cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sending signals from the synapse to the nucleus: possible roles for CaMK, Ras/ERK, and SAPK pathways in the regulation of synaptic plasticity and neuronal growth.

The ability to learn and form memories depends on specific patterns of synaptic activity and is in part transcription dependent. However, the signal transduction pathways that connect signals generated at synapses with transcriptional responses in the nucleus are not well understood. In the present report, we discuss three signal transduction pathways: the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase (CaMK) pathway, the Ras/ERK pathway, and the SAPK pathways that might function to couple synaptic activity to long-term adaptive responses, in part through the regulation of new gene expression. Evidence suggests that these pathways become activated in response to stimuli that regulate synaptic function such as the influx of extracellular Ca2+ and certain neurotrophin growth factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Once activated, the CaMK, Ras/ERK, and SAPK pathways lead to the phosphorylation and activation of transcription factors in the nucleus such as the cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB). Genes regulated by CREB or other transcription factor targets of the CaMK, Ras/ERK, and SAPK pathways could mediate important adaptive responses to changes in synaptic activity such as changes in synaptic strength and the regulation of neuronal survival and death. J. Neurosci. Res. 58:88–95, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Framework for optimization of characteristics of optical fibers supporting spatial division multiplexing

In this paper we discuss and propose the methodology for optimization of optical fibers that supports the space division multiplexing (SDM). The optimum refractive index profile that would minimize mode dispersion for few mode optical fibers (FMF) could be highly beneficial for SDM applications; herewith we discuss the refractive-index profile synthesis of FMF based on the use of inverse scattering theory. As for the multicore optical fibers (MCF), we propose the alignment of the fiber cores based on methodology resembling the optimum signal constellation design in multilevel modulation formats.
Urea-Inorganic Phosphate Mixtures as Prebiotic Phosphorylating Agents

Previous attempts to phosphorylate nucleosides by heating with inorganic phosphate succeeeded only when acid phosphates such as Ca(HPO 4 ) 2 were used. The addition of urea and ammonium chloride to the reaction mixture permits phosphorylation in high yield with neutral or basic phosphates at temperatures in the range of 65° to 100°C. Since the abundant mineral, hydroxylapatite, is a satisfactory substrate for this reaction, we believe that this procedure plausible model for prebiotic phosphorylation.
A generalization of starlike functions

For every q. 0<q<1 we define a class of complex functions as the class of functions f, analytic on the open unit disc ℬ, f(0)=0, f′(0)=1 and |f(qz)| ⩽ |f(z)| on ℬ. This class is denoted by PSq . We...
Genetic and Environmental Factors in Cortisone Induced Cleft Palate

Cleft lip and/or palate are the most frequently occurring birth defects in the United States, accounting for 13% of all reported anomalies (1). Genetic hypotheses for the etiology of these malformations have evolved slowly, gaining complexity with time. In the first extensive study in humans it was concluded that isolated cleft palate was inherited as a single dominant trait with greatly reduced penetrance (2). More recently, genetic models based on allelic restriction (3) and multifactorial threshold inheritance involving the effects of genetic and environmental factors (4-6) have been advanced. At the present time no clearcut evidence exists which discriminates in humans between the single locus and multifactorial models (7).Over 20 years ago an animal model for cleft palate was developed in mice (8). It was shown that clefting of the developing secondary palate could be induced by the administration of glucocorticosteroids to pregnant mice between the 11th and 14th days of gestation. Further, it was fo...
New techniques for decompression of lumbar spinal stenosis

Central and lateral stenoses of the lumbar neural canal are relatively less common causes of chronic pain in the lumbar back and the legs. However, their incidence is much higher than was previously thought. Accurate anatomical diagnosis was difficult until the advent of high resolution computed tomographic scanning. Appropriate decompressive surgery can now be designed and "guided" by the scans and the clinical syndrome. New or highly modified surgical procedures are now being used with good to excellent clinical results in as high as 80% of the cases depending upon the technique chosen. Many of these cases are failed back surgical cases and those whose diagnoses were not established by standard means, e.g., plain films, myelography, low resolution tomography, discography, etc. The good results reported here include patients with pain and disorders of long standing.
Multilingual Development in Children with Autism: Perspectives of South Asian Muslim Immigrant Parents on Raising a Child with a Communicative Disorder in Multilingual Contexts

This study examined the perceptions of three Muslim families on multilingual development in their children with autism. Findings indicate that the families' goal of maintaining normalcy in their children's life could not be attained without immersion in multiple languages. They believe that immersion in multilingual contexts helped their children acquire and expand their linguistic repertoire and enriched their familial and social relationships. Parents experienced hardships with professionals in receiving support in maintaining native-language use at home. Children who demonstrated language impairments during initial ethnographic observations showed significant progress in their multiple-language development toward the end of the study.
OBJECT-ORIENTED ANALYSIS: CRITERIA AND CASE STUDY

