cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Doxorubicin (Adriamycin) on Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte Function and the Protective Role of Alpha Tocopherol (Vitamin E)1

Doxorubicin (adriamycin) is an anthracycline antibiotic that is active against a variety of solid tumors and hematologic malignancies that occur in humans [13]. The therapeutic usefulness of this compound has been somewhat limited because of substantial side effects which include myelosuppression, alopecia, extravasation tissue necrosis, and most importantly, cardiotoxicity. Vitamin E has been shown to reduce the cardiac toxicity without apparently interfering with the effectiveness of adriamycin as an antitumor agent [6]. Little information is available concerning the effect of this agent on polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) and phagocytic mononuclear cell functions [8]. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of adriamycin on phagocytic cell function, and to ascertain whether vitamin E has protective effects.
Training Parameterized Solvers

This chapter details the numerical results of applying ISAC on four different types of combinatorial optimization problems. The first section covers the set covering problem (SCP), showing that instance-oblivious tuning of the parameters can yield significant performance improvements and that ISAC can perform better than an instance-specific regression approach. The second section presents the mixed integer problem (MIP) and shows that even a state-of-the-art solver like Cplex can be improved through instance-specific tuning. The third section introduces the satisfiability problem (SAT) and shows how an algorithm portfolio can be enhanced by the proposed approach. The fourth example presents a real-world application from the 2012 Roadef Challenge. The chapter concludes with a brief summary of the results and benefits of the ISAC approach.
Web-based visual similarity analysis of atmospheric nucleation data

Nucleation processes are fundamental in many technological fields. However, the lack of effective, collaborative tools has slowed discovery in these fields. This paper outlines our work to visualize nucleation data in two ways to assist researchers seeking to learn more about nucleation processes. We created a similarity network to allow researchers to study similarities between nucleation structures easily. In addition, we developed tools to allow researchers to visualize aggregate molecular structures. To facilitate collaborative work over distance with low cost, these visualizations are web based, interactive, and can run on commodity machines. Though this paper focuses on similarity of molecular structures, this research can be applied to any network or graph visualization.
Checklists and multidisciplinary team performance during simulated obstetric hemorrhage.

Abstract Background Checklists can optimize team performance during medical crises. However, there has been limited examination of checklist use during obstetric crises. In this simulation study we exposed multidisciplinary teams to checklist training to evaluate checklist use and team performance during a severe postpartum hemorrhage. Methods Fourteen multidisciplinary teams participated in a postpartum hemorrhage simulation occurring after vaginal delivery. Before participating, each team received checklist training. The primary study outcome was whether each team used the checklist during the simulation. Secondary outcomes were the times taken to activate our institution-specific massive transfusion protocol and commence red blood cell transfusion, and whether a designated checklist reader was used. Results The majority of teams (12/14 (86%)) used the checklist. Red blood cell transfusion was administered by all teams. The median [IQR] times taken to activate the massive transfusion protocol and transfuse red blood cells were 5min 14s [3:23–6:43] and 14min 40s [12:56–17:28], respectively. A designated checklist reader was used by 7/12 (58%) teams that used the checklist. Among teams that used a checklist with versus without a designated reader, we observed no differences in the times to activate the massive transfusion protocol or to commence red blood cell transfusion ( P >0.05). Conclusions Although checklist training was effective in promoting checklist use, multidisciplinary teams varied in their scope of checklist use during a postpartum hemorrhage simulation. Future studies are required to determine whether structured checklist training can result in more standardized checklist use during a postpartum hemorrhage.
A New Congestion Control Mechanism Proposed for the SSCOP Protocol

International Telecommunication Union, Telecommunications Sector (ITU-T) Recommendation Q.2110 states that the update of a granted credit window to the transmitter (VR(MR)) is implementation dependent. In this paper, a new algorithm is designed to control the trac flow coming from malfunctioning users. The VR(MR) parameter is controlled for that purpose. The simulation results show that this new technique nearly doubles the system performance.
l-Tryptophan Production by 5-Methyltryptophan-resistant Mutants of Glutamate-producing Bacteria

1. Some of 5-methyltrypotophan (5MT)-resistant mutants derived from glutamate-producing bacteria such as Brevibacterium flavum, Corynebacterium acetoglutamicum and Micrococcus glutamicus produced a small amount of l-tryptophan, while tyrosine and phenylalanine auxotrophs of B. flavum did not.2. 5-MT-resistant mutant derived from the auxotroph for tyrosine and phenylalanine produced 390 mg/liter of l-tryptophan at most. A mutant resistant to a higher concentration of 5MT, which was derived from a tyrosine and phenylalanine auxotrophic mutant which was resistant to a low concentration of 5MT, produced 660 mg/liter of l-tryptophan. Using this mutant, the effects of the concentrations of components of the culture medium on the l-tryptophan production were examined. The high concentration of l-tyrosine, but not l-phenylalanine, inhibited the l-tryptophan production. Using the improved culture medium, this strain produced 1.9 g/liter of l-tryptophan.
Response time and test anxiety.

