cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optical Bloch Equations in the Presence of Stochastic Broad-band Vacuum

Abstract The atomic Bloch equations driven by a quantum noise are investigated in the framework of c-number multiplicative stochastic Rabi amplitudes. It is shown that the stochastic broad-band vacuum fluctuations can be incorporated in such a way that spontaneous absorption is removed. It is shown that the multiplicative stochastic noise with no spontaneous absorption is equivalent to the quantum vacuum noise. A stochastic model of the broad-band squeezed vacuum is introduced and investigated. From such a stochastic description the fast and the slow damping rates of the Bloch polarizations are obtained. The strong-field resonance fluorescence spectrum and the steady-state atomic inversion for the stochastic model of squeezed vacuum fluctuations are derived.
Extreme event detection and assimilation from multimedia sources

A new event-based multimedia processing framework for detection, retrieval, and cross-media content assimilation of geo-spatiotemporal phenomena is described. Multimedia information relevant to geo-spatiotemporal events are available from sources such as remote satellites, in-situ sensors as image streams, and other outlets such as news articles, weather bulletins as text documents and in various formats, each with widely varying properties. We pose an event-based framework to automatically detect geo-spatiotemporal phenomena from raw untagged remote-sensing satellite image streams, extract attributes for such events, match the spatiotemporal properties of the detected phenomenon with events in a database to automatically derive a media-independent event description, and subsequently use the media-independent event descriptions to assimilate relevant information of the same event across other media sources from the web using a mashup. A virtual globe interface enables simultaneous visualization of the assimilated spatiotemporal information annotated with Internet sources. This framework is demonstrated for the automatic detection of tropical cyclones from satellite imagery followed by the retrieval and assimilation of related information from government-run weather sites and commercial news portals.
1-mm catheterscope

Flexible endoscopes use one sensor element per display pixel. When diameter is reduced to the size of a catheter, there is a significant reduction in the number of pixels within the image. By placing a sub-millimeter microscanner at the tip of a catheter, image quality can be significantly improved. The microscanner consists of a 0.4 mm diameter piezoelectric tube with quadrant electrodes, surrounding a cantilevered singlemode optical fiber. At the distal end, the fiber microscanner is sealed with a 0.9 mm diameter lens assembly, creating a rigid length less than 10 mm at the tip of a highly flexible shaft. The cantilevered fiber is vibrated at the first mode of resonance for bending to generate a circular scan pattern. A spiral scan pattern is generated that constitutes an image frame by modulating the piezoelectric drive signals. By using a custom optical fiber at 80 microns cladding diameter, >10 KHz resonant scanning is achieved, resulting in a 30 Hz frame rate. Red (635 nm), green (532 nm), and blue (442 nm) laser light is scanned by coupling to the fiber scanner. The scanned illumination is detected in a non-confocal arrangement by having one or more optical fibers collecting the backscattered light at MHz pixel rates. Current 1-mm diameter catheterscopes generate 500-line images at maximum fields of view of 100 degrees and spatial resolutions of <20 microns with image zooming. Shaft length of four meters have been fabricated with flexibility of <10 mm bending radius to image previously inaccessible regions of the body.
ENERGETICS AND ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE OF STACKING FAULTS IN ALN, GAN, AND INN

Basal-plane stacking faults in wurtzite AlN, GaN, and InN are studied using density-functional-pseudopotential calculations. The formation energies follow the trend exhibited for the zinc-blende/wurtzite energy differences in the bulk materials, namely, lowest energy for GaN and highest for AlN. Type-I stacking faults have the lowest energy, followed by type-II stacking faults, and finally extrinsic stacking faults. We also examine a type of intrinsic stacking fault that has not, to the best of our knowledge, been previously discussed; its energy is slightly lower than the type-II faults. Investigations of the electronic structure reveal that there are no localized states in the band gap. However, stacking faults can bound a quantum-well-like region of zinc-blende material surrounded by the wurtzite host, giving rise to a luminescence line below the wurtzite band gap.
Sulfur Bond in Vulcanizates: Implications of Halogen Reactions

Abstract 1. When iodine chloride is used for the determination of double bonds in sulfur-vulcanized rubber or GR-S, it undergoes side reactions induced by combined sulfur. 2. Bromine in carbon tetrachloride is believed to give a satisfactory measure of the double bonds in a rubber-sulfur vulcanizate dissolved in dichlorobenzene-chloroform mixture. 3. The relation of one double bond consumed per sulfur atom combined in the rubber-sulfur type vulcanizate was confirmed. 4. Organic accelerators (in the absence of metal activators) catalyze the combination of sulfur without altering the ratio of one double bond loss per sulfur atom combined. 5. The introduction of a metal oxide or soap, such as zinc, causes a different type of vulcanization, which results in less than one double bond consumed per sulfur atom combined. 6. The reactions of propyl sulfide, dodecyl sulfide, propyl disulfide, allyl sulfide, methallyl sulfide, and butylmethallyl sulfide with iodine chloride and with bromine, respectively, are descri...
Predictors of short-term mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy

