cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of receive amplifier signal coupling on MIMO system performance

This paper uses a detailed model of multiple input multiple output (MIMO) systems to explore the impact of signal coupling in the receiver front end on communication capacity. The model is applied to assess the performance of a MIMO system with two transmit and receive antennas in a simulated multipath environment for different amplifier coupling levels. The results show that in practical scenarios where simple impedance matching techniques are used, the circuit coupling can reduce the signal-to-noise ratio at the receiver and therefore degrade the achievable MIMO capacity.
Association Between Reduced Cuff Leak Volume and Postextubation Stridor

Study objective Laryngotracheal injury or edema in the setting of intubation may narrow the upper airway and predispose toward postextubation stridor. The presence or absence of an audible airleak when the sealing balloon cuff of the endotracheal tube is deflated has been demonstrated to be a marker of laryngotracheal edema in high-risk patients. We hypothesized that (1) the volume of the cuff leak can be quantified in a general medical ICU population, and (2) the cuff leak volume can be correlated with likelihood of postextubation stridor. Methods Within 24 h of both the initiation and termination of mechanical ventilation, the cuff leak volume, defined as the difference between the inspiratory tidal volume and the averaged expiratory tidal volume while the cuff around the endotracheal tube was deflated, was recorded. Results In 100 consecutive intubations, the preextubation cuff leak volume was 349±163 mL [mean± SD]). Overall, 6% of extubations were accompanied by postextubation stridor. The mean cuff leak volume measured within 24 h of planned extubation was significantly lower in those who subsequently developed stridor in comparison to those who did not (180±157 mL vs 360±157 mL; p=0.012). The positive predictive value for postextubation stridor in the setting of a cuff leak less than 110 mL was 0.80, the predictive value for absence of postextubation stridor with a cuff leak volume greater than 110 mL was 0.98, and the specificity of the test was 0.99. No other demographic factors or indexes related to mechanical ventilation were significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion A reduced cuff leak volume prior to extubation identifies a population at increased risk for postextubation stridor.
Communicate and Collaborate! Strategies for Facilitating AAC Use at Home and School

Family and school collaboration is key for successful implementation of augmentative alternative communication (AAC). The importance of this collaboration as well as specific strategies for including families in all aspects of the AAC process is outlined in this paper. Strategies to improve communication throughout the assessment process are discussed as well as specific interventions that can assist in treatment. Finally, efforts to improve generalization and maintenance of AAC abilities are detailed.
Multi-resolution Shape Analysis via Non-Euclidean Wavelets: Applications to Mesh Segmentation and Surface Alignment Problems

The analysis of 3-D shape meshes is a fundamental problem in computer vision, graphics, and medical imaging. Frequently, the needs of the application require that our analysis take a multi-resolution view of the shape's local and global topology, and that the solution is consistent across multiple scales. Unfortunately, the preferred mathematical construct which offers this behavior in classical image/signal processing, Wavelets, is no longer applicable in this general setting (data with non-uniform topology). In particular, the traditional definition does not allow writing out an expansion for graphs that do not correspond to the uniformly sampled lattice (e.g., images). In this paper, we adapt recent results in harmonic analysis, to derive Non-Euclidean Wavelets based algorithms for a range of shape analysis problems in vision and medical imaging. We show how descriptors derived from the dual domain representation offer native multi-resolution behavior for characterizing local/global topology around vertices. With only minor modifications, the framework yields a method for extracting interest/key points from shapes, a surprisingly simple algorithm for 3-D shape segmentation (competitive with state of the art), and a method for surface alignment (without landmarks). We give an extensive set of comparison results on a large shape segmentation benchmark and derive a uniqueness theorem for the surface alignment problem.
Application Of Statistics In Engineering Technology Programs

Statistics is a critical tool for robustness analysis, measurement system error analysis, test data analysis, probabilistic risk assessment, and many other fields in the engineering world. Traditionally, however, statistics is not extensively used in undergraduate engineering technology (ET) programs, resulting in a major disconnect from industry expectations. The research question: How to effectively integrate statistics into the curricula of ET programs, is in the foundation of this paper. Based on the best practices identified in the literature, a unique “learning-by-using” approach was deployed for the Electronics Engineering Technology Program at Texas A&M University. Simple statistical concepts such as standard deviation of measurements, signal to noise ratio, and Six Sigma were introduced to students in different courses. Design of experiments (DOE), regression, and the Monte Carlo method were illustrated with practical examples before the students applied the newly understood tools to specific problems faced in their engineering projects. Industry standard software was used to conduct statistical analysis on real results from lab exercises. The result from a pilot project at Texas A&M University indicates a significant increase in using statistics tools in course projects by students. Data from student surveys in selected classes indicate that students gained more confidence in statistics. These preliminary results show that the new approach is very effective in applying statistics to engineering technology programs.
Dakota Rose: A Bright Red Tablestock Potato Cultivar That Retains Its Skin Color in Storage.

