cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kernel invariance method for relating continuous-time with discrete-time nonlinear parametric models

A method for defining the equivalence between nonlinear parametric models in continuous-time (differential equations) and discrete-time (difference equations) is presented. The method, termed "kernel invariance method", is a conceptual extension of the "impulse invariance method" in linear system modeling. It employs the general Volterra model form of nonlinear systems and requires that the sampled continuous-time kernels be identical to the discrete-time kernels. The actual implementation of the method may become unwieldy in the general case, but it appears to be tractable in certain cases of low-order nonlinear systems. An illustrative example of a quadratic system is presented that makes use of 1st order and 2nd-order kernel invariance. >
Real-time monitoring of long-term voltage stability via local linear regression

A novel approach for real-time monitoring of long-term voltage stability using local linear regression and adaptive training database is proposed in this paper. Comparing to previous methods, the proposed local predictive regression model could properly balance the simplicity/transparency and accuracy, and it is also adaptive to the changes of system and operating conditions. The approach is tested on IEEE 30-bus system. Preliminary results show that it can be successfully employed in online voltage stability monitoring.
Developmental expression of survivin during embryonic submandibular salivary gland development

The regulation of programmed cell death is critical to developmental homeostasis and normal morphogenesis of embryonic tissues. Survivin, a member of the inhibitors of apoptosis protein (IAP) family primarily expressed in embryonic cells, is both an anti-apoptosis and a pro-survival factor. Since our previous studies have demonstrated the importance of apoptosis during embryonic submandibular salivary gland (SMG) development, we postulated that survivin is a likely mediator of SMG epithelial cell survival. We investigated the developmental expression of survivin in Pseudoglandular (~ E14), Canalicular (~ E15) and Terminal Bud (~ E17) Stage SMGs. We report a significant 26% increase in transcript levels between the Canalicular and Terminal Bud Stages. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrate nuclear-localized survivin protein in epithelial cells bounding forming lumina in Canalicular and Terminal Bud Stage SMGs. Survivin is known to be a pro-survival and anti-apoptotic factor. Given that survivin translocation into the nucleus is required for the induction of entry into the cell cycle and the inhibition of apoptosis, our demonstration of nuclear-localized survivin protein in presumptive ductal and proacinar lumen-bounding cells suggests that survivin may be a key mediator of embryonic SMG epithelial cell survival.
Alcohol-dysregulated miR-30a and miR-934 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Alcohol consumption is a well-established risk factor for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC); however, the molecular mechanisms by which alcohol promotes HNSCC pathogenesis and progression remain poorly understood. Our study sought to identify microRNAs that are dysregulated in alcohol-associated HNSCC and investigate their contribution to the malignant phenotype. Using RNA-sequencing data from 136 HNSCC patients, we compared the expression levels of 1,046 microRNAs between drinking and non-drinking cohorts. Dysregulated microRNAs were verified by qRT-PCR in normal oral keratinocytes treated with biologically relevant doses of ethanol and acetaldehyde. The most promising microRNA candidates were investigated for their effects on cellular proliferation and invasion, sensitivity to cisplatin, and expression of cancer stem cell genes. Finally, putative target genes were identified and evaluated in vitro to further establish roles for these miRNAs in alcohol-associated HNSCC. From RNA-sequencing analysis we identified 8 miRNAs to be significantly upregulated in alcohol-associated HNSCCs. qRT-PCR experiments determined that among these candidates, miR-30a and miR-934 were the most highly upregulated in vitro by alcohol and acetaldehyde. Overexpression of miR-30a and miR-934 in normal and HNSCC cell lines produced up to a 2-fold increase in cellular proliferation, as well as induction of the anti-apoptotic gene BCL-2. Upon inhibition of these miRNAs, HNSCC cell lines exhibited increased sensitivity to cisplatin and reduced matrigel invasion. miRNA knockdown also indicated direct targeting of several tumor suppressor genes by miR-30a and miR-934. Alcohol induces the dysregulation of miR-30a and miR-934, which may play crucial roles in HNSCC pathogenesis and progression. Future investigation of the alcohol-mediated pathways effecting these transformations will prove valuable for furthering the understanding and treatment of alcohol-associated HNSCC.
Capacitance of a slab of a dielectric thin-film helicoidal bianisotropic medium

The capacitance of a parallel-plate capacitor made of a dielectric thin-film helicoidal bianisotropic medium (TFHBM) is estimated using the quasielectrostatic approximation. The structural handedness and the local biaxiality of the TFHBM do not matter for the chosen application, but the tilt angle does. ©1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 21: 286–288, 1999.
Toxicity of the avicide 2-chloro-4-acetotoluidide in rats: a comparison with its nonacetylated form 3-chloro-p-toluidine.