Three object-oriented analysis techniques: Shlaer & Mellor, Coad & Yourdon, and Document-Driven Analysis were evaluated. Criteria for comparison of analysis techniques were developed. These criteria state that an analysis technique should (1) cover data, transformation, and control perspectives of the problem, (2) address large problems through partitioning, bounding the problem, and supporting prototypes and incremental analysis, (3) provide approaches for verification and validation, and (4) support configuration control. A case study in a software engineering class was conducted using the three OOA techniques. Through the case study we found that (1) identifying objects is affected by notation and flexibility of object models, (2) visualizing global data, transformations, and control are necessary to capture end-user’s processes, (3) emphasizing hierarchical structures and third normal form divert the analyst’s attention from analysis to implementation, (4) an explicit representation of relationships is necessary, (5) peer review is useful in improving selection of objects and methods to support end-user processes, and (6) supporting a standard document from OOA products is not easy.
Socioeconomic, Community-Based Approach for Developing Integrated Mass Transit Systems: Application to City of Baltimore, Maryland

The city of Baltimore, Maryland, is now served by one heavy and one light rail line in addition to commuter rail service to Washington, D.C. However, the lines do not share any common stations and do not function as a network. The larger objective of this research was to evaluate ways in which the Baltimore transit system could be better integrated and contribute more to community well-being, environmental quality, and economic prosperity for all socioeconomic and racial and cultural groups. An underlying goal was to improve the mobility of a wider range of Baltimore residents so that their employment choices would not be limited by an underdeveloped transit system. This outcome was addressed in the context of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, the Livable Communities Initiative, and the state of Maryland's Smart Growth initiative. Only part of the larger agenda is presented here—the development of a community-based model for s...
PHYTOCHROME REGULATION OF MORPHOGENESIS IN GREEN PLANTS: FROM THE BELTSVILLE SPECTROGRAPH TO COLORED MULCH IN THE FIELD*

— Development of the theory and use of photon ratios reflected from colored mulches to regulate plant morphogenesis in the field utilized information obtained on the Beltsville Spectrograph, in controlled environments and in field plant spacing studies. An upwardly reflected far-red to red (FR/R) ratio higher than the ratio in incoming sunlight resulted in larger shoots and a higher shoot/root biomass ratio. A reflected FR/R ratio lower than the ratio in incoming sunlight resulted in larger roots and a lower shoot/root biomass ratio.
Mechanical Properties and Structure of Cubic (Al,Cr)3 Ti Alloys

Single phase L1{sub 2} (Al,Cr){sub 3}Ti alloys show no anomalous strengthening at intermediate temperatures, but the strength rises rapidly at low temperatures. It is likely that a transition from SISF to APB superdislocation dissociation occurs with increasing temperature based on the more rapid decrease in APB energy compared to SISF energy because of entropy considerations. High strain hardening rates are suggested to arise in large part from the formation of large numbers of dipoles. Calculations of interaction forces illustrate the complexity of superdislocation interactions and provide a reasonable mechanism for initiating cross slip.
Dependence of α in Peak Norms and Best Peak Norms Approximation

Let C[0, 1] be the space of all continuous functions defined on [0, 1] and U be an n dimensional subspace of C[0, 1]. A peak norm, or @a-norm for 0<@a=<1, @a-norm is defined by @[email protected]?"@[email protected]{@!"A|f|[email protected]|@m(A)[email protected], [email protected]?[0, 1]}, where @m denotes the Lebesgue measure. We say [email protected]?U is a best @a-norm approximant to f from U if D"@a(f)[email protected][email protected]?"@a=inf{@[email protected]?"@a|[email protected]?U}. In this paper we shall study @[email protected]?"@a, D"@a(f) and P"@a(f)={[email protected]?U|@[email protected]?"@a=D"@a(f)} as functions of @a for fixed f. We shall show their continuous dependence on @a and differentiability with respect to @a.
Multiplicity as a tradition: Theories for interdisciplinary arts therapies—An overview