‘Dakota Rose’ is a medium-maturing, white-fleshed, red-skinned cultivar that retains its bright red color in storage. Tubers have very smooth skin with an oblong shape. Yields are equivalent, or superior, to ‘Red Norland’, but lower than ‘Red Pontiac’, a late-maturing cultivar. Dakota Rose produces a high percentage of U.S. No. 1 tubers and few oversized tubers. Sensory evaluation scores for baked, boiled, and microwaved potatoes are similar to Red Norland and Red Pontiac, standard red tablestock cultivars. The specific gravity averaged about 1.067 across irrigated and non-irrigated sites, a typical value for a red tablestock cultivar. Adequate skin set for handling has often been difficult to achieve; application of nitrogen early in the growing season, coupled with chemical vinekill 3 weeks prior to harvest aids in minimizing the problem. Dakota Rose was released by the North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station on 17 November 2000.
The Pinus taeda genome is characterized by diverse and highly diverged repetitive sequences

Background: In today's age of genomic discovery, no attempt has been made to comprehensively sequence a gymnosperm genome. The largest genus in the coniferous family Pinaceae is Pinus, whose 110-120 species have extremely large genomes (c. 20-40 Gb, 2N = 24). The size and complexity of these genomes have prompted much speculation as to the feasibility of completing a conifer genome sequence. Conifer genomes are reputed to be highly repetitive, but there is little information available on the nature and identity of repetitive units in gymnosperms. The pines have extensive genetic resources, with approximately 329000 ESTs from eleven species and genetic maps in eight species, including a dense genetic map of the twelve linkage groups in Pinus taeda. Results: We present here the Sanger sequence and annotation of ten P. taeda BAC clones and Genome Analyzer II whole genome shotgun (WGS) sequences representing 7.5% of the genome. Computational annotation of ten BACs predicts three putative protein-coding genes and at least fifteen likely pseudogenes in nearly one megabase of sequence. We found three conifer-specific LTR retroelements in the BACs, and tentatively identified at least 15 others based on evidence from the distantly related angiosperms. Alignment of WGS sequences to the BACs indicates that 80% of BAC sequences have similar copies (≥ 75% nucleotide identity) elsewhere in the genome, but only 23% have identical copies (99% identity). The three most common repetitive elements in the genome were identified and, when combined, represent less than 5% of the genome. Conclusions: This study indicates that the majority of repeats in the P. taeda genome are 'novel' and will therefore require additional BAC or genomic sequencing for accurate characterization. The pine genome contains a very large number of diverged and probably defunct repetitive elements. This study also provides new evidence that sequencing a pine genome using a WGS approach is a feasible goal.
Nondestructive methods of integrating energy harvesting systems for highway bridges

Designing an attachment structure that is both novel and meets the system requirements can be a difficult task especially for inexperienced designers. This paper presents a design methodology for concept generation of a "parent/child" attachment system. The "child" is broadly defined as any device, part, or subsystem that will attach to any existing system, part, or device called the "parent." An inductive research process was used to study a variety of products, patents, and biological examples that exemplified the parent/child system. Common traits among these products were found and categorized as attachment principles in three different domains: mechanical, material, and field. The attachment principles within the mechanical domain and accompanying examples are the focus of this paper. As an example of the method, a case study of generating concepts for a bridge mounted wind energy harvester using the mechanical attachment principles derived from the methodology and TRIZ principles derived from Altshuller's matrix of contradictions is presented.
Ofatumumab: A Novel Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibody for Treatment of Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Objective:To present the current clinical evidence on ofatumumab for use in refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).Data Sources:A literature search was performed using MEDLINE and PubMed (both 1966-May 2011), as well as the American Society of Hematology abstracts (2000-May 2011), using the primary search terms ofatumumab and HuMax-CD20,Study Selection and Data Extraction:Clinical studies and abstracts available in the English language, describing the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical activity, and safety of ofatumumab in CLL were included in this review.Data Synthesis:Ofatumumab is a human immunoglobulin monoclonal antibody that binds to B-lymphocytes expressing CD-20 cell surface antigens. Ofatumumab was granted accelerated approval by the Food and Drug Administration in October 2009 for the treatment of CLL refractory to fludarabine and alemtuzumab. A Phase 1/2 trial has established the safety and tolerability of single-agent ofatumumab at an initial dose of 300 mg intravenously on week 1...
Effects of Intravenous Nesiritide on Pulmonary Vascular Hemodynamics in Pulmonary Hypertension

