cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toward Abstracting the Communication Intent in Applications to Improve Portability and Productivity

Programming with communication libraries such as the Message Passing Interface (MPI) obscures the high-level intent of the communication in an application and makes static communication analysis difficult to do. Compilers are unaware of communication libraries' specifics, leading to the exclusion of communication patterns from any automated analysis and optimizations. To overcome this, communication patterns can be expressed at higher-levels of abstraction and incrementally added to existing MPI applications. In this paper, we propose the use of directives to clearly express the communication intent of an application in a way that is not specific to a given communication library. Our communication directives allow programmers to express communication among processes in a portable way, giving hints to the compiler on regions of computations that can be overlapped with communication and relaxing communication constraints on the ordering, completion and synchronization of the communication imposed by specific libraries such as MPI. The directives can then be translated by the compiler into message passing calls that efficiently implement the intended pattern and be targeted to multiple communication libraries. Thus far, we have used the directives to express point-to-point communication patterns in C, C++ and Fortran applications, and have translated them to MPI and SHMEM.
The effect of macro-bending on phasing in 6 and 7-core large mode area photonic crystal fibers

In this paper, we present the results of a frequency domain analysis of the effect of coiling induced macro-bending on the phasing of the modes of 6 and 7-core large mode area photonic crystal fibers. These fibers may enable fiber laser CW power and pulse energy scaling due to their large effective mode area (~4000 square microns), however; phase differences between the cores degrade the output beam quality. We study the effects of bend axis, bend radius, and core geometry on the phasing of the fiber modes. Coiling causes the signals in the individual cores to suffer de-phasing relative to each other in a predictable manner. This allows the possibility of recovering phased output, and thus near diffraction limited beam quality, from amplifiers employing these fibers. Preliminary experimental results are also presented.
Relative shear bond strengths of luting media with various core materials.

T he coronal cast metal restoration continues to be commonly used to restore teeth severely damaged by caries or trauma and to strengthen endodontically treated teeth. Often, however, so little tooth structure remains that a casting could not be adequately supported and retained (either coronally or within the root canal) without an intermediate buildup with a suitable dowel or core. Important factors related to the success of a cast restoration are (1) the ‘design and quality of the tooth or core, and (2) the accuracy of the casting.’ Other factors that contribute to longevity and success include (1) the type of core material to which the casting is cemented, (2) the luting medium and its biophysical characteristics, and (3) the degree of bond strength between the cement and the core material.‘-3 In most instances, the core consists of various combinations of dentin and amalgam alloy, composite resin, noble alloy, or base metal alloy. The bond strength of a luting agent to dentin is an important consideration in the success of the cast restoration. It is equally important that the bond strength of luting agents to various core materials be within the range of clinical acceptability. The bond strengths of various luting agents have been widely reported in the literature, usually presented in terms of tensile characteristics.“’ Fewer studies have dealt with the bond strengths to core materials and dentin in terms of shear strength characteristics.6,7 Both shear and tensile strengths are relevant for retention of a casting. The purpose of this laboratory investigation was to compare the shear bond strength of representative luting agents to materials commonly used as cores for cast restorations.
Aspect graphs and their use in object recognition

Previous researchers have described several different approaches to 3-D object recognition based on using an iterative technique to control the matching of features from the 2-D projection of a 3-D model to observed image features. The major problem encountered with such approaches is how to automatically choose starting parameter estimates in a manner which both avoids recognition errors due to local minima and is still reasonably efficient. This paper investigates the use of theaspect graph to address this problem. The basic idea is quite simple — an iterative solution is generated for each of a set of candidate aspects and the best of these is chosen as the recognized view. Two assumptions are required in order for this approach to be valid: (1) the iterative search for the correct candidate aspect must converge to the correct answer, and (2) the solution found for the correct aspect must be better than that found for any of the incorrect candidate aspects. In order to explore the validity of these assumptions, a simple aspect graph-based recognition system was implemented. Experiments were carried out using both real and simulated data. The results indicate that the underlying assumptions are generally valid, and that this approach has advantages over previous techniques which incorporated an iterative search.
A PATTERN-RECONFIGURABLE MICROSTRIP ANTENNA ELEMENT

5. CONCLUSION To study the very thin metallic substrate sandwiched in a multilayer microstrip structure, this paper has compared the different models for this thin-film conductor. Then these models were implemented to analyze an open metal-insulator–metal-insulator (MIMI) structure by using the rigorous spectral-domain approach. The numerical results show that all these models can exhibit the slow wave effect. The IBC is applicable when the thickness t is larger than two skin depths thick for the estimation of the effective permittivity or at least 1 skin depth thick for the attenuation separately. For low-frequency ranges and fixed thickness, the approximation error of the R-card model and TE/TM mode sheet impedance model is almost constant, due to ignoring the normal components of the electric field. Although the TE/TM mode sheet impedance has better high-frequency performance, there is no numerical saving (CPU time and efficiency) compared with the exact immittance approach. The performance of the R-card at higher frequencies becomes rather unacceptable, which suggests it is not appropriate to implement the R-card model to analyze this multilayer microstrip transmission line over a wide frequency range. Furthermore, the results remind us to consider the normal component of the electric field inside the sheet when doing more accurate modelling and analysis of the finite-thickness signal strip.
Structural requirements for the functional activity of a U1 snRNA gene enhancer.

