cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Properties of Saccharomyces cerevisiae mitochondria prepared by a mechanical method.

Abstract 1. Mitochondria exhibiting respiratory control were prepared from bakers' yeast and from Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain D-261 after disrupting the cells in a colloid mill at low speeds with glass beads. Optimal values of the variables involved were determined. Yields of 13–25 mg mitochondrial protein per 100 g packed cells were routinely obtained. Mitochondrial quality was similar to that of particles prepared by a method employing snail gut enzymes to digest cell walls. 2. The functions of mitochondria prepared under the mildest homogenization conditions were only slightly affected by large alterations in pH or Mg2+ concentration of the reaction medium. 3. Oligomycin and atractyloside were potent inhibitors of phosphorylating respiration in yeast mitochondria. 4. Respiration was specifically stimulated by ADP, with an apparent Km = 26.5 μM. Phosphate also stimulated malate-supported respiration, with an apparent Km of 1.5 mM. Varying the phosphate concentration with succinate as substrate led to a transition from ADP-controlled respiration at high phosphate to uncontrolled respiration at low phosphate. 5. P:O or ADP:O values for this preparation were about 1.8 during succinate oxidation, 1.8 during ethanol oxidation, 2.4 during α-ketoglutarate oxidation and 1.7 during oxidation of malate plus pyruvate.
A generalization of the weighted set covering problem

We study a generalization of the weighted set covering problem where every element needs to be covered multiple times. When no set contains more than two elements, we can solve the problem in polynomial time by solving a corresponding weighted perfect b-matching problem. In general, we may use a polynomial-time greedy heuristic similar to the one for the classical weighted set covering problem studied by D.S. Johnson [Approximation algorithms for combinatorial problems, J Comput Syst Sci 9 (1974), 256–278], L. Lovasz [On the ratio of optimal integral and fractional covers, Discrete Math 13 (1975), 383–390], and V. Chvatal [A greedy heuristic for the set-covering problem, Math Oper Res 4(3) (1979), 233–235] to get an approximate solution for the problem. We find a worst-case bound for the heuristic similar to that for the classical problem. In addition, we introduce a general type of probability distribution for the population of the problem instances and prove that the greedy heuristic is asymptotically optimal for instances drawn from such a distribution. We also conduct computational studies to compare solutions resulting from running the heuristic and from running the commercial integer programming solver CPLEX on problem instances drawn from a more specific type of distribution. The results clearly exemplify benefits of using the greedy heuristic when problem instances are large. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2005
An Automated System for Discrete-Trial Research with Animals:

A system has been constructed for the study of two- and three-choice behavior in animals, using either a free operant or discrete-trial procedure. An IBM-026 card punch is utilized to automatically...
SEARCH STATISTICS OF RARE EVENTS.

Abstract The statistics associated with the search of rare events is discussed for the simplest case in which only two scanners are employed. It is found that the maximum likelihood estimator for the number of events in m repeated scanning processes is the solution of a (2 m −1) order algebraic equation. Two practical approaches are suggested and are briefly compared. The cases for three scanners, and more generally t scanners, are briefly discussed.
Equipping orthodontic residency programs for interactive distance learning

Equipment for distance learning can be used to improve the quality of instruction in orthodontic programs. All departments now should have at least a point-to-point system to allow clinical faculty to provide instruction without being physically present on all occasions. For more instruction to be shared with other residency programs, a dual-streaming multipoint video conferencing system is needed. A basic system allows reception of this type of instruction, and an optimal system would allow originating and receiving such conferences. Recording interactive seminars so that they can be viewed later requires additional equipment so that postproduction editing and refinement can be accomplished. Lists of appropriate equipment for each level are provided.
Ontogenesis of N-acetyl-aspartate and N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate in rat brain.

Abstract The levels of N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) and N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG) were measured in several regions and in whole brain of rats from 15 days of gestation (DG) to adulthood by means of an isocratic HPLC method. The levels of NAAG in whole brain increased 3-fold between 15 DG and birth, which was 90% of the adult level. Whereas the levels of NAAG in spinal cord increased from 2 days to 4 weeks after birth, in forebrain regions the levels increased 2–3-fold between 2 and 8 days after birth and then declined substantially to adult levels. In contrast, in whole brain and in the several regions examined after birth, the levels of NAA rose steadily from 15 DG to adulthood with a 30-fold increase in whole brain concentration. The results of this study demonstrate the lack of correlation in the development of NAA and NAAG levels and suggest that NAAG is localized in a cell system that matures early.
DNA topoisomerase II is essential for preimplantation mouse development.