This study sought to test the interpretation that high test-anxiety students performed more poorly on difficult material because they divided their attention between personally relevant and task-re...
Medical risks of wilderness hiking

Abstract Purpose We sought to determine the extent to which injuries and illnesses limit long-distance or endurance outdoor recreational activities. Methods In a prospective surveillance study, 334 persons who hiked the Appalachian Trail for at least 7 days (mean [± SD] length of hike, 140 ± 60 days) in 1997 were interviewed. At the end of their hike, subjects completed a questionnaire on injuries, illnesses, water purification methods, and hygiene practices. Results Of the 280 backpackers who responded (a combined 38,940 days of wilderness exposure), 69% (n = 192) achieved their goal. The most important reasons for ending a hike prematurely were injury, time limitation, and psychosocial reasons. The most common medical complaints were feet blisters (64%; n=180), diarrhea (56%, n=156), skin irritation (51%, n=143), and acute joint pain (36%, n=102). The incidence of vector-borne disease was 4% (n = 11); physician-diagnosed Lyme disease was the most common, and 24% of hikers (n = 68) reported tick bites. The risk of diarrhea was greater among those who frequently drank untreated water from streams or ponds (odds ratio [OR] = 7.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.7 to 23; P P =0.04). Conclusion Diarrhea is the most common illness limiting long-distance hikers. Hikers should purify water routinely, avoiding using untreated surface water. The risk of gastrointestinal illness can also be reduced by maintaining personal hygiene practices and cleaning cookware.
Tandem behavior of an M/M/1/N→G/M/1 queuing system

Abstract Tandem behavior of an M / M /1/ N → G / M /1 queuing system is approximated in steady state. For this purpose, the departure processes from both a single server M / M /1/ N queuing system with a Poisson input, exponentially distributed service times, the waiting room of size N , and the first come first served queuing discipline, and a G / M /1 queuing system with generally distributed interarrival times, a single Markovian server, and the first served queuing discipline are approximated in steady state.
Hypolipidemic Activity of 4-Pyrimidinecarboxylic Acids in CF1 Mice

A series of 4-pyrimidinecarboxylic acids were evaluated for hypolipidemic activity in mice at 20–30 mg/kg/d ip. A number of these derivatives were observed to be active at this dose. Substitution of the hydroxyl group in position 2 and 6 of the 4-pyrimidinecarboxylic acid with a sulfhydryl and an amino group, respectively, led to a compound which produced a >40% reduction of serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels in mice. Similarly, a compound which was substituted with an amino group in position 2 and an isobutyl group in position 5 led to equally potent activity as a hypolipidemic agent.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF BUFFALO GOURD, A POTENTIAL FOOD SOURCE

Various parts of the perennial Buffalo gourd, Cucurbita foetidissima HBK, have been analyzed for crude protein, crude fat, acid detergent fiber, lignin, ash and gross energy content. The embryo, which contains about 48% oil, has a protein content exceeding 70% after oil has been extracted. The content of linoleic acid in the oil ranges from 45–65%. The roots contain more than 55% starch on a dry-weight basis. The vine forage and fruit pulp have potential as a roughage source for ruminants. This feral plant is well adapted to arid lands and merits further investigation as a possible source of oil, protein and starch.
Unsteady lifting case by means of the interior-singularity panel method

This study investigates the problem of unsteady potential flow around a lifting three-dimensional wing by using the interior-singularity method. The method distributes uniform strength sources and dipoles over the panels defined on the mean plane of the lifting body. The wake surface was composed of a geometrically continuous set of quadrilateral uniform strength dipole sheets. Both the location of the wake surface and the strength of singularities are unknown. The Kutta condition was generalized to a three-dimensional unsteady case. The advantage of relating the Kutta condition to the dipole derivative is that the result converged easily. The final result shows the generated circulation and the rolling up. of the trailing vortex wake. This study has shown the adaptability of the interior-singularity panel method to the three-dimensional unsteady flow problem.
Evaluation of shape indexing methods for content-based retrieval of X-ray images

Efficient content-based image retrieval of biomedical images is a challenging problem of growing research interest. Feature representation algorithms used in indexing medical images on the pathology of interest have to address conflicting goals of reducing feature dimensionality while retaining important and often subtle biomedical features. At the Lister Hill National Center for Biomedical Communications, a R&D division of the National Library of Medicine, we are developing a content-based image retrieval system for digitized images of a collection of 17,000 cervical and lumbar x-rays taken as a part of the second National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES II). Shape is the only feature that effectively describes various pathologies identified by medical experts as being consistently and reliably found in the image collection. In order to determine if the state of the art in shape representation methods is suitable for this application, we have evaluated representative algorithms selected from the literature. The algorithms were tested on a subset of 250 vertebral shapes. In this paper we present the requirements of an ideal algorithm, define the evaluation criteria, and present the results and our analysis of the evaluation. We observe that while the shape methods perform well on visual inspection of the overall shape boundaries, they fall short in meeting the needs of determining similarity between the vertebral shapes based on the pathology.
Rotational and hyperfine analysis of the E2Π1/2–X2Δ3/2 electronic transition of TaO