One of the reported advantages of the avicide 2-chloro-4-acetotoluidide (CAT) over its parent compound, 3-chloro-p-toluidine (CPT, DRC-1339) is its markedly lower oral toxicity in mammals. The present study was undertaken in an effort to elucidate the reasons for the differences in toxicity of these two compounds and to determine the effect, if any, of the solvent previously used (dimethyl sulfoxide) on the toxicity of CAT. To these ends, the lethal doses of CPT and CAT, in different vehicles and via various routes of administration, were determined and compared. The results indicate that the relatively low oral toxicity of CAT may be due to poor absorption by the gastrointestinal tract. The lack of cyanosis in the rats used for this study gives additional support to the previous observation that CAT is devoid of methemoglobin-inducing properties in this species (and apparently in rabbits).
Randomized Trials in Angioplasty and Stenting of the Renal Artery: Tabular Review of the Literature and Critical Analysis of Their Results

As the incidence of hypertension (HTN) continues to rise, finding the optimal treatment of this multifactorial disease is critical. Renal artery stenosis (RAS) is a known etiology for HTN and is associated with declining renal function. Other than medications, the original gold standard for treatment of HTN from RAS was with an open surgical revascularization or nephrectomy. Since then, endovascular interventions for RAS have been reported to be technically possible, but their efficacy over medications or surgery has yielded conflicting results in case series and randomized trials. This tabular review summarizes the results of randomized trials that compared the outcomes of endovascular renal artery interventions with nonendovascular techniques (including medical and surgical treatments) for the treatment of HTN and renal dysfunction. Based on these data, the strengths and weaknesses of individual trials are critically analyzed to better define the methods to identify and treat patients with RAS.
Early Radioiron Utilization in Fowls

Abstract Following administration (t0 hour) of radioactive iron citrate to two week old chickens, cardiac blood was harvested at t1/2, t1, t2, t4, t8, and t24. From these samples the percentages of radioiron present in plasma and within erythrocytes were determined. A small but statistically significant percentage of erythrocyte uptake was detected at t1/2. The percentage of incorporation increased progressively through eight hours. The observed t24 uptake (36.7) did not differ markedly from the eight hour one (31.8). Plasma radioiron showed an abrupt decrease after t1/2; by t2 the percentage was found to be about 12% of the t1/2 hour sample:
Electronic Sleep Journals

Health care providers, researchers and students in sleep medicine can use the Internet to access abstracts and full text journal articles. Some of these electronic journals are available free of charge or free to print subscribers, while others charge a subscription fee or fee per article. This WebWatch article gives information on accessing the most important sleep medicine journals. It also includes a list of journals that offer significant content in sleep medicine.
Persistent circadian rhythmicity of protein synthesis in the liver of starved rats

Die Aufnahme von3H-Leucin in das Lebereiweiss wurde wahrend der Dunkelphase ihres Tag-Nachtzyklus bei fastenden Ratten untersucht. Die ubliche rhythmische Aufnahme von3H-Leucin wurde durch die Fastenperiode nicht verhindert, obwohl die Menge des aufgenommenen3H-Leucin zwei zeitlich verschiedene Maxima aufwies.
A possible test for the nuclear shell model and the impulse approximation

Abstract A study is made of the polarization and angular distribution of the emitted nucleon in certain nuclear disintegration processes initiated by inelastic scattering or photoproduction of pions. The result can be used as a test of the nuclear shell model or alternatively of the validity of the impulse approximation.
The Therapeutic Efficacy of Domestic Violence Victim Interventions

A meta-analysis on domestic violence interventions was conducted to determine overall effectiveness of mental health programs involving women and children in joint treatment. These interventions were further analyzed to determine whether outcomes are differentially affected based on the outcome measure employed. To date, no meta-analyses have been published on domestic violence victim intervention efficacy. The 17 investigations that met study criteria yielded findings indicating that domestic violence interventions have a large effect size (d = .812), which decreases to a medium effect size when compared to control groups (d = .518). Effect sizes were assessed to determine whether treatment differed according to the focus of the outcome measure employed: (a) external stress (behavioral problems, aggression, or alcohol use); (b) psychological adjustment (depression, anxiety, or happiness); (c) self-concept (self-esteem, perceived competence, or internal locus of control); (d) social adjustment (popularity, loneliness, or cooperativeness); (e) family relations (mother-child relations, affection, or quality of interaction); and (f) maltreatment events (reoccurrence of violence, return to partner). Results reveal that domestic violence interventions across all outcome categories yield effects in the medium to large range for both internalized and externalized symptomatology. Implications for greater awareness and support for domestic violence treatment and programming are discussed.
Application of infrared synchrotron radiation to asymmetric Fourier transform spectroscopy at low temperatures

Fourier transform spectroscopy in the asymmetric mode is performed using a two mirror wavefront dividing interferometer. Synchrotron radiation is 100 to 1000 times brighter than black body radiation throughout the infrared region from 1 to 1000 microns. The spatial coherence of synchrotron radiation makes it possible to construct new types of Fourier transform spectrometers in the entire infrared region. Fourier transform spectroscopy in the asymmetric mode may simultaneously yield the optical constants n and k of a material.
Improving product quality by multiple inspections: Prior and posterior planning of serial inspection procedures