Topoisomerase II (topo II) is an essential enzyme that alters DNA topology. This activity is important for a variety of chromosome functions including DNA replication, transcription, recombination, and chromosome condensation and segregation. Previously we localized topo II in mouse gametes and preimplantation embryos using isoform-specific antibodies demonstrating the presence of the enzyme in oocytes and embryos, but not sperm. To probe functions of topo II during preimplantation development, we treated mouse zygotes with 100 nM teniposide, and assessed embryo morphology and DNA replication. Teniposide blocked cleavage in 69% embryos; the remainder cleaved once but had abnormal nuclei. Teniposide-treated embryos were devoid of topo II immunofluorescence. Teniposide also prevented DNA replication, implicating topo II in this process. Embryos treated with a 2 hr pulse of teniposide recovered and developed to the blastocyst stage, indicating 100 nM teniposide did not induce apoptosis. To more specifically analyze topo IIalpha function, we treated zygotes with topo IIalpha-targeted antisense oligodeoxynucleotides. Most zygotes arrested at the 2-cell stage while controls developed into blastocysts indicating topo IIalpha is essential for preimplantation development. The absence of topo IIalpha, but not beta immunofluorescence in antisense-treated embryos confirms the specificity and impact of the treatment. In addition, topo IIalpha is newly synthesized at the 2-cell stage. These results establish an essential function for topo II in mouse preimplantation embryonic development.
Examining the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Hospitality Student Attitudes toward E-learning

Research suggests that emotions and emotional intelligence are related to student motivation. Additionally, instructional design is known to influence student attitudes and subsequent content engagement; therefore, this study examined the relationship between students' attitudes towards E-learning and their emotional intelligence. The emotional intelligence of 33 postsecondary hospitality students was assessed using Bar-On's EQ-i:S. Students were then directed to a computer-based lesson. Upon completion, student attitudes towards the computer-based delivery were assessed using Keller's Instructional Material Motivation Survey. Pre-and post-tests were performed to assess knowledge gain. In general, as students' ESI increased, their attitude towards the computer-based instruction also increased. Students with average-high ESI expressed significantly more positive attitudes towards the instruction than those with low-average ESI.
Representative Bureaucracy: The Theoretical Implications of Statistical Interaction:

This research extends our knowledge of the relationship between passive representative bureaucracy and active representative bureaucracy (Mosher 1968). We utilize data from the United States Equal Employment Opportu nity Commission (EEOC) to posit and test a theory of situational thresholds. Our theory is premised on the argument that Meier's (1993b) construct, criti cal mass, constitutes a particular example of a more general concept, situ ational threshold (Campbell 1963). We present evidence that three situational thresholds exist in the EEOC bureaucratic environment which determine the nature of the relationship between passive representativeness and active rep resentation : when a critical mass is reached; when a group constitutes a plu rality ; and when a group constitutes a majority In toto, these three situational thresholds delineate four distinct social environments in which active repre sentation transpires. Our findings strongly suggest that the relationship be tween passive representation and...
Cytogenetic analyses of sugarcane relatives (Andropogoneae: Saccharinae)

Meiosis was studied in 31 wild Saccharum relatives, including Erianthus (8 clones), Miscanthus (5 clones), Narenga prophyrocoma (1 clone), S. robustum (3 clones), and S. spontaneum (14 clones). Chromosome number for 18 clones confirmed published counts or was typical of the particular species. Chromosome number for seven clones (Djatiroto 2n=58, Molokai 5099 2n=80, SES 84/58 2n=58, SES 114 2n=64, SES 260 2n=64, Taiwan 100 2n=112, and US 57-11-2 2n=60) differed from published counts (2n=112, 86-100, 64, 60, 60, 96, and 30, respectively). Counts were obtained for the first time for six clones (Local escape 2n=96, Nepal 2n=72, NG 77-77 2n=108–112, NG 77-199 2n=166, US 57-60-2 2n=20, and US 68-1-4 2n=38). Bivalent chromosome pairing predominated in all clones. Meiotic irregularity (numeric aberrations, univalents, multivalents, and telophase II micronuclei) tended to be associated with taxonomic grouping and level of polyploidy. Clones in Erianthus, Miscanthus, and Narenga were apparent euploids (2n=20–60) and tended to have fewer meiotic irregularities than Saccharum clones. Differences in level of meiotic stability among taxonomic groups may reflect error in chromosome association and synapsis associated with high chromosome number.
Mechanism of Hierarchical Porosity Formation in Silica Thin Films using Cellulose Nitrate