Abstract The transcriptional enhancer of a chicken U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) gene contains a GC-box, an octamer motif, and an SPH motif that are recognized by the transcription factors Sp1, Oct-1, and SBF respectively. Previous work indicated that the octamer and the SPH motifs were both required for U1 gene enhancer activity in frog oocytes when the U1 gene was coinjected with a competing snRNA gene template. Here we show that neither two copies of the octamer motif, nor two copies of the SPH motif, can effectively substitute for the natural combination of octamer and SPH. Furthermore, neither the octamer nor the SPH motif (in the absence of the other) functioned efficiently in combination with a GC-box. Alteration of the spacing between the octamer and SPH motifs also reduced U1 template activity. Several potential cis-acting elements other than the SPH motif, with one possible exception among those tested, were unable to cooperate with the octamer motif to effectively enhance U1 gene expression. These results indicate that rather stringent structural requirements exist with respect to the essential cis-acting motifs present in the U1 enhancer, possibly reflecting the unique properties of the transcription complexes assembled on snRNA gene promoters.
Mapping students’ thinking patterns by the use of the knowledge space theory

The quantitative Knowledge Space Theory is applied here for the first time to specific science concepts in order to evaluate its feasibility as a general assessment method for science learning. In particular, the knowledge states of students in the 4th through 12th grades are suggested for three science concepts before and after classroom teaching/learning experiences. The theory belongs to the vast category of latent trait models based upon the Rasch model, but differs in all its most important characteristics by having the power to extract the cognitive organization of the material. Student responses to the pre‐tests and the post‐tests were analyzed for the pressure concept, the density concept and the conservation of matter, and tentative critical learning pathways for each concept are suggested which describe the most probable sequences of learning steps. In all three cases the quantitative results show a change in the students’ logic structure after the classroom experience. Knowledge Space Theory sh...
Capture probabilities for secondary resonances

A perturbed pendulum model is used to analyze secondary resonances, and it is shown that a self-similarity between secondary and primary resonances exists. Henrard's (1982) theory is used to obtain formulas for the capture probability into secondary resonances. The tidal evolution of Miranda and Umbriel is considered as an example, and significant probabilities of capture into secondary resonances are found.
An assessment of the association of bispectral index with 2 clinical sedation scales for monitoring depth of procedural sedation.

Abstract Objective We conducted a study to assess the correlation of bispectral index (BIS) to 2 clinical sedation scales. Methods This was a prospective, observational study. The BIS number was recorded at baseline and every 30 seconds. One investigator separately monitored the patients for depth of sedation using the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation and the Continuum of Depth of Sedation scales. Results During the 6-month period, 75 patients were enrolled. The Spearman correlation between the BIS and the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation was 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.44-0.74). The Spearman correlation between the BIS and the Continuum of Depth of Sedation was 0.53 (95% CI, 0.36-0.70). The mean minimum BIS for patients without a complication was 70 (SD, 15.9) compared with 68 (SD, 12.9) for patients with a complication (difference = 2; 95% CI, −7-11). Conclusions Our study demonstrated moderate correlation between BIS and the 2 clinical sedation scales. The correlation is not strong enough to be used reliably in a clinical setting. The mean minimum BIS scores were not significantly different for those with sedation complications vs those without complications.
Laser-spectrographic analysis of the cation content in Fahr's syndrome

The cation content and composition of mineral deposits in cerebral vessels in a case of Fahr's syndrome were studied by laser-spectrographic analysis. It was shown that in addition to Ca and Fe, other minerals such as Mg, Al, and Zn accumulated in pathologic deposits. The occurrence of cations other than Ca and Fe in these deposits had not been previously reported. The observations made in this study may contribute to a better understanding of the etiopathogenesis of Fahr's syndrome.
Three simple classes of mixing models

Three classes of mixing models are examined with respect to mass constraints and Okubo-Zweig-Iizuka rule violation.
A new strategy for caging proteins regulated by kinases

A strategy has been developed for caging proteins that are endogenously regulated by phosphorylation. A key phosphorylatable serine in cofilin, an F-actin cleaving protein, was replaced with a nonphosphorylatable cysteine. The latter conversion ensures that the protein is no longer regulated by endogenous protein kinases. The cysteine residue was subsequently covalently modified with a negatively charged caging moiety, which electrostatically mimics the natural serine phosphate present in the inactive wild-type protein. Photoremoval of the cage generates an active protein, which cannot be switched off by endogenous protein kinases. Caged cofilin, and its irradiated counterpart, display the anticipated F-actin depolymerization and severing activities.
Development of a Standard Data Structure for Predicting the Remaining Physical Life and Consequence of Failure of Water Pipes