In many practical situations, a complex product is inspected more than once in a sequential manner to further improve its quality. In this paper, the problem of designing the multiple inspection plan via a Bayesian method is considered. As a prior distribution in the Bayesian model, a negative binomial distribution that has many desirable properties is used. Two types of design problem are considered. In prior planning of a serial inspection procedure, the number of inspections necessary to achieve a desired level of quality must be determined prior to starting the inspection process. In posterior planning, the inspection process can be terminated if the product meets a given level of quality. In both cases, the improved level of quality is measured in this paper either by the expected number of undetected errors still remaining in the product or by the probability of no undetected errors in the product.
Gastrointestinal parasitic worms in equines in the Paraíba Valley, State of Sao Paulo, Brazil

Over a period of 12 years, from 1988 to 2000, a total of 20 individual equines (16 horses and 4 mules) were selected at random, from 10 municipalities in the Paraiba Valley, in the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil, and then subjected to necropsy for collection of gastrointestinal worms. Individual samples of 10% of the intestinal contents were also taken for counting and identifying the species present, and to establish the prevalence of worms in equine species in the Paraiba Valley. In the sample considered, the presence of parasites ranged from 155 to 1249 worms. Tapeworms (Cestoidea) were present in about 85% of the animals studied, and roundworms (Nematoda) in 100% of the individuals. All the tapeworms collected were of one single species, Anoplocephala perfoliata. In the case of the roundworms, the prevalence of individual species was: 100% for Cyathostomineae, 90% for Oxyuris equi, 70% for Strongylus vulgaris, 45% for S. edentatus, 15% for Strongylus equinus, 60% for Triodontophorus sp., 50% for Gyalocephalus capitatus, 15% for Oesophagodontus robustus and Craterostomum acuticaudatum, and 5% each for Parascaris equorum, Probstimayria vivipara, Habronema muscae, and Trichostrongylus axei. No specimens of flukes (Trematoda) were found in any of the animals studied.
Numerical Investigation and Prediction of Atherogenic Sites in Branching Arteries

Atherosclerosis, a disease of large- and medium-size arteries, is the chief cause of death in the US and most of the western world. It is widely accepted that the focal nature of the disease in arterial bends, junctions, and bifurcations is directly related to locally abnormal hemodynamics, often labeled "disturbed flows." Employing the aorto-celiac junction of rabbits as a representative atherosclerotic model and considering other branching blood vessels with their distinctive input wave forms, it is suggested that the local wall shear stress gradient (WSSG) is the single best indicator of nonuniform flow fields leading to atherogenesis. Alternative predictors of susceptible sites are briefly evaluated. The results discussed include transient velocity vector fields, wall shear stress gradient distributions, and a new dimensionless parameter for the prediction of the probable sites of stenotic developments in branching blood vessels. Some of the possible underlying biological aspects of atherogenesis due to locally significant /WSSG/-magnitudes are briefly discussed.
Cellular immune response to viral infection: In vitro studies of lymphocytes from mice infected with Sindbis virus☆

Abstract The development and evanescence of cell-mediated immunity to Sindbis virus infection in the mouse was studied using in vitro lymphocyte transformation. Adult mice were inoculated subcutaneously with Sindbis virus, a group A arbovirus, and cells from the draining lymph nodes and spleen were examined temporally for their ability to incorporate 3H-Tdr in the presence of Sindbis virus antigen in vitro. Lymphocyte transformation was shown to be specific and dose-related. Better stimulation was obtained with live virus antigen than with inactivated virus antigen. Specific 3H-Tdr incorporation was markedly reduced when lymph node cells were pretreated with anti-θ and complement, but anti-mouse immunoglobulin also reduced the response. Specifically sensitized cells were present in the draining lymph nodes 3–4 days after primary Sindbis virus infection, peaked at 6 days, and returned to control levels by 16 days. The response in the spleen appeared later and disappeared later. Neutralizing antibody appeared by Day 4, rose rapidly, and plateaued at a high level. The secondary cellular response differed from the primary response by being somewhat earlier and being elicitable with an amount of inactivated virus antigen which was insufficient to produce a primary response.
Terrorism risks and counterterrorism costs in post-9/11 Japan

Abstract This article analyzes the distribution of costs in Japan's counterterrorism since the September 11 attacks on the United States. Working closely with its alliance partner, the United States, the administration of Koizumi Junichirō dispatched troops both to the Indian Ocean and to Iraq, simultaneously depicting the risk of Islamist terrorism as a kind of depoliticized global threat, one unconnected to actual political decisions. In so doing, the government emphasized that counterterrorism would focus not on limiting state activities that might make Japan a target but rather on insulating Japan from potential terrorists. In practice, this meant tighter screening and monitoring of foreigners, as illustrated by the fingerprinting and photographing of aliens on entering Japan. This article reflects on the changes that have taken place in Japan's response to terrorism since the 1977 hijacking of a Japan Air Lines (JAL) flight, when the government of Prime Minister Fukuda Takeo paid a $6 million ransom,...
Standardized Ability Tests and Testing: Major issues and the validity of current criticisms of tests are discussed