Ordered mesoporous silica thin films have potential applications as, e.g., sorbents, catalysts, and analytical instruments. In addition to high internal surface areas, these applications also require high permeability, which can be obtained by engineering hierarchical porosity into the film. A novel approach uses cellulose nitrate to generate a system of larger pores (15-30 nm dia.) connected by the smaller mesopores (2-10 nm dia.) generated using traditional organic surfactants. The unimolecular reaction for cellulose nitrate deflagration avoids the usual diffusion limitations of traditional combustion synthesis. A family of hierarchically porous films was produced using a range of surfactant mixtures, and exhibited a range of surface areas along with relatively impermeable ?skins? on the film free boundaries. These skins were formed by an extrusion mechanism due to pore expansion coupled with the lateral (in-plane) symmetry constraints unique to thin films. The skin thickness depends primarily on the ratio of the large pore spacing (l0) over its diameter (d). The specific surface area (SA, m2/g) of the film increases monotonically as l0/d decreases, reaching a maximum at about l0/d{approx}0.67. Precipitous reductions in SA for smaller values of l0/d are caused by pore intersections and the associated excluded surface areas. At high pore intersectionmore » (low l0/d), the film structure evolves from ''a solid with pores'' to ''pores surrounded by a cage-like silica matrix''. The cage-like film structure is less susceptible to thin film cracking behavior, but is probably in a more metastable state susceptible to thermal or hydrothermal exposure. This metastability might be mitigated by controlling the structure of the skin through several avenues, including processing conditions (e.g., drying rates or thermal schedules) and the sol-gel chemistry.« less
Synthesis of proteophosphoglycans of Leishmania major and Leishmania mexicana.

A novel approach for the synthesis of various fragments of proteophosphoglycans from Leishmania major and Leishmania mexicana proteophosphoglycans has been developed. These compounds have been obtained by coupling α-mannosyl and α-N-acetyl-glucosamine phosphoramidite derivatives with the serine hydroxyl of various amino acids and peptides to give, after oxidation with tert-BuOOH, phosphotriesters exclusively as α-anomers in good yield. The resulting compounds could be deblocked using conventional methods. Glycophosphorylation of preassembled and properly protected peptides was found to be more efficient for the preparation of proteophosphoglycan fragments than a building block approach strategy using a phosphoglycosylserine derivative.
Clinical Evaluation of Abiraterone in the Treatment of Metastatic Prostate Cancer.

Treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer remains an area of unmet medical need. Evidence suggests that this entity continues to be driven by androgens and androgen receptor (AR) signaling. Abiraterone acetate, a pregnenolone derivative, is an oral selective and irreversible inhibitor of the key steroidogenic enzyme CYP17. It possesses dual 17-α hydroxylase and C17,20-lyase blocking activity, the result of which is decreased gonadal and extra-gonadal androgen synthesis. Abiraterone was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011 following the demonstration of superior survival compared with placebo in the post-docetaxel population. Since that time, more evidence has been generated from preclinical studies and clinical trials which have considerably enhanced our understanding of this complex disease. In this paper, we review the development of abiraterone acetate, its pharmacological characteristics, and its effects on the androgen-AR signaling axis, along with the combined experience from clinical trials. We also discuss some of the ongoing trials using this agent, as well as potential mechanisms of abiraterone resistance, novel biomarker development, and future directions using AR-directed therapies.
Improving the Cost Efficiency of Supported Employment Programs

This article reviews the monetary benefits and costs that taxpayers incur as a result of funding supported employment programs. Each cost accounting variable involved in formulating cost efficiency from the taxpayer's perspective is discussed. Methods for increasing taxpayer cost efficiency are then suggested.
Sample Selection Bias in Analyses of the Political Democracy and Income Inequality Relationship

Results of studies into the relationship between political democracy and income inequality vary, with some researchers finding that democracy decreases inequality, others that democracy has no effect, and several that democracy actually increases inequality. This article explores sample-selection bias as a possible explanation for these discrepancies. The authors apply J. J. Heckman's two-step correction procedure to three studies : K. A. Bollen and R. W. Jackman, E. N. Muller, and M. Simpson. Results indicate that even when statistically significant bias exists, coefficient estimates for political democracy are unaffected; sample-selection bias is apparently not responsible for the discrepancies
Impacts of Channelization on Stream Habitats and Associated Fish Assemblages in East Central Indiana

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between fish assemblage and habitat in streams dominated by an agricultural landscape. Fishes from 20 natural and 20 channelized streams were sampled using electrofishing gear in east central Indiana. Streams that had been channelized had a lower quality fish assemblage when compared to natural streams as measured by the Indiana V. Eastern Corn Belt Plain Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI). Stream habitat was evaluated using the Ohio EPA Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index (QHEI), which indicated that channelized streams had lower quality primarily due to a loss of heterogeneous habitat. Pearson correlation analysis relating IBI and QHEI was positive and significant and demonstrated that a reduction in riffle and pool areas associated with channelization was the most significant factor influencing the fish assemblage. Furthermore, species lost when streams were channelized were predictable and often represented environmentally sensitive ...
A data acquisition system for flat-panel imaging arrays

An electronic data acquisition system for pixelated, two-dimensional, amorphous silicon x-ray imaging arrays has been developed. The system was designed in a modular fashion with digital control provided by field-programmable logic devices. This approach allows sections of the design to be upgraded with little impact an other aspects of the system. Good analog noise performance was obtained by matching the preamplifier design to the characteristics of the array outputs. The design of this system is presented and its performance quantified. >
Application of dense-medium in an enhanced gravity separator for fine coal cleaning