Abstract We have recorded the E 2 Π 1/2 – X 2 Δ 3/2 (0, 0) and (1, 0) bands of TaO at sub-Doppler resolution by intermodulated fluorescence spectroscopy. The data were fitted using a Hamiltonian expressed in a Hund’s case (c) basis set, leading to accurate values for the rotational, lambda-doubling and hyperfine constants of the upper state, which could be definitively assigned as 2 Π 1/2 for the first time. The E 2 Π 1/2 state has an energy of T 0 = 15876.5764(2) cm −1 and a vibrational interval of Δ G 1/2 = 925.3164(3) cm −1 .
Approaching the information superhighway: Internet collaboration among future writing teachers

Abstract To assist future writing teachers during the pivotal period of student teaching, an asynchronous electronic seminar and support group was formed for students teaching in schools as much as 60 miles apart. Group discussions through a campus electronic moil list focused on teaching strategies, curriculum design and resources for reading and writing, and classroom management. Though logistical limitations contribute to the antidominant discourse of problematic aspects of technology, the electronic seminar clearly provided connections that would otherwise have been impossible. As a result, future writing teachers were introduced to the benefits of peer collaboration, and the hierarchical role of supervisor shifted to a more collaborative stance. Introducing students to humanistic uses of the Internet, the electronic seminar offers a pioneering model to assist in preparing future writing teachers for tomorrow's complex classrooms.
Life-cycle analysis of flow-assisted nickel zinc-, manganese dioxide-, and valve-regulated lead-acid batteries designed for demand-charge reduction

Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive literature review and a full process-based life-cycle analysis (LCA) of three types of batteries, viz., (1) valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA), (2) flow-assisted nickel–zinc (NiZn), and (3) non-flow manganese dioxide–zinc (MnO2/Zn) for stationary-grid applications. We used the Ecoinvent life-cycle inventory (LCI) databases for the VRLA battery, coupled with inventory data from the CUNY Energy Institute (EI) for the NiZn and MnO2/Zn batteries under development there. In doing so, two indicators were tracked: the cumulative energy demand (CED) and global warming potential (GWP) of the upstream processes for producing, manufacturing, and transporting the finished product, as well as the effects of end-of-life impacts. We conducted a normalization of CED and GWP according to Wh of battery capacity to illustrate the effects of discharge rate on this commonly reported metric. We subsequently normalized according to the cumulative kWh of electricity throughput (kWhthroughput) to account for cycle life and efficiency data. This was done considering slow- and fast-discharge parameters for PbA chemistry and for current- and projected- parameters for the NiZn and MnO2/Zn chemistries to examine all possible effects. Additionally, the effects of recycle content on reducing CED and GWP were considered. Discharge rate was seen to have a significant effect for the VRLA system, with impacts over 41–46% higher in terms of CED and GWP at the 2-h discharge time, versus an 8-h discharge time, when considering the entire life cycle (kWhthroughput normalization). With kWhthroughput normalization, the NiZn- chemistry under development has lower CED and GWP than PbA-VRLA batteries for both current and projected targets of round-trip efficiency and cycle life. MnO2/Zn performs poorer than VRLA currently (41–52% higher CED and 35–38% higher GWP), but performs significantly better than VRLA when using projected targets (43% lower CED and 47% lower GWP). The energy requirement for battery production and transport is most significant for PbA and MnO2/Zn batteries. This is the case for PbA due to its relatively short service life– and this battery was found to be most sensitive to changes in battery service life and efficiency. For MnO2/Zn this was a result of low specific energy.
Lactose Repressor Functions as a DNA Topological Barrier in Escherichia Coli Lactose Operon

Escherichia coli lac repressor (LacI) is a paradigm transcriptional factor that controls the expression of three genes in the lac operon. It is a tetrameric protein, specifically binds to lac operators, such as O1, O2 and O3, and forms a DNA loop to negatively control transcription initiation. Previously, we found that LacI upon binding to multiple lacO1 operators is capable of acting as a DNA topological barrier to block DNA supercoil diffusion and dividing a supercoiled DNA molecule into two independent topological domains (Leng et al. (2011) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 108: 19973-78). In this study, we showed that LacI is able to function as a topological barrier and block supercoil diffusion upon binding to O1, O2, and O3 operators in the lac operon. Specifically, we demonstrated that LacI kept two supercoils within the 401 bp DNA-loop between O1 and O2 operators. Additionally, We carried out time course studies to determine the stability of the topological barriers that are produced by the different LacI-operator complexes. Our results showed that the stability of the topological barriers correlates with the DNA-binding affinity of LacI to the different operators i.e., O1, O2, O3, and Os operators. Furthermore, we confirmed our previous observation in which LacI is able to “keep” certain superhelical energy to stabilize LacI-lacO1 complexes. Our results can be explained by a model in which LacI behaves as a topological barrier in the lac operon to regulate the expression of lacZYA genes in Escherichia coli cells.
Developing implantable optical biosensors.