At the outset a distinction was made between criticisms directed at the validity of tests and criticisms not affected by the validity of the tests. It was noted further that all criticisms of tests must take into consideration the type of test and the use to which the test is put. Criticisms of the validity of tests involved the following issues: (i) tests may be unfair to certain groups and individuals, including the extremely gifted, the culturally disadvantaged, and those who lack experience in taking tests; (ii) tests are not perfect predictors of subsequent performance; (iii) tests may be used in overly rigid ways; (iv) tests may not measure inherent qualities of individuals; and (v) tests may contribute to their own predictive validity by serving as self-fulfilling prophecies. Criticisms that are more or less independent of test validity included the effects of tests on (i) thinking patterns of those tested frequently; (ii) school curricula; (iii) self-image, motivation, and aspirations; (iv) groups using tests as a criterion for selection or allocation, or both; and (v) privacy. Several concluding remarks are in order: 1) This paper has focused almost entirely on criticisms of tests. However, the positive value of standardized tests should not be ignored. Here we must keep in mind what possible alternative measures would be used if standardized tests were abandoned. 2) We must begin thinking about tests in a much broader perspective- one that includes consideration of the social effects of tests as well as their validity and reliability. 3) Finally, an effort should be made to develop rational and systematic policies on the use of tests with the culturally disadvantaged, the dissemination of test results, and the problem of invasion of privacy. Such policies can be formulated only if we are willing to take a long hard look at the role we want testing to play in the society. Standardized tests currently are a cornerstone in the edifice of stratification in American society. It is up to the social scientist to conduct research that will enable policy makers in education, business and industry, and government to determine in a consistent and rational way the ultimate shape of this edifice.
Antisense epidermal growth factor oligodeoxynucleotides inhibit follicle-stimulating hormone-induced in vitro DNA and progesterone synthesis in hamster preantral follicles.

Whether FSH-induced follicular DNA synthesis in the hamster involves epidermal growth factor (EGF) message induction and translation was evaluated using antisense EGF oligodeoxynucleotides. The 15 base pair antisense oligomers synthesized according to mouse EGF cDNA sequence downstream from the 5'-ATG start site hybridized with a 4.4-kilobase message of mouse submaxillary glands and with 4.0 kilobases of mRNA of hamster submaxillary glands, kidney, and ovaries. Preantral follicles at stages 1-7 were enzymatically and mechanically isolated from adult, cyclic hamsters on day 4:0900 h (day 1 = estrus), and follicles at stages 1-5 were isolated from hamsters hypophysectomized for 10 days. Follicles were preexposed to either antisense or sense EGF thio-oligomers for 1, 12, or 24 h and then cultured for an additional 24 h in the absence or presence of ovine-FSH (100 ng/ml) or recombinant murine EGF (50 ng/ml), and 1 microCi/ml [3H]thymidine. Follicular [3H]thymidine incorporation and EGF and steroid (progestero...
Effect of interchain interaction on linear optical properties of poly(thienylenevinylene)

ABSTRACT Optical absorption spectra of poly(thienylenevinylene ) (PTV) conjugated polymers are measured at room tem-perature in spectral range 400 to 800 nm. A dominant peak located at 575 nm and a prominent shoulder at614 nm are observed. Equilibrium atomic geometries of PTV conjugated polymers are studied by rst principlesdensity functional theory (DFT). Electron energy structure is obtained through self-consistent solution of eigenenergy problem using ab initio ultrasoft pseudopotentials and generalized gradient approximation method. Thisis a non traditional approach for complex organic systems which is shown to be very promising especially foroptical simulations. Linear optical absorption is calculated within Random Phase Approximation (RPA) picture.By comparative analysis of experimental and theoretical data it is demonstrated that dominant contribution tothe optical excitations of PTV in visible spectral range ar e related to the delocalized electrons within the polymerchains. Obtained optical data together with equilibrium ge ometry analysis indicate that interchain interactionssubstantially eect electronic structure and optical absorption of PTV conjugated polymers.Keywords: Conjugated polymers, linear optical properties, interchain interaction, poly(thienylenevinylene)
Growth kinetics of MWCNTs synthesized by a continuous-feed CVD method

Abstract Unlike two-step chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods using pre-deposited catalyst particles, in a continuous-feed CVD process, the liquid feed (consisting of catalytic precursor and hydrocarbon source) is continuously supplied into the reactor causing catalyst particle formation, nucleation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and CNT growth to occur simultaneously throughout the reaction period. In order to observe these processes, CVD experiments were conducted for different durations (30 s to 3 h) and the product multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were characterized using scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the nanotubes did not grow in the vapor phase and that substrates played an important role in the growth by providing a place for them to anchor before growth took place. Based on transmission electron microscopy images, it has been suggested that MWCNTs grew by root-growth mechanism from the catalyst particles that were deposited on the substrate during the early stages. At long process times, continuously supplied feed gas produced additional catalyst particles which were deposited mostly on the growing nanotube mat. Due to weak catalyst–mat interaction, the additional nanotubes grew by tip growth. A comprehensive MWCNT growth model has been presented for the continuous-feed CVD.
Current Survey of Reference Sources in the Fine Arts and Crafts