Abstract Background Nesiritide is effective in the treatment of decompensated heart failure (HF). We evaluated the acute hemodynamic effects of nesiritide, a recombinant B-type natriuretic peptide, in patients with HF and pulmonary hypertension (PH). Methods and Results Twenty patients with HF and PH (mean pulmonary arterial [PA] pressure >25 mm Hg) were enrolled: 10 with postpulmonary capillary wedge (PCW) >15 mm Hg and 10 with precapillary PH (PCW) ≤15. The pulmonary and systemic hemodynamics were determined by right heart catheterization at baseline and at 15 and 30 minutes after an intravenous nesiritide infusion (2 mcg/kg bolus and 0.01 mcg·kg·min). For the patients with postcapillary PH, the mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 28 ± 15%. After the 30-minute nesiritide infusion, right atrial (RA) pressure decreased 48% ( P P P P =.009), pulmonary vascular resistance index (PVRI) decreased 35% ( P =.01), and arteriovenous oxygen difference (AVDO 2 ) decreased 27% ( P =.0003). For precapillary PH patients, there was no change in RA, PA, or PCW pressure, nor any change in CI, PVRI, or AVDO 2 . Conclusions Nesiritide acutely and significantly reduced PA pressure, PVRI, and biventricular filling pressures in patients with postcapillary PH. However, for patients with precapillary PH, nesiritide had no significant acute hemodynamic effect on the pulmonary hemodynamics. The lack of acute beneficial effects of nesiritide in patients with advanced precapillary PH may be related to their relatively fixed remodeling of the pulmonary vasculature.
Comprehensive standardized report of complications of retropubic and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Abstract Background The lack of standardized reporting of the complications of radical prostatectomy in the literature has made it difficult to compare incidences across institutions and across different surgical approaches. Objective To define comprehensively the incidence, severity, and timing of onset of medical and surgical complications of open retropubic prostatectomy (RP) and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LP) using a standardized reporting methodology to facilitate comparison. Design, setting, and participants Between January 1999 and June 2007, 4592 consecutive patients underwent RP or LP without prior radiation or hormonal therapy. Median follow-up was 36.9 mo (interquartile range: 20.3–60.6). Intervention Open or laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Measurements All medical and surgical complications of radical prostatectomy were captured and graded according to the modified Clavien classification and classified by timing of onset. Results and limitations There were 612 medical complications in 467 patients (10.2%) and 1426 surgical complications in 925 patients (20.1%). The overall incidences of early minor and major medical and surgical complications for RP were 8.5% and 1.5% for medical and 11.4% and 4.9% for surgical complications, respectively. The overall incidences of early minor and major medical and surgical complications for LP were 14.2% and 2.3% for medical and 23.1% and 6.6% for surgical complications, respectively. On multivariate analysis, LP approach was associated with a higher incidence of any grade medical and surgical complications but a lower incidence of major surgical complications than RP. Six hundred fifty-two men (14.2%) visited the emergency department, and 240 men (5.2%) required readmission. The main limitation is the retrospective nature. Conclusions With standardized reporting, the incidence of some complications is higher than recognized in the literature. Although most complications are minor in severity, medical and surgical complications are observed in approximately 10% and 20% of patients, respectively. Accurate reporting of complications through a standardized methodology is essential for counseling patients regarding risk of complications, for identifying modifiable risk factors, and for facilitating comparison across institutions and approaches.
Recovery of chondrocyte metabolic activity after thermal exposure.

BackgroundThe relationship between temperature elevation and thermal exposure time during thermal chondroplasty has implications for cell viability and subsequent articular cartilage function.PurposeTo characterize cartilage metabolic changes after exposure to thermal stress and to determine whether changes seen acutely are reversible.Study DesignControlled laboratory study.MethodsHuman cartilage was exposed to a 45°, 50°, or 55°C bath for up to 3 minutes. Untreated control specimens were analyzed with each group. Viability and metabolic capability of treated and untreated specimens were evaluated immediately or 1 week after thermal stress by using methylthiotetrazole conversion, 3H-serine incorporation into protein, and 35S-sulfate incorporation into newly synthesized proteoglycan.ResultsNonarthritic and arthritic articular cartilage metabolic activity declined with increasing thermal exposure. Articular cartilage displayed a recovery from thermal stress after exposure to the 50°C but not the 55°C bath. ...
Tocopherol Quantification by HPLC in Pecans and Relationship to Kernel Quality during Storage

Changes in tocopherols were followed in Stuart, Desirable and Schley cultivars during storage at 23.9°C and 60-70% RH and 0.6°C and 75% RH for 12 mo. Quality changes in the pecans were monitored using Hunter color measurements and conjugated diene measurement. α-, β-,γ- and 8-tocopherols were found in the three cultivars and γ-tocopherol was the primary form in each. Decreases of γ- and total tocopherols and L, hue angle and saturation index values were observed for pecans stored at 23.9°C (P < 0.05). Positive correlations (P < 0.05) were found between γ- and total tocopherols and Hunter color values for samples stored at 23.9°C. Conjugated diene levels did not correlate with tocopherol levels and Hunter values (P < 0.05). Pecans could be stored at 0.6°C and 75% RH for 12 mo without changes in kernel color, oil quality, tocopherols or conjugated diene levels.
Design of digital FIR filters via optimized generalized Reimann window function

A generalized Reimann window function is presented. The original Reimann window is chosen because its Fourier transform approximates very well the Fourier transform of the ideal window; the impulse function. However, when the number of samples of this window is made finite in order to have a realizable FIR filter, the resulting filter response suffers considerably from the Gibb's phenomenon. Accordingly, this window is modified to allow three design parameters to be selected through optimization procedures as to satisfy certain design constraints. It is demonstrated through an example that the resulting designed filter meets the required specifications, where other popular windows fail. It is also demonstrated through another example that the resulting designed filter meets the required specifications with more margin than other popular windows do.
Evaluating Companion Planting and Non-host Masking Odors for Protecting Roses from the Japanese Beetle (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