The majority of therapists who actively incorporate the arts into the practice of psychotherapy find themselves divided into schools and associations based on their choice of artistic discipline. Some of the more popular and organized disciplines include music therapy, art therapy, dance/movement therapy, drama therapy and poetry therapy.’ When therapists “cross over” and draw on multiple disciplines, as they do in the field of expressive therapy,* they can meet with opposition from their differently focused peers. The controversy on one side appears to be rooted in a concern about the competency of practitioners who spread themselves too thin. Mastery of each artistic discipline requires a lifetime of study and practice, so the argument goes; how could a therapist hope to master several? Art therapist Gladys Age11 (1982) put it this way: “A flirtation with materials is not enough. Only a love affair with materials can lead to a wedding of felt experience and formed expression. ” In this ongoing debate the arguments that favor specialization by artistic discipline are certainly reasonable-in view of the context from which they emerge. I want to present a different context, a different way of looking at the arts in psychotherapyone that finds its foundation in the age-old tradition of multiplicity in the practice of the arts. Intermodal expressive therapy neither requires nor promotes the mastery of several distinct schools of therapy, each of which finds focus in a single artistic discipline. Rather, it finds its primary focus in the artistic tradition that all the arts have in common. In other words, intermodal expressive therapy is a discipline unto itself, with its own theoretical framework and focus that evolved from different schools. Until now, unfortunately, they have not been addressed or articulated sufficiently in the literature. I intend to give an overview here of these theoretical frameworks. The artistic tradition that provides a basic foundation for the discipline of intermodal expressive therapy is rooted in human imagination and is characterized by an interrelatedness among the arts. It is the same tradition in which opera directors, choreographers, film-makers, theatre and performance artists need to train and gain eloquence. The most recent ones are the performance artists who strive for the expressive act that melts their own texts, sounds, images and movements in one cast. They challenge cliches and codes of the traditional arts establishment and promote the deconstruction of mechanisms of alienation. Therefore performance artists became an essential part of the postmodem move-
Homogeneous families of semiorders and the theory of probabilistic consistency

Abstract Beginning with the data p ( a , b ), interpreted as the frequency with which a is preferred to b , we define various conditions of probabilistic consistency on this data. Most of these are expressed as conditions on a family of binary relations defined from the p ( a , b )′s, where a is in the λth relation to b if p ( a , b ) > λ . The conditions essentially state that this family of relations is a homogenous or consistent family of semiorders. The conditions are then restated in a more general setting, starting with a family of binary relations rather than with the data p ( a , b ) and the particular family of relations defined from p ( a , b ). The main result is that almost all the probabilistic consistency conditions studied are equivalent. The logical relations among all these conditions are described. Finally, some recent work of Tversky-Russo on conditions of probabilistic consistency on the data p ( a , b ) is shown to hold in the more general setting of this paper.
Phenomenology of electrostatically charged droplet combustion in normal gravity

Experimental findings are provided on the effect of electrostatically charging a fuel on single-burning droplet combustion in normal gravity. It was established that significant modification of the flame morphology and the droplet burning time could be achieved, solely by the droplet charge, without the application of external electric fields. Negative charging of the droplets of mixtures of isooctane with either ethanol or a commercially available anti-static additive generated intense motion of the flame and abbreviated the droplet burning time by as much as 40% for certain blend compositions. Positive charging of the droplets generated almost spherical flames, because electrostatic attraction toward the droplets countered the effect of buoyancy. By comparing combustion of droplets of the same conductivity but different compositions, coupling of electrostatics with combustion chemistry was established.
Spin-dependent transport characteristics across magnetic nanoscale junctions through doped IV and III/V semiconductors

We have studied spin-dependent transport across magnetic metallic strips deposited on doped Si and GaAs in a wide range of temperatures up to the ambient temperature, and found strong evidence of coherent spin transport through the magnetic metal into the semiconductors at the elevated temperatures. First, spin transport through Si doped GaAs was studied between two cobalt strips separated by a 100 mum. It was found that there was well-defined field modulated resistance variation in low magnetic field range (<100 Oersted) at T= 300 K. A moderate variation of 3% was observed in samples with light doping (~1014/cm3), which exhibited non-ohmic contact behavior demonstrating two oppositely polarized Schottky barriers for the two Co strips. The field modulation was found to be dependent on the current, and the temperature dependence of resistance with excitation energy was close to that of the Si dopant. Further, tunneling characteristics were measured on e-beam lithographically patterned spin-dependent tunneling (SDT) lines on n-doped Si, to study ballistic transport from ferromagnetic nano-lines via AlOx barrier into group IV semiconductor. The measurement was done using dual lock-in amplifiers, multi-channel voltmeter, in adder circuit with low noise operational amplifiers. Nano-scaled 100 nm STD junction lines closely spaced (100 nm) were fabricated on P doped Si as injection contacts. The measured I-V characteristics and the differential conductance (dI/dV) versus the bias voltage (V) versus temperature, from 84 to 300 K, through a STD junction showed weak temperature dependences. For example, from 84 to 250 K in the measured dI/dV at low bias range was found to be independent of T, which demonstrated clearly ballistic transport from ferromagnetic nano-contacts into the semiconductor.
Warnings of Malfunction: The Decision to Inspect and Maintain Production Processes on Schedule or on Demand

In this paper we study different maintenance policies for the control of production systems that are subject to deterioration over time. A Markov model is used to characterize the deterioration process. Two types of basic maintenance policies are considered: scheduled preventive maintenance and maintenance on demand. The former deals with scheduled maintenance procedures performed on the process at fixed intervals, regardless of its status. In the latter, maintenance procedures are performed in response to signals observed from the production process, and are thus a function of the condition of the process over time. For both approaches the policies can be further classified, based on the mode of observation: the process itself or the outputs of the process. Thus we can have preventive maintenance of the process, scheduled inspection of the outputs of the process, maintenance in response to signals given by the process, and maintenance in response to signals as indicated by the quality of the outputs. We analyze the performances of these four policies, and derive their long-run disutilities. Numerical examples show that, by monitoring the process with the appropriate optimal maintenance policy, significant savings can be achieved.
Isolated Posterior Pole-Penetrating Ocular Injury Treated by Nonsurgical Methods: A Case Report