The greatest gains in art reference sources have been experienced this year in practical tools for the student and teacher of art history, especially at the undergraduate level. Next in line have been specialized encyclopedias for various periods of art history and bibliographies for highly specialized subject areas within both art history and applied arts. Some subject areas previously poor in reference tools of any kind have experienced enrichment this year, and some useful trends pointed out last year in this column, notably in the publication of reference sources for the decorative arts and crafts, and of indexes to reproductions of works of art, have continued to blossom. In addition, at least one new and very useful directory in the field of art education has appeared on the art reference scene this year.
Estimation of the rupture length and velocity of the Great Sumatra earthquake of Dec 26, 2004 using hydroacoustic signals

[1] Unprecedented hydroacoustic observations of the megathrust earthquake of 26 Dec, 2004 were afforded by a network of 5 small hydroacoustic arrays located in the Indian Ocean, at distances of 2800 to 7000 km from the epicenter. Each array recorded acoustic waves, called T waves, generated by this event. Analysis of a series of short time windows within the T wave coda shows that the receiver to source azimuth varies smoothly as a function of time, indicating that the apparent T wave source is not stationary. The apparent T wave source moves northward along the Sunda trench at an average velocity of 2 km/s, closely tracking event rupture. The hydroacoustic data suggest that the rupture proceeded in two distinct phases; initially it progressed northwest along the Sunda trench with a velocity of approximately 2.4 km/s. At 600 km from the epicenter the rupture slowed to approximately 1.5 km/s, as it continued to propagate to the northwest.
Diffusion potentials of polyelectrolytes and their possible relationship to biological electrochemical phenomena

Abstract An experimental system has been devised to measure the diffusion potentials of simple salts and polyelectrolytes. The diffusion potentials generated by concentration gradients of chondroitin sulphate in water and also in the presence of an uncharged polymeric network have been measured. The potentials were found to be in excellent agreement with values calculated from the classical Nerst equations modified by the use of the Manning theory (1969) for counterion polyelectrolyte interaction. The restricted diffusion or immobilization of the polyions leads to the development of substantial potentials which persist at physiological ionic strength. These potentials may be of biological importance in connective tissues and in transmission of nerve impulses.
Lectin Structure−Activity: The Story Is Never Over

Advances in plant lectin biochemistry have made great strides during the past decade. Technical advances in biophysical techniques and molecular biology, the availability of synthetic oligosaccharides, and characterization of lectins with unique carbohydrate-binding properties are responsible for these advances. Studies in this laboratory support the view that interesting new discoveries are yet to be made. A new lectin was recently isolated from a fungus (Polyporous squamosus) that recognizes the Neu5Ac alpha2,6 Gal beta1,4 GlcNAc/Glc trisaccharide epitope with high affinity. The lectin does not interact with alpha2,3-linked Neu5Ac or Neu5Ac alpha2,6 GalNAc groups as occur in ovine submaxillary mucin. An unusual lectin with two distinctly different carbohydrate-binding sites is present in tubers of Xanthosoma sagittifolium (L). One species of sites recognizes clusters of oligomannosyl residues. The other type of binding site best accommodates a nonsialylated, triantennary oligosaccharide having LacNAc or Lacto-N-biose (Gal beta1,3GlcNAc) groups at its three nonreducing termini. The banana lectin has also been studied. It recognizes both alpha and beta1,3-linked glucosyl oligosaccharides, generates a precipitin curve with the branched trisaccharide Man alpha1,6[Man alpha1,3]Man, and binds to beta-glucans containing beta1,6-glucosyl end groups.
Design and Synthesis of Long-Wavelength Fluorescent Boronic Acid Reporter Compounds

Three new fluorescent probes based on the 4-amino-1,8-naphthalimide structure were synthesized, and their sugar binding properties were studied by using D-fructose, D-glucose and D-sorbitol in 0.1 M phosphate buffer at pH 7.4. All three compounds showed fluorescence intensity changes upon addition of sugars. In this series, compound 1c gave the longest emission wavelength (570 nm) and fluorescence intensity increases of up to 2.5-fold after addition of D-fructose.(© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Complete reconfiguration of dendritic gold

The present work extends the directed electrochemical nanowire assembly (DENA) methodology, which is a technique for growing single crystalline metallic nanowires and nano-dendrites from simple salt solutions, to enable the complete dissolution of the metallic dendrites following their growth. The experimental parameters that control this process are the frequency and the duty cycle of the alternating voltage signal that initiates electrochemical dendritic growth. Cyclic voltammetric and Raman measurements imply that the reconfiguration of dendritic gold occurs by way of the same interfacial reduction and oxidation mechanisms as bulk gold. We present a model that illustrates how the experimental parameters (frequency and duty cycle) induce reconfiguration by controlling the rates at which reduction, oxidation, and AuIIICl4− diffusion take place. This capability is significant because in making dendritic solidification a reconfigurable process, we have established an innovative means of applying fully reconfigurable metallic nano-structures to substrates; in turn, this capability could potentially enable the smart modulation of the adhesive, anti-corrosive, or optical properties of the substrate.
The glass transition: An assessment of current thinking