Abstract Dense-medium separators have proven to be the most efficient processes for removing the undesirable gangue material from run-of-mine coal. The application of high-pressure feed injection into dense-medium cyclones to provide an elevated centrifugal force has recently been found to allow efficient separation performances for the treatment of fine coal (i.e., A test prograrn has been conducted to evaluate the potential cleaning of 1000 x 44 μm fine coal using dense-medium in an enhanced gravity separator (EGS), which mechanically generates enhanced gravity field. Test results indicate that the use of dense-medium in an EGS resulted in an 8% weight unit increase in mass yield compared to the use of water-only for the treatment of an easy-to-clean Illinois No. 6 fine coal sample. For a difficult-to-clean coal, the mass yield improvement was significantly greater at nearly 20% by weight. From the treatment offour different coal samples, organic efficiency values greater than 90% were obtained over the entire range of product quality values. These findings are reflective of the highly efficiency, low density separations provided by the dense-medium as indicated by probable error values below 0.05.
Maturation of the human fetal startle response: Evidence for sex-specific maturation of the human fetus

Despite the evidence for early fetal experience exerting programming influences on later neurological development and health risk, very few prospective studies of human fetal behavior have been reported. In a prospective longitudinal study, fetal nervous system maturation was serially assessed by monitoring fetal heart rate (FHR) responses to vibroacoustic stimulation (VAS) in 191 maternal/fetal dyads. Responses were not detected at 26 weeks gestational age (GA). Sex-specific, age-characteristic changes in the FHR response to VAS were observed by 31 weeks' GA. Males showed larger responses and continued to exhibit maturational changes until 37 weeks' GA, females however, presented with a mature FHR startle response by 31 weeks' GA. The results indicate that there are different rates of maturation in the male and female fetuses that may have implications for sex-specific programming influences.
How not to render an explanatory version of the evidential argument from evil immune to skeptical theism

Among the things that students of the problem of evil think about is whether explanatory versions of the evidential argument from evil are better than others, better than William Rowe’s famous versions of the evidential argument, for example. Some of these students claim that the former are better than the latter in no small part because the former, unlike the latter, avoid the sorts of worries raised by so-called “skeptical theists”. Indeed, Trent Dougherty claims to have constructed an explanatory version that is “fundamentally immune to considerations pertaining to skeptical theism”. I argue that he has done no such thing.
Pharmacokinetic Profile and Tolerability of Indinavir-Ritonavir Combinations in Healthy Volunteers

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel study in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-uninfected healthy subjects to investigate the pharmacokinetic interaction between indinavir (IDV) and ritonavir (RTV). Subjects were allocated to treatment groups of IDV given with RTV in the following milligram doses twice daily: 800 mg of IDV-100 mg of RTV (800-100 mg), 800-200, 800-400, and 400-400 mg, placebo of IDV with RTV doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg, and placebo of both IDV and RTV. Doses of both drugs were administered for 14 days with a low-fat meal and one dose on day 15 with a high-fat meal. Blood was obtained for drug concentration measurements on days 14 and 15. Seventy-three volunteers enrolled in the study: 29 men and 44 women. Fifty-three volunteers completed the study. When compared to standard historical data for 800 mg of IDV every 8 h (q8h), the IDV area under the concentration-time curve for 24 h (AUC 24 ) of IDV-RTV regimens 400-400, 800-100, and 800-200 mg were at least 1.4, 2.3, and 3.3 times higher, respectively, regardless of meal. The concentrations at the end of the dosing interval were 10 to 25 times higher than that observed in the standard regimen of 800 mg of IDV q8h for IDV-RTV 800-100 and 800-200 mg regimens, respectively. RTV at 200 mg maximally enhanced the IDV profile. Improved tolerability was associated with IDV-RTV 800-100 mg versus IDV-RTV 800-200, 800-400, and 400-400 mg q12h. The advantages of IDV-RTV twice daily over 800 mg of IDV q8h include no food restrictions and twice-daily dosing. Also, the regimens achieve levels of IDV that may be helpful in suppressing strains of HIV-1 that have reduced susceptibility to IDV or other protease inhibitors.
Operation-centric hardware description and synthesis

The operation-centric hardware abstraction is useful for describing systems whose behavior exhibits a high degree of concurrency. In the operation-centric style, the behavior of a system is described as a collection of operations on a set of state elements. Each operation is specified as a predicate and a set of simultaneous state-element updates, which may only take effect in case the predicate is true on the current state values. The effect of an operation's state updates is atomic, that is, the legal behaviors of the system constitute some sequential interleaving of the operations. This atomic and sequential execution semantics permits each operation to be formulated as if the rest of the system were frozen and thus simplifies the description of concurrent systems. This paper presents an approach to synthesize an efficient synchronous digital implementation from an operation-centric hardware-design description. The resulting implementation carries out multiple operations per clock cycle and yet maintains the semantics that is consistent with the atomic and sequential execution of operations. The paper defines, and then gives algorithms to identify, conflict-free and sequentially composable operations that can be performed in the same clock cycle. The paper further gives an algorithm to generate the hardwired arbitration logic to coordinate the concurrent execution of conflict-free and sequentially composable operations. Lastly, the paper evaluates synthesis results based on the TRAC compiler for the TRSPEC operation-centric hardware-description language. The results from a pipelined processor example show that an operation-centric framework offers a significant reduction in design time, while achieving comparable implementation quality as traditional register-transfer-level design flows.
The Relationship between Oscillating Subtropical Wind Stress and Equatorial Temperature