AbstractThis paper presents a standard data structure for predicting the remaining physical life and consequence of failure of water pipes. Correlating the various pipe material types with the pipe life cycle, failure modes and mechanisms are crucial in defining the various parameters that affect water pipelines. Identifying and estimating the failure consequences of a pipeline are also important for risk management. A complete understanding of the pipe life cycle, failure modes and mechanisms, standard data structure to support predictive modeling, and failure consequences can be effectively combined to aid in advanced asset management of drinking water pipelines.
Concepts of burden in giving care to older relatives: a study of female caregivers in a Mexico City neighborhood.

This study examined how women in a Mexico City suburb conceptualized the construct of burden within the context of giving care to older relatives. Data were collected on 41 women through semi-structured interviews regarding their caregiving experiences to elderly relatives. Phenomenological principles were used to analyze meanings and understandings of caregiving experiences. Burden was a multi-dimensional construct that referred to specific situations that made caregivers feel emotionally or physical “heavy.” Burden also referred to “being a burden” by being in the way, making things difficult, or being a ‘weight’ on caregivers’ shoulders. However, women in this study also viewed burden as a positive sacrifice that involved love, initiative, and good will. This study is an important first step in defining the ways in which caregiving is positively and negatively meaningful for Mexican caregivers and their families. Our findings offer an additional dimension of caregiver burden to broaden our understanding and measurement of the construct. The development of culturally appropriate instruments to measure caregiving burden in Mexico is necessary to provide an empirical foundation for policy recommendations that address the growing need for institutional support of caregivers. Moreover, our findings suggest that researchers studying caregiving in Mexico should think about how burden is measured on existing instruments before adapting them for widespread use.
An experimental analysis of exposure to "explicit" heterosexual stimuli as an effective variable in changing arousal patterns of homosexuals.

Abstract The effect of exposure to explicit heterosexual stimuli on heterosexual arousal was experimentally analyzed in four homosexuals in a series of single case experimental designs. Each subject was sequentially exposed to films of female or male sexual content under positive therapeutic instructions. Penile response to female slides in separate measurement sessions increased during exposure to the female film, decreased during exposure to the male film, and increased once again when the female film was reinstated. The increase in penile response to female stimuli was paralleled in many instances by changes in masturbatory fantasy, reports of arousal and heterosexual behavior outside the laboratory. Increasing heterosexual arousal had little effect on homosexual responsivity. Results are discussed in terms of exposure facilitating extinction of avoidance responses toward females and providing new sexual fantasy content.
Physical Activity and Lymphedema (The PAL Trial): Assessing the safety of progressive strength training in breast cancer survivors

Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive long-term adverse effect of breast cancer treatment commonly defined by swelling of the affected arm. Current clinical guidelines indicate that women with and at risk for lymphedema should protect the affected arm from overuse. In clinical practice, this often translates into risk aversive guidance to avoid using the arm. This could lead to a disuse pattern that may increase the likelihood of injury from common activities of daily living. Further, such guidance poses an additional barrier to staying physically active, potentially translating to weight gain, which has been shown to be associated with worse clinical course for women with lymphedema. We hypothesize that a program of slowly progressive strength training with no upper limit on the amount of weight that may be lifted would gradually increase the physiologic capacity of the arm so that common activities represent a decreasing percentage of maximal capacity. Theoretically, this increased capacity should decrease the risk that daily activities put stress on the lymphatic system of the affected side. The Physical Activity and Lymphedema (PAL) Trial is a recently completed randomized controlled exercise intervention trial that recruited 295 breast cancer survivors (141 with lymphedema at study entry, 154 at risk for lymphedema at study entry). The purpose of this report is to provide detail regarding the study design, statistical design, and protocol of the PAL trial.
Cytologic diagnosis of intraocular lymphoma in vitreous aspirates.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cytologic findings of vitreous fluids with atypical, suspicious for malignancy or malignant lymphoid cells to mangnant lymphoia cells to assess cytologic parameters that may help in reaching the diagnosis of intraocular lymphoma. STUDY DESIGN: Vitreous aspirates with a malignant, suspicious for malignancy or atypical lymphoid population were identified from the files of Barnes-Jewish Hospital during the previous 11 years. Cytologic preparations were reviewed. Pertinent clinical information was obtained from medical records. RESULTS: Thirteen vitreous aspirates from 12 patients were included. The chief complaints included floaters, blurred vision and decreased visual acuity. Bilateral ocular involvement was present in 8 (67%) patients. Three patients had a history of an extraocular lymphoid malignancy. All patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy and collection of the vitreous aspirate. Cytologic diagnoses included: malignant lymphoma (9 of 13), suspicious for malignant lymphoma (3 of 13) and atypical lymphoid population (1 of 13). Most samples had high cellularity (11 of 13) and necrosis (9 of 13). Abnormal lymphoid cells were large (2-4 times the size of a lymphocyte) and had a high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio, prominent nucleoli, irregular nuclear contours and a fine to coarse chromatin pattern. All cases with malignant cytology had abundant abnormal lymphoid cells; inconclusive cases had few. Immunocytochemistry for CD20 and CD45RO was performed on 9 of 13 samples and was conclusive in 6 of 9. CONCLUSION: Cytologic analysis of vitreous aspirates can be useful in diagnosing intraocular involvement by malignant lymphoma. Sparse cellularity is the main factor leading to inconclusive diagnoses. Immunostaining can be useful in confirming the lymphoid nature of the malignant cells.
Experimental investigation of plasma-broadened hydrogen Balmer lines at low electron densities