Effectiveness of companion planting, and use of nonhost masking odors were evaluated under Þeld conditions for protecting roses against the Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica Newman. Three reputedly effective companion species, rue (Ruta graveolens L.), zonal geranium (Pelargo- nium hortorum Bailey), and garlic chives (Allium scheonparum L.) were interplanted with roses in replicated garden plots. Numbers of beetles on these roses were compared with rose-only control plots on 6 d during beetle sight. The masking odor hypothesis was tested by hanging mesh bags of aromatic herbs or other sources of reputedly repellent nonhost volatiles around potted roses in the Þeld. Treatments included crushed red pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.), fennel seeds (Foeniculm vulgare Miller), crushed spearmint (Mentha picata L.), cedar shavings (Juniperus sp.), osage orange fruits (Maclura pomifera (Raif) Schneid.), and seshy gingko seeds (Gingko biloba L.). No treatment signiÞcantly reduced numbers of beetles relative to the controls. Interplanting with geraniums signiÞcantly increased numbers of Japanese beetles on roses. Similarly, roses surrounded by sachets with fennel seeds, cedar shavings, crushed red pepper, or osage orange fruits had signiÞcantly more beetles than the control plants on two or more sample dates. Our results suggest that the use of companion or reputedly repellent plants or plant odors probably will be ineffective for protecting roses or other highly-susceptible ornamentals from P. japonica. Use of such tactics in an effort to discourage other garden pests might even increase Japanese beetle damage in those plantings.
Study of polyphosphate metabolism in intact cells by 31-P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Inorganic polyphosphates (polyP) are naturally occurring linear polymers of orthophosphate that are found in microorganisms, lower eukaryotes such as yeast, and animals (Harold 1966, Kulaev and Vagabov 1983; Wood and Clark 1988). In certain cases, polyP can accumulate to more than 10% of total dry mass. The ubiquitous presence of polyP suggests that they may have important physiological functions. For example, polyP has been proposed to function as a high-energy reserve or a phosphate reserve and may play an important role in regulating the levels of ATP (Harold 1966). Due to their polyanionic nature, polyP can also serve as counter ions for cationic species such as Mg’, Mn’, basic amino acids, and polyamines. In this regard, they may function in counteracting the osmotic pressure exerted by basic amino acids and various cations accumulated in fungal vacuoles. In addition, the presence of polyP in nuclei and membrane in certain organisms would suggest that polyP may have other unknown functions. It has been difficult to study the metabolism, regulation, and function of polyP for the following reasons: (1) polyP does not possess chromophores in its chemical structures; (2) polyP cannot easily be derivatized with specific chromophore or fluorescent probe; and (3) polyP may exist as a mixture of polymers with varying chain length, ranging from 3 to 1000 residues. Several analytical methods have been developed to study polyP, including enzymatic assay, HPLC and electrophoresis (reviewed by Wood and Clark 1988). Among them, in vivo phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance (31PNMR) remains, arguably, the unique one, being the least disruptive and quantitative (Roberts 1987).
The graphic analysis of labor.

Abstract 1. The efficacy of plotting cervical dilatation against time as a method of graphically analyzing labor is demonstrated. 2. The sigmoid characteristics of the curves thus obtained in primiparas at term are illustrated. 3. The first stage of labor is divided into four phases based on the graphic alterations noted. Their respective limits are defined. 4. Primary and secondary inertia are redefined in terms of deviation from the “normal.” 5. The application of this method to the study of the effects of sedation, stimulation, anesthesia, etc., upon the course of labor is indicated. 6. The value of this method for the study of individual labors, in progress, is stressed.
Building a Path Toward High-Performance Leadership

Strategizing the future of an organization requires a seamless integration between formulation and implementation. Carpenter and Sanders (2009) stated that well formulated plans are meaningful only when they are well-executed. Executing the strategy involves top-level managers and mid-level leaders who connect to the big picture communicated by the strategic leader. The intended strategy can only become realized strategy when strategic leaders use the appropriate implementation levers and their ability to allocate resources and draw support from stakeholders. A plan of action toward resonant leadership requires learning agendas that are flexible, feasible and personal.
A phase I study of thalidomide, capecitabine and temozolomide (TCT) in advanced cancer

3141 Background: Oral therapy offers the tremendous advantage of independence and avoids all the catheter-related complications. With this novel combination of immune-modulatory and chemotherapeutic agents we explore the possibility of antitumoral synergistic activity in advanced metastatic solid tumors, and at the same time develop an oral palliative regimen that does not require hospitalization or intravenous access. Methods: Patients were enrolled in cohorts of 3. Thalidomide 100 mg was given for one week. If well tolerated, capecitabine and temozolomide (TCT) were started at the appropriate dose level, as described below. All 3 drugs were given p.o. q.hs. every day with no breaks. If no toxicity was observed 28 days (1 cycle) after therapy, the next group was enrolled into the next dose level. Responses were assessed every 2 cycles by using the RECIST guidelines. Results: From August 2003 through December 2003, 9 patients with advanced cancer were enrolled. Prior to TCT treatment, all patients had obj...
Muslim Interpreters and the Muslim Tribunal: Making Sense of the French Policy of Assimilation in Nineteenth-Century Saint-Louis, Senegal