Abstract Some of the reasons for the current interest in the phenomenology of vitrification are reviewed and progress due to, as well as limitations of, mode coupling theories (MCT) for viscosity divergence are examined. Liquids which fit the MCT predictions best are also those with the most imminent Kauzmann entropy crises near Tg. Mode coupling predictions break down far above Tg at the point, Tx, where Goldstein long ago argued that activated processes controlled by the (3N + 1)-dimensional potential energy surface for the N-particle system should become dominant. Examining behavior in the energy topology-controlled regime, we note that ergodicity-breaking is not simply a consequence of viscosity divergence. In the liquids best fitting MCT, which are at the fragile extreme of liquid behavior, shear and structural relaxation processes slowly decouple below Tx, leading to breakdown of the Adam-Gibbs equation for viscosity. The latter in its original, and derived Vogel-Fulcher, forms remains valid for enthalpy (and presumably volume) relaxation processes. The distinction between strong and fragile behavior in liquids is related to the density of configurational states (minima) characterizing the potential energy surface.
Orbital abscess bacterial isolates and in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in dogs and cats

Objective To determine bacterial populations, in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and sources of microorganisms for dogs and cats with orbital abscess. Animals studied In total, 34 dogs and 7 cats with orbital abscess participated in the study. Procedure Medical records of dogs and cats with a clinical diagnosis of orbital abscess, confirmed by cytologic or histopathologic evaluation of orbital specimens, were reviewed from the years 1990 to 2007. Animal signalment, presumptive source of microorganisms and mechanism of orbital introduction, bacterial isolates, and aerobic bacterial in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility test results were recorded. Percentages of susceptible aerobic bacterial isolates were compared among antimicrobials. Results Twenty dogs and five cats had positive culture results. The most frequent bacterial genera isolated from dogs were Staphylococcus, Escherichia, Bacteroides, Clostridium and Pasteurella. The most frequent bacterial genera isolated from cats were Pasteurella and Bacteroides. Aerobic bacterial isolates from dogs had the highest percentage of susceptibility to amikacin, ceftiofur, gentamicin, imipenem, ticarcillin and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole. Aerobic bacterial isolates from dogs had the lowest percentage of susceptibility to ampicillin, clindamycin, erythromycin and penicillin. Antimicrobial resistance was uncommon among feline aerobic bacterial isolates. The most commonly identified routes of orbital bacteria introduction were extension from adjacent anatomical structures, penetrating exogenous trauma, and foreign bodies. Conclusions Mixed aerobic and anaerobic bacterial infections of the orbit occur commonly in dogs and cats. On the basis of aerobic and anaerobic bacterial isolates and in vitro susceptibility testing of aerobic bacterial isolates, cephalosporins, extended-spectrum penicillins, potentiated-penicillins and carbapenems are recommended for initial antimicrobial therapy of orbital abscess in dogs and cats.
Lamina propria dendritic cells in the physiology and pathology of the gastrointestinal tract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The mucosal immune system constantly surveys the intestinal microbiota. The outcome of this interaction is determined by the functional properties of dendritic cells, which play a key role in immune response by facilitating antigen sampling and pathogen recognition, as well as innate host defenses. RECENT FINDINGS Recent advances have provided insight into the diverse mechanisms involved in the acquisition of intestinal antigens and led to a new appreciation of organ-specific functional subspecification of dendritic cell subsets. Dendritic cells are not a rare cell type in the intestine but populate the entire lamina propria of the gastrointestinal tract as an extensive network. Distinct dendritic cell subsets may be associated with specific immune functions in the lamina propria and Peyer's patches. Newly discovered routes of antigen acquisition, such as the formation of transepithelial dendrites, allow dendritic cells direct access to the intestinal lumen to obtain information about commensal and pathogenic microorganisms. Dendritic cells emerge as key regulators of the intestinal immune system with their ability to direct intestine-specific migration and control of T cells. SUMMARY Dendritic cells play a major role in the complex interactions between the gut microbiota and the innate and adaptive immune system, leading to tolerance and immunity. Recent contributions have yielded important information that may aid in the development of novel therapeutic approaches to the treatment of inflammatory bowl disease and intestinal infections and to new immunization strategies.
780 THE “YELLOW BABY SYNDROME” (OR WHY WELL BABIES ARE JAUNDICED)

We obtained maximum serum bilirubin (SB) levels in 2421 new-borns in our well baby nursery. SB was >12.9mg/dl in 147 (6.1%) and these infants were compared with 147 with SB 12.9 are BF and 79% of diabetic mothers BF. Excessive weight loss is more common in BF. Nevertheless, the findings suggest a role for caloric ceprivation as a contributor to jaundice. Further studies are needed to evaluate more precisely the contribution of these factors to the development of neonatal jaundice.
Contrast-dependent spread filters

We propose the use of a compressive function of contrast measure ( - operator) as the spread of a Gaussian to be used in the context of the Intensity-Dependant Spread (IDS) and generalized IDS filters. It is shown that the new approach enhances the performance of the IDS filter such as smoothing ( noise reduction/rejection), avoids blurring of closely spaced edges and also if they are under low and nonuniform illumination functions. Simulation results verify that the time complexity of the CDS is one order of magnitude faster than the IDS filter in 1D. Illustrative examples comparing the two filters are presented.
Design and Application of a Microprocessor PID Predictor Controller

A digital PID predictor controller is designed and implemented in a microprocessor. The general purpose system controller described permits the use of integer arithmetic for efficient operation with minimum throughput delay time. The stability of the system is investigated and a normalized chart for the selection of the control coefficients for a class of applications is developed. The controller has been applied to the control of a manipulator as a design example.
Multimodal monitoring in the neurological intensive care unit.