The central regions of the plasma-broadened Balmer lines ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}$, ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\beta}}$, and ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\gamma}}$ have been measured in a wall-stabilized arc over an electron density range between approximately 4\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{14}$ and 2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{16}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$. The experimental profiles exhibit much less structure in the line core than predicted by theories based on the static-ion approximations. These discrepancies increase towards lower electron densities and lower Balmerseries members, e.g., the ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}$ half-width as well as the central minimum of ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\beta}}$ deviate by about a factor of three from current hydrogen-broadening theories at low electron densities (${10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$). Consistent with earlier experiments, the central minimum of ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\beta}}$ was found to depend on the reduced mass of the radiatorion perturber system. Also, the temperature dependence of the experimental data suggests that the central ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\beta}}$ minimum depends approximately linearly on the relative mean velocity between radiator and perturber. Extrapolation of the ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\beta}}$ results to the static case yields good agreement with the quasistatic calculations. The theoretically predicted "shoulder" in the ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\gamma}}$ line shape is nearly absent in the experimental profile. Besides ion dynamics, fine-structure (spin) effects can account for a considerable portion of the observed discrepancies in the case of ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}$, and possibly a small part in the case of ${\mathrm{H}}_{\ensuremath{\beta}}$ at low electron densities (\ensuremath{\lesssim}${10}^{15}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$).
A Gain-of-function Polymorphism in a G-protein Coupling Domain of the Human β1-Adrenergic Receptor

The beta1-adrenergic receptor (beta1AR) is a key cell surface signaling protein expressed in the heart and other organs that mediates the actions of catecholamines of the sympathetic nervous system. A polymorphism in the intracellular cytoplasmic tail near the seventh transmembrane-spanning segment of the human beta1AR has been identified in a cohort of normal individuals. At amino acid position 389, Gly or Arg can be found (allele frequencies 0.26 and 0. 74, respectively), the former previously considered as the human wild-type beta1AR. Using site-directed mutagenesis to mimic the two variants, CHW-1102 cells were permanently transfected to express the Gly-389 and Arg-389 receptors. In functional studies with matched expression, the Arg-389 receptors had slightly higher basal levels of adenylyl cyclase activities (10.7 +/- 1.2 versus 6.1 +/- 0.4 pmol/min/mg). However, maximal isoproterenol-stimulated levels were markedly higher for the Arg-389 as compared to the Gly-389 receptor (63.3 +/- 6.1 versus 20.9 +/- 2.0 pmol/min/mg). Agonist-promoted [35S]guanosine 5'-O-(thiotriphosphate) binding was also increased with the Arg-389 receptor consistent with enhanced coupling to Gs and increased adenylyl cyclase activation. In agonist competition studies carried out in the absence of guanosine 5'-(beta, gamma-imido)triphosphate, high affinity binding could not be resolved with the Gly-389 receptor, whereas Arg-389 displayed an accumulation of the agonist high affinity receptor complex (RH = 26%). Taken together, these data indicate that this polymorphic variation of the human beta1AR results in alterations of receptor-Gs interaction with functional signal transduction consequences, consistent with its localization in a putative G-protein binding domain. The genetic variation of beta1AR at this locus may be the basis of interindividual differences in pathophysiologic characteristics or in the response to therapeutic betaAR agonists and antagonists in cardiovascular and other diseases.
A perpetual cascade of cytokines postirradiation leads to pulmonary fibrosis