Abstract An earlier study showed that an atmosphere–ocean model of the Pacific develops a midlatitude oscillation that produces decadal sea surface temperature (SST) variability on the equator. The authors use the ocean component of this model to understand better how subtropical wind stress oscillations can cause such SST variability. The model ocean consists of three active layers that correspond to the mixed layer, the thermocline, and intermediate water, all lying above a motionless abyss. For a steady wind, the model develops a subtropical cell (STC) in which northward surface Ekman transport subducts, flows equatorward within the thermocline, and returns to the surface at the equator. Analytic results predict the model's equatorial temperature, given some knowledge of the circulation and external forcing. A prescribed subtropical wind stress anomaly perturbs the strength of the STC, which in turn modifies equatorial upwelling and equatorial SST. The transient response to a switched-on wind perturbat...
Modeling fourier transform infrared spectroscopic imaging of Prostate and Breast Cancer tissue specimens

Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic imaging is an emerging technique that provides both spatially and chemically resolved information. The rich chemical content of data may be utilized for computer-aided determinations of structure and pathologic state (cancer diagnosis) in histological tissue sections for Prostate and Breast Cancer. Recent results show that tissue type (histological) classification can be performed to an accuracy [1] of 94% to 99% and cancer diagnosis can be performed with an accuracy of about [2] 80% on a microscopic (≈ 6µm) length scale. One of the primary causes of reduction in classification accuracy is the systematic errors caused by distortions in the infrared spectra of tissues resulting from the nature of data acquisition. Here, we present a rigorous model for the interaction of infrared light with the tissue sample using coupled wave analysis and characterize the nature of these distortions. In particular, we demonstrate the spectral effects of changing the thickness of homogeneous samples and scattering from boundaries of two regions in spatially heterogeneous samples. Modeling these optical distortions provides a fundamental understanding of systematic errors in FT-IR measurements and is important to improving accuracy of automated cancer tissue histopathology.
Mechanisms of Feature- and Space-Based Attention: Response Modulation and Baseline Increases

Selective attention modulates neural activity in the visual system both in the presence and in the absence of visual stimuli. When subjects direct attention to a particular location in a visual scene in anticipation of the stimulus onset, there is an increase in baseline activity. How do such baseline increases relate to the attentional modulation of stimulus-driven activity? Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we demonstrate that baseline increases related to the expectation of motion or color stimuli at a peripheral target location do not predict the modulation of neural responses evoked by these stimuli when attended. In areas such as MT and TEO that were more effectively activated by one stimulus type than the other, attentional modulation of visually evoked activity depended on the stimulus preference of a visual area and was stronger for the effective than for the noneffective stimulus. In contrast, baseline increases did not reflect the stimulus preference of a visual area. Rather, these signals were shown to be spatially specific and appeared to be dominated by the location information and not by the feature information of the cue with the experimental paradigms under study. These findings provide evidence that baseline increases in visual cortex during cue periods do not reflect the activation of a memory template that includes particular stimulus properties of the expected target, but rather carry information about the location of an expected target stimulus. In addition, when the stimulus contained both color and motion, an object-based attention effect was observed, with significant attentional modulation in the area that responded preferentially to the unattended feature.
Individual Differences in Experiences of and Responses to Guilt and Shame: Examining the Lenses of Gender and Gender Role

How are experiences of and reactions to guilt and shame a function of gendered views of the self? Individual differences in guilt and shame responses were explored in a sample of 104 young adults, most of whom were European American. Results indicated that, although women reported greater proneness to guilt and shame, men reported more trait guilt. Heightened levels of guilt- and shame-proneness were observed among both men and women with traditionally feminine gender roles, whereas a more traditionally masculine self-concept was associated with decreased shame-proneness for women. Gender schematic women favored verbal responses to ameliorate the experience of guilt, whereas gender schematic men preferred action-oriented responses. These results are discussed as gendered outcomes of schematic versus aschematic gender role socialization.
Development of a Master of Software Assurance Reference Curriculum

Modern society is deeply and irreversibly dependent on software systems of remarkable scope and complexity in areas that are essential for preserving this way of life. The security and correct functioning of these systems are vital. Recognizing these realities, the U. S. Department of Homeland Security DHS National Cyber Security Division NCSD enlisted the resources of the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University to develop a curriculum for a Master of Software Assurance degree program and define transition strategies for implementation. In this article, the authors present an overview of the Master of Software Assurance curriculum project, including its history, student prerequisites and outcomes, a core body of knowledge, and curriculum architecture from which to create such a degree program. The authors also provide suggestions for implementing a Master of Software Assurance program.
Innovative strategies for the management of long bone infection: a review of the Masquelet technique