Nanobiotechnologists are developing devices that can measure specific enzymes and proteins. These devices are expected to detect single enzyme or protein molecules accurately, providing highly sensitive biosensing applications. A recent study by Strano and co-workers shows that single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) hold great promise as implantable biosensors. Although most researchers have focused on substrate-oriented biosensors, Strano and colleagues have shown that the inherent fluorescent properties of suspended individual SWNTs can be used for solution-phase β-d-glucose sensing.
Does improving patient–practitioner communication improve clinical outcomes in patients with cardiovascular diseases? A systematic review of the evidence

Abstract Objective To conduct a systematic literature review appraising the effects of interventions to improve patient–practitioner communication on cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes. Methods Databases were searched up to March 27, 2013 to identify eligible studies that included interventions to improve patient and/or practitioner communication skills and assessment of a cardiovascular-related clinical outcome in adults ≥18 years of age. Results Fifteen papers were reviewed: the primary focus in seven studies was the patient; seven included a practitioner-focused intervention and one targeted both. Two patient-focused and two practitioner-focused studies demonstrated a beneficial effect of the intervention compared to a control group. Patient-focused studies were designed to improve patients' information-seeking and question-asking skills with their practitioner. Practitioner-focused studies were designed to either improve practitioner's general patient-centered communication or risk communication skills. Conclusion Few interventions targeting patient–practitioner communication have assessed the impact on cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes, limiting the ability to determine effectiveness. Additional rigorous research supported by theoretical frameworks and validated measurement is needed to understand the potential of patient–practitioner communication to improve cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes. Practice implications Investments in communication skills trainings in medical education and practice are needed in order to attain the full potential of patient-centered care on cardiovascular-related clinical outcomes.
ASSESSMENT OF TEMPERATURE FLUCTUATIONS IN ASPHALT PAVEMENTS DUE TO THERMAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS USING A TWO-DIMENSIONAL TRANSIENT FINITE DIFFERENCE APPROACH

A transient, two-dimensional finite-difference model is developed to assess temperature fluctuations in asphalt pavements due to thermal environmental conditions. Fluctuations in temperatures significantly affect pavement stability and the selection of asphalt grading used in pavements. The ability to accurately predict asphalt pavement temperature at different depths and horizontal locations based on thermal environmental conditions will greatly help pavement engineers in performing back-calculations of pavement modulus values and in selecting the asphalt grade to be used in various pavement lifts through detailed examination of predicted pavement temperature distributions on various pavement mixes. A more sophisticated selection of asphalt through specification of less expensive asphalt binders in lower lifts is thus possible for the provision of more economical solutions to rising pavement construction costs. As part of the model validation, sensitivity analyses are performed to study the impact of a number of thermal environmental and pavement geometric parameters on predicted temperature responses.
A Peptide Derived from Phage Display Library Exhibits Antibacterial Activity against E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Emergence of drug resistant strains to currently available antibiotics has resulted in the quest for novel antimicrobial agents. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are receiving attention as alternatives to antibiotics. In this study, we used phage-display random peptide library to identify peptides binding to the cell surface of E. coli. The peptide with sequence RLLFRKIRRLKR (EC5) bound to the cell surface of E. coli and exhibited certain features common to AMPs and was rich in Arginine and Lysine residues. Antimicrobial activity of the peptide was tested in vitro by growth inhibition assays and the bacterial membrane permeabilization assay. The peptide was highly active against Gram-negative organisms and showed significant bactericidal activity against E. coli and P. aeruginosa resulting in a reduction of 5 log10 CFU/ml. In homologous plasma and platelets, incubation of EC5 with the bacteria resulted in significant reduction of E. coli and P. aeruginosa, compared to the peptide-free controls. The peptide was non-hemolytic and non-cytotoxic when tested on eukaryotic cells in culture. EC5 was able to permeabilize the outer membrane of E. coli and P. aeruginosa causing rapid depolarization of cytoplasmic membrane resulting in killing of the cells at 5 minutes of exposure. The secondary structure of the peptide showed a α-helical conformation in the presence of aqueous environment. The bacterial lipid interaction with the peptide was also investigated using Molecular Dynamic Simulations. Thus this study demonstrates that peptides identified to bind to bacterial cell surface through phage-display screening may additionally aid in identifying and developing novel antimicrobial peptides.
A new gene which affects uptake of neutral and acidic amino acids in Neurospora crassa

Abstract By selection on a medium containing both ethionine and p-fluorophenylalanine a mutant strain of Neurospora has been isolated. This strain, nap, shows greatly decreased transport of neutral and acidic amino acids. The mutation also confers resistance to 4-methyltryptophan, aminoprotein and glycine. The physiological defect appears to be specific since the mutant showed a normal doubling time for protein, normal oxygen consumption and normal transport of glucose, sulfate and basic amino acids. This gene represents a third locus which governs neutral and acidic amino acid transport in Neurospora, the two previously described being un-t (55701) and mtr.
Introduction of unlabeled proteins into living cells by electroporation and isolation of viable protein-loaded cells using dextran-fluorescein isothiocyanate as a marker for protein uptake.