During the nineteenth century, Muslim habitants/originaires in Saint-Louis, Senegal, used Algeria as an example to demand the same legal guarantees Algerians then had from the French government. At the core of their petition was the creation of a Muslim tribunal to implement Islamic law and adjudicate civil cases concerning, among other issues, marriage and inheritance. Muslim interpreters such as Hamat Ndiaye Ann (1813-1879) and Bou El Mogdad Seck (1826-1880) were important voices in the controversy because they worked for the French while advocating for an autonomous judicial body for Saint-Louisian Muslims. The dispute spurned by the demands of the Muslims was a litmus test for the French policy of assimilation insofar as issues about civil and legal rights, citizenship, and loyalty to the French Empire were under question. Using French colonial archival sources, this paper contends that the creation of the Muslim Tribunal by Governor Louis Faidherbe in 1857 brought as much relief as disappointment to the Muslims in Saint-Louis over the outcome of their clamor for judicial independence. Even with the mediations of the indigenous Muslims interpreters, the episode revealed the contradictions and limitations of the policy of assimilation, indicating why it was a botched project from its inception.
Abstract 4040: Silence of miR-203 by promoter methylation in endometrial cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs, play important roles in cancer development by perturbing the expression of target genes. DNA methylation, a well-studied epigenetic event, also influences gene expression and aberrant methylation is frequently observed in cancer. We previously reported a new paradigm in which hypermethylation-mediated silencing of a miRNA de-repressed its oncogenic target in cancer cells. SOX4, an oncogene, was found to be overexpressed in endometrial cancer, partly because of hypermethylation of miR-129-2. Herein, thirteen additional miRNAs targeting on the 3′-end of untranslated regions of SOX4, and encompassing CpG islands, were identified using computational analysis. Hypermethylation of eight of the thirteen miRNAs was detected in at least two of seven endometrial cancer cell lines. miR-203 was selected for further analysis because this locus was predominantly hypermethylated in endometrial cancer cell lines, but not in normal endometrium. miR-203 expression can be reactivated by pharmacologic induction of DNA demethylation and histone acetylation, indicating that the loss of miR-203 expression is associated with promoter hypermethylation in endometrial cancer. Restoration of miR-203 by cell transfection decreased SOX4 expression and reduced proliferation of endometrial cancer cells. To confirm these in vitro findings in primary endometrial tumors, specimens from two cohorts were analyzed for miR-203 methylation by quantitative pyrosequencing or MassARRAY. In one cohort, miR-203 was significantly hypermethylated in endometrial tumors (n=31), but not in adjacent or un-related normal (n=18) specimens. Methylation of this locus is related to lymphatic and vascular invasion. In the other cohort, increased methylation was observed in primary tumors (n=114), but not in normal controls (n=22). Hypermethylation of miR-203 was positively associated with MLH1 methylation and MSI status. In conclusion, we present an emerging phenomenon that epigenetic silencing of multiple miRNAs could lead to overexpression of a single oncogene in endometrial cancer. This work is supported, in part, by NIH grants U54 CA113001 (THH) and P50 CA134254 (PJG, THH). Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4040. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4040
Improved Pre-Strain Method for Generating Goodman Data with Vibration-Based Fatigue Testing

Generating Goodman data via vibration fatigue testing is demonstrated in this study. Empirical Goodman data is acquired using a two-fold procedure: first, a pre-strain method is used to generate steady stress; second, the vibration-based fatigue testing methodology is employed to determine failure life cycles. Using this two-fold approach to ascertain Goodman line behavior is a cost effective method (less time than standard axial test and cheaper than component testing) for understanding high cycle fatigue (HCF) characteristics. The vibration-based test also provides both a stress state and operating frequency that better represent possible airfoil HCF conditions in gas turbine engines than conventional axial fatigue tests. The goal of this work is to improve the finite element model (FEM) analysis associated with the pre-strain method for more accurate steady stress assessment. Improvements will be made to the FEM by incorporating empirical hardening effects, pressures, and forces acting on the vibration-based specimen during localized monotonic loading. Validations for improvements to the pre-strain steady stress generation method will be demonstrated on Aluminum 6061-T6 by comparing strain field results from digital image correlation (DIC) and strain gage to FEM analysis.
Kinetic and molecular identification of sodium-dependent glucose transporter in normal rat cholangiocytes