Purpose The purpose of the study was to identify the predictors of short-term mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT).
Incorporating spatial non-stationarity of regression coefficients into predictive vegetation models

The results of predictive vegetation models are often presented spatially as GIS-derived surfaces of vegetation attributes across a landscape or region, but spatial information is rarely included in the model itself. Geographically weighted regression (GWR), which extends the traditional regression framework by allowing regression coefficients to vary for individual locations (‘spatial non-stationarity’), is one method of utilizing spatial information to improve the predictive power of such models. In this paper, we compare the ability of GWR, a local model, with that of ordinary least-squares (OLS) regression, a global model, to predict patterns of montane ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) basal area in Saguaro National Park, AZ, USA on the basis of variables related to topography (elevation, slope steepness, aspect) and fire history (fire frequency, time since fire). The localized regression coefficients exhibited significant non-stationarity for four of the five environmental variables, and the GWR model consequently described the vegetation-environment data significantly better, even after accounting for differences in model complexity. GWR also reduced observed spatial autocorrelation of the model residuals. When applied to independent data locations not used in model development, basal areas predicted by GWR had a closer fit to observed values with lower residuals than those from the optimal OLS regression model. GWR also provided insights into fine-scale controls of ponderosa pine pattern that were missed by the global model. For example, the relationship between ponderosa pine basal area and aspect, which was obscured in the OLS regression model due to non-stationarity, was clearly demonstrated by the GWR model. We thus see GWR as a valuable complement to the many other global methods currently in use for predictive vegetation modeling.
Abnormal profits and relative strength in mutual fund returns

Abstract This study investigates the relative strength in mutual fund performance by employing three different empirical methods to analyze the profitability of twenty trading strategies, based on varying evaluation horizons and investment periods. Specifically, we test for positive persistence in fund performance by focusing on the optimal weighting of past performance information. Counter to an earlier study on relative strength of fund performance, this study's results do not support the decay of performance persistence after one year. Rather, we find persistent abnormal fund returns over a one to three year investment period based on a three to four year evaluation horizon. In addition, results show that relative strength in fund performance is directly related to persistence in superior performing funds rather than a function of persistence in inferior performing funds.
Cutaneous angiosome territory of the medial femoral condyle osteocutaneous flap.

Purpose The medial femoral condyle flap is used for treatment of nonunions with or without intercalary bone loss. Most reported uses have been without a skin segment, but this flap can provide a skin component supplied by the saphenous artery branch (SAB) of the descending genicular artery (DGA) pedicle. Experience with this flap suggests that an additional distinct, reliable, more-distal, DGA-cutaneous branch can be found at condyle level, capable of supporting skin without using the SAB. This cadaver study evaluated SAB and DGA-cutaneous branch angiosome territories. A clinical case series assesses the DGA-cutaneous branch's clinical utility. Methods The DGA and SAB were isolated in 12 cadaveric legs, divided, and separately cannulated. Red dye and methylene blue were selectively injected into each vessel manually. Skin perfusion was measured and photographed. Results In all specimens, the DGA was present, originating 14.2 cm proximal to the joint line, and demonstrated a distinct cutaneous branch at condyle level. This vessel provided an average perfusion area of 70 cm 2 , centered over the medial knee. The SAB was identified in 11 specimens (92%), with an average perfusion area of 361 cm 2 along the medial aspect of the distal thigh and proximal leg. The DGA communicating branch was present and used for perfusion of the skin paddle in 17 of 20 cases. The SAB was present in 18 of 20 cases, used with DGA-communicating branch in 4 cases, and the sole source of skin perfusion in 1 case. In 2 remaining cases, neither the SAB nor DGA communicating branch was adequate for perfusion of a skin segment. Conclusions The medial femoral condyle flap can be harvested with a large skin paddle based on the SAB. A smaller skin segment can be harvested using the more distal DGA-communicating branch at condyle level. Clinical relevance Improved understanding of the skin island associated with the DGA's saphenous and cutaneous branches can provide a rapid, reliable method of skin-segment harvest.
Global Vegetation Root Distribution for Land Modeling

Abstract Vegetation root distribution is one of the factors that determine the overall water holding capacity of the land surface and the relative rates of water extraction from different soil layers for vegetation transpiration. Despite its importance, significantly different root distributions are used by different land surface models. Using a comprehensive global field survey dataset, vegetation root distribution (including rooting depth) has been developed here for three of the most widely used land cover classifications [i.e., the Biosphere–Atmosphere Transfer Scheme (BATS), International Geosphere–Biosphere Program (IGBP), and version 2 of the Simple Biosphere Model (SiB2)] for direct use by any land model with any number of soil layers.
The motor output of the Mauthner cell, a reticulospinal command neuron

