cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Buckling and Failure of Compression-Loaded Composite Laminated Shells With Cutouts

Results from a numerical and experimental study that illustrate the effects of laminate orthotropy on the buckling and failure response of compression-loaded composite cylindrical shells with a cutout are presented. The effects of orthotropy on the overall response of compression-loaded shells is described. In general, preliminary numerical results appear to accurately predict the buckling and failure characteristics of the shell considered herein. In particular, some of the shells exhibit stable post-local-buckling behavior accompanied by interlaminar material failures near the free edges of the cutout. In contrast another shell with a different laminate stacking sequence appears to exhibit catastrophic interlaminar material failure at the onset of local buckling near the cutout and this behavior correlates well with corresponding experimental results.
EMOSS: An Epiillumination Microscope Objective Slit-Scan Flow System'

An epiillumination microscope objective slit-scan flow system has been fabricated utilizing two dimensional slit scanning with hydrodynamic sample stream focussing. Low resolution (4 μm) analysis of cellular fluorescence is facilitated by the definition of a stabilized flow plane through hydrodynamic focussing. Coincidence of the region of stabilized flow with the focal plane of the microscope objective will allow for the collection and subsequent imaging of fluorescence from cells oriented along this plane. Two orthogonal slit-scan contours are generated as a cell traverses the excitation region. It is hoped that the need for a three dimensional system will be precluded by preferential orientation of the cells in the region of stabilized flow. Cellular fluorescence is collected by a high numerical aperture epiillumination optical system and imaged onto two orthogonal slits. Two photomultiplier tubes are used to detect fluorescence. It is anticipated that the epiilumination microscope objective slit-scan flow system will be used with a variety of fluorescent stains and markers, as well as extended to the research of light scattered by cells. (Steen, H. B., Cytometry 1:26–31, 1980).
UV photoelectron and theoretical characterization of 2'-deoxyguanosine-5'-phosphate valence electronic properties: changes in structure associated with the B to Z-DNA conformational transition.

Abstract He(I) UV photoelectron spectroscopy and ab initio SCF molecular orbital calculations with the 4-31G basis set have been employed to characterize the valence electronic structures of 2′-deoxyguanosine-5′-phosphate (5′-dGMP − ). In 5′-dGMP − , the electron distributions of the upper occupied orbitals are localized and similar to those appearing in 1,9-dimethylguanine ( 1 ), 3-hydroxytetrahydrofuran ( 2 ) and CH 3 HPO 4 − ( 3 ). Theoretical ionization potentials (IP's) of 5′-dGMP − ( 4 ) have been obtained by applying Koopmans' Theorem to the 4-31G SCF results. The IP's of seven orbitals in the base and sugar groups in 4 , predicted from the 4-31G SCF calculations, have been individually corrected by comparison to results from 4-31G SCF calculations on neutral 5′-dGMP, and to Hel photoelectron spectra of the model compounds, 1 and 2 . The IP's of six of the highest occupied orbitals of the phosphate group in 4 and in the model anion 3 , predicted from 4-31G SCF calculations, have been corrected by comparing 4-31G SCF results for PO 2 − to theoretical IP's obtained from second-order Moller-Plesset perturbation calculations on PO 2 − . For 4 in the conformation occurring in B-DNA, the first IP's associated with the phosphate, base, and sugar groups occur at 5.1, 5.6 and 6.6 eV, respectively. A comparison of the valence electronic structures of 4 in geometries associated with the B and Z-DNA conformations indicates that in B-DNA the base and sugar orbitals have lower IP's than in Z-DNA, while the phosphate orbitals have higher IP's.
Genetic Ablation of Calcium-independent Phospholipase A2γ (iPLA2γ) Attenuates Calcium-induced Opening of the Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore and Resultant Cytochrome c Release