While previous work has demonstrated that monosaccharides can be absorbed from bile, studies of sugar transport by the biliary, epithelia (i.e., cholangiocytes) are lacking. Using a novel model of polarized rat cholangiocytes in primary culture, designated normal rat cholangiocytes (NRC), we examined directly the uptake and transcellular transport of a nonmetabolizable monosaccharide, methyl alpha-D-glucopyranoside (AMG). When the apical or basolateral domain of cholangiocytes was exposed to radiolabeled AMG or sucrose (control), only apical absorption of AMG was evident. This apical uptake was time dependent, saturable, and significantly inhibited (> or = 90%) by removal of Na+ or in the presence of phlorizin (0.1 mM), a competitive inhibitor of the Na(+)-glucose cotransporter. The transcellular flux of AMG was also polar (i.e., apical to basolateral). Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) revealed the presence of the transcript for the specific Na(+)-glucose cotransporter SGLT1 in NRC and in freshly isolated cholangiocytes but not in purified hepatocytes; in contrast, the transcript for SGLT2 was absent in all liver samples. In situ RT-PCR on frozen sections of normal rat liver showed that SGLT1 was expressed exclusively in cholangiocytes. Immunoblot analysis using a specific polyclonal antibody for the facilitative glucose transporter GLUT1 demonstrated it to be present in vesicles derived from NRC enriched in basolateral plasma membrane domains. Our data are consistent with the concept that SGLT1 is present on the apical domain of biliary epithelia and, in conjunction with GLUT1 on the basolateral domain, accounts for glucose absorption from bile.
Sympathetic ophthalmia following neodymium:YAG cyclotherapy.

Neodymium: YAG cyclotherapy has been demonstrated to lower intraocular pressure dramatically in patients with uncontrolled glaucoma, with potentially fewer side-effects than cyclocryotherapy. We report the clinical course and histopathological features of a case of sympathetic ophthalmia occurring soon after YAG cyclotherapy
Conclusion: Governing Infectious Diseases in Globalized Anarchy

The argument in this book that SARS is the first post-Westphalian pathogen provided the foundation for exploring how the SARS outbreak reflected the emergence and use of new forms of governance for the global threat of infectious diseases. This exploration produced a political pathology of the SARS outbreak that revealed governance of infectious disease threats completing a transition from Westphalian to post-Westphalian strategies. The SARS outbreak did not initiate this transition or create all the strategies implemented to contain this new disease because the move from Westphalian public health governance was underway prior to SARS.
Do Substance P and Neurokinin A Play Important Roles in the Control of LH Secretion in Ewes

There is now general agreement that neurokinin B (NKB) acts via neurokinin-3-receptor (NK3R) to stimulate secretion of GnRH and LH in several species, including rats, mice, sheep, and humans. However, the roles of two other tachykinins, substance P (SP) and neurokinin A, which act primarily via NK1R and NK2R, respectively, are less clear. In rodents, these signaling pathways can stimulate LH release and substitute for NKB signaling; in humans, SP is colocalized with kisspeptin and NKB in the mediobasal hypothalamus. In this study, we examined the possible role of these tachykinins in control of the reproductive axis in sheep. Immunohistochemistry was used to describe the expression of SP and NK1R in the ovine diencephalon and determine whether these proteins are colocalized in kisspeptin or GnRH neurons. SP-containing cell bodies were largely confined to the arcuate nucleus, but NK1R-immunoreactivity was more widespread. However, there was very low coexpression of SP or NK1R in kisspeptin cells and none in GnRH neurons. We next determined the minimal effective dose of these three tachykinins that would stimulate LH secretion when administered into the third ventricle of ovary-intact anestrous sheep. A much lower dose of NKB (0.2 nmol) than of neurokinin A (2 nmol) or SP (10 nmol) consistently stimulated LH secretion. Moreover, the relative potency of these three neuropeptides parallels the relative selectivity of NK3R. Based on these anatomical and pharmacological data, we conclude that NKB-NK3R signaling is the primary pathway for the control of GnRH secretion by tachykinins in ewes.
FPGA-accelerated simulation of truncated-matrix multipliers

Truncated-matrix multipliers offer significant reductions in area, power and delay, at the expense of increased computational error. Extensive bit-accurate simulation is often necessary to evaluate the trade-offs and choose the best parameters for a particular application. This paper presents a method for simulating truncated-matrix multipliers using a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The method is applicable to most error correction methods published to date, and is simple to implement. It enables real-time simulation in actual applications, exhaustive simulation of large design spaces, and Monte Carlo simulation with more trials than other simulation options. When implemented in a Virtex-5 FPGA, the simulation runs at the same speed as a standard round-to-nearest multiplier, performing more than 229 simulations per second per embedded multiplier.
Cyclophosphamide Mobilization Does Not Improve Outcome in Patients Transplanted for Multiple Myeloma.