Abstract We electrically stimulated individual Mauthner (M-) cells to determine their motor contribution to C-starts of swimming goldfish. In comparison with sensory-evoked C-starts, M-reflexes triggered by electrical stimulation of single M-cells were significantly weaker and less variable. Stage 1 turns were both longer in duration and smaller in angle for the M-reflex when compared with the sensory-evoked C-start. This translates to an average reduction of 22% in angular velocity during stage 1. Likewise, during stage 2, the distance moved by the fish was reduced by 15% and the absolute value of stage 2 turning angle was reduced by 47%. In addition, the normal mechanical or neural coupling between stages 1 and 2 appeared to be altered for the M-reflex. from this and our other recent studies, we conclude that there must be two primary groups of reticulospinal neurons in the escape triggering network. The first group includes the M-cell and determines the initial left-right direction of the response and the extent of stage 1 angle. From previous EMG recordings we know that the second group of neurons can fire within 5–15 ms (average, 9 ms) after the stage 1 cells. These determine the onset time and direction of stage 2. Together the coupling of the two primary groups results in the full propulsive force and turning flexibility of the C-start.
Urban Education and Student Prospects: Policy Implications.

The distinction between "aspiration" and "expectation" seems to show that they form in consequence of somewhat different influences.
A new string-inspired standard model (SISM)

Abstract The unification of gauge couplings in string models is predicted to occur at scales (∼10 16 GeV) which are in disagreement with those obtained, using presice LEP data, in supersymmetric models with minimal matter content (∼10 16 GeV). We present a string-inspired extension of the standard model with one pair of extra vector-like Q and D c representations which allows string unification for D c masses in the few TeV region or less, predicts a light ( unique minimal choice in this class of extra vector models, it can be embedded most economically in a flipped SU (5) structure, and may be derivable from string.
Multi-valued contraction mappings in generalized metric spaces

Several fixed point theorems for multi-valued global and local contraction mappings are proved. These results concerning contractions are then applied to obtain a fixed point theorem for a certain type of single-valued locally expansive mapping.
Should patients on long-term warfarin take aspirin for heart disease?

The benefit of adding aspirin to warfarin (Coumadin) outweighs the risk in patients with acute coronary syndrome, mechanical heart valves, or coronary stents, but maybe not for patients who have stable coronary artery disease or who are at risk of coronary disease.
A case study of relationship between substorm expansion and global plasma convection

[1] This letter reports observations of large-scale ionospheric plasma flows from the SuperDARN radar network and global auroral images from the Polar ultraviolet imager during two large and rare substorm events. The substorm events were characterized by predominantly westward expansion for one and predominantly eastward expansion (or lack of westward expansion) for the other. The westward expansion case was associated with a positive y-component of interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), whereas the eastward expansion case was associated with a negative y-component of IMF. The concurrent plasma flow measurements from the SuperDARN radar network suggest that the westward (eastward) expansion is embedded in the large, round dusk (dawn) convection cell. A simple explanation is offered for the observed preponderance of westward expansions, namely, that the pre-midnight onset location favors the westward plasma flow that is associated with the dusk cell. Eastward expansion occurs only when a large IMF By negative condition causes the midnight sector to be dominated by eastward plasma flows.
Ends of negatively curved surfaces in Euclidean space

We examine the geometry of a complete, negatively curved surface isometrically embedded in \({\mathbb{R}^3}\). We are especially interested in the behavior of the ends of the surface and its limit set at infinity. Various constructions are developed, and a classification theorem is obtained, showing that every possible end type for a topologically finite surface with at least one bowl end arises, as well as all infinite type surfaces with a single nonannular end. Some other examples are given with oddly behaved bowl ends.
Fixation of radionuclides in soil and minerals by heating.

Heating of fine sand-sized common mineral powders (quartz, feldspar, or calcite) or a soil (from the Department of Energy's Hanford site) up to 1000 °C, in contact with sorbed radioisotopes (85Sr, 57Co, 134Cs, or U), markedly increased each isotope's immobilization. A sequential extraction procedure was applied after heating the materials to assess the changes in each isotope's functional form among water-soluble, cation-exchangeable, acid-soluble, and residual phases. The overall immobilization effects were consistent with rapid high temperature ionic diffusion from the initially contaminated surfaces into the mineral matrices; subsequent diffusion out of mineral particles at ambient temperature, as measured by the sequential extraction behavior, would be such a slow process that the radionuclides may be considered sequestered from further potential environmental mobilization. In the Hanford soil, the effect was found to follow an Arrhenius-type relationship with treatment temperature up to 1000 °C for 5...
On the mechanism of the direct fluorination of trimethylsilyl compounds

Abstract In an attempt to elucidate the mechanism of fluorination of silyl compounds, a number of compounds have been fluorinated. Depending on the substrate used the pathway involved may be addition-elimination, cyclic or stepwise.
Calcium K X-ray spectra produced by oxygen, alpha-particle, and proton bombardment