PURPOSE Radiation-induced pulmonary reactions have classically been viewed as distinct phases--acute pneumonitis and, later, fibrosis--occurring at different times after irradiation and attributed to different target cell populations. We prefer to view these events as a continuum, with no clear distinction between the temporal sequence of the different pulmonary reactions; the progression is the result of an early activation of an inflammatory reaction, leading to the expression and maintenance of a cytokine cascade. In the current study, we have examined the temporal and spatial expression of cytokine and extracellular matrix messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) abundance in fibrosis-sensitive mice after thoracic irradiation. METHODS AND MATERIALS Radiation fibrosis-prone (C57BL/6) mice received thoracic irradiation of 5 and 12.5 Gy. At Day 1, and 1, 2, 8, 16, and 24 weeks after treatment, animals were killed and lung tissue processed for light microscopy and isolation of RNA. Expression of cytokine and extracellular matrix mRNA abundance was evaluated by slot-blot analysis and cellular localization by in situ hybridization and immunochemistry. RESULTS One of the cytokines responsible for the inflammatory phase (IL-1 alpha) is elevated at 2 weeks, returns to normal baseline values, then increases at 8 weeks, remaining elevated until 26 weeks when lung fibrosis appears. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF beta), a proliferative cytokine, is elevated at 2 weeks, persists until 8 weeks, and then returns to baseline values. In parallel with the cytokine cascade, the fibrogenic markers for CI/CIII/IV (collagen genes) correlate by showing a similar early and then later elevation of activity. For instance, the collagen gene expression of CI/CIII is a biphasic response with an initial increase at 1-2 weeks that remits at 8 weeks, remains inactive from 8 to 16 weeks, and then becomes elevated at 6 months when collagen deposition is recognized histopathologically. CONCLUSION These studies clearly demonstrate the early and persistent elevation of cytokine production following pulmonary irradiation. The temporal relationship between the elevation of specific cytokines and the histological and biochemical evidence of fibrosis serves to illustrate the continuum of response, which, we believe, underlies pulmonary radiation reactions and supports the concept of a perpetual cascade of cytokines produced immediately after irradiation, prompting collagen genes to turn on, and persisting until the expression of late effects becomes apparent pathologically and clinically.
A case of prolonged duration of untreated psychosis: barriers to treatment and strategies to improve the outcome.

Several factors may contribute to increase in duration of untreated psychosis (DUP). In most cases, early intervention, namely psychopharmacological or psychosocial intervention, is done after first-episode psychosis. It is important to know what factors can contribute to duration of untreated psychosis. During this phase, patients often display unspe cific symptoms such as anxiety and depression, personality disorders, and abuse of alcohol or drugs. These symptoms could go unrecognized and, hence, cause a delay in seeking treatment. In addition, functional and social decline frequently occurs in the prodromal phase or in the early course of schizophrenia. The purpose of this paper is to highlight barriers that cause delay in treatment and to review early detection and specific treatment strategies that may help to improve outcomes leading to psychosocial recovery.
Detection of proteins and sialoglycoproteins in polyacrylamide gels using eosin Y stain

An eosin Y staining technique that permits detection of various proteins, including membrane sialoglycoproteins, in polyacrylamide gels is described. The sensitivity of the eosin Y staining method is comparable to silver staining. In addition, there is an added advantage of the antigen icily of the stained proteins being retained in a Western blot. Details of the procedure to obtain optimal staining results are described.
Use of recycled wash water and returned plastic concrete in the production of fresh concrete

Abstract The disposal of leftover concrete and wash water from ready-mix concrete trucks is becoming an increasingly greater environmental concern. The first concern is over the amount of waste water that is generated in cleaning these trucks. The second concern is what effect, if any, these materials, which are considered hazardous by the EPA, might have when surface bodies of water and ground water become contaminated. This research project investigated the potential for recycling these waste concrete materials for the production of fresh concrete and mortar. A relatively new stabilizing admixture was also investigated as an aid in the recycling process. The resulting mortar was tested for compressive strength, sulfate resistance, workability, and setting time.
A Conceptual Model for Knowledge Marts for Decision Making Support Systems

This paper provides an integrated and comprehensive conceptual framework for knowledge based decision making support systems. Previous research has focused primarily on general decision support systems. The paper extends the previous work by presenting a framework to support specific decisions using knowledge marts that contain decision pertinent knowledge. A proposed methodology to test the effectiveness of this new model is proposed. The model presented provides much more specific knowledge support than previous systems.
Real Time Textured-Image Segmentation Based On Noncausal Markovian Random Field Models

Two conceptually new algorithms are presented for segmenting textured images into regions in each of which the data is modelled as one of C non-causal 2-D Markovian Stochastic Processes. The algorithms are designed to operate in real time when implemented on new parallel computer architectures. A doubly stochastic representation is used in image modelling. Here, an auto-normal (Gaussian) process is used to model textures in visible light and infrared images, and an auto-binary field is used to model apriori information about local image geometry. Image segmentation is realized as true maximum likelihood estimation. The first segmentation algorithm is hierarchical and uses a pyramid-like structure in new ways that exploit the mutual dependencies among disjoint pieces of a textured region. The second segmentation algorithm is a relaxation-type algorithm that arises naturally within the context of these non-causal Markovian Processes. It is a simple, true maximum likelihood estimator. The algorithms can be used separately or together. These issues and subtleties concerning the use of the Markovian processes are discussed.© (1984) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Minimum Latency Data Diffusion in Intermittently Connected Mobile Networks