Herein, we demonstrate that calcium-independent phospholipase A(2)γ (iPLA(2)γ) is a critical mechanistic participant in the calcium-induced opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Liver mitochondria from iPLA(2)γ(-/-) mice were markedly resistant to calcium-induced swelling in the presence or absence of phosphate in comparison with wild-type littermates. Furthermore, the iPLA(2)γ enantioselective inhibitor (R)-(E)-6-(bromomethylene)-3-(1-naphthalenyl)-2H-tetrahydropyran-2-one ((R)-BEL) was markedly more potent than (S)-BEL in inhibiting mPTP opening in mitochondria from wild-type liver in comparison with hepatic mitochondria from iPLA(2)γ(-/-) mice. Intriguingly, low micromolar concentrations of long chain fatty acyl-CoAs and the non-hydrolyzable thioether analog of palmitoyl-CoA markedly accelerated Ca(2+)-induced mPTP opening in liver mitochondria from wild-type mice. The addition of l-carnitine enabled the metabolic channeling of acyl-CoA through carnitine palmitoyltransferases (CPT-1/2) and attenuated the palmitoyl-CoA-mediated amplification of calcium-induced mPTP opening. In contrast, mitochondria from iPLA(2)γ(-/-) mice were insensitive to fatty acyl-CoA-mediated augmentation of calcium-induced mPTP opening. Moreover, mitochondria from iPLA(2)γ(-/-) mouse liver were resistant to Ca(2+)/t-butyl hydroperoxide-induced mPTP opening in comparison with wild-type littermates. In support of these findings, cytochrome c release from iPLA(2)γ(-/-) mitochondria was dramatically decreased in response to calcium in the presence or absence of either t-butyl hydroperoxide or phenylarsine oxide in comparison with wild-type littermates. Collectively, these results identify iPLA(2)γ as an important mechanistic component of the mPTP, define its downstream products as potent regulators of mPTP opening, and demonstrate the integrated roles of mitochondrial bioenergetics and lipidomic flux in modulating mPTP opening promoting the activation of necrotic and necroapoptotic pathways of cell death.
Substrate specificity of the Escherichia coli 4-aminobutyrate carrier encoded by gabP. Uptake and counterflow of structurally diverse molecules.

Abstract Transport of 4-aminobutyrate into Escherichia coli is catalyzed by gab permease (GabP). Although published studies show that GabP is relatively specific, recognizing the common α-amino acids with low affinity, recent work from this laboratory indicates that a number of synthetic compounds are high affinity transport inhibitors (50% inhibition at 5-100 μM). Here we present evidence that many of these structurally heterogeneous compounds not only inhibit transport but also function as alternative GabP substrates (i.e. a set of observations inconsistent with the idea that the core of the GabP transport channel exhibits rigid structural specificity for the native substrate, 4-aminobutyrate).
Photophysical properties of ruthenium polypyridyl photonic SiO2 gels

The photophysical properties of Ru(bpy)[sub 3](PF[sub 6])[sub 2] and cis-Ru(bpy)[sub 2](CN)[sub 2] (where bpy = 2,2[prime]-bipyridine) doped into monolithic SiO[sub 2] aquo and alco gels prepared by sol-gel processing techniques is described. The excited-state properties of the dopants are dramatically altered by the gel matrix. The photoluminescence emission energy and quantum yield of the dopants increase through the sol-to-gel transition. Steady-state fluorescence polarization measurements reveal significant anisotropy. Time-resolved fluorescence decays observed from these photonic materials are complex. Evidence for a bimodal distribution of dopant sites is obtained from modeling the emission decays and from application of the exponential series method. Implications of these results for molecular photonic applications are discussed. 31 refs., 7 figs., 1 tab.
Arsenazo III as an indicator for ionized calcium in physiological salt solutions: its use for determination of the CaATP dissociation constant.

Arsenazo III, a metallochromic dye with Ca2+ sensitivity, has been reported to be useful for measuring micromolar concentrations of ionized Ca2+ in living cells. In order to further characterize this promising reagent and facilitate its future use, we have obtained absorption spectra, molar absorptivities, and calcium-dye dissociation constants, using purified arsenazo III, for several sets of physiological conditions, e.g., 1–3 mm MgCl2 and 150–400 mm KCl at pH values near neutrality. Values for the dissociation constants of the alkaline earth cation-dye complexes in 5 mm HEPES buffer, pH 7.4, were also determined; the Ca-dye dissociation constant was 0.74 × 10−6m. The observed selectivity sequence of arsenazo III, Ca >Sr >Ba ⪢ Mg, may be accounted for by the size of the dye's ion binding pocket (calculated to be 2.2–2.5 A in diameter). In order to validate the dissociation constants and confirm the utility of the dye as an indicator for ionized Ca2+ in physiological salt solutions, arsenazo III was used to measure apparent dissociation constants for the CaATP complex for three sets of conditions; these values were similar to some of the values reported in the literature for comparable conditions. The conclusion is that purified arsenazo III appears to serve as a convenient and reliable indicator for micromolar ionized Ca2+ concentrations in physiological salt solutions.
Advances in the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the largest contributor to maternal mortality, occurring in between 1 and 5% of deliveries. Prophylactic uterotonics are widely recommended to prevent atonic hemorrhage. Rapid recognition of PPH and identification of hemorrhage etiology is essential to reduce mortality and morbidity. Treatment is etiology-specific and comprises a range of medical, mechanical, temporizing and surgical procedures. Important developments from trauma and emergency medicine around massive hemorrhage protocols are newly implemented for PPH, and the evidence base for PPH medical management is expanding, with clinical trials ongoing. Improving the management of PPH in limited-resource settings will require continued attention to ensure the availability of low-cost accessible prevention and treatment options, in addition to a focus on skilled care providers.
State-vector models of the cell cycle. 1. Parametrization and fits to labeled mitoses data.