Background:Neurocritical care is a specialty that focuses on the critical care management of patients with catastrophic neurologic diseases. Brain ischemia and hypoxia are often central causes of brain damage in these patients. Until recently, the only methods widely accepted for monitoring in the n
Computational Biology and Bioinformatics

I will discuss the current state of progress in high performance computing, biomolecular simulation and algorithms as we are applying them to understanding a range of problems in the use of information technology to understand biological systems. Examples will include the use of pattern discovery algorithms to understand gene expression, the use of massively parallel supercomputing capabilities made available by the Blue Gene architecture to probe the dynamics of protein folding and trans membrane proteins and how this work will impact the translation of basic science into clinical research and ultimately into clinical practice.
Cloning and analysis of Trypanosoma cruzi lanosterol 14α-demethylase

Abstract Trypanosoma cruzi infection, transmitted by insect vectors or blood transfusions, is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in many Latin American countries. Treatments are toxic and frequently ineffective in curing patients with chronic manifestations of the infection (Chagas disease). Potentially exploitable chemotherapeutic targets of T. cruzi are enzymes of the sterol biosynthesis pathway. In particular, the P450 enzyme, lanosterol 14α-demethylase, has been implicated as the target of azole antifungal drugs that have potent anti-T. cruzi activity. In the work reported here, the T. cruzi lanosterol 14α-demethylase (Tc14DM) gene was cloned by degenerate PCR. The gene was found to be expressed in both insect and mammalian life-cycle stages of the parasite. Tc14DM was able to complement the function of the homologous gene in yeast (erg11) as demonstrated by restored ergosterol production in an erg11-deficient yeast strain. When the yeast strain was co-transfected with the P450 reductase gene from Trypanosoma brucei, the amount of ergosterol production was increased, indicating that the endogenous yeast P450 reductase was an inefficient partner with Tc14DM. Heterologous expression of Tc14DM in the baculovirus/Sf9 system resulted in a 52 kDa product. The protein was observed to have the characteristic absorbance spectra of a P450 enzyme. A typical Type II binding spectrum was produced when the imidazole compound, ketoconazole, was mixed with the Tc14DM, demonstrating that ketoconazole binds the enzyme.
Adaptive Dynamic Inversion Control of Linear Plants With Control Position Constraints

For a class of linear time-invariant systems with uncertain parameters, this paper proposes and develops a notion of the Domain of Control Authority to achieve stable adaptation in the presence of control position limits. The Domain of Control Authority defines the subspace in which the plant state can be driven in any arbitrary direction by bounded control. No restrictions are placed on the stability of the open-loop system. To address the problem of containing the state within the Domain of Control Authority, a switching control strategy with a direction consistent control constraint mechanism is developed for an unstable plant. This restricts the resultant direction of the rate of change of the state to be the same as the direction of the desired reference state. Stability proofs are provided, and controller performance is demonstrated with numerical examples of a two degree-of-freedom dynamic model and an F-16XL aircraft model.
Seismic Prediction of Stringer Sands In Offshore Saudi Arabia

Summary A 3D simultaneous inversion of angle-stacked seismic amplitude data was used to produce a Vp/Vs volume. These data were used to validate plann ed well trajectories and to geosteer within sand stringers in an Arabian Gulf field producing from mid-Cretaceous clastics. Prior to the inversion a feasibility study based on the well information was conducted. Six partial angle stacks were inverted for an optimal elastic model of P-impedance, Vp/Vs, and density. The resulting Vp/Vs volume was converted to depth, and used to help geosteer near-horizontal well paths within a clastic interval containing channel sand stringers. This case study illustrates how these data were used to validate a proposed well sidetr ack that eventually drilled over 1800 feet of oil-filled sand stringers from an oil production platform.
Selecting relevant text subsets from web-data for building topic specific language models

In this paper we present a scheme to select relevant subsets of sentences from a large generic corpus such as text acquired from the web. A relative entropy (R.E) based criterion is used to incrementally select sentences whose distribution matches the domain of interest. Experimental results show that by using the proposed subset selection scheme we can get significant performance improvement in both Word Error Rate (WER) and Perplexity (PPL) over the models built from the entire web-corpus by using just 10% of the data. In addition incremental data selection enables us to achieve significant reduction in the vocabulary size as well as number of n-grams in the adapted language model. To demonstrate the gains from our method we provide a comparative analysis with a number of methods proposed in recent language modeling literature for cleaning up text.
Does Tourniquet Time in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty Influence Clinical Recovery