Commonly, microinjection has been the method of choice for introducing proteins into living cells. Viable cells containing an introduced protein can be then identified providing that the protein is fluorochrome conjugated. This approach is applicable only for adherent cells, and the number of cells that can be analyzed is small. In this study, we have established that electroporation can be used to load proteins into large numbers of cells with high efficiency. Furthermore, we have developed a method for the isolation of protein-loaded cells using fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (dextran-FITC) as a molecular marker for protein uptake. The essential features of this method are that dextran-FITC is included in the electroporation medium and, thus, is cointroduced with the protein of interest. Purification of cells containing dextran-FITC using fluorescence-activated cell sorting yields a population which is composed almost entirely of cells containing the protein of interest.
Microstructure-scale modeling of HCF deformation

Abstract Computational crystal plasticity (ABAQUS FE) simulations are presented for dual phase alloy Ti–6Al–4V subjected to cyclic loading in the high cycle fatigue (HCF) regime. Relations between remote loading conditions and local plasticity are discussed as a function of stress amplitude and microstructure. Based on computational micromechanics, effects of microstructure heterogeneity and R-ratio are examined in terms of their influence on cyclic microplastic strain within the microstructure of unnotched specimens. It is shown that bulk-dominated fatigue damage at high R-ratios (>0.7) is associated with the onset of percolation of ratcheting of shear strain in the HCP α phase through connected channels within the microstructure. A high cumulative plastic strain gradient across the α–β phase boundaries is the likely driving force for decohesion at phase boundaries as the manifestation of bulk damage in the HCF regime. Effects of texture are also examined using random periodic microstructure representations. Application of the same crystal plasticity model for Ti–6Al–4V in fretting fatigue contact at positive R-ratios for the bulk fatigue stress also reveals a dominance of ratcheting strain in shear bands emanating from the contact surface, ostensibly in the HCF regime.
Global optimization of nonlinear generalized disjunctive programming with bilinear equality constraints: applications to process networks

Abstract A global optimization method is proposed for the solution of nonconvex generalized disjunctive programming problems that have bilinear equality constraints in terms of flows, compositions and split fractions. Tight convex under/over estimators are introduced for the relaxation of nonconvex constraints to construct the lower bound problem. Discrete choices for process networks are expressed as disjunctions, which are relaxed by a convex hull formulation. The relaxed convex NLP problem is solved with a two-level branch and bound algorithm proposed by Lee and Grossmann (Comput. Chem. Eng. 25 (2001) 1675), which branches on the discrete variables at the first level and the continuous variables on the second level. This global optimization algorithm is guaranteed to find an e-optimal solution in a finite number of steps. Applications are presented in pooling problems, wastewater network problems, and water usage network problems.
Old palaeomagnetism and future trends

In my abstract (Runcorn, l993) I have summarized the impact that palaeomagnetism has had on studies of the Earth and the Moon and may be expected to have on Mars, when rocks are returned from this planet and detailed satellite magnetometer surveys are made from moderate heights above its surface. It is surely one of the most remarkable discoveries of science that such a weak field as that of the Earth or early Moon is faithfully recorded in rocks, though today geophysicists accept it as commonplace. It is equally remarkable that palaeomagnetism turned out to be the key technique for settling such fundamental questions of geodynamics as continental drift and sea floor spreading and the constitution and early dynamics of the Moon. Further developments in palaeomagnetism are difficult to predict but in my abstract I have produced a list of priorities with which I expect most palaeomagnetists would agree.
Early Menarche: A Review of Research on Trends in Timing, Racial Differences, Etiology and Psychosocial Consequences

This paper elucidates varying definitions of “early menarche” and reviews evidence in four well-documented areas: (a) A potential trend toward earlier maturation, (b) racial differences in menarcheal timing, (c) etiology of early puberty, and (d) consequences of early puberty. While teachers and physicians perceive menarche as occurring earlier than in the past, mean menarcheal age has remained relatively constant over the past 50 years. Conflicting results concerning racial differences in timing highlight the need for further research to unravel the effects of race and social economic status (SES). Evidence regarding the relative etiological contributions of nutrition, environmental stress, and genetics is evaluated. Maturing earlier than one’s peers has negative consequences for girls, especially when combined with simultaneous stressors. However, the negative psychosocial consequences of early puberty may not last into later adolescence or adulthood. Few studies have investigated early-maturing adolescents’ subjective experience with menarche, particularly those from non-white and non-middle-class backgrounds.
THE CLINICAL ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE

Performance evaluation is an important obligation of a clinical teaching faculty. Our student evaluation consists of a rating profile and narrative comments. Eight ratings relate to observable performance such as “quality of written workups, presentations,” etc. The ninth is an assessment of scholastic ability and is stated “application of basic medical knowledge to clinical problems.” The clinical evaluation of basic knowledge of the 1971-2 junior students was compared to their National Board I score. The groups were divided Honor, Above the median, Below, and Fail. The grade groups were significantly different (x2 25.46, p<.001) and the correlation was not significant. Our faculty did not recognize insufficient, or Fail, level of knowledge and their assessment was weighted to the group “Above the median”. Our written examination correlated better with Part I (x2 11.76, p<. 01; r=.35, P<.001) and Part II (x2 0.49, n.s.; r=.40, p<.001). The use of clinical estimation versus examination to evaluate scholastic ability will be discussed, and the evaluation profile described. Although our clinical evaluation was performed by skilled clinicians, our study suggests that subjective rating profiles be limited to observed performance, and valid examinations be used to evaluate cognitive ability.
Level IV Evidence — Adverse Anecdote and Clinical Practice