In this paper we study the Hahn model of the cell cycle from the point of view that a cell population's age distribution is more relevant to labeled mitoses data than is the distribution of its transit times. Closed-form relationships are derived between the transition probabilities of the Hahn model and the transit time of the mean of a cohort of labeled cells (with the variance of their transit time through mitosis). Constraints result which define the acceptable values for the number of ages in the state vector and the length of the time step (rarely does the dimension of the state vector equal the number of time steps in the generation time). A generalization to distinct probabilities for G1, S and G2M is presented, and the automatic fitting of fraction-labeled mitoses (FLM) data is described. The doubling time of the population is used to define the daughter factor, via the largest eigenvalue of the state transition matrix. The performance of the generalized Hahn model is compared to that of other commonly used fitting methods using two sets of FLM data from the literature. The synthesis of continuous labeling curves is discussed as an independent check of the parametrization. Based on the stable age distribution resulting from fits to experimental FLM data, it is shown that a nonlinear relationship exists between biological age and time.
Hidden persuaders: medical indexing and the gendered professionalism of American medicine, 1880-1932.

La these du sexisme est analysee et montre la place marginale des femmes en medecine de 1880 a 1932
Assessing the effects of social environment on blood pressure and heart rates of baboons

The objective of this publication is to report on the feasibility of using a tether system for obtaining data on blood pressure and heart rates of socially housed primates and to evaluate the extent to which housing environment alters cardiovascular responses (mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate). Blood pressure and heart rates of adult male baboons (Papio cynocephalus hamadryas) were evaluated over a 6 week period under three different housing conditions: social companion, individual, and socially unfamiliar. Social environment was manipulated in a specially designed cage that incorporated removable panels of either woven wire or solid sheet metal. The design of the cage permitted nonhuman primates to engage in species-typical social behaviors such as grooming and aggression. Using a tether and catheter system, we monitored cardiovascular physiology. We tested the hypothesis that individual housing, housing with social companions, and housing with social strangers would produce different mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate responses. Individual housing and housing with strangers produced resting mean arterial blood pressures that were elevated relative to blood pressure responses with social companions. Individual housing and housing with social strangers produced different patterns of cardiovascular response. Individual housing resulted in lowered heart rates and elevated blood pressures relative to the social companion condition. Housing with social strangers resulted in both elevated blood pressure and elevated heart rate, relative to the social companion condition. Responses observed during this study demonstrated the sensitivity of blood pressure and heart rates to differences in social environment.
Progress in Quantum Algorithms

We discuss the progress (or lack of it) that has been made in discovering algorithms for computation on a quantum computer. Some possible reasons are given for the paucity of quantum algorithms so far discovered, and a short survey is given of the state of the field.
Micromechanical Stress Concentrations in Two‐Phase Brittle‐Matrix Ceramic Composites

A quantitative investigation was conducted on the effect of micromechanical stress concentrations on the strength of two-phase brittle-matrix ceramic systems. The materials consisted of a continuous brittle matrix containing dispersions with elastic properties different from those of the matrix. A soda borosilicate glass was used as the matrix and the dispersions consisted of spherical alumina particles 60μ in diameter and spherical pores 60μ in diameter. Stress concentrations were varied by measuring the strength of the composite under uniaxial and biaxial tensile stress conditions. The experimental results showed that micromechanical stress concentrations strongly affect the macroscopic strength of the composite. Under biaxial tensile stress, additions of either alumina microspheres or spherical porosity to the glass matrix resulted in a decrease in strength equal to the maximum calculated stress concentration factor. Under uniaxial tensile stress conditions, however, the reduction in strength for the glass-alumina system was negligible. The glass-porosity system gave a reduction in uniaxial strength which was not equal to the maximum calculated stress concentration factor. Experimental results suggest that differences in strength of brittle multi-component systems under uniaxial and biaxial stress states can be attributed in part to micro-structural features. On the basis of the experimental work, a hypothesis is developed relating the relative size of the region in the glass matrix over which stress concentrations act to the size of the Griffith flaws responsible for failure. This hypothesis is extended to the effect of porosity on the strength of polycrystalline brittle ceramic materials.
Remote control system for a 2-MW research reactor

A description is given of a fault-tolerant programmable logic controller (PLC) and operator workstations that have been programmed to replace the hard-wired relay control system in the 2 MW bulk shielding reactor at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Auxiliary systems include a video system, an intercom system, and a fiber-optic communication system. The equipment has been designed with reliability and fail-safe features as important considerations. Significant features of the systems are described. >
Global baby-friendly hospital initiative monitoring data: Update and discussion