There are limited data on the influence of a reduced tourniquet time strategy on the clinical outcome of primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The aim of our study was to prospectively compare clinical recovery in two groups of patients undergoing TKA based on differences in tourniquet strategy at the same institution. Group A (40 patients) consisted of TKAs performed by a surgeon using tourniquet from incision to arthrotomy closure, and group B (40 patients) consisted of TKAs performed by another surgeon using tourniquet only during cementation. The surgical technique, implants, perioperative management, and patient demographics were similar between groups. Average tourniquet time was significantly higher in group A (71.7 minutes) as compared with group B (36.8 minutes). The maximum hemoglobin (Hb)/hematocrit (Hct) drop was statistically higher in group B (Hb drop = 3.5 ± 0.9 g/dL; Hct drop = 11 ± 3) as compared with group A (Hb drop = 2.9 ± 0.9 g/dL; Hct drop = 9 ± 2; Hb drop p = 0.01; Hct drop p = 0.002). There were no significant differences in visual analogue scale pain scores, narcotic consumption, ability to straight leg raise during hospital stay, range of motion (ROM) at discharge, as well as isometric quadriceps strength, ROM, Short Form 36 scores, Knee Society scores at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 1 year follow-up with a similar multimodal pain management protocol. Radiographic analysis revealed no differences in cement penetration around the tibial component in any zone. Four patients developed pulmonary embolism (three in group A, one in group B) and five patients underwent manipulation under anesthesia for stiffness (four in group A, one in group B). Thus, the use of a tourniquet only during cementing in TKA increases the hemoglobin drop and does not significantly influence pain or clinical recovery with available numbers, but was associated with a lower incidence of early complications. It is a learned surgical skill which significantly reduces tourniquet time and achieves a similar quality of cementing.
Lipids, lipoproteins, and endocrine profiles during pregnancy in the African green monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops).

Abstract In an attempt to establish relationships between the endocrine and lipid metabolism during pregnancy, the changes in total plasma cholesterol (TPC) and lipoprotein cholesterol that occur during pregnancy in the African green monkey were investigated longitudinally in ten females in relation to the changes in progesterone, estradiol, and fasting insulin concentrations. Respective means for TPC, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) plus very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol were 343 ± 35, 108 ± 9, and 235 ± 36 mg/dL prior to the estimated date of conception in ten females fed a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet. The concentration of these lipids fell to 225 ± 31, 54 ± 4, and 168 ± 29 mg/dL for TPC ( P P P r = −0.57, P r = −.32, P P
Hydrazine-based deposition route for device-quality CIGS films

Abstract A simple solution-based approach for depositing CIGS (Cu–In–Ga–Se/S) absorber layers is discussed, with an emphasis on film characterization, interfacial properties and integration into photovoltaic devices. The process involves incorporating all metal and chalcogenide components into a single hydrazine-based solution, spin coating a precursor film, and heat treating in an inert atmosphere, to form the desired CIGS film with up to micron-scaled film thickness and grain size. PV devices (glass/Mo/CIGS/CdS/i-ZnO/ITO) employing the spin-coated CIGS and using processing temperatures below 500 °C have yielded power conversion efficiencies of up to 10% (AM 1.5 illumination), without the need for a post-CIGS-deposition treatment in a gaseous Se source or a cyanide-based bath etch. Short-duration low-temperature (T
Treating tumors of the sublingual glands, including a useful technique for repair of the floor of the mouth after resection

Background: From a 55-year experience with about 4,000 patients treated for salivary gland tumors, we have identified 18 patients (0.5%) who received definitive treatment for neoplasms arising in the sublingual glands. Patients and methods: Patient ages ranged from 35 to 76 years (median 59), and men and women were equally represented. All had malignant tumors, which included adenoid cystic carcinoma (9 patients), mucoepidermoid carcinoma (5 patients), and adenocarcinoma (4 patients). An asymptomatic swelling was the most common complaint (7 patients); the tumor was incidentally discovered by a dentist in 4 others. For all patients, the treatment delay ranged from 3 to 24 months, but only 3 had lesions that extended beyond the confines of the floor of the mouth. All were treated surgically by resections, which were peroral in 4 patients, transcervical in 5, and pull-through type (including the submandibular gland) in 7. The remaining 2 patients had composite procedures. In 3 more recently treated patients, pull-through resections were followed by a floor-of-the-mouth repair involving transmandibular sutures. This technique has proved useful and will be described in detail. Results: Results in this small patient cohort have been most encouraging. Local recurrence occurred in 3 patients who succumbed 11 months, 27 months, and 21 years after initial treatment. Fourteen others remain alive and well 20 months to 20 years (median 74 months) posttreatment, and the remaining patient was recurrence free when he died of unrelated causes 7 years after resection. Conclusion: This small experience confirms the rarity of sublingual gland tumors and attests to the good results in terms of function and survival that can be anticipated with adequate surgical treatment when the lesion is relatively small.