Purpose: To report a case of isolated posterior pole-penetrating ocular injury treated by nonsurgical methods such as argon laser photocoagulation and administration of antibiotics. Case summary: A 46-year-old male visited the hospital complaining of floaters in his left eye which had occurred when his cheek was penetrated by scissors from the inferior posterior part to the superior anterior part while working earlier that day. Upon initial examination, his best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the left eye was 0.8, and his intraocular pressure (IOP) was 10 mmHg. No cells or aqueous flares were observed in the anterior chamber. Fundus examination was performed, and three disc diameter-large breaks of the retina and choroid, scleral rupture and vitreous hemorrhage were observed at the posterior pole three disc diameters away from the fovea. It was difficult to make a surgical approach as the lesion was situated on the posterior pole, and there was the risk of prolapse of the eye contents. Therefore, we first performed argon laser photocoagulation around the lesion and administered topical as well as and systemic antibiotics. After admission the patient was observed carefully as the tractional retinal fold was located at the posterior pole. Additional argon laser photocoagulation was performed. After six months of treatment, BCVA in the left eye was 1.0, IOP was 16 mmHg, and no pathologic change was observed on fundus examination.
"We act like girls and we don't act like men": Ethnicity and local language change in a Philadelphia high school

How is ethnicity indexed linguistically in a speech community in which immigrant L2s have typically not been spoken for three or more generations? Drawing on recordings and ethnographic observations of eighteen white high school girls in south Philadelphia, speakers of Irish descent are shown to differentiate themselves from speakers of Italian descent through their use of (ay0), that is, Canadian Raising. (ay0) is an ongoing sound change in Philadelphia and is remarkable for being a rare example of a male-led change. Irish girls exploit more male-like, backed, and raised variants as a resource for indexing their ethnic identity, which is associated locally with stereotypically masculine characteristics such as toughness. The symbolic reflection of ethnic affiliation through this subtle linguistic device makes use of both local and supralocal social meanings. (Ethnicity, adolescence, Philadelphia, Irish, Canadian Raising, gender, sound change, language, and identity)*
Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia – current status and future perspectives

The current cure rate of 80% in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia attests to the effectiveness of risk-directed therapy developed through well-designed clinical trials. In the past decade there have been remarkable advances in the definition of the molecular abnormalities involved in leukaemogenesis and drug resistance. These advances have led to the development of promising new therapeutic strategies, including agents targeted to the molecular lesions that cause leukaemia. The importance of host pharmacogenetics has also been recognised. Thus, genetic polymorphisms of certain enzymes have been linked with host susceptibility to the development of de novo leukaemia or therapy-related second cancers. Furthermore, recognition of inherited differences in the metabolism of antileukaemic agents has provided rational selection criteria for optimal drug dosages and scheduling. Treatment response assessed by measurements of submicroscopic leukaemia (minimal residual disease) has emerged as a powerful and independent prognostic indicator for gauging the intensity of therapy. Ultimately, treatment based on biological features of leukaemic cells, host genetics, and the amount of residual disease should improve cure rates further.
Impact of filters in the simulation and optimization of fluorescence analysis instrumentation: SLAP

Improvements to a comprehensive simulation program, simulated LED aggregation program (SLAP), for the design and optimization of fluorescence analysis systems have been implemented. The inclusion of excitation and emission filters in SLAP enables the user increased flexibility in designing a fluorescence analysis system to be implemented in a modular LED-based architecture. Improvements to the program allow the user to consider the sample, optical path, and filters in the optimization of the two primary characteristics of the emission signal (total signal strength and spectral overlap or interference with the excitation signal). Representative results using EGFP as the targeted fluorophore and an XF100-2 Omega Optics filter set demonstrate a 99.7% improvement in interference with only a 70% loss in total emission signal. SLAP pinpoints the optimal trade-off between total signal and interference (noise) in a comprehensive analysis of potential system configurations to meet targeted fluorescence analysis instrumentation needs
A population-based study of crashes involving 16- and 17-year-old drivers: the potential benefit of graduated driver licensing restrictions