Despite the best of intentions to practice medicine that is based on Level I evidence, a physician comes to appreciate that the influence of a randomized, controlled trial pales in comparison with that of adverse events and outcomes witnessed firsthand.
Laboratory realization of KP-solitons

Kodama and his colleagues presented a classification theorem for exact soliton solutions of the quasi-two-dimensional Kadomtsev-Petviashvili (KP) equation. The classification theorem is related to non-negative Grassmann manifold, Gr(N, M) that is parameterized by a unique chord diagram based on the derangement of the permutation group. The cord diagram can infer the asymptotic behavior of the solution with arbitrary number of line solitons. Here we present the realization of a variety of the KP soliton formations in the laboratory environment. The experiments are performed in a water tank designed and constructed for precision experiments for long waves. The tank is equipped with a directional-wave maker, capable of generating arbitrary-shaped multi-dimensional waves. Temporal and spatial variations of water-surface profiles are captured using the Laser Induces Fluorescent method – a nonintrusive optical measurement technique with sub-millimeter precision. The experiments yield accurate anatomy of the KP soliton formations and their evolution behaviors. Physical interpretations are discussed for a variety of KP soliton formations predicted by the classification theorem.
On a Kolmogorov-Smirnov type aligned test

Abstract For testing the hypothesis that two (symmetric) distributions may differ only in locations, a Kolmogorov-Smirnov type test based on the aligned observations is considered and its properties are studied.
Response of myogenic determination factors to cessation and resumption of electrical activity in skeletal muscle: a possible role for myogenin in denervation supersensitivity.

1. We have prepared probes specific for the chicken myogenic determination genes MyoD, myogenin, myf5, and herculin and have investigated the expression of these genes in response to denervation and acute electrical stimulation in neonate chick muscle, using ribonuclease protection. 2. Upon denervation, herculin mRNA remains essentially unchanged, myf5 transcript levels approximately double, and MyoD message is up-regulated by two- to fivefold. In contrast, the message coding for myogenin, barely detectable in innervated muscle, rises dramatically (~200-fold) on the second day after nerve section; in this respect it resembles acetylcholine receptor (AChR)α-,γ-andδ-subunit mRNAs. Cohybridization experiments reveal that the increase in myogenin mRNA slightly precedes the rise in AChRα-subunit message. 3. Electrical stimulation of denervated muscle leads to an immediate decline in myogenin and AChRα-subunit mRNAs, with half-lives of less than an hour and approximately 4 hr, respectively; message stability measurements suggest that this is effected through a rapid shutdown of transcription. Messages coding for MyoD, myf5, and herculin decay much more slowly, as a result of slower turnover. 4. Previous experiments have indicated the involvement of ade novo induced (Tsay, H.-J., Neville, C. M., and Schmidt, J.,FEBS Lett.274:69–72, 1990) autocatalytic (Neville, C. M., Schmidt, M., and Schmidt, J.,NeuroReport2:655–657, 1991) transcription factor in the denervation-triggered up-regulation of AChRα-subunit expression; the denervation and electrical stimulation experiments reported here are compatible with the notion that myogenin is that factor.
Neurochemical studies of the nucleus of the solitary tract, dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and the hypoglossal nucleus in rat: topographical distribution of glutamate uptake, GABA uptake and glutamic acid decarboxylase activity.

The topographical distribution of glutamate uptake, GABA uptake, and GAD activity was studied in caudal, intermediate and rostral areas of the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMN) and the of the solitary tract (NTS), dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMN) and the hypoglossal nucleus (n.XII). Within the NTS and n.XII, all three neurochemical parameters exhibited increasing activity from caudal to rostral regions. The distribution pattern for glutamate uptake within the DMN was qualitatively similar to the other nuclei studied, whereas GABA uptake and GAD activity were found to be homogeneously distributed within the DMN. The NTS also exhibited a medial-lateral heterogeneity for glutamate and GABA uptake, with the medial aspect of this nucleus containing significantly higher uptake than the lateral aspect.
Resolution improvement by multi-temporal data merging

Abstract In general, the row and column number corresponding to a particular geographic location in one image will be different from the row and column corresponding to the same geographic location in another image acquired at a different time. Some areas are likely to occur in the two images which correspond to areas of “maximum misregistration”, where the pixels in one image are offset by those in the other by 1 2 pixel. Two such areas can be radiometrically balanced and then interleaved. Such merging is comparable to doubling the sampling rate and this makes possible an increase in resolution. A procedure for multi-temporal data merging is evaluated and demonstrated with sample Thematic Mapper images. The possibility of combining several images and the corresponding potential resolution increase is also discussed.
Long-term follow-up of a high risk cohort after stent implantation in saphenous vein grafts