Abstract Background: The World Health Organization (WHO)/UNICEF Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) was developed to support the implementation of the Ten Steps for Successful Breastfeeding. The purpose of this study is to assess trends in the numbers facilities ever-designated “Baby-Friendly,” to consider uptake of the new WHO/UNICEF BFHI materials, and to consider implications for future breastfeeding support. Materials and Methods: The national contacts from the 2006–2007 UNICEF BFHI update were recontacted, as were WHO and UNICEF officers worldwide, to ascertain the number of hospitals ever-designated “Baby-Friendly,” presence of a government breastfeeding oversight committee, use of the new BFHI materials and, if yes, use of the new maternity or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) materials. Results: Seventy countries reporting in 2010–2011 and the updates from an additional 61 reporting in 2006–2007 (n=131, or 66% of the 198 countries) confirm that there are at least 21,328 ever-designated facil...
MMSN: Multi-Frequency Media Access Control for Wireless Sensor Networks

Multi-frequency media access control has been well understood in general wireless ad hoc networks, while in wireless sensor networks, researchers still focus on single frequency solutions. In wireless sensor networks, each device is typically equipped with a single radio transceiver and applications adopt much smaller packet sizes compared to those in general wireless ad hoc networks. Hence, the multi-frequency MAC protocols proposed for general wireless ad hoc networks are not suitable for wireless sensor network applications, which we further demonstrate through our simulation experiments. In this paper, we propose MMSN, which takes advantage of multi-frequency availability while, at the same time, takes into account the restrictions in wireless sensor networks. In MMSN, four frequency assignment options are provided to meet different application requirements. A scalable media access is designed with efficient broadcast support. Also, an optimal non-uniform backoff algorithm is derived and its lightweight approximation is implemented in MMSN, which significantly reduces congestion in the time synchronized media access design. Through extensive experiments, MMSN exhibits prominent ability to utilize parallel transmission among neighboring nodes. It also achieves increased energy efficiency when multiple physical frequencies are available.
Tissue-specific gene delivery via nanoparticle coating.

The use of biomaterials for gene delivery can potentially avoid many of the safety concerns with viral gene delivery. However, the efficacy of polymeric gene delivery methods is low, particularly in vivo. One significant concern is that the interior and exterior composition of polymeric gene delivery nanoparticles are often coupled, with a single polymer backbone governing all functions from biophysical properties of the polymer/DNA particle to DNA condensation and release. In this work we develop electrostatically adsorbed poly(glutamic acid)-based peptide coatings to alter the exterior composition of a core gene delivery particle and thereby affect tissue-specificity of gene delivery function in vivo. We find that with all coating formulations tested, the coatings reduce potential toxicity associated with uncoated cationic gene delivery nanoparticles following systemic injection. Particles coated with a low 2.5:1 peptide:DNA weight ratio (w/w) form large 2 micron sized particles in the presence of serum that can facilitate specific gene delivery to the liver. The same particles coated at a higher 20:1 w/w form small 200 nm particles in the presence of serum that can facilitate specific gene delivery to the spleen and bone marrow. Thus, variations in nanoparticle peptide coating density can alter the tissue-specificity of gene delivery in vivo.
Authorship in Forensic Psychiatry: A Perspective

Authorship in forensic psychiatry is a life-long commitment to learning, creativity, and professional growth. Forensic psychiatrists are writers, by choice and by necessity. The key concepts to effective writing in forensic psychiatry are “process” and a “workman-like approach.” The process of writing is not a dash to the finish line, but is more akin to a leisurely, enjoyable walk. A workman-like approach to writing ensures that the author9s writing is a process, not an event. Effective writing enhances clarity of communications with attorneys, judges, and others in the legal system. Writing with clarity and precision is a core competency in forensic psychiatry.
Feeding Ecology of Lake Whitefish in Lake Huron

ABSTRACT We determined diet composition, feeding strategy, prey size, and effects of prey type on food weight and energy in stomachs for lake whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis in Lake Huron during 2002–04. Age-0 lake whitefish (73–149 mm TL) ate mainly large-bodied cladoceran zooplankton in the summer (July–mid September). Medium lake whitefish (≤350 mm TL excluding age-0) generally ate soft-bodied macroinvertebrates, especially Chironomidae larvae and pupae, in the spring (mid May–June). Zooplankton, if eaten, were generally most important in the summer. Molluscs were generally a minor part of medium lake whitefish diets. Large lake whitefish (> 350 mm) mainly ate molluscs, particularly quagga mussels (Dreissena bugensis), despite geographic differences in mussel abundance. Large-bodied crustaceans (Diporeia spp., Mysis relicta, Isopoda) were a minor part of large lake whitefish diets. Lake whitefish demonstrated a flexible feeding strategy, with individual specialization on some prey and generalized feed...
Optimal Subclass Discovery for Discriminant Analysis