We consider the problem of diffusing cached content in an intermittently connected mobile network, starting from a given initial configuration to a desirable goal state where all nodes interested in particular contents have a copy of their desired contents. The goal is to minimize the time taken for the diffusion process to terminate at a goal state. Due to bandwidth and storage constraints, whenever two nodes encounter each other, they must decide which content if any to transfer to each other. While most prior work on this topic has focused on practically realizable heuristics for this problem, we take a more formal approach. Our main contribution is to show that, assuming global state information is available, this problem can be formulated as a stochastic shortest path problem, which is a kind of Markov decision process (MDP). Using this formulation, we numerically explore some small-scale examples for which we are able to obtain the optimal solution. The results show that the optimal diffusion strategy is very much a function of the underlying encounter graph.
Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration: Practical Application

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration in unselected patients. Design Consecutive sample. Setting Tertiary care general hospital. Patients Three hundred and two patients with symptomatic cholelithiasis presenting to a single surgeon during a 5-year period. Interventions Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, cholangiography, and common bile duct exploration. Main Outcome Measures Successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy and common bile duct exploration. Results Three hundred and two consecutive patients underwent cholecystectomy for symptomatic cholelithiasis; 280 of the procedures were successfully completed laparoscopically. Cholangiography was attempted in 269 patients, was successful in 239, and revealed evidence of choledocholithiasis in 25. Preoperative ultrasonography and liver function tests predicted the presence of common bile duct stones in 24% and 32% of patients, respectively. Seven of the patients with choledocholithiasis presented with biliary colic, 7 with biliary colic and jaundice, 8 with acute cholecystitis (3 with gallbladder perforation), 1 with acute cholecystitis and jaundice, and 2 with gallstone pancreatitis. Four of 5 patients underwent successful transcystic exploration with a biliary Fogarty catheter, 12 of 16 patients underwent successful transcystic choledochoscopy and stone basket extraction, and all 4 attempts at choledochotomy and choledochoscopic stone basket extraction were successful, for a total success rate of 80% with laparoscopic common bile duct exploration. One of the failures was converted to an open procedure, and 4 of the failures had successful postoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and extraction of stones. Conclusions Laparoscopic cholecystectomy and common bile duct exploration is a highly successful procedure for the management of common duct stones in an unselected group of patients. Choledochotomy with choledochoscopy is the preferred method of common bile duct exploration.
Neutron activation experiments for bremsstrahlung characterization studies

Activation experiments were conducted to assess the bremsstrahlung continuum produced from the activation of the 7Li isotope and the subsequent short-lived 13 MeV beta decay of 8Li (T1/2 = 843 ms). The combination of the high energy beta-decay and the high atomic numbered metals used in piping for 7Li liquid metal coolants is a scenario in which bremsstrahlung production is a principal shielding concern. A series of fast pneumatic activation experiments have been performed to obtain the spectral distributions of bremsstrahlung gamma-rays transmitted through stainless steel shield samples. Detectors were used in both pulse-height and multichannel scaling analysis modes for energy spectra determination and half-life verification, respectively. Experimental results were utilized to validate the electron transport and bremsstrahlung production models used in the Monte Carlo MCNP code.
Lifting the fog of health delivery and costs.

Keywords: health care costs; Affordable Care Act; single payer system; private health care
The Outcome of Pregnancies before and after the Birth of Infants with Nervous System Malformations

SUMMARY Amongst 1,683 viable infants born prior to the birth of 719 propositi with neural tube defects, the incidence of similar defects was 4–2 per cent. Amongst 313 viable infants born subsequent to the birth of 220 propositi with anencephaly and spina bifida, 5.1 per cent had neural tube defects. There is a tendency for particular neural tube defects to ‘breed true’ within sibships, and this is most marked when more than two sibs are affected.
Supra-Earth affairs.