Abstract Objectives. We sought to provide short- and long-term clinical outcomes of a high risk cohort treated with stents in saphenous vein grafts (SVGs). Background. Data on the long-term outcome of SVG stenting in high risk patients are limited. Methods. Johnson & Johnson stents were implanted in the SVGs of 186 patients (302 stents, 244 lesions). Ninety percent of patients presented with myocardial infarction (MI) or unstable angina (mean ±SD ejection fraction [EF] 44 ± 11%, patient age 71 ± 9 years, graft age 9.4 ± 5 years). Using a risk score classification, 155 patients (83%) were defined as high risk for repeat surgical repair or angioplasty. Results. The procedural success rate was 97.3%, with 2.7% major complications (death, Q wave MI, coronary artery bypass graft surgery [CABG]). Clinical follow-up was obtained in 177 patients (mean 19.1 ± 13.5 months, range 7 to 59). Event rates were 10% for death; 9% for MI; 11% for repeat CABG; and 15% for repeat angioplasty (total events 45%). Kaplan-Meier estimated survival and event-free survival at 4 years were 0.79 ± 0.06 and 0.29 ± 0.07, respectively. Predictors of death were congestive heart failure (p 10 years, p Conclusions. Balloon-expandable stent implantation in the SVGs of high risk patients is associated with a low early complication rate. Expected survival rates are good, as are the anginal and functional classifications, but there is a high rate of recurrent events and need for repeat revascularization. Vein graft stenting is an acceptable palliative option in many high risk patients.
Quantitative analysis of prostaglandins in cell culture medium by high-resolution gas chromatography with electron-capture detection

Prostaglandins have been shown to be important modulators of haemostatis , immune responses, and growth of normal and neoplastic cells. In order to investigate the cell origin and metabolic profile of the endogenous prostaglandins in human tumours, a convenient extraction and gas chromatographic method for measuring the various classes of prostaglandins was developed. Infiltrating macrophages from human tumours were isolated using adherence to plastic. Macrophage-enriched and macrophage-depleted cell populations were then cultured in vitro and the media supernatant was studied for the presence of prostaglandins E1, E2, F2 alpha, and 6-keto-F1 alpha (the spontaneous breakdown product of prostacyclin, PGI2). Routinely, 1 ml of medium containing 10(6) cells was studied. The eicosanoids were extracted using commercially available octadecylsilyl silica reversed-phase columns prior to derivatization. Standards and samples were prepared as pentafluorobenzyl ester (methoxime) trimethylsilyl ether derivatives for analysis on an OV-101 (25 m X 0.2 mm) fused-silica capillary column. Recovery of standards ranged from 93% to 37%, with linear recovery in all instances (regression coefficients greater than 0.98). Detection limits were 20 pg for each of the prostaglandins. Analysis of cell subpopulations from six human tumours revealed that infiltrating macrophages produce various prostaglandin profiles and are largely responsible for the prostaglandin production in human cancer. The described analytical method is the first application of high-resolution gas chromatography with electron-capture detection to the quantitative profiling of prostaglandins from human cell culture.
Characterization of Species Present in Aqueous Solutions of [Hydroxy(mesyloxy)iodo]benzene and [Hydroxy(tosyloxy)iodo]benzene

Upon solution in water, both [hydroxy(mesyloxy)iodo]benzene and [hydroxy(tosyloxy)iodo]benzene undergo complete ionization to give the hydroxy(phenyl)iodonium ion (PhI+OH) and the corresponding sulfonate ion (RSO2O-) as fully solvated species, i.e., “free” ions. The phenyliodonium solution species do not form ion pairs with the organosulfonate ions. The hydroxy(phenyl)iodonium ion is presumed to be ligated with at least one water molecule at an apical site of the iodine(III) atom originally occupied by the sulfonate ion. In view of the relative basicities of HO- and H2O, the hydroxy ligand of the [hydroxy(aquo)iodo]benzene ion (PhI+(OH2)OH) is expected to be strongly bound and the water ligand is expected to be weakly bound to the iodine(III) center. This species has a pKA at (4.30 ± 0.05). PhI+(OH2)OH and its conjugate base are present in equilibrium with the [hydroxy(auqo)]-μ-oxodiphenyldiiodine cation (Ph(HO)I−O−I+(OH2)Ph). This μ-oxo dimer is present at significant levels even in relatively dilute sol...
Panic induced by carbon dioxide inhalation and lack of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activation.

