviridiflora (Cactaceae) is a rare plant endemic to Santa Fe County, New Mexico. It is currently assumed to be a hybrid of two more-common species, C. imbricata and C. whipplei. I conducted botanical surveys in key areas of Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona, and Santa Fe County, New Mexico, with the aim to assess possible C. ×viridiflora occurrence. During these surveys I found and described three novel populations of what appeared to be C. ×viridiflora in Canyon de Chelly. In this paper, I address the taxonomic relationships among these novel populations, populations of C. ×viridiflora documented from Santa Fe County, and their putative parental taxa. To do so, I collected morphometric data on fifteen characters from Cylindropuntia individuals in Canyon de Chelly and Santa Fe County, and I conducted multivariate analyses (Cluster and PCA) to elucidate the degree of morphologic similarity between them. The results suggest that the novel populations from Canyon de Chelly ...
Hypothalamic Involvement in the Regulation of Maternal Behaviour in the Rat: Inhibitory Roles for the Ventromedial Hypothalamus and the Dorsal/Anterior Hypothalamic Areas

The present report examines the possible involvement of the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), the dorsal hypothalamus (DH), and the anterior hypothalamic area (AHA) in the regulation of maternal behaviour in the female rat. In a series of experiments it was found that either infusions of saline or lowering cannulas into the VMH stimulated a rapid onset of maternal behaviour in progesterone plus oestrogen-primed, nulliparous rats. The stimulatory effect of cannula lowering into the VMH on maternal behaviour was shown to be steroid-dependent. Next, the involvement of cell bodies located in the DH/AHA in maternal behaviour was examined after bilateral lesions of these regions with the neurotoxin, N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMA). NMA lesions of the DH/AHA stimulated a rapid onset of maternal behaviour in oestrogen-treated, nulliparous rats, while NMA lesions in non-steroid-treated animals or vehicle infusions in steroid or non-steroid-treated rats failed to induce a rapid onset of behaviour. In a final study the effects of NMA lesions of the VMH were evaluated. As in AHA lesioned rats, NMA lesions of the VMH stimulated a fast onset of maternal behaviour in steroid-primed females. These findings indicate that the VMH as well as the DH/AHA exert chronic steroid-dependent inhibitory influences on the induction of maternal behaviour.
Stress boundary conditions for plate bending

Abstract The determination of the appropriate boundary conditions for a two-dimensional theory of elastic flat plates (and shells) consistent with the expected order of accuracy of the theory is both critical and challenging. The reciprocal theorem of elasticity will be applied in a novel way to obtain the appropriate stress boundary conditions for plate bending accurate to all order (with respect to the usual dimensionless thickness parameter) for plates of general edge geometry and loading. Kirchhoff’s two contracted stress boundary conditions are shown to be consistent with a leading term (thin plate) approximation theory, but the more general results obtained herein are needed for higher order theories.
Efficient algorithms for computing matching and chromatic polynomials on series-parallel graphs

The authors present efficient algorithms for computing the matching polynomial and chromatic polynomial of a series-parallel graph in O(n/sup 3/) and O(n/sup 2/) time respectively. Their algorithm for computing the matching polynomial generalizes an existing result from Lovasz, Plummer (1986) and the chromatic polynomial algorithm improves the result given by Hunt, Ravi, Stearn (1988) from O(n/sup 4/) time. >
No such thing as 'uncomplicated bereavement' for patients in rehabilitation.

Purpose : This review aims to: (1) discuss the reasons for the limited focus in the literature on the loss experiences of patients in rehabilitation; (2) highlight the importance of increasing our understanding of the loss reactions of these patients; and (3) offer suggestions for appropriate incorporation of bereavement issues into clinical practice and research. Method : The authors review articles and books from several disciplines to reveal and provide suggestions for overcoming limitations in application of current bereavement theory and practice with disabled populations. Results : The paper identifies problems with the descriptive and diagnostic 'language' of bereavement, a lack of empirical support for popular theory and assumptions about the grieving process and bereaved persons, disagreement among bereavement and rehabilitation clinicians on most appropriate interventions for facilitating adjustment, and compelling reasons to focus on bereavement issues with the disabled patient. Conclusions : T...
Review article: the potential mechanisms of action of rifaximin in the management of inflammatory bowel diseases.

SummaryBackground Gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Although the microbiota's role in IBD pathogenesis, specifically Crohn's disease (CD), provides a rationale for antibiotic treatment, antibiotic use in CD remains controversial. Rifaximin, traditionally identified as a nonsystemic bactericidal antibiotic, may be therapeutically beneficial for inducing CD remission. Aim To examine the role of rifaximin in the management of IBD and its potential mechanisms of action. Methods A literature search using the following strategy: (‘inflammatory bowel disease’ OR ‘Crohn's’ OR ‘ulcerative’), ‘rifaximin’ AND (‘barrier’ OR ‘translocation’ OR ‘adhesion’ OR ‘internalization’ OR ‘pregnane X’), AND ‘pregnane X’ AND (‘Crohn's’ OR ‘ulcerative colitis’ OR ‘inflammatory bowel disease’). Results In vitro data suggest rifaximin mediates changes in epithelial cell physiology and reduces bacterial attachment and internalisation. In experimental colitis models, rifaximin antagonised the effects of tumour necrosis factor-α on intestinal epithelial cells by activating pregnane X receptor, which inhibits nuclear factor-κB–mediated proinflammatory mediators and induces detoxification genes (e.g. multidrug resistance 1 and cytochrome P450 3A4). Rifaximin also inhibits bacterial translocation into the mesenteric lymph nodes. Conclusion Accumulating evidence suggests that mechanisms of action of rifaximin in IBD may not be limited to direct bactericidal activity; therefore, rifaximin could potentially be redefined as a gut environment modulator.
Using Plane Tessellation Algorithms to Optimize Resource Allocation