Objective. To evaluate the potential ef- fectiveness of graduated driver licensing programs using population-based linked data for motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) that involved teenaged drivers (TDs). Methods. Utah crash, inpatient hospital discharge, and emergency department databases were analyzed and probabilistically linked. We computed hospital charges and compared violations, contributing factors, seatbelt use, and passengers for TDs (16 -17 years old) relative to adult drivers (18 -59 years old). Results. TDs comprised 5.8% of the study popula- tion, but were involved in 19.0% of MVCs. TD crashes resulted in $11 million in inpatient hospital charges and 158 fatalities. TD crashes were 1.70 times (95% confi- dence interval (CI): 1.34, 2.04) less likely to result in fatal injury to drivers than were crashes that involved adult drivers, but TDs were 2.20 times (95% CI: 1.96, 2.47) more likely to receive citations. The following were findings of the study: 1) 11% of all TD crashes but 19% of fatal TD crashes occurred between 2200 and 0600 hours; 2) TDs used seatbelts less often than did adult drivers (79.1% vs 84.4%) and less often with passengers present (81.9% vs 75.0%; 3) TDs were 1.72 times (95% CI: 1.38, 2.14) more likely to be involved in crashes that resulted in seriously or fatally injured occupants when driving with passen- gers than when driving alone. Conclusions. TDs are overrepresented in MVCs. TD crashes have a higher fatality rate at night, and TDs wear seatbelts less often than do adult drivers. Passengers affect TD crash characteristics. Graduated driver licens- ing programs that target state-specific characteristics of TDs may decrease morbidity and mortality. Pediatrics 2001;107:632- 637; teenaged drivers, graduated driver li- censing, provisional licensing, probabilistic linkage.
The effect of thigh and goniometer restraints on the reproducibility of the genucom knee analysis system.

We compared the reproducibility of measurements made with the Genucom knee analysis system using two methods of restraint. The first method was that sug gested by the manufacturer and consisted of clamping the thigh to the examination chair with 70 N of vertical force and 110 N of mediolateral force and used a single elastic strap to secure the electrogoniometer cuff to the leg. In the second, or enhanced, method, the vertical and mediolateral clamping forces were each increased to 156 N, and an additional strap was used to secure the cuff to the leg. Tests performed were the anteroposte rior stress tests at 20° and 90° of knee flexion, and the varus-valgus stress test, the internal-external rotation stress test, and the medial and lateral pivot shift tests at 20°. Five normal subjects were installed and tested on 6 different days with the manufacturer's suggested se curing method and on 12 different days with the en hanced securing method. The enhanced method of re straint resulted in significantly reduc...
Loss of arm spines in the basketstar Astrophyton muricatum (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea: Gorgonocephalidae), with a key to West Indian basketstars

Abstract Adult specimens of the West Indian basketstar Astrophyton muricatum lack spines on basal branches of the arms. This character has been used in a number of taxonomic treatments to distinguish several genera of basketstars from others that bear arm spines on basal branches. Examination of a growth series revealed that juvenile A. muricatum bear arm spines on basal regions and lose them progressively farther out on the arm over time. At all sizes, spines on more basal spine-bearing branches lose the morphology that is typical of most spine-bearing segments. Individual spines seem to be resorbed from the imperforate claw-like tip to the bulbous perforated base. Spine bosses on spineless segments lose the characteristic morphology that supports the attachment and operation of spines. Of four possible hypotheses to explain the absence of spines from basal arm segments, we reject the hypothesis that juveniles fail to form spines on those segments. Data predominately support the hypothesis that basal spi...
High-endurance ultra-thin tunnel oxide in MONOS device structure for dynamic memory application

Ultra-thin tunnel oxide can conduct very high current through oxide via direct tunneling, and charge-to-breakdown increases dramatically due to less oxide damage. These facts point to a possibility of using thin tunnel oxide in the floating-gate device structure for dynamic memory applications. We have chosen MONOS structure in this study due to its immunity to pinhole-induced leakage and back-tunneling. The memory device exhibits fast WRITE/ERASE speed, high-endurance, long data retention and non-destructive READ. Further improvements are expected through process optimization. >
A simulation and analysis of bank teller manning

The paper presents an application study to find cost effective bank teller management policies for providing high quality service levels at reasonable costs in a modern banking system. Two models are developed. The first is a spreadsheet model to calculate desired teller manning levels from mathematical queuing models, and the second is a simulation model for testing new management policies. Manning heuristics are tested and found to provide the desired level of services.
Dehn functions and complexes of groups

We study the Dehn functions of the fundamental groups of complexes of groups. We study a function known as the Howie function, which has a natural geometric formulation. We make use of the Howie function to obtain an upper bound for the Dehn function of the complex of groups. And we show a connection between the Howie function and actions on complexes.
Dynamic Effects of Hg2+-induced Changes in Cell Volume