Post-traumatic long bone osteomyelitis (PTOM) is a relatively frequent occurrence in patients with severe open fractures and requires treatment to prevent limb-threatening complications. The Masquelet technique represents a length-independent, two-staged reconstruction that involves the induction of a periosteal membrane and use of an antibiotic-impregnated cement spacer for the treatment of segmental bone loss that result from bone infection. In this review, we summarize recent developments regarding the diagnosis and treatment of long bone PTOM, with a special emphasis on the use of the Masquelet technique for reconstruction of wide diaphyseal defects.
Visual gesture recognition

Presents a method for recognising human-hand gestures using a model based approach. A finite state machine is used to model four qualitatively distinct phases of a generic gesture. Fingertips are tracked in multiple frames to compute motion trajectories. The trajectories are then used for finding the start and stop position of the gesture. Gestures are represented as a list of vectors and are then matched to stored gesture vector models using table lookup based on vector displacements. Results are presented showing recognition of seven gestures using images sampled at 4 Hz on a SPARC-1 without any special hardware. The seven gestures are representatives for actions of left, right, up, down, grab, rotate, and stop.
Treatment of genital prolapse by laparoscopic lateral suspension using mesh: a series of 73 patients.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of laparoscopic lateral suspension using mesh in patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP). DESIGN: A prospective cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). SETTING: A tertiary referral center for operative laparoscopy. PATIENTS: In all, 73 patients with POP were assessed in the preoperative and postoperative stages. The assessment included a description of their functional symptoms and the degree of their POP condition, established according to the Baden-Walker prolapse classification system. The patients were followed in the postoperative stage for a median of 19 (range 12-41) months. INTERVENTIONS: Laparoscopic lateral suspension of pelvic organs using mesh carried out from January 2004 through September 2006. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Satisfactory anatomic results were obtained in 64 (87.7%) patients. Neither major complications, nor postoperative pelvic infection were reported. None of the operations required laparotomy. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic lateral suspension using mesh effectively treats POP with low morbidity.
Mouse models of graft-versus-host disease

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) represents an important therapy for many hematological and some epithelial malignancies and for a spectrum of nonmalignant diseases (Appelbaum, 2001). The development of novel strategies such as donor leukocyte infusions (DLI), nonmyeloablative HCT and cord blood transplantation (CBT) have helped expand the indications for allogeneic HCT over the last several years, especially among older patients (Welniak et al., 2007). However, the major toxicity of allogeneic HCT, Graft-Versus-Host disease (GVHD), remains a lethal complication that limits its wider application (Ferrara and Reddy, 2006). Depending on when it occurs after HCT, GVHD can be either acute or chronic (Deeg, ; Weiden et al., ; Weiden et al., ; Lee, 2005). Acute GVHD is responsible for 15% to 40% of mortality and is the major cause of morbidity after allogeneic HCT, while chronic GVHD occurs in up to 50% of patients who survive three months after HCT. Mouse models have provided the majority of insights into the biology of this complex disease process.
RL-huffman encoding for test compression and power reduction in scan applications

This article mixes two encoding techniques to reduce test data volume, test pattern delivery time, and power dissipation in scan test applications. This is achieved by using run-length encoding followed by Huffman encoding. This combination is especially effective when the percentage of don't cares in a test set is high, which is a common case in today's large systems-on-chips (SoCs). Our analysis and experimental results confirm that achieving up to an 89% compression ratio and a 93% scan-in power reduction is possible for scan-testable circuits such as ISCAS89 benchmarks.
Ergonomic analysis of microlaryngoscopy.

Objectives/Hypothesis: To apply ergonomic principles in analysis of three different operative positions used in laryngeal microsurgery. Study Design: Prospective case-control study. Methods: Laryngologists were studied in three different microlaryngeal operative positions: a supported position in a chair with articulated arm supports, a supported position with arms resting on a Mayo stand, and a position with arms unsupported. Operative positions were uniformly photographed in three dimensions. Full body postural data was collected and analyzed using the validated Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool to calculate a risk score indicative of potential musculoskeletal misuse in each position. Joint forces were calculated for the neck and shoulder, and compression forces were calculated for the L5/S1 disc space. Results: Higher-risk postures were obtained with unfavorably adjusted eyepieces and lack of any arm support during microlaryngeal surgery. Support with a Mayo stand led to more neck flexion and strain. Using a chair with articulated arm supports leads to decreased neck strain, less shoulder torque, and decreased compressive forces on the L5/S1 disc space. Ideal postures during microlaryngoscopy place the surgeon with arms and feet supported, with shoulders in an unraised, neutral anatomic position, upper arms neutrally positioned 20° to 45° from torso, lower arms neutrally positioned 60° to 100° from torso, and wrists extended or flexed <15°. Conclusions: RULA and biomechanical analyses have identified lower-risk surgeon positioning to be utilized during microlaryngeal surgery. Avoiding the identified high-risk operative postures and repetitive stress injury may lead to reduced occupationally related musculoskeletal pain and may improve microsurgical motor control. Laryngoscope, 2010
Nuclear Akt associates with PKC-phosphorylated Ebp1, preventing DNA fragmentation by inhibition of caspase-activated DNase