Discriminant Analysis (DA) has had a big influence in many scientific disciplines. Unfortunately, DA algorithms need to make assumptions on the type of data available and, therefore, are not applicable everywhere. For example, when the data of each class can be represented by a single Gaussian and these share a common covariance matrix, Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) is a good option. In other cases, other DA approaches may be preferred. And, unfortunately, there still exist applications where no DA algorithm will correctly represent reality and, therefore, unsupervised techniques, such as Principal Components Analysis (PCA), may perform better. This paper first presents a theoretical study to define when and (most importantly) why DA techniques fail (Section 2). This is then used to create a new DA algorithm that can adapt to the training data available (Sections 2 and 3). The first main component of our solution is to design a method to automatically discover the optimal set of subclasses in each class. We will show that when this is achieved, optimal results can be obtained. The second main component of our algorithm is given by our theoretical study which defines a way to rapidly select the optimal number of subclasses. We present experimental results on two applications (object categorization and face recognition) and show that our method is always comparable or superior to LDA, Direct LDA (DLDA), Nonparametric DA (NDA) and PCA.
Space-time-state block coded mimo communication systems using reconfigurable antennas

Reconfigurable antennas offer a promising solution to the problem of space limitation in high-performance wireless communication over handset devices. In this paper, we propose a novel transmission scheme capable of extracting the maximum diversity gains of a Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) communication system employing reconfigurable antennas at the transmitter, the receiver or at both ends of the wireless link, without the need for feedback. For a MIMO communication system using reconfigurable antennas at the transmitter, we propose a state-switching scheme in combination with an appropriate three-dimensional block code in order to extract the maximum possible level of diversity. When reconfigurable antennas are placed at the receiver end, we propose a state-selection scheme and prove that the proposed scheme is capable of achieving maximum diversity gains. Moreover, the state-selection method is able to obtain selection gain in addition to diversity gain. As shown, both state-switching and state-selection schemes can be combined together when reconfigurable antennas are used at both ends of the wireless link. Furthermore, we discuss and quantify the effects of switching delay on the performance of both state-switching and state-selection schemes. Finally, we provide simulation results to validate the performance of the proposed schemes. To demonstrate the gains of our schemes in realistic propagation conditions, we also conduct simulations using an actual reconfigurable antenna known as the PIXEL antenna.
Human female orgasm and mate fluctuating asymmetry

Abstract Human, Homo sapiens , female orgasm is not necessary for conception; hence it seems reasonable to hypothesize that orgasm is an adaptation for manipulating the outcome of sperm competition resulting from facultative polyandry. If heritable differences in male viability existed in the evolutionary past, selection could have favoured female adaptations (e.g. orgasm) that biased sperm competition in favour of males possessing heritable fitness indicators. Accumulating evidence suggests that low fluctuating asymmetry is a sexually selected male feature in a variety of species, including humans, possibly because it is a marker of genetic quality. Based on these notions, the proportion of a woman's copulations associated with orgasm is predicted to be associated with her partner's fluctuating asymmetry. A questionnaire study of 86 sexually active heterosexual couples supported this prediction. Women with partners possessing low fluctuating asymmetry and their partners reported significantly more copulatory female orgasms that were reported by women with partners possessing high fluctuating asymmetry and their partners, even with many potential confounding variables controlled. The findings are used to examine hypotheses for female orgasm other than selective sperm retention.
Inside the Search Process: Information Seeking from the User's Perspective.

The article discusses the users’ perspective of information seeking. A model of the information search process is presented derived from a series of five studies investigating common experiences of users in information seeking situations. The cognitive and affective aspects of the process of information seeking suggest a gap between the users’ natural process of information use and the information system and intermediaries’ traditional patterns of information provision.
Domperidone: A Peripherally Acting Dopamine2-Receptor Antagonist

OBJECTIVE:To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of domperidone in the treatment of gastrointestinal motility disorders and emesis.DATA SOURCES:MEDLINE and Excerpta Medica online databases were searched to identify published reports.STUDY SELECTION:Domperidone has been marketed worldwide outside the US since 1978, and extensive clinical data for this drug are available. This review focuses on the clinical experience from controlled studies of domperidone in the treatment of motility disorders, particularly diabetic gastroparesis. Also, case reports are used in summarizing safety. The control comparator groups included placebo or other prokinetic drugs (metoclopramide and cisapride). Controlled clinical trials of domperidone's efficacy and safety as an antiemetic are also briefly examined. Although a variety of domperidone dosage forms have been marketed, data generated from trials using the 10-mg tablet are highlighted because this is the only dosage form available in Canada an...
Commentary: Rapid steps forward in environmental epigenetics: Implications for epidemiologic investigation of chronic disease