Using a microfluidic volume sensor, we studied the dynamic effects of Hg2+ on hypotonic stress-induced volume changes in CHO cells. A hypotonic challenge to control cells caused them to swell but did not evoke a significant regulatory volume decrease (RVD). Treatment with 100 μM HgCl2 caused a substantial increase in the steady-state volume following osmotic stress. Continuous hypotonic challenge following a single 10-min exposure to HgCl2 produced a biphasic volume increase with a steady-state volume 100% larger than control cells. Repeated hypotonic challenges to cells exposed once to Hg2+ resulted in a sequential approach to the same steady-state volume. Stimulation after reaching steady state caused a reduction in peak cell volume. Repeated stimulation was different than continuous stimulation resulting in a more rapid approach to steady state. Substituting extracellular Na+ with impermeant NMDG+ in the hypotonic solution produced a rapid RVD-like volume decrease and eliminated the Hg2+-induced excess swelling. The volume decrease in the presence of Hg2+ was inhibited by tetraethylammonium and 4,4′-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid disodium, blockers of K+ and Cl− channels, respectively, suggesting that part of the Hg2+ effect was increasing NaCl influx over KCl efflux. The presence of multiple phases of steady-state volume and their sensitivity to the stimulation history suggests that factors beyond solute fluxes, such as modification of mechanical stress within the cytoskeleton also plays a role in the response to hypotonic stress.
A form-based natural language front-end to a CIM database

The paper presents a methodology for developing a user interface that combines fourth generation interface tools (SQL forms) with a natural language processor for a database management system. The natural language processor consists of an index, a lexicon and a parser. The index is used to uniquely identify each form in the system through a conceptual representation of its purpose. The form fields specify database or nondatabase fields whose values are either entered by the user (user-defined) or are derived by the form (system-defined) in response to user input. A set of grammar rules are associated with each form. The lexicon consists of all words recognized by the system, their grammatical categories, roots, their associations (if any) with database objects and forms. The parser scans, a natural language query to identify a form in a bottom-up fashion. The information requested in the user query is determined in a top-down manner by parsing, through the grammar rules associated with the identified form. Extragrammatical inputs with limited deviations from the grammar rules are supported. Combining a natural language processor with SQL forms allows processing data modification tasks without violating any database integrity constraint, having duplicate records, or entering invalid data. A prototype natural language interface is described as a front-end to an ORACLE database for a computer integrated manufacturing system.
The Role of CDK4/6 Inhibition in Breast Cancer

Imbalance of the cyclin D and cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) pathway in cancer cells may result in diversion away from a pathway to senescence and toward a more proliferative phenotype. Cancer cells may increase cyclin D-dependent activity through a variety of mechanisms. Therapeutic inhibition of CDKs in tumors to negate their evasion of growth suppressors has been identified as a key anticancer strategy. In this review, we outline the development of CDK inhibitory therapy in breast cancer, including the initial experience with the pan-CDK inhibitor flavopiridol and the next generation of oral highly selective CDK4 and CDK6 inhibitors PD0332991 (palbociclib), LEE011 (ribociclib), and LY2835219 (abemaciclib). Data from phase I and II studies in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer demonstrate promising efficacy with manageable toxic effects, chiefly neutropenia. We discuss these studies and the phase III studies that are accruing or nearing completion. We describe the application of such therapy to other breast cancer settings, including HER2-positive breast cancer and the adjuvant treatment of early breast cancer. We also discuss potential concerns surrounding the combination of CDK inhibitors with chemotherapy and their effects on repair of double-strand DNA breaks in cancer cells. Oral highly selective CDK inhibitors show great promise in improving the outcomes of patients with ER+ breast cancer, although caution must apply to their combination with other agents and in the early breast cancer setting.
Vasoprotective effects of human CD34+ cells: towards clinical applications

The development of cell-based therapeutics for humans requires preclinical testing in animal models. The use of autologous animal products fails to address the efficacy of similar products derived from humans. We used a novel immunodeficient rat carotid injury model in order to determine whether human cells could improve vascular remodelling following acute injury. Human CD34+ cells were separated from peripheral buffy coats using automatic magnetic cell separation. Carotid arterial injury was performed in male Sprague-Dawley nude rats using a 2F Fogarty balloon catheter. Freshly harvested CD34+ cells or saline alone was administered locally for 20 minutes by endoluminal instillation. Structural and functional analysis of the arteries was performed 28 days later. Morphometric analysis demonstrated that human CD34+ cell delivery was associated with a significant reduction in intimal formation 4 weeks following balloon injury as compared with saline (I/M ratio 0.79 ± 0.18, and 1.71 ± 0.18 for CD34, and saline-treated vessels, respectively P < 0.05). Vasoreactivity studies showed that maximal relaxation of vessel rings from human CD34+ treated animals was significantly enhanced compared with saline-treated counterparts (74.1 ± 10.2, and 36.8 ± 12.1% relaxation for CD34+ cells and saline, respectively, P < 0.05) Delivery of human CD34+ cells limits neointima formation and improves arterial reactivity after vascular injury. These studies advance the concept of cell delivery to effect vascular remodeling toward a potential human cellular product.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2

Multiple endocrine neoplasia is a genetic endocrine tumor syndrome characterized by the presence of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), pheochromocytoma, and hyperparathyroidism. There are two major variants. Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 2A or Sipple syndrome has three clinical features: MTC, pheochromocytoma, and hyperparathyroidism; MEN2B has a different phenotype: MTC, pheochromocytoma, mucosal neuromas distributed throughout the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, and Marfanoid features including long thin arms and legs, an altered upper/lower body ratio, and pectus abnormalities. These clinical syndromes are caused by specific activating mutations of the RET tyrosine kinase receptor, important in neurological development of the gastrointestinal tract. MEN2 is one of a handful of genetic syndromes where the identification of a mutation leads to a specific action. Children with germline activating mutations of RET are treated in early childhood with a total thyroidectomy to prevent the development of metastatic MTC.
Clinical use of a cordless laparoscopic ultrasonic device.