Kα andKβ X-rays of calcium were produced by bombarding a thick calcium wafer with oxygen, helium and hydrogen ions. These reactions produce a substantial amount of inner shell ionization. TheK X-ray spectra contain X-ray lines from calcium which emanate from initial states with a varying degree ofK orL shell vacancies. The initial configurations were assigned on the basis of Hartree-Fock-Slater calculated energies. Related intensity ratio of1s→2p (Kα) transitions and of1s→3p (Kβ) transitions of H plus Ca, He plus Ca and O plus Ca were obtained. In addition to observing many new transitions due to multipleK and/or multipleL shell vacancies, energy shifts relative to the H plus Ca spectrum were observed in the O plus Ca spectrum due toM shell vacancies.
Temperature adaptation and effects of thermal acclimation in Rana sylvatica and Rana catesbeiana

Abstract 1. 1. The effects of thermal acclimation on temperature tolerance and heart rate were compared in Rana sylvatica and R. catesbeiana . 2. 2. Both the critical thermal maxima (CTM) and the lower lethal temperature of R. catesbeiana are significantly above those of R. sylvatica , and correspond to differences between their respective habitats. 3. 3. Both species possess a similar heart rate response to cold exposure, with an inverse acclimation pattern; yet cardiac function is less cold tolerant in R. catesbeiana than in R. sylvatica . 4. 4. Thermal acclimation significantly influenced the CTM values but not the lower lethal temperatures nor the heart rate responses to cooling.
A phase I ascending single-dose study of the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of bosutinib (SKI-606) in healthy adult subjects.

Bosutinib (SKI-606), a dual Src/Abl tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is in clinical development for the treatment of patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). To support clinical development, we conducted a dose-escalation and food-effect evaluation of safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of bosutinib in healthy adults. This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-ascending dose, sequential-group study of oral bosutinib. Subjects randomly received bosutinib 200, 400, 600, and 800 mg with food; 200 and 400 mg without food; or placebo. Plasma concentrations were determined by a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay. Non-compartmental PK analyses were performed, and power models assessed dose linearity. Of 55 enrolled subjects, 33 (81%) subjects had adverse events (AEs) after receiving bosutinib. Common AEs included diarrhea (39%), nausea (29%), and headache (22%). Bosutinib 200–600 mg with food was safe and well tolerated. Bosutinib exposures (C max and AUC) were linear and dose proportional from 200 to 800 mg with food. Absorption was relatively slow; median time to C max was 6 h. Apparent volume of distribution (V z/F) was 131–214 L/kg, mean apparent clearance (CL/F) was 2.25–3.81 L/h/kg, and mean terminal elimination half-life (t 1/2) was 32–39 h. Preliminary food effect assessment showed that exposure to bosutinib increased by ~2.52-fold (P = 0.002) for C max and ~2.28-fold (P = 0.002) for AUC when 200 mg bosutinib was administered with food compared with administration under fasting conditions; administration of 400 mg bosutinib with food increased AUC by ~1.5-fold (P = 0.037). Approximately 1% of administered dose was excreted in urine. Bosutinib 200–600 mg with food was safe and well tolerated. Under fed conditions, bosutinib exposures were linear and dose proportional, and C max increased by ~1.5-fold. The t 1/2 supported a once-daily dosing regimen.
Vascular resistance in splenic perfusion

Abstract Eighteen pig spleens have been perfused ex vivo, 9 each with heterologous and homologous blood. Angiographic evidence of spasm in the main splenic arteries probably caused the temporary early resistance to perfusion, with both homologous and heterologous blood. An unrelenting progressive increase in vascular resistance was noted in 6 of 9 spleens perfused with human blood. This was associated with total blockade of the terminal splenic arterioles.
Distance Traveled for Treatment of Cervical Cancer: Who Travels the Farthest, and Does it Impact Outcome?

Objective To evaluate the impact of distance from residence to treatment center on disease characteristics and recurrence of cervical cancer. Materials and Methods A single-institution retrospective chart review of patients treated for cervical cancer during 2006–2011 was performed. Demographic, socioeconomic, and clinicopathologic characteristics were recorded. Distance traveled from home to treatment facility was calculated and categorized. Recurrence and follow-up data were extracted; progression-free survival and overall survival were calculated. SAS version 9.2 was used for statistical analysis. Results Two hundred nineteen patients met the study criteria; 75% were Caucasian. Forty-nine percent used tobacco. Twenty-five percent had stage III/IV disease. Insurance type was 46% private, 25% Medicaid, 20% Medicare, and 9% uninsured. Distance between residence and hospital was less than 15 miles (29%), 15 to 30 miles (21%), 30 to 50 miles (17%), and more than 50 miles (33%). Median follow-up period was 23 months (range, 1–65). Caucasians were more likely to travel more than 30 miles to a treatment center (P = 0.018) Non-Caucasians were less likely to have private insurance (P = 0.0005) and more likely to recur (P = 0.0045). Recurrence was highest (50%) in African Americans. Travel of more than 30 miles was not associated with age, stage, histology, tobacco abuse, employment, clinical trial enrollment, primary chemoradiation for stage IB disease, or delayed radiation. Travel of more than 30 miles was associated with government insurance (P = 0.029) and a trend toward unemployment (P = 0.059). Four-year progression-free survival (53% vs 52%; P = 0.992) and overall survival (57% vs 62%; P = 0.73) were similar between less than or more than 30-mile travel. Conclusions Fifty percent of the patients reside more than 30 miles from treating hospital. Despite farther travel, stage of disease, clinical trial enrollment, treatment type, radiation completion, and recurrence rates were similar among patients with cervical cancer. Non-Caucasians are less likely to travel more than 30 miles.
Insulin Enhances Growth Hormone Induction of the MEK/ERK Signaling Pathway