The United Nations briefly considered the issue of extra-terrestrial intelligence at the 32nd session of the General Assembly in 1977. As a result, the Office of Outer Space Affairs was tasked to p...
Reactions of SiF4 adsorbed on Si(111)(7 × 7) at 30 K

Abstract We have investigated the interaction of SiF4 with the Si(111)(7 × 7) surface at 30 K using photoelectron spectroscopy (PES) and angular-dependent photon-stimulated desorption (PSD). Examination of the valence and Si(2p) core-level PES spectra, and the angular-dependent PSD spectra in the photon energy region near the Si(2p) edge, indicates three different types of adsorption: dissociative chemisorption, first-layer physisorption, and multilayer physisorption. The initial adsorption of SiF4 results in the formation of SiF and SiF3: the SiF species have the Si-F bond directed normal to the surface, while the bonds in SiF3 are not. For exposure above ~ 0.2 × 1015 molecules cm 2 first-layer physisorbed SiF4 is observed. With subsequent exposure, multilayer islands SiF4 are formed prior to complete coverage of the silicon surface. Subsequent warming of a low-temperature, multi-layer dosed SiF4-covered surface to T > 100 K results in a surface that is covered predominately by SiF and SiF3.
Wilms tumor: Progress and considerations for the surgeon

Wilms tumor (WT) or nephroblastoma is the most common tumor of renal origin found in children. It accounts for 6% of all pediatric tumors and is the second most frequent intrabdominal solid organ tumor found in children. Initial survival rates in the early part of the last century was only 30%, but now long-term survival in both North America and European trials is approaching 85% with many low-stage tumors significantly higher. Treatment is now progressing towards "risk-based management"- based not only on stage and histology but also incorporating genetic markers [Dome JS, Grundy PE, Perlman EJ, Ehrlich PF, et al. Protocols for the renal tumors study. Childrens Oncology Group. [www.childrensoncologygroup.org. 2007.]. Within the multidisciplinary treatment team the surgeon plays a critical role in the diagnosis, staging and the surgeon's technical skills and judgment directs therapy and impacts outcome. The next generation of treatment for children with WT will focus on identifying subsets of patients who can be defined by some criterion as having a different outcome than their similar stage peers and who therefore require a variation in management. These include children with WT that have unsatisfactory long-term survival (less then 75%), patients of good survival but high potential for late effects and a final challenge are those children with both a poor survival and a high potential for late effects. This article presents a review of the most recent treatment considerations for WT with a focus on the surgeon's role to ensure a good outcome.
Controlled systemic delivery by polymeric implants enhances tissue and plasma curcumin levels compared with oral administration

Abstract Curcumin possesses potent anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activities but with poor biopharmaceutical attributes. To overcome these limitations, curcumin implants were developed and tissue (plasma, brain and liver) curcumin concentrations were measured in female ACI rats for 3 months. Biological efficacy of tissue levels achieved was analyzed by modulation of hepatic cytochromes. Curcumin implants exhibited diffusion-mediated biphasic release pattern with ∼2-fold higher in vivo release as compared to in vitro . Plasma curcumin concentration from implants was ∼3.3 ng/ml on day 1, which dropped to ∼0.2 ng/ml after 3 months, whereas only 0.2–0.3 ng/ml concentration was observed from 4–12 days with diet and was undetected subsequently. Almost 10-fold higher curcumin levels were observed in brain on day 1 from implants compared with diet (30.1 ± 7.3 vs 2.7 ± 0.8 ng/g) and were still significant even after 90 days (7.7 ± 3.8 vs 2.2 ± 0.8 ng/g). Although curcumin levels were similar in liver from both the routes (∼25–30 ng/g from day 1–4 and ∼10–15 ng/g at 90 days), implants were more efficacious in altering hepatic CYP1A1 levels and CYP3A4 activity at ∼28-fold lower doses at 90 days. Curcumin implants provided much higher plasma and tissue concentrations and are a viable alternative for delivery of curcumin to various organs like brain.
The enzymic defect in Morquio's disease: The specificity of N-acetylhexosamine sulfatases

Abstract Extracts of Morquio fibroblasts lack N-acetylgalactosamine 6-sulfate sulfatase activity, but exhibit normal levels of N-acetylglucosamine 6-sulfate sulfatase activity. Thus, the enzyme defective in Morquio's disease is a sulfatase specific for the 6-sulfate linked to sugars with the galactose configuration. Hydrolysis of ester sulfate by this enzyme is limited to 6-sulfate groups occurring at the non-reducing terminal.
Armageddon Army Playing God, God Mode Mods, and the Rhetorical Task of Ludology

Scholars are witnessing a dramatic confluence of faith, politics, and gaming. On the stage of this war theater, the players are indistinguishable, the simulations just one mission removed from real war. One is immersed in war as game, the other in war as eternal battle. The military has invested millions in developing games as strategic communications tools, hiring real soldiers and officers as consultants to ensure optimal realism in game play. Nowthat the harmonic convergence of faith, politics, and computer games has been graphically (and brutally) realized, specifically, made real in the dueling holy wars— ours and theirs (jihad)—what now? This article proposes a game modification of the god mode of the game, America’s Army, as a critical response to the reality ofwar and the use of computer games as military recruitment tools.
The influence of the crack tip stress field on the nucleation and growth of voids