Objective On April 25, 2012, the first laparoscopic cordless ultrasonic device (Sonicision, Covidien, Mansfield, Massachusetts) was used in a clinical setting. We describe our initial experience. Methods The cordless device is assembled with a reusable battery and generator on a base hand-piece. It has a minimum and maximum power setting controlled by a single trigger for both coagulation and cutting. A laparoscopic radical nephrectomy was performed on a 56-year-old man with a 7-cm right renal mass. A laparoscopic pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed in a 51-year-old man with high-risk prostate cancer. Data on surgical team satisfaction, operative time, number of activations, and times the laparoscope was removed as a result of plume were collected. Results The surgical technician successfully assembled the device at the beginning of the cases with verbal instructions from the surgeon. Operative time for nephrectomy was 77 minutes, with 143 total activations (minimum = 86, maximum = 57). The operative time for the pelvic lymphadenectomy was 27 minutes, with 38 total activations (minimum = 27, maximum = 11). One battery was used in each case. The laparoscope was removed twice during the nephrectomy and once during the lymphadenectomy. Surgical staff satisfaction survey results revealed easier and faster assembly, more space in the operating room, ergonomic handle, and comparable cutting/coagulation, weight, and plume generation with other devices (Table 1). [Table: see text]. Conclusion The first clinical application of the pioneering cordless dissector was successfully performed, resulting in surgeons' perceptions of comparable results with other devices of easier and safer use and faster assembly.
On the inadequacy of inner models

The method of inner models, used by Godel to prove the (relative) consistency of the axiom of choice and the generalized continuum hypothesis [2], cannot be used to prove the (relative) consistency of any statement which contradicts the axiom of constructibility ( V = L ). A more precise statement of this well-known fact is: (*)For any formula θ ( x ) of the language of ZF, there is an axiom α of the theory ZF + V ≠ L such that the relativization α ( θ ) is not a theorem of ZF. On p. 108 of [1], Cohen gives a proof of (*) in ZF assuming the existence of a standard model of ZF, and he indicates that this assumption can be avoided. However, (*) is not a theorem of ZF (unless ZF is inconsistent), because (*) trivially implies the consistency of ZF. What assumptions are needed to prove (*)? We know that the existence of a standard model implies (*) which, in turn, implies the consistency of ZF. Is either implication reversible? From our main result, it will follow that, if the converse of the first implication is provable in ZF, then ZF has no standard model, and if the converse of the second implication is provable in ZF, then so is the inconsistency of ZF. Thus, it is quite improbable that either converse is provable in ZF.
Algorithms for Obtaining Atmospheric Surface-Layer Fluxes from Scintillation Measurements

Abstract Algorithms are derived for obtaining atmospheric surface-layer fluxes of heat, humidity, and momentum from scintillation measurements. Both the three-wavelength and two-wavelength methods are examined, as is combining the two-wavelength method with other micrometeorological measurements. Corrections for the effects of strong scintillation are discussed. Deriving turbulence inner-scale and refractive structure parameters from scintillation variances is discussed, as is using these quantities to obtain the energy dissipation rate and structure parameters of temperature and humidity. Given these latter quantities, Monin–Obukhov similarity theory is applied to specific humidity and temperature (equivalently, potential temperature) to obtain the fluxes.
Enhancement in Visualization of Parallel Coordinates using Curves

In this paper I analysis about the visualization techniques of large set of data with parallel coordinates. Parallel Coordinate is an interesting method which can be widely used throughout the world, not only at research area but also other field such as business, market, finance and so on. The aim of this research work is to implement Parallel Coordinate and refinements to Parallel Coordinates using curve. In parallel coordinates visualization of data set is performed by using straight lines. Then lines replaced with the collection of smooth curves across the attribute axis, allowing individual data element to be traced under certain limitations normally impossible due to "Crossing Problem" .Then the notion of spreading out points on axis with few discrete value is introduced, which leads to a simple filter technique when the user selects value on such axis. In this paper I proposed a new concept of visualization of large set of data with parallel Coordinate. Parallel coordinates were proposed by Alfred Inselberg as a new way to represent multidimensional information. A parallel coordinate's visualization assigns one vertical axis to each variable, and evenly spaces these axes horizontally. This is in contrast to the traditional Cartesian coordinates system where all axes are mutually perpendicular. By drawing the axes parallel to one another, one can represent data in much greater than three dimensions. Each variable is plotted on its own axis, and the values of the variables on adjacent axes are connected by straight lines. Thus, a point in an n-dimensional space becomes a polygonal line laid out across the n parallel axes with n-1 line segments connecting the n data values. In this way, the search for relations among the variables is transformed into a 2-D pattern recognition problem, and the variables become amenable to visualization.
DIEL ACTIVITY PATTERNS AND MICROSPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF THE HARVESTMAN PHALANGIUM OPILIO (OPILIONES, PHALANGIIDAE) IN SOYBEANS