Growth hormone (GH) plays an important role in growth and metabolism by signaling via at least three major pathways, including STATs, ERK1/2, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt. Physiological concentrations of insulin promote growth probably by modulating liver GH receptor (GHR) levels in vivo, but the possible effects of insulin on GH-induced post-GHR signaling have yet to be studied. We hypothesized that short-term insulin, similar to the fluctuations that occur following feeding, affects GH-induced post-GHR signaling. Our present studies suggest that, in rat H4IIE hepatoma cells, insulin (4 h or less) selectively enhanced GH-induced phosphorylation of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2, but not GH-induced activation of STAT5 and Akt. Although insulin pretreatment altered GH-induced formation of Shc.Grb2.SOS complex, it did not significantly affect GH-induced activation of other signaling intermediates upstream of MEK/ERK, including JAK2, Ras, and Raf-1. Immunofluorescent staining indicated that insulin pretreatment facilitated GH-induced cell membrane translocation of MEK1/2. Insulin pretreatment also increased the amount of MEK association with its scaffolding protein, KSR. In summary, short-term insulin treatment of cultured, liver-derived cells selectively sensitized GH-induced MEK/ERK phosphorylation independent of JAK2, Ras, and Raf-1, but likely resulted from increased cell membrane translocation of MEK1/2. These findings suggest that insulin may be necessary for sensitization of cells to GH-induced ERK1/2 activation and provides a potential cellular mechanism by which insulin promotes growth.
Point: radical prostatectomy is the treatment of choice for high-risk prostate cancer patients

As a long time student of prostate cancer and a selfproclaimed ‘‘Radical Prostatectomist,’’ I was delighted to have been asked to contribute a pointecounterpoint arguing for radical prostatectomy (RP) for contemporary men with high-risk localized prostate cancer. Although I am a fan and believer in the multidisciplinary/multimodal approach for men with localized prostate cancer and, in particular, high-risk disease, I also feel that many men are best served with a RP as the initial definitive treatment step in this process. The key reasons why I feel this way are as follows:
Should clinicians worry about vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus bloodstream infections?

The clinical significance of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) infections has been debated for many years. An article in this issue of the journal by Dubberke and co-workers (Vancomycin-resistant enterococcal bloodstream infections on a hematopoietic stem cell transplant unit: are the sick getting sicker?) addresses this question. This is a retrospective cohort study of patients with hematologic malignancies and recipients of hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) who developed nosocomial VRE bloodstream infections (BSIs) over the course of almost 7 years at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Data regarding VRE infections in this highly immunosuppressed population has been sparse,1, 2 and this paper, reporting the characteristics and outcomes of 60 patients who suffered 68 VRE BSIs, represents the largest published series of VRE BSIs in this population to date.3
TL1A Synergizes with IL-12 and IL-18 to Enhance IFN-γ Production in Human T Cells and NK Cells

TL1A, a recently described TNF-like cytokine that interacts with DR3, costimulates T cells and augments anti-CD3 plus anti-CD28 IFN-gamma production. In the current study we show that TL1A or an agonistic anti-DR3 mAb synergize with IL-12/IL-18 to augment IFN-gamma production in human peripheral blood T cells and NK cells. TL1A also enhanced IFN-gamma production by IL-12/IL-18 stimulated CD56(+) T cells. When expressed as fold change, the synergistic effect of TL1A on cytokine-induced IFN-gamma production was more pronounced on CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells than on CD56(+) T cells or NK cells. Intracellular cytokine staining showed that TL1A significantly enhanced both the percentage and the mean fluorescence intensity of IFN-gamma-producing T cells in response to IL-12/IL-18. The combination of IL-12 and IL-18 markedly up-regulated DR3 expression in NK cells, whereas it had minimal effect in T cells. Our data suggest that TL1A/DR3 pathway plays an important role in the augmentation of cytokine-induced IFN-gamma production in T cells and that DR3 expression is differentially regulated by IL-12/IL-18 in T cells and NK cells.
Nitric oxide and the cardiovascular actions of histamine