Epidemiology relies heavily on a sister discipline, biology, to understand origins of human disease. This reliance serves two important functions. The first is fundamental and constant: over the entire arc of the research process, from formulating and addressing new questions to interpreting each emerging result, epidemiology looks to biology, asking ‘What is plausible?’ The second occurs when discoveries in biology lead to new measures that can be employed in epidemiologic research. These developments enable epidemiologists to move a compelling hypothesis into the realm of scientific enquiry, when new measures provide a means of testing hypothetical predictions. The choices epidemiologists have made regarding samples to place in bio-repositories have changed over time, illustrating how emerging biological measures brought successive sets of hypotheses within reach of epidemiologic research. Once antibodies of specific idiotype could be assayed to measure exposure to specific infectious agents, large collections of human sera were assembled to address hypotheses relating these agents to disease. Epidemiologists who came of age in the era of recombinant DNA marvel that nucleated cells did not routinely enter these collections. This generation created collections of genomic DNA to test hypotheses relating inherited sequence variants to the increased risk of hundreds of diseases. These DNA collections used cells readily collected by minimally invasive means as the source of DNA, since sequence is quite uniform between nucleated cell types of the body. Now, newer measures of epigenetic state—which varies with cell type—are motivating collection of tissues directly involved in disease processes. 1 These measures have emerged from epigenetics, the biological discipline addressing processes whereby stable molecular characteristics other than DNA nucleotide sequence influence gene expression. 2
A schematic urban street network-display algorithm

The link-node network is the most commonly used model for representing a large-scale urban street system. It is easy to formulate a mathematical model which describes the complicated spatial and temporal urban-street-related problems on such a simplified network representation. However, recently developed microscopic network traffic models contain important details which cannot be depicted on the link-node diagram. This paper describes a computer-graphics algorithm which can generate a lane-detailed schematic urban street network display. The algorithm is very comprehensive, and it can accommodate various types of urban street configurations. The regular four-approach, right-angle intersection can be displayed most accurately. However, intersections with more or less than four approaches and/or links intersecting at an angle other than 90-deg can be generated satisfactorily. One-way streets intersecting two-way or one-way streets can also be depicted. Furthermore, roadways where the number of lanes changes (for example, from two lanes to three lanes, or from two lanes to one lane) can also be plotted. The overall quality of the display generated by this algorithm is satisfactory. The required input data is relatively simple, although the time associated with the input data preparation is short. In addition, applications using this algorithm are also discussed.
Minimally Invasive Muscle Sparing Posterior-Only Approach for Lumbar Circumferential Decompression and Stabilization to Treat Spine Metastasis--Technical Report.

Objective Palliative tumor resection and subsequent stabilization are important for maximizing function and quality of life for patients suffering from spinal metastases. However, traditional operative techniques for spinal metastases with vertebral body destruction involve extensive soft tissue dissection. In the lumbar spine, open 2-staged spine procedures are routinely required with an anterior retroperitoneal approach for corpectomy and cage insertion and posterior decompression and stabilization with pedicle screws and rods. Both stages require extensive soft tissue dissection that results in significant surgical morbidity, long recovery time, and subsequent delay in initiating postoperative chemoradiotherapy, as well as initially hampering patients' overall quality of life. A minimally invasive approach is desirable for achieving spinal stability, pain control, functional recovery, rapid initiation of adjuvant therapies, and overall patient satisfaction, especially in patients whose medical and surgical therapies are aimed at palliation rather than cure. Presentation A 59-year-old man with renal cell carcinoma and a known L1 vertebral body metastasis presented with severe progressive low back pain and was found to have a pathologic L1 vertebral body fracture with focal kyphosis. Intervention Here, we describe a minimally invasive muscle-sparing, posterior-only approach for L1 transpedicular hemicorpectomy and expandable cage placement, L1 laminectomy, and T11-L3 posterior instrumented stabilization. The surgical corridor was achieved through the Wiltse muscle plane between the multifidus and longissimus muscles so that minimal muscle detachment was required to achieve transpedicular access to the anterior and middle spinal columns. The L1 nerve root was completely skeletonized to allow adequate lumbar hemicorpectomy, tumor resection, and expandable titanium cage insertion. Lastly, percutaneous pedicle screws and rods were inserted from T11 to L3 for stabilization. Result The patient tolerated the procedure well with no complications and less than 200 mL estimated blood loss. Postoperative computed tomography revealed restoration of intervertebral height and adequate tumor resection with excellent placement of the expandable cage and posterior construct. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 4 and had nearly no back pain 3 weeks after surgery. Adjuvant therapies were started soon after. At the 6-month follow-up, the patient required minimal narcotic pain medication. Computed tomography scan demonstrated stable hardware with no evidence of failure. Conclusion A minimally invasive muscle-sparing, posterior-only approach is a promising surgical strategy for 360-degree decompression and stabilization for the treatment of lumbar spinal metastases with minimized blood loss, muscle detachment and postoperative pain, and fast postoperative recovery and initiation of adjuvant therapy.
Typhlosaurus jappi Broadley, 1968, a valid species of acontine skink

New evidence from scalation, dental, and reproductive traits supports the recognition of the Barotseland Blind Legless Skink, Typhlosaurus jappi, as a valid species distinct from T. lineatus.
Postoperative vision loss after spine surgery: a single-institution case-control comparison.