Abstract Phalangium opilio L. is a polyphagous predator frequently found in agricultural habitats. Although the potential importance of P. opilio's feeding on pests has been recognized, little is known about its activity patterns or its within-plant distribution in crops. We determined diel activity patterns and microspatial distribution in small, fenced arenas in soybean fields. The fenced arenas allowed us to track known numbers of particular size categories of P. opilio for each 24 h trial. Phalangium opilio were separated into the following categories based on body size and sex: medium-sized nymphs, large-sized nymphs, adult females and adult males. Medium-sized nymphs occupy the bottom and middle portions of plants regardless of time of day; they remain still during the day, but they exhibit leg palpating behavior from 21:00–01:00 h. Large-sized nymphs rest in the bottom and middle portions of plants during the day, but they walk and palpate on the ground from 21:00–01:00 h. Adult females rest in the...
Beginnings at Harpswell, Maine

John Sterling Kingsley, Chair of Biology at Tufts College, started the seasonal Harpswell Laboratory on Casco Bay, ME, in 1898. The organization and focus of the new Laboratory was based upon his experience at the Marine Biological Laboratory at Woods Hole, MA, but prompted by the abundance of “northern fauna” not normally found around Cape Cod. Initial summer research by Tufts faculty and visiting investigators from other institutions centered on invertebrate development, bioluminescence, and vertebrate anatomy, and the field courses and research involved students from a variety of northeastern schools. By 1907, however, courses were no longer being taught, so the Laboratory’s summer investigators could focus on their research. After becoming independent from Tufts in 1913, and seeing a decline in attendance and support during WWI, the administration of the Laboratory accepted an invitation from George Dorr and others to move further north (Down East) on the Maine coast to Salisbury Cove on Mount Desert Island in 1921.
Reimagining Electronic Clinical Communication in the Post-Pager, Smartphone Era.

Communication is the lifeblood of clinical medicine, yet most health care practitioners still use pagers, communication tools developed a half-century ago. Recently, there is increased interest in shifting to smartphone-based communication modalities. Many clinicians use short message service texts directly from their cell phones,1 often in innovative ways,2 and others have supported using secure text messaging applications to avoid violations to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.3,4
Abstract TMP79: The Accuracy of the FUNC score to Identify Poor Prognosis in Patients with Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background & Purpose: Recent studies suggest that intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) clinical prediction scores (CPS) are not accurate enough to identify the cohort of patients with an extremely low chance of survival who would not benefit from further care. The early withdrawal of aggressive care, even in those with the poorest prognosis according to several CPS, has been demonstrated to be associated with worsened outcomes. Initial reports of one recently developed CPS, the FUNC score, suggest that it may more accurately identify this patient population. The aim of this study is to determine if application of do-not-resuscitate orders (DNR) within in the first 24 hours of admission impacted the prognosis of patients with predicted poor outcome. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 501 consecutive patients with ICH who were admitted from the Emergency Department to a large healthcare system in Dallas, TX between 6/1/2009 and 6/1/2011. Patients with a predicted 100% chance of poor neurologic outcome (PNO) according to FUNC ( 10) scores were evaluated to determine if early DNR impacted 90 day survival or rate of survival with PNO, defined as Glasgow Outcome Score of Results: Of the 501 patients with ICH, 104 were excluded due to a recognized etiology of their ICH. Data was not available in 31 patients. In the resultant 366 patients, the overall mortality at discharge was 114 (31%, 95% CI=27%-36%). Of the 68 patients who scored 10 on the ICH-GS, 88 (95.6%, 95% CI=89.3-98.3) had a PNO at discharge. The presence of early DNR was associated with a significant difference in both the rate of PNO at discharge (48/48=100% v. 40/44=90.9%, p=0.048) and 90 day mortality (48/48=100% v. 34/44=77.3%, p:0.007). Conclusion: The FUNC score is able to accurately identify the subgroup of patients suffering from ICH with an extremely poor prognosis and little hope of survival to hospital discharge with good neurologic outcome.
Men’s health and transgender surgery: a urologist’s perspective

Genital gender confirming surgery (GCS) offers a wide array of options for people who identify as either transgender or gender non-conforming. The most commonly selected options include creation of a neovagina (male to female, MtF) or a neophallus (female to male, FtM). GCS is somewhat unique among other urologic procedures in that for patients the product of the reconstruction is such a radical departure with respect to each patient’s sense of “self” related to their genitals since birth, and, for the fact that the product of the reconstruction is in such plain view.