Akt promotes cell survival through phosphorylation. The physiological functions of cytoplasmic Akt have been well defined, but little is known about the nuclear counterpart. Employing a cell-free apoptotic assay and NGF-treated PC12 nuclear extracts, we purified Ebp1 as a factor, which contributes to inhibition of DNA fragmentation by CAD. Depletion of Ebp1 from nuclear extracts or knockdown of Ebp1 in PC12 cells abolishes the protective effects of nerve growth factor, whereas overexpression of Ebp1 prevents apoptosis. Ebp1 (S360A), which cannot be phosphorylated by PKC, barely binds Akt or inhibits DNA fragmentation, whereas Ebp1 S360D, which mimics phosphorylation, strongly binds Akt and suppresses apoptosis. Further, phosphorylated nuclear but not cytoplasmic Akt interacts with Ebp1 and enhances its antiapoptotic action independent of Akt kinase activity. Moreover, knocking down of Akt diminishes the antiapoptotic effect of Ebp1 in the nucleus. Thus, nuclear Akt might contribute to suppressing apoptosis through interaction with Ebp1.
PURINERGIC RECEPTOR STIMULATION INCREASES MEMBRANE TRAFFICKING IN BROWN ADIPOCYTES

Stimulation of brown adipocytes by their sympathetic innervation plays a major role in body energy homeostasis by regulating the energy-wasting activity of the tissue. The norepinephrine released by sympathetic activity acts on adrenergic receptors to activate a variety of metabolic and membrane responses. Since sympathetic stimulation may also release vesicular ATP, we tested brown fat cells for ATP responses. We find that micromolar concentrations of extracellular ATP initiates profound changes in the membrane trafficking of brown adipocytes. ATP elicited substantial increases in total cell membrane capacitance, averaging approximately 30% over basal levels and occurring on a time scale of seconds to minutes. The membrane capacitance increase showed an agonist sensitivity of 2-methylthio-ATP > or = ATP > ADP > > adenosine, consistent with mediation by a P2r type purinergic receptor. Membrane capacitance increases were not seen when cytosolic calcium was increased by adrenergic stimulation, and capacitance responses to ATP were similar in the presence and absence of extracellular calcium. These results indicate that increases in cytosolic calcium alone do not mediate the membrane response to ATP. Photometric assessment of surface-accessible membrane using the dye FM1-43 showed that ATP caused an approximate doubling of the amount of membrane actively trafficking with the cell surface. The discrepancy in the magnitudes of the capacitance and fluorescence changes suggests that ATP both activates exocytosis and alters other aspects of membrane handling. These findings suggest that secretion, mobilization of membrane transporters, and/or surface membrane expression of receptors may be regulated in brown adipocytes by P2r purinergic receptor activity.
Differences in the Toxicological Potential of 2D versus Aggregated Molybdenum Disulfide in the Lung

2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS2 ) has distinct optical and electronic properties compared to aggregated MoS2 , enabling wide use of these materials for electronic and biomedical applications. However, the hazard potential of MoS2 has not been studied extensively. Here, a comprehensive analysis of the pulmonary hazard potential of three aqueous suspended forms of MoS2 -aggregated MoS2 (Agg-MoS2 ), MoS2 exfoliated by lithiation (Lit-MoS2 ), and MoS2 dispersed by Pluronic F87 (PF87-MoS2 )-is presented. No cytotoxicity is detected in THP-1 and BEAS-2B cell lines. However, Agg-MoS2 induces strong proinflammatory and profibrogenic responses in vitro. In contrast, Lit- and PF87-MoS2 have little or no effect. In an acute toxicity study in mice, Agg-MoS2 induces acute lung inflammation, while Lit-MoS2 and PF87-MoS2 have little or no effect. In a subchronic study, there is no evidence of pulmonary fibrosis in response to all forms of MoS2 . These data suggest that exfoliation attenuates the toxicity of Agg-MoS2 , which is an important consideration toward the safety evaluation and use of nanoscale MoS2 materials for industrial and biological applications.
Issues in the design of fault tolerant vehicle management systems for next generation unstable air vehicles