We had found that histamine (HA)-induced relaxation of cavian pulmonary artery is selectively inhibited by Nω-methyl-l-arginine (NMA) and thus depends on the synthesis ofl-arginine (ARG)-derived EDRF/nitric oxide (NO). We have now assessed whether ARG-derived NO also mediates the coronary-vasodilating effect of HA in the intact heart. Langendorff guinea pig hearts, vasoconstricted by the thromboxane agonist U46619 (86 nM), responded to HA (bolus intra-aortic injections of 1–30 μg) with dose-dependent increases in coronary flow (20–90%), heart rate and contractility. NMA (92 μM) markedly inhibited the HA-induced increase in coronary flow, but not its positive inotropic and chronotropic effects. A similar inhibition was obtained with the NO scavenging compound, Fe2+-myoglobin. ARG (1 mM) reestablished the coronary-dilating effects of HA in the presence of NMA. Thus, ARG-derived NO contributes significantly to HA-induced coronary-vasodilatation. Inasmuch as the ultimate HA effect on the coronaries depends on the balance between constriction and relaxation, mediated by smooth muscle and endothelial H1-receptors, respectively, as well as relaxation due to smooth muscle H2-receptors, dysfunction of the NO system is likely to precipitate HA-induced vasospasm.
Quantification of volumetric coronary blood flow with dual-energy digital subtraction angiography.

Background As a solution to the well-documented problems associated with visual interpretation of coronary arteriograms, more physiological methods of assessing coronary artery stenosis are being investigated. Volumetric coronary blood flow (BF) can be a valuable aid in the analysis of functional significance of arterial obstruction. Methods and Results The left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) of 15 anesthetized pigs (40 to 50 kg) was dissected free from the epicardium in its proximal portion, and a transit-time ultrasound flow probe of the appropriate size was applied. A vascular occluder was positioned distal to the flow probe for flow adjustments. Contrast injections (2 to 4 mL/s for 3 seconds) were made into the left main coronary artery during image acquisition with a motion-immune dual-energy digital subtraction angiography (DE DSA) system. Tissue-suppressed energy-subtracted images were used to generate time-density curves. BF measurements were made in the LAD vascular bed with use of the...
A Three-Dimensional Model for the Surface Texture in Surface Grinding, Part 1: Surface Generation Model

A geometric-kinematic model for the generation of surface topography in a single-pass surface grinding process is presented. The model incorporates the effects of process parameters such as table speed and wheel speed and also takes into account the wheel topography and original workpiece surface texture. Comparisons between model-simulated output and experimental results show a good match, supporting the validity of the model.
Assessment of inner filter effects in fluorescence spectroscopy using the dual-pathlength method: a study of the jet fuel JP-4

The integrity of most currently used fluorescence data analysis algorithms requires that a fluorophore present in a sample display the same spectral signature, apart from a single concentration-dependent scaling factor, regardless of its concentration or the concentrations of other components in the sample. Inner filter effects impede the utility of fluorescence spectroscopy by perturbing this spectral signature, rendering identification and quantification of fluorescent analytes difficult. The photophysical background theory of inner filtering is presented along with a comparison of existing correction schemes. The dual- pathlength method, a novel and simple experimental procedure for inner filter effect compensation, is introduced. The role of inner filtering in JP-4 a jet fuel contaminant detected by our laser-induced fluorescence/cone penetrometer instrument, is evaluated.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Detection of asymptomatic Chlamydia trachomatis infection in adolescents

Abstract Endocervical swabs from 137 asymptomatic girls 12–18 years of age (mean 16.1 years) were tested for Chlamydia trachomatis using a direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) slide test (MicroTrak, Syva Co., Palo Alto, CA) and compared with the tissue culture isolation of the organism. The DFA slides were examined for quality of the specimen as well as for the presence of elementary bodies. Of 137 slides, 5 (3.6%) were “poor” (less than 50 epithelial cells per well) and were excluded from the analysis. The DFA test identified 26 (89.7%) of 29 culture-positive specimens and 102 (99.0%) of 103 culture-negative specimens. The DFA test is a valuable screening tool (positive predictive value 96.30%, negative predictive value 97.14%) for identification of asymptomatic chlamydial cervical infection in adolescents when slides are interpreted for adequacy of the specimen as well as the presence of elementary bodies.
Real-time constrained linear discriminant analysis for hyperspectral imagery

A constrained linear discriminant analysis (CLDA) approach is presented for hyperspectral image detection and classification. Its basic idea is to design an optimal transformation matrix which can maximize the ratio of inter- class distance to intra-class distance while imposing the constraint that different class centers after transformation are along different directions such that different classes can be better separated. The solution turns out to be a constrained version of orthogonal subspace projection (OSP) implemented with a data whitening process. The CLDA approach can be applied to solve both detection and classification problems. In particular, by introducing color for display the classification is achieved with a single classified image where a predetermined color is used to display a specified class. The real-time implementation is also developed to meet the requirement of on-line image analysis when immediate data assessment is critical. The experiments using HYDICE data demonstrate the strength of CLDA approach in discriminating the small targets with subtle spectral difference.
Oral acetylsalicylic acid induces biliary cholesterol secretion in the rat.