Abstract The discrete dislocation method is employed to determine the influence of the crack tip stress field on the nucleation and growth of microvoids in the plastic zone. Voids nucleated from both climb-type and glide-type lattice dislocations are considered. In particular, voids in the shear mode parallel to the slip plane and those in the tensile mode either parallel to the crack plane or perpendicular to the slip plane are analyzed to determine the most favorable orientation. The void nucleation and growth leading to the largest decrease in energy or negative energy gradient are chosen as those with the most favorable orientation. The significance that the results have on the experimental observations of the ductile fracture behavior of metals and alloys with respect to void coalescence mechanism is emphasized.
New Metrics for Polishing Pitch

Polishing pitch is evaluated in the frequency domain. Both the testing technique and results are presented. Frequency domain testing results can be correlated to indentation tests. The shop floor value of the test is discussed.
Urodynamic predictors of outcomes with photoselective laser vaporization prostatectomy in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and preoperative retention.

Abstract Objectives To determine whether preoperative urodynamic parameters can predict the outcome in men in urinary retention and aid in counseling these men. Methods Forty men in urinary retention due to benign prostatic hyperplasia underwent photoselective laser vaporization prostatectomy (PVP). Preoperative urodynamic studies were used to identify the men with detrusor overactivity (DO) and impaired detrusor contractility (IDC). The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximal flow rate, and postvoid residual urine volume were collected at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after PVP. Results Of the 40 men, 8 (20%) had IDC and 30 had DO (75%) preoperatively. The men without preoperative DO had a significantly lower IPSS than those with preoperative DO at 1 month of follow-up. Men without preoperative IDC had a significantly lower IPSS and postvoid residual urine volume at the same point compared with men with preoperative IDC. The flow rate in men with preoperative IDC 1 and 6 months postoperatively was significantly lower than in men without preoperative IDC. Conclusions Preoperative urodynamic parameters predict for outcome in men in urinary retention undergoing PVP. Men in urinary retention benefit from PVP with an improvement in both subjective and objective voiding function, regardless of the presence of DO or IDC. Postoperatively, patients with DO have more voiding symptoms than those without DO, and are almost twice as likely to require anticholinergics. Men without IDC have better IPSS, flow rates, and postvoid residual urine volumes compared with men with IDC. Of the 8 men with IDC, 3 required reoperation within the first year.
The insulin receptor: structural features

Abstract Recently developed affinity-labeling techniques have been used to study the subunit composition and stoichiometry of the insulin receptor. The minimum subunit structure deduced consists of two α and two β glycoprotein subunits, all disulfide-linked in a symmetrical receptor complex. This structure resembles the general design of immunoglobulin G molecules. When insulin binds to this complex the α subunit becomes more sensitive to exogenous protease, indicating that the conformation of the complex has been altered. Such structural information should help further define the molecular basis of insulin action.
Selective Depletion of Eosinophils or Neutrophils in Mice Impacts the Efficiency of Apoptotic Cell Clearance in the Thymus

Developing thymocytes undergo a rigorous selection process to ensure that the mature T cell population expresses a T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire that can functionally interact with major histocompatibility complexes (MHC). Over 90% of thymocytes fail this selection process and die. A small number of macrophages within the thymus are responsible for clearing the large number of dying thymocytes that must be continuously cleared. We studied the capacity of thymic macrophages to clear apoptotic cells under acute circumstances. This was done by synchronously inducing cell death in the thymus and then monitoring the clearance of apoptotic thymocytes. Interestingly, acute cell death was shown to recruit large numbers of CD11b+ cells into the thymus. In the absence of a minor CSF-1 dependent population of macrophages, the recruitment of these CD11b+ cells into the thymus was greatly reduced and the clearance of apoptotic cells was disrupted. To assess a possible role for the CD11b+ cells in the clearance of apoptotic cells, we analyzed mice deficient for eosinophils and mice with defective trafficking of neutrophils. Failure to attract either eosinophils or neutrophils to the thymus resulted in the impaired clearance of apoptotic cells. These results suggested that there is crosstalk between cells of the innate immune system that is necessary for maximizing the efficiency of apoptotic cell removal.
Direct Correlation of External Systolic Time Intervals with Internal Indices of Left Ventricular Function in Man

Direct correlation of externally measured systolic time intervals with internally measured indices was obtained using catheter-tip micromanometers in six patients who had normal coronary arteriograms. Simultaneous recordings were made of central aorta and left ventricular pressure, maximum rate of rise in left ventricular pressure (dp/dt), external carotid pulse, external and internal sound, and electrocardiogram. Acute interventions were used to vary the indices by a variety of mechanisms including changes in contractility, preload, afterload, and heart rate. The initial values and the changes in these values produced by acute interventions are identical for left ventricular ejection time (LVET) whether measured externally (range 175 to 385 msec) or internally (range 169 to 392), r = 0.99. Although the absolute values differed for internally measured isovolumic contraction time (internal ICT), externally measured ICT, and preejection time (PEP), there was good linear correlation between the changes obser...