Abstract It has been hypothesized that spontaneous panic is distinct from anticipatory anxiety, which activates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Panic attacks characterized by prominent respiratory symptoms, such as those induced by sodium lactate, are not associated with increases in cortisol. We examined blood cortisol responses to CO 2 -induced panic. Cortisol levels did not increase and actually decreased significantly in 10 panicking subjects with panic disorder. No reductions were noted after 20 min of CO 2 inhalation in either eight normal comparison subjects or six non-panicking panic disorder patients. These results lend support to the hypothesis that the pathophysiological mechanism underlying CO 2 -induced panic is different from that underlying general or anticipatory anxiety.
Variability in rates of urine prostaglandin E excretion

Urine prostaglandin E excretion rates were determined by hepatic receptor assay in three groups of conscious animals. Although 24-hour urine collections gave reproducibly similar levels of prostaglandin E excretion rates, levels obtained with consecutive 20-minute urine collections were extremely variable despite no obvious changes in renal function. Since short urine collection periods are used frequently in physiologic studies, the significance of variations in prostaglandin excretion rates in these studies may have to be re-evaluated.
Photonic Control of Cylindrical Shells with Electro-Optic Photostrictive Actuators

Photostrictive actuator, which can directly turn light energy into mechanical energy, is a new promising photoactuation technique for active vibration control of flexible structures. It offers the advantage of generating distributed actuation strain without connecting any electric lead wires. Photonic control of flexible cylindrical shells using discrete photostrictive actuators is investigated, and the photoactuation effectiveness is evaluated. A coupled optopiezothermoelastic shell theory is presented that incorporates photovoltaic, pyroelectric, piezoelectric, and thermal effects and has the capability to accurately predict the response of a shell to a command illumination applied to the photostrictive actuators. Expressions for the photogenerated forces and moments have been developed. Governing equations are formulated. Solution procedures based on the modal analysis technique are outlined. The detailed actuator control effectiveness is evaluated with respect to actuator placements. It is shown that by properly positioned the actuators the system performance can be improved. Numerical simulation results also show that the membrane control action is more significant than the bending control action. The circumferential membrane control action dominates, and the photonic control effectiveness is only slightly reduced by the removal of all of the actuator patches along the longitudinal direction.
Six-Axis Magnetic Levitation and Motion Control

This paper presents the development of a compact six-axis magnetic levitation stage, including the design and implementation of magnetic actuators, laser interferometer motion sensors, and motion controllers. The designed travel volume of the stage is 2times2times2 mm in translation and 4degtimes4degtimes4deg in rotation. A two-axis linear actuator, based on the magnetic Lorentz force law, was designed, and three two-axis actuators, equivalent to six single -axis actuators, were implemented to achieve six-axis actuation. A high-resolution laser interferometer measurement system was implemented and employed to measure the six-axis motion of the stage, facilitating real-time feedback control. Feedback linearization, based on rigid-body dynamics of the levitated stage, and force distribution were implemented in a computer-controlled architecture so as to establish a decoupled dynamics between the six computed inputs and the resulting six-axis motions. Constant gain controllers were then designed and implemented, according to the concept of loop shaping, for each of the six axes, and high positioning stability, 1.1 nm root mean square (RMS) for x and 0.74 nm RMS for y, has been achieved. Experimental results are presented to illustrate positioning stability, system linearity, dynamic response invariance, nano stepping, multiaxis contouring, and large rotational motion
Effects of haem infusion on biliary secretion of porphyrins, haem and bilirubin in man

Employing a continuous bile collection, we measured the bile secretion of porphyrins, haem (iron protoporphyrin IX regardless of oxidation state) and bilirubin in five healthy subjects. The baseline values for the flow of porphyrins in the bile were: 4.7 +/- 1.9 nmol/h uroporphyrin, 27.3 +/- 3.8 nmol/h coproporphyrin and 39.2 +/- 11.7 nmol/h protoporphyrin. Bile haem flow was 59.7 +/- 12.6 nmol/h, and that of bilirubin 23.8 +/- 8.2 mumol/h. Following haem injection (6.4 mumol/kg) the flow of protoporphyrin but not of the other porphyrins was reduced, and the bile haem flow increased (232 +/- 109.5 nmol/h), while the flow of bilirubin did not increase significantly. A few patients with representative porphyrias showed the expected increase in copro- and protoporphyrin in the bile. The patient with coproporphyria exhibited a bile flow of coproporphyrin of 1470 +/- 133 nmol/h and of protoporphyrin of 334 +/- 29 nmol/h; haem infusion significantly reduced the bile flow of both porphyrins (to 649 +/- 101 for copro- and 215 +/- 36 nmol/for protoporphyrin). The patient with protoporphyria had an increased protoporphyrin flow, yet haem infusion caused no reduction in protoporphyrin flow (106 +/- 7 after v. 81.4 +/- 13 nmol/h before haem). In conclusion, we found that haem and porphyrins are normal constituents of bile, and that injected haem appears in bile. Bile bilirubin did not rise within 12 h after haem infusion a finding which warrants further investigation.
Overview of the Scalable Communications Core: A Reconfigurable Wireless Baseband in 65nm CMOS

The Scalable Communications Core (SCC) is a flexible baseband processor that consists of a heterogeneous set of coarse-grained, programmable accelerators connected via a packet-based 3-ary 2-cube Network-on-Chip (NoC). SCC supports multiple wireless protocols to meet the demand for ubiquitous communications and computing with low power and area.We have recently completed a prototype test chip in a 65nm process and validated it for WiFi and WiMAX protocols. The area and energy efficiency of our test chip is comparable to other basebands found in the literature. To demonstrate its flexibility, additional protocols have been mapped to the architecture.