Several agents can alter biliary cholesterol secretion, critical for cholesterol excretion and gallstone formation. Although salicylate effects on bile formation and gallstones have been studied, biliary lipid secretion has not been measured during oral aspirin treatment. We examined whether oral acetylsalicylic acid affects bile lipid secretion. Three groups of young rats were fed chow for 3 wk. Two of the groups then received aspirin at either 1.67 or 3.33 g/kg diet for 4 d. Serum, hepatic, and bile lipids were measured, as were enzymes of cholesterol synthesis and esterification. With oral aspirin, bile cholesterol secretion increased by 42% and hepatic cholesteryl ester content decreased by 40%. Serum cholesterol and hepatic free cholesterol did not change. To evaluate mechanisms of the cholesterol hypersecretion, hypothyroid animals fed low-fat or fish oil diets and repleted with triiodothyronine were also studied. Aspirin stimulated cholesterol secretion to a degree similar to triiodothyronine. An additive response was seen in fish oilfed rats. Aspirin did not appear to have a primary action on 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase or acyl CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase activities, and had no direct effect on esterification of cholesterol by isolated hepatocytes. Aspirin may directly increase cholesterol transport into bile or have cell membrane effects which alter cholesterol transport. It remains to be determined whether the observed alterations in bile cholesterol secretion are specific to the rat or also apply to humans.
Strong Electronic Coupling between Dimolybdenum Units Linked by the N,N‘-Dimethyloxamidate Anion in a Molecule Having a Heteronaphthalene-like Structure

Very strong electronic communication, manifested in a KC value of ca. 109, has been found in a system of three compounds separated by one electron oxidation where each compound contains two metal−metal bonded Mo2n+ units linked by a dimethyloxamidate anion, CH3N(O)C−C(O)NCH32-. The Mo−Mo distances increase as the oxidation state increases and the bond order decreases, while the diamagnetic, doubly oxidized species becomes essentially planar and resembles a naphthalene molecule. Calculations at the DFT level indicate that a strong transition in the near-IR region, shown by the singly oxidized and paramagnetic species, is best described as a HOMO−1 → SOMO transition.
Computerization of social services: a critical appraisal

This article presents an analysis of ethics and computerization of social services. Drawing from the work of Baudrillard, the article suggests that social existence is redefined by the worldview that accompanies computerization. The authors conclude that practitioners have an ethical obligation to protect the human element when social services are computerized. Suggestions are offered for accomplishing this important goal.
Disseminated Varicella Zoster Virus Infection with Encephalitis in a UC Patient Receiving Infliximab.

Opportunistic infections occur at an increased rate in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), largely due to the use of immunosuppressants. One study found that the odds ratio for opportunistic infections in immunosuppressed patients compared to nonimmunosuppressed patients was 2.6 for patients on 1 drug and increased to 12.9 when 2 or more drugs were used.1 Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is the causative agent of chickenpox and herpes zoster, and case studies have reported disseminated infections caused by VZV in patients on tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) inhibitors.2-4 Although the incidence of infection can be decreased through vaccination, the VZV vaccine utilizes a live attenuated virus and is contraindicated in patients who are immunosuppressed.5 This report presents a case of disseminated VZV infection with encephalitis in an unvaccinated patient with ulcerative colitis (UC) who was receiving infliximab (Remicade, Janssen Biotech).
Noise estimation and bias correction in identification of battery models

Battery systems demonstrate different characteristics. Their dynamics change with time and operating conditions due to aging and variations in operational conditions such as thermal distribution and and chemical properties. To enhance reliability, efficiency, and life expectancy, battery management systems must acquire high fidelity battery cell models during the course of life-time operations. This paper aims to develop identification algorithms that capture individualized characteristics of each battery cell and produce updated models in real time. It is shown that standard least-squares estimation methods will encounter identification bias. Bias correction requires information on noise statistics, which are usually unknown and time varying. This paper devises integrated algorithms for noise estimation and bias correction to resolve these issues. Noise estimation accuracy, interaction of noise estimation with signal variations, algorithm convergence, and bias correction mechanisms are discussed. A typical battery model structure is used to illustrate utilities of the methods.
Bootstrapping active name disambiguation with crowdsourcing