Abstract Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who undergo high dose therapy (HDT) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) and achieve a complete response (CR) have a superior overall survival (OS) and time to progression (TTP). Thus achieving a CR is an important goal of therapy with ASCT. Cyclophosphamide has significant activity against MM and is often used in high doses prior to ASCT for mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells. We hypothesized that high dose cyclophosphamide (HDC) may further improve CR rates in patients undergoing ASCT. Methods: The Mayo Clinic myeloma transplant database was searched for patients without circulating myeloma cells who had stem cell mobilization with hematopoietic growth factor (HGF) alone or HDC followed by HGF. Relevant demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics were abstracted. The main outcome studied was the impact of HDC on CR rates and time to progression (TTP) to myeloma. Results: We identified 201 patients without circulating myeloma cells. Of these, 127 were mobilized with HDC and HGF and 74 with HGF alone. The two cohorts were similar with respect to age, gender, isotype, B2M, plasma cell labeling index, cytogenetics, conditioning regimen, disease status at time of transplant with no statistically significant differences between the two cohorts. CR rates were 37.4 and 41.3% (p=0.6115) for patients mobilized with HDC/HGF and HGF respectively. TTP was 19.9 and 17.6 months (p=0.6039) respectively. The median number of collection sessions for patients mobilized with HDC/HGF was 2 (1–10) and those mobilized with HGF was 4 (1–10) (p Conclusion: HDC for autologous hematopoietic stem cell collection reduces the number of collections necessary to support HDT/ASCT. However, HDC does not increase CR rates or improve on TTP for patients undergoing ASCT.
Outcomes of primary refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) treated with salvage chemotherapy and intention to transplant in the rituximab era.

Summary Rituximab-containing salvage chemotherapy followed by high-dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) in chemosensitive patients remains the standard of care for patients with relapsed and refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). However, its role in those patients achieving less than a complete response to first-line therapy (primary refractory disease) in the rituximab era is not well defined. We reviewed the outcomes of 82 transplant-eligible patients with primary refractory DLBCL who underwent salvage therapy with the intent of administering high-dose therapy and ASCT to patients achieving chemosensitive remission. The estimated 3-year overall and progression-free survival for all patients was 38% and 29%, respectively, and 65% and 60% respectively for patients proceeding to stem cell transplant. Long-term remission was achieved in 45% of patients achieving a partial response (PR) to initial induction therapy and <20% of patients with stable or progression of disease following initial therapy. These results suggest that salvage chemotherapy with the intent of subsequent high-dose therapy and ASCT remains a feasible strategy in certain patients with primary refractory DLBCL, particularly for those achieving a PR to frontline therapy. The primary barrier to curative therapy in patients with primary refractory disease is resistance to salvage therapy, and future studies should be aimed towards increasing the response rate in this population.
Size-dependent ejaculation strategies and reproductive success in the yellow dung fly, Scathophaga stercoraria

Theory predicts that sperm competition will favour the production of larger ejaculates. However, because the benefits of greater reproductive investment are balanced by the costs of spermatogenesis, expenditure should depend on male physiology, mating rate and the relationship between additional investment and fertilization gains. In the yellow dung fly, Scathophaga stercoraria, males adopt size-dependent alternative mating tactics that are associated with discrete ecological resources (foraging and oviposition substrates), although males switch between these environments throughout their lives. By copulating on foraging substrate (fruit or flowers), males can bypass intense mate competition that occurs at oviposition sites (cow dung), but as a consequence, must occupy a disfavoured mating role (i.e. face a greater risk that their ejaculate will be displaced from storage prior to fertilization). Small males often mate on foraging substrate, whereas large males mate in this environment only during feeding bouts. Optimal ejaculate expenditure should therefore depend on male size and their current mating role. By measuring copula duration (i.e. ejaculate expenditure) of natural matings and assigning paternity to resulting offspring, we confirmed that copulations on dung sire approximately three times as many offspring as those on foraging substrate. Furthermore, large males reduced copula duration on fruit, as predicted, since this strategy enables greater investment into high-payoff matings on dung. Conversely, small males copulated for shorter durations on dung than on foraging substrate, perhaps to minimize the risk of being displaced from copula by a rival. These patterns of ejaculate expenditure translated into greater offspring production for large males on dung and for small males on fruit. We discuss the possible proximate factors driving these size- and context-dependent patterns of ejaculate allocation by yellow dung fly males. Together, our findings shed light on the allocation strategies and reproductive consequences of alternative mating tactics.
Role of His Refractory Premature Ventricular Complexes in the Differential Diagnosis of a Left Bundle Branch Block Morphology Tachycardia.