The author describes design issues in fault-tolerant vehicle management systems (VMS) for next-generation high-performance aircraft. Unstable aircraft require a highly reliable fault-tolerant computer to perform dynamic compensation of effector surface controls. Next-generation system requirements for system availability and performance will extend the role of flight criticality beyond the flight data sensors and actuation control functions. Additional control systems requiring a similar degree of fault tolerance include the primary and secondary electrical power systems, fuel management system, hydraulics control system, propulsion control system, and avionics cooling system. The incorporation of these additional control systems into the flight control system defines the vehicle management system of next-generation aircraft. In addition, the implementation of a VMS for the 1990s will incorporate state-of-the-art hardware technologies including fiber optics, high-speed local area networks, high-voltage application-specific integrated circuits, multiprocessing, smart sensors, liquid-cooled racks, and packaging for two-level maintenance. Software technology will include a multiprocessor ADA fault-tolerant executive, local area network distributed architecture synchronization and network management, and high coverage built-in-test to support two-level maintenance. Architectural and system technologies to be applied include channelized and self-monitored redundancy, integrated flight and propulsion control, centralized and distributed electric actuators, pooled processing centers, expert systems, and 270 V uninterruptible electrical systems. The goals and accomplishments of some VMS programs are summarized. >
Effects of renminbi appreciation on foreign firms: The role of processing exports

Abstract We examine the impact of Chinese currency (renminbi) revaluation on firm valuations, focusing on the effect of surprise announcements of changes in China's currency policy on 9753 manufacturing firms in 44 countries. Renminbi appreciation has no significant impact on the valuation of firms in sectors exporting to China on average. But this “non-result” confounds a positive effect on firms in sectors exporting final goods to China with a negligible effect on those providing inputs for China's processing exports. We also find no significant effect on firms in sectors competing with China at home and in third markets. But again this “non-result” confounds the positive effect on firms competing with China in final goods with an insignificant effect on firms competing with China's processing exports. When evaluating the effects of renminbi appreciation on other countries, it follows, distinguishing processing trade from trade in final goods is key.
Strategy Versus Understanding: How Orientations Toward Political Conversation Influence Political Engagement

This study combines empirical political communication research models with theoretical accounts provided by the theory of communicative action to expand the understanding of how communication matters for democratic political functioning, particularly under conditions of social instability. Building on the Habermasian distinction between strategic orientations versus understanding orientations in conversation, the author explores the role of conversation orientations as antecedents to political engagement. Examination of conversation orientations in Colombia, a society characterized by social conflict, provides evidence of the democratic benefits of orientations toward reaching understanding and the deleterious effects of strategic orientations for political involvement, associational membership, and ultimately participation, as well as the importance of including conversation orientations as explanatory factors in models that seek to explain political involvement. These findings speak to the potential for...
Functional Polymers Based on p- and m-(Hydroxyphenyl)-2-Oxazolines

2-Oxazolines can be polymerized cationically with a variety of electrophilic initiators to produce linear poly(N-acylethyleneimine)s. In many cases their polymerization proceeds through a living mechanism and this allows not only the synthesis of polymers with well characterized molecular weights, but also the preparation of a variety of block and graft copolymers (Scheme 1). Because of a slow propagation rate compared to that of other heterocyclic monomers, the elemental reaction steps can be conveniently followed by carrying out the polymerization directly into a NMR sample tube. Poly(N-acylethyleneimine) is also an excellent starting polymer backbone on which a large variety of reactions have been performed to produce a number of unusual functional polymers. In addition to this, 1:1 alternating copolymerization and 2:1 periodic copolymerization of 2-oxazolines have opened several new, very fruitful areas of active research. All the above summarized information has been excellently reviewed by Kobayashi and Saegusa,1 the leaders of the most active group working in this field.
Human pluripotent stem cells: an emerging model in developmental biology

Developmental biology has long benefited from studies of classic model organisms. Recently, human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), including human embryonic stem cells and human induced pluripotent stem cells, have emerged as a new model system that offers unique advantages for developmental studies. Here, we discuss how studies of hPSCs can complement classic approaches using model organisms, and how hPSCs can be used to recapitulate aspects of human embryonic development ‘in a dish’. We also summarize some of the recently developed genetic tools that greatly facilitate the interrogation of gene function during hPSC differentiation. With the development of high-throughput screening technologies, hPSCs have the potential to revolutionize gene discovery in mammalian development.
Ankyloglossia: the adolescent and adult perspective.

Abstract Objectives We sought to characterize examination findings and functional limitations due to ankyloglossia in adolescents and adults and to evaluate frenuloplasty in this group. Study design A prospective study was conducted of 15 individuals with ankyloglossia aged 14 to 68 years. Baseline symptoms were recorded by questionnaire, and tongue mobility measures were compared with that of 20 control subjects. Six subjects were reassessed postfrenuloplasty. Results Thirteen of 14 patients with uncorrected ankyloglossia (93%) noted symptoms including speech problems (50%) and mechanical limitations (57%), such as difficulty licking the lips. Mean tongue protrusion and elevation at baseline measured 15.5 ± 6.0 mm and 13.6 ± 8.0 mm, respectively, for patients and 32.0 ± 3.9 mm and 30.3 ± 4.9 mm for control subjects (P Conclusion Symptoms related to ankyloglossia are prevalent in this age group and respond favorably to frenuloplasty.