Name disambiguation is a challenging and important problem in many domains, such as digital libraries, social media management and people search systems. Traditional methods, based on direct assignment using supervised machine learning techniques, seem to be the most effective, but their performances are highly dependent on the amount of training data, while large data annotation can be expensive and time-consuming requiring hours of manual inspection by a domain expert. To efficiently acquire labeled data, we propose a bootstrapping algorithm for the name disambiguation task based on active learning and crowdsourced labeling. We show that the proposed method can leverage the advantages of exploration and exploitation by combining two strategies, thereby improving the overall quality of the training data at minimal expense. The experimental results on two datasets DBLP and ArnetMiner demonstrate the superiority of our framework over existing methods.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: The Current Outlook for Testosterone in the Management of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Postmenopausal Women

ABSTRACT Introduction Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is a common clinical problem in women, especially those who have experienced surgical menopause. Because androgen levels decline with age and drop dramatically following bilateral oophorectomy, it has been hypothesized that reduced levels of testosterone are related to diminished desire. Aim As presented at a continuing medical education satellite symposium during the 2008 annual meeting of the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health, to review the current state of knowledge about the physiologic effects of testosterone in postmenopausal women, the effects of transdermal testosterone delivery in surgically menopausal women with HSDD, and ongoing studies of a transdermal testosterone gel. Methods A review of the pertinent literature, including recent presentations. Main Outcome Measures Results from the Women's International Study of Health and Sexuality; and studies utilizing the Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for Women, the Psychological General Well‐Being Index, and validated instruments that assess female sexual function: the Sexual Activity Log © , the Profile of Female Sexual Function © , and the Personal Distress Scale © . Results Surgically menopausal women receiving testosterone experience significant increases in total satisfying sexual activity vs. women receiving placebo, significant improvement in all domains of sexual function, and decreases in personal distress, with a favorable safety profile. Conclusion Testosterone deficiency may be considered among the underlying causes of HSDD. Currently, testosterone is available to women in the United States only via off‐label prescribing or by unregulated compounding of testosterone preparations. New safety trials will examine the long‐term safety of testosterone gel in surgically menopausal women with HSDD who are at high risk of cardiovascular disease or breast cancer. Kingsberg SA, Simon JA, and Goldstein I. The current outlook for testosterone in the management of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in postmenopausal women. J Sex Med 2008;5(suppl 4):182–193.
TIPS: a translingual information processing system

Searching online information is increasingly a daily activity for many people. The multilinguality of online content is also increasing (e.g. the proportion of English web users, which has been decreasing as a fraction the increasing population of web users, dipped below 50% in the summer of 2001). To improve the ability of an English speaker to search mutlilingual content, we built a system that supports cross-lingual search of an Arabic newswire collection and provides on demand translation of Arabic web pages into English. The cross-lingual search engine supports a fast search capability (sub-second response for typical queries) and achieves state-of-the-art performance in the high precision region of the result list. The on demand statistical machine translation uses the Direct Translation model along with a novel statistical Arabic Morphological Analyzer to yield state-of-the-art translation quality. The on demand SMT uses an efficient dynamic programming decoder that achieves reasonable speed for translating web documents.
Dynamics of α‐actinin in focal adhesions and stress fibers visualized with α‐actinin‐green fluorescent protein

Motile cells undergo changes in cell adhesion, behavior, and shape that are mediated by small-scale cytoskeletal rearrangements. These rearrangements have proven difficult to follow quantitatively in living cells, without disrupting the very structures and delicate protein balances under study. We have expressed a prominent cytoskeletal protein, α-actinin, as a fusion with green fluorescent protein (αAGFP), and have followed this construct's movements within transfected mouse Swiss 3T3 and BALB/c fibroblasts. αAGFP was expressed at low levels to avoid overexpression artifacts. αAGFP localized to cellular structures, including stress fibers, focal adhesions, microspikes, and lamellipodia. High-resolution video-microscopy revealed that the αAGFP construct could be seen relocating to focal adhesions early in their formation and shortly thereafter to stress-fiber dense bodies. By Fluorescent Recovery After Photo-bleaching (FRAP) techniques, αAGFP was found to have similar exchange rates and protein stability in focal adhesions and stress fibers (despite the known differences in protein composition in these two structures). This raises the possibility that the two structures share common key regulatory factors and may not be as affected by protein-protein binding interactions as previously suggested. Additionally, the exchange rates revealed by video-microscopy and FRAP analysis of αAGFP are more rapid than those reported previously, which were obtained using microinjection of large excesses of fluorescently-tagged protein. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 48:190–200, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Thermal Conductivity of Uniaxial Coated Cylindrically Orthotropic Fiber-Reinforced Composite with Thermal Barriers:

The theories of Hasselman et al. and Benveniste et al. were extended to derive expressions for the thermal conductivity of continuous matrix composites containing dilute volume fractions of uniaxial coated cylindrically orthotropic fibers with interfacial thermal barriers at the fiber-coating and coating-matrix interfaces. The transverse thermal conductivity of this type of composite was found to depend on ten variables: the thermal conductivities of the matrix and coating, the radial and tangential components of the fiber thermal conductivity, the volume fractions of fibers and coating, the absolute dimensions of the fiber and coating, and the interracial thermal conductances at both interfaces.