ABSTRACT Background: Postoperative vision loss (POVL) after spine surgery is a rare but devastating outcome. We present the first case-control study from a single institution for POVL with the diagnoses of ischemic optic neuropathy or central vision loss after complex spine surgery. Methods: POVL cases following spine surgeries between December 1995 and December 2010 at the Cleveland Clinic were identified retrospectively using administrative codes. Each instance of POVL was matched to 5 case-control patients based on age, gender, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and hematocrit. Duration of anesthesia, fluid volumes, and hemodynamic measurements were then compared between POVL cases and control cases using Wilcoxon rank sum test. Results: Six patients developed POVL. These patients had significantly greater blood loss (P=0.002, Wilcoxon test) and a significantly greater volume of red blood cells transfused (P=0.006) than the control patients. No o...
NMR Solution Structure and Extracellular Loop Dynamics of the Outer Membrane Protein OprG of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Explain Transport of Small Amino Acids

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic human pathogen that is responsible for a growing number of nosocomial infections and the main cause of death in patients with cystic fibrosis. The structure of one of its outer membrane proteins (OprG) has been solved by x-ray crystallography and revealed a tall 8-stranded β-barrel that extends far into the extracellular space with a lumen lined with hydrophobic residues (Touw et al, PLoS ONE 5:15016[2011]). An interesting feature of that structure is a lateral proline-rich opening in the barrel wall near the membrane interface that has been suggested to function as a gate for small hydrophobic molecules that might subsequently diffuse across the bilayer of the outer membrane.In order to test this hypothesis we re-determined the structure of OprG in DHPC micelles by NMR. We show that the β-barrel has substantially shorter strands than in the crystal structure and longer extracellular loops without a defined lateral gate. To further investigate the role of the prolines in the proposed gate, we mutated them to alanines and determined the structure of the P92A mutant. Introduction of the P92A mutation resulted in an asymmetric elongation of the beta-barrel and changed the loop dynamics and the hydrogen-bonding pattern in the barrel-to-loop transition regions. As shown on a separate poster by PS, IK, and LKT, the physiological substrates of OprG are small amino acids and the P92A mutation aborts small amino acid transport.
Computer Edification Programs

AbstractThe proliferation of computers in our educational systems has created many questions, such as how to train teachers to become efficient and effective computer users. One method of training teachers is to provide them with a year-round program. This type of computer training program would not only keep pace with the changing technology but also serve to provide teachers with updated material Computer edification programs (CEP) can provide teachers with this required knowledge that can be used to improve teachers’ decision-making abilities and lead to a more efficient and effective computer environment. Twenty-nine teachers volunteered their opinions about important characteristics that a computer edification program should possess. Their opinions reflect a need for a computer edification program that is in place year-round to provide teachers with advice and guidance.
Outcomes of Subdural Grid Electrode Monitoring in the Stereoelectroencephalography Era

Background Subdural grid (SDG) electrodes have been the gold standard of invasive monitoring in medically refractory epilepsy; however, in some centers, application of SDGs has been reduced by the progressive application of stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG). This study reviews the efficacy of SDG electrode monitoring after the incorporation of the SEEG methodology at our institution. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 102 patients undergoing intracranial monitoring via SDG electrodes during the years 2010–2013 at our institution. The series includes all patients who underwent SDG placement after the incorporation of SEEG in our extraoperative invasive monitoring armamentarium. Results Average patient age was 29.9 years old; the series included 31 pediatric patients. There were 49 male patients and 53 female patients. The mean length of follow-up was 21.5 months. The epileptogenic zone was localized in 99 (97%) patients. Surgical resection was performed in 84 patients, and 70% experienced Engel class I freedom from seizures. Conclusions Invasive monitoring via SDG electrodes continues to be an efficacious option for select patients with medically refractory epilepsy, mainly when the hypothetical epileptogenic zone is anatomically restricted to superficial cortical areas and in close relation with eloquent cortex. This is the first report of epilepsy outcomes after SDG monitoring at a center that also performs SEEG monitoring. Our results suggest a complementary benefit of performing both techniques at 1 institution.
The comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and Seismological Research

Even as I write, the U.S. Senate is conducting hearings on the issue of ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), signed by President Clinton on September 24, 1996, and by more than 140 other nations subsequently. Building upon several previous bilateral and multilateral treaties that have partially constrained nuclear weapons testing since 1963, the CTBT mandates that “Each State Party undertakes not to carry out any nuclear weapon test explosion or any other nuclear explosion, and to prohibit and prevent any such nuclear explosion at any place under its jurisdiction or control” (Article 1.1, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty). If globally embraced, the CTBT will shut the door on the nuclear weapons testing era after 52 years and more than 2090 nuclear explosions around the world. As the Senate considers the many political, technical and philosophical issues that frame this particular arms control endeavor, it is important...
Emergence Under Natural and Manipulated Conditions of Tetrastichus julis , an Introduced Larval Parasite of the Cereal Leaf Beetle, with Reference to Regional Population Management