Voronoi Tessellations are one of the most common approaches to dividing a plane into cells such that parts of the plane closest to specific points belong to each cell. (See Fig. 7.1) Using the cell areas to determine resource optimization is a powerful logistical tool. These cell sizes can be modified through a weighted Voronoi tessellation, so that criteria other than distance such as geographic factors, enemy activity and concentration, the allocation of resources can be graphically through the plane tessellation process. It is possible to give more importance to one criterion over another, and constants can be used in certain cases to fine tune a weightage. The aim of this chapter is to describe a method to use a weighted Voronoi diagram to allocate resources efficiently. The method can be used for any number of resources including, but not limited to, troops, ammunitions or medical supplies.
Abstract B26: A requirement for p63 function in squamous cell carcinoma in vivo: Can the pathway be targeted for therapy?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common form of human cancer that can arise in various epithelial tissues such as the lungs, skin, and head and neck region. Morbidity and mortality rates for SCC are high compared to many other cancers, and relatively little progress has been made in treatment due to a lack of molecular understanding of the disease. The p53-related protein p63 is essential for the formation of various epithelial tissues, such as the skin, and has many reported roles including suppression of apoptosis, maintenance of stem cell regenerative potential, regulation of differentiation, and maintenance of cellular adhesion. In SCC, p63 is overexpressed and has found to be the target of genomic amplification suggesting an important role in this disease. Previous in vitro studies have shown that p63 is required for survival of SCC cells in culture, however, cell lines lack the complex microenvironment found in human cancer, and thus the in vivo relevance of these results is unclear. To determine the role of p63 in vivo, we have generated a murine model of SCC, which faithfully recapitulates many of the molecular and pathological features of human SCC including invasion and metastasis. To test the role of p63 in tumor maintenance we crossed this model to a conditional p63-null allele (p63flox) and a tamoxifen-inducible Cre transgene, K14-CreER. We have found that genetic excision of both copies of p63 in established SCC tumors results in rapid and dramatic regression of tumors. In addition, even loss of a single copy of the p63 gene results in a reduced rate of growth, suggesting that SCC tumors are exquisitely sensitive to levels of p63 protein. These results support the idea that the p63 pathway is critical for the survival of SCC tumors in vivo, and targeting this pathway in SCC may result in more effective therapy for this highly refractory tumor type. Citation Information: Clin Cancer Res 2010;16(14 Suppl):B26.
Management of atrial fibrillation.

THE treatment of atrial fibrillation and the prevention of its complications are primarily pharmacologic problems. Treatment has two principal objectives. One is to use antiarrhythmic therapy to relieve symptoms; the other is to use prophylactic therapy to reduce the risk of stroke that accompanies atrial fibrillation. In planning the management of atrial fibrillation, it is useful to consider patients who are permanently in atrial fibrillation as having chronic atrial fibrillation and patients who have sinus rhythm punctuated by attacks of fibrillation as having paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The two forms overlap, however, because many patients with chronic atrial fibrillation first present . . .
Unique spatiotemporal activation pattern of Cdc42 by Gef1 and Scd1 promotes different events during cytokinesis

Cdc42 is activated in a unique spatiotemporal manner during cytokinesis due to the localization of its GEFs, Gef1 and Scd1. The fission yeast Gef1 localizes to the actomyosin ring and promotes time...
Study on the Emergency Command Mechanism of High-rise Buildings for Fire Abrupt Accidents

Many abrupt accidents can be met in the fire management activities of high-rise buildings. A efficient and reasonable command mechanism to meet emergent accidents is necessarily to be established for these potential dangers. Some correlation concepts and construction contents of emergency command mechanism for fire abrupt accidents are put forward according to the fire features of high-rise buildings, showing the command principle and procedure explicitly, and its guidance system structure is established. finally a typical emergency command system structure model for fire abrupt accidents is given in the paper.
Determination of diquat and paraquat in water by high performance liquid chromatography with solid-phase extraction

Objective: To establish a method for determination of diquat and paraquat in water by solid-phase extraction(SPE) and high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC).Methods:After the analytes in water were condensed by Supelco LC-WCX SPE cartridges and eluted,the separation was performed on a Hamilton PRP column(150 mm×4.1 mm,1.5 μm)using ion chromatograph reagent consisting of 20 mmol/L Potassium Hexafluo Phosphate,then detection was carried out by DAD detector by means of external standard method.Results:Calibration curves for diquat and paraquat in water were linear within the range of 1.0 μg/ml~80.0 μg/ml.The extraction recoveries were more than 92%,the RSD were less than 5.1%.Conclusion:This method is accutate,sensitive,simple and can satisfy the need of practical work.
Ethical aspects of care of the newborn with serious neurological disease.

Most physicians and lay people believe that there are situations—usually described in terms of age of the individual, future quality of life, decreased life expectancy, or hardship on family or society—in which all possible treatment should not be utilized. Factors to be considered in making such a decision about the newborn with serious neurological disease are proposed.
Treatment of benign urethral strictures using a sapphire tipped neodymium:YAG laser.

AbstractSapphire tips increase the energy density and cutting effect of a neodymium:YAG laser. Sapphire tipped neodymiumi:YAG laser fibers were used to perform urethrotomy in 24 men with benign urethral strictures. The cutting effect was inadequate in 10 patients.Of the 24 patients 16 (67%) had a recurrent stricture within 1 year. Sapphire tipped neodymiumi:YAG laser fibers offer no apparent advantage over cold knife urethrotomy for treatment of benign urethral strictures. (J. Urol., 142: 1221-1222, 1989)