A 65-year-old man, with no significant past medical history, presented with an episode of sudden onset palpitations and lightheadedness. He was hemodynamically stable and the ECG revealed a left bundle branch block (LBBB) morphology tachycardia at 214 beats per minute (Figure 1A). The tachycardia terminated spontaneously with conversion to normal sinus rhythm and LBBB (Figure 1B). Further evaluation included a 2-dimensional echocardiogram showing a left ventricular ejection fraction of 40% to 45%, left heart catheterization showing angiographically normal coronaries, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging revealing atypical septal motion with left ventricular ejection fraction of 60% to 65% and no scar or ischemia. The patient underwent an electrophysiology study. At baseline, the sinus cycle length was 890 ms, atrial-His interval was 64 ms, His-ventricular interval was 108 ms, and QRS duration was 120 ms. Spontaneous onset of the LBBB morphology tachycardia after a sinus beat is shown in Figure 2. The tachycardia cycle length is 306 ms, and the His-ventricular interval is 120 ms. The QRS while similar to the LBBB seen during sinus rhythm shows change in axis and the morphology in aVR is predominantly positive. There is no ventriculo-atrial conduction during the tachycardia. Attempts at entrainment from right ventricle (RV) led to termination of the tachycardia. His refractory premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) delivered from RV apex during tachycardia after the His depolarization advances the next H and V (Figure 3). What is the mechanism of the tachycardia? See Editor's Perspective by Asirvatham and Stevenson Figure 1. A , ECG showing wide complex tachycardia with left bundle branch block (LBBB) morphology. B , ECG showing sinus rhythm and LBBB. Figure 2. Spontaneous initiation of tachycardia during sinus rhythm. The first sinus complex does not conduct because of a premature ventricular complexes. The second sinus complex conducts with a His-ventricular (HV) interval of 108 …
Cross-Cultural Confusions amongst Diverse Colleagues: What Teachers' Narratives Reveal about Intergroup Communication.

ABSTRACTTeacher-led initiatives built upon relationships, moral purpose, and a commitment to act have the potential to bring about change in twenty-first century schools. In order to implement and sustain change, teachers must collaborate with diverse colleagues and members of the school community. Intergroup communication across cultural and linguistic divides, though not impossible, is challenging as the data from this study shows. The purpose of the qualitative study was to explore factors that influenced teachers’ thinking, behavior, and interactions as they designed and implemented a dual language education program for English Language Learners. Narrative inquiry though a heuristic lens allowed for the gathering of stories that illustrate the lived realities of the participants. Teachers’ narratives reveal emergent themes regarding cross-cultural confusions amongst colleagues, warranting further study of intergroup communication in schools.
The rate-distortion function for successive refinement of abstract sources

In successive refinement of information, the decoder refines its representation of the source progressively as it receives more encoded bits. The rate-distortion region of successive refinement describes the minimum rates required to attain the target distortions at each decoding stage. In this paper, we derive a parametric characterization of the rate-distortion region for successive refinement of abstract sources. Our characterization extends Csiszar's result [1] to successive refinement, and generalizes a result by Tuncel and Rose [2], applicable for finite alphabet sources, to abstract sources. The new characterization leads to a family of outer bounds to the rate-distortion region. It also enables new nonasymptotic converse bounds.
Regulation of pheromone biosynthesis in moths

Female moths release sex pheromones for attracting males from a distance. Most moths are nocturnal so there is a periodicity to the release of sex pheromone. The temporal release of sex pheromone in most moths is regulated by calling behavior and by the biosynthesis of sex pheromone. In most moths, biosynthesis occurs in the pheromone gland and is controlled by the neuropeptide PBAN (pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide). PBAN is produced in the subesophageal ganglion and released into circulation where it travels to the pheromone gland to activate pheromone biosynthesis. The G-protein coupled receptor that binds PBAN has been identified as well as aspects of signal transduction to activate the biosynthetic pathway. This review will highlight recent advances in the study of regulation of pheromone biosynthesis in moths.
Identity Consistency and Medical Interventions

Nancy Jecker and Andrew Ko (2017) contend that the account of identity relevant to neurosurgical medical interventions is one of narrative identity, rather than numerical identity. When a patient a...
Markedly increased intake of refined carbohydrates and sugar is associated with the rise of coronary heart disease and diabetes among the Alaskan Inuit.

In a recent issue of the journal, DiNicolantonio published evidence suggesting that an increase in the intake of refined carbohydrates and sugar paralleled the rise in the incidence of atherosclerotic disease in the Greenland Inuit.1 Thus, we sought to ascertain if a similar trend occurred in Alaskan Inuit by reviewing the literature as far back as the 1950s. Because of their relative isolation prior to the 1950s, studying the dietary changes that occurred in the Alaskan Inuit in the following decades can provide great insight into potential factors that may have caused a decline in their health. The Inuit are said to be descendants of the Thule people who originally came to North America 3000 years ago from Asia through Siberia and the Bering Strait.2 The Inuit then travelled from Northwest Alaska towards Canada and Greenland and also south towards inland regions of Alaska. This paper will discuss Alaskan natives in general and Alaskan Inuit in particular. In 1972, Dr Sheldon A Feldman, MD, and colleagues published a study on the Inuit living on Alaska’s North Slope (Point Hope). During the early 1970s, the Eskimos of Point Hope (known as the ‘Tigara’ people) were one of the few Inuit villages that still subsisted on whale and seal meat and blubber. Only two other villages at the time along Alaska’s North Slope continued the traditional hunting of whales using harpoons during the spring months. In the spring and early summer, these North Slope Alaskan Inuit mainly relied on catching and eating seal, walrus and fish. In the summer, the main dietary staple was caribou, and in winter, they would occasionally catch and eat polar bear. The consumption of grains and other carbohydrates was low due to the high cost of their import.2 It has been estimated that the …