The developmental threshold for Tetrastichus julis (Walker), a larval parasite of Oulema melanopus (L.), was determined to be 48°F (8.89°C). This threshold can be used to determine emergence rates under field conditions. However, soil surface cover significantly influences soil temperature and was found to be a controllable factor in manipulating spring emergence. The relationship between soil temperature and air temperature is sufficiently correlated to allow emergence rate predictions for T. julis from standard air temperature measurements. This prediction is critical to a control program which would allow for pesticide control of the cereal leaf beetle while having minimal effect on the T. julis population. Emergence of the overwintering generation of T. julis is well synchronized with the presence of susceptible hosts in the spring. The summer generation of the parasite is poorly sychronized and many hosts have pupated before the parasites emerge. These late hosts are critical since they are the means by which T. julis overwinters.
Functional Electron Microscopy for Electrochemistry Research: From the Atomic to the Micro Scale

The operation of batteries, fuel cells, and other energy storage and conversion devices is underpinned by the intricate synergy of ion transport, phase transformations, and electrochemical reactions. While electrochemical processes in well-defined molecular systems are amenable to classical chemical techniques including in situ optical spectroscopies and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), phase transformations and reactivity in solids and at solid interfaces remain largely an enigma. The presence of multiple types of structural defects and imperfections, competing electron and ion transport pathways, and multiple possible surface reconstruction types, combined with the directionality of ion flows and state of charge transformation fronts render these phenomena inaccessible to macroscopic interrogation techniques. At the same time, knowledge of the individual mechanisms involved in electrochemical reactivity of solids at the level of individual, atomic size structural elements is required for understanding the fundamental mechanisms of energy storage, factors controlling charge/discharge rates, degradation and failure processes, and ultimately knowledge-driven prediction and optimization of energy materials. 1-3
Rethinking cholera pathogenesis- No longer all in the same “camp”

The model whereby cholera toxin evokes chloride, and thus fluid, secretion by the intestinal epithelium is one of the most enduring paradigms in gastrointestinal physiology.1,2 Following internaliz...
Whereabouts devolution and collective forest management

Abstract Devolution in forestry generally refers to the transfer of some degree of central government authority to local responsibility. It commonly takes the form of recommendations by external advisors in developing country situations who encourage formally organized decision making by a local political community. This paper reviews the literature on local tenure, the summaries of case studies in forestry, and the broader history of experience with collectives and cooperatives with the objective of identifying the characteristic cases where some form of collective or community forest management might be successful. The paper identifies four cases. It concludes that, at some level, smaller groups of managers may cooperate in labor and capital intensive activities like fire control or harvesting, or in specialized activities beyond their personal expertise, activities like processing and marketing their products. Successful and sustainable community-wide collective enterprises seldom include agricultural or forest land—with the possible, and likely impermanent, exception of low-valued open access land beyond the perimeter of agricultural crops and managed forests.
The use of folded melolabial interpolation flaps to repair full thickness distal nasal defects: A review of technique and results

The nose is a common site for skin cancer and there are several surgical options available for reconstruction after excision. Traditional surgical teaching suggests that in the case of a partial full thickness defect involving the distal nose or ala, a paramedian forehead flap (PMFF) or an intranasal lining flap with free cartilage graft and additional cutaneous flap should be performed. However, each of these options comes with unique disadvantages. The incision and pedicle required for the PMFF can be unsightly and functionally limiting, while the intranasal lining flap is technically challenging and can obstruct the nostril. Herein, we review our experience with a two-stage folded-over melolabial interpolation flap (MLIF) to repair partial full thickness defects of the distal nose and ala in order to recreate the cutaneous covering, nasal rim, and inner mucosal lining.
Emotion and the False Consensus Effect

The influence of emotion on the false consensus effect was investigated. Participants were recruited from an undergraduate population. There were 210 participants (89 male) with a mean age of 19.25 years. The study took place online. Participants made a choice between two forms of vacation, and were induced to feel an emotion (happiness, neutral, or sadness). They were then asked to estimate the percentage of people who would opt for either the same choice as them or the alternate choice, and to make an attribution for this predicted behavior. Results revealed a false consensus effect (estimates of a vacation’s popularity were higher from participants who preferred that option than from participants who preferred the alternative option), an influence of emotion on consensus estimates (participants experiencing happiness made higher estimates of consensus than participants experiencing sadness), and an influence of emotion on attribution. Results were consistent with valence-based theoretical accounts of emotional influence.