cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exploratory Galois Theory: Multiply Generated Fields

We now extend our investigation to fields generated over a field K by more than one algebraic number, or multiply generated fields. We saw a hint of such fields in section 12.3, where we considered a field K (α) generated by an algebraic number α over a field K (β), itself generated over K by an algebraic number β. In this chapter, we consider several questions concerning fields generated over K by more than one algebraic number: whether such a field may be generated over K by a single algebraic number; whether such a field is of finite dimension over K ; and how to specify the structure of such fields via an isomorphism to a quotient ring of a polynomial ring, as we did in section 8.3. We also examine an important class of fields generated by several algebraic numbers: those that are generated by all of the roots of a polynomial. We then study how to determine isomorphisms from one multiply generated field to another, particularly when the fields are splitting fields. At the end of the chapter, we consider the results of this chapter in the general field-theoretic setting of simple, finite, and algebraic extensions. Fields Generated by Several Algebraic Numbers Definition 16.1 . Let K be a subfield of ℂ, and let α and β be two algebraic numbers. We denote by K (α, β) the identical fields K (α)(β) = K (β)(α), which we call the field generated by α and β over K . In support of the preceding definition, note that we may view the set S of all arithmetic combinations of α, β, and elements of K in several ways.
Intimate details of the most poisonous poison

Crystal structures of type B botulinum neurotoxin, determined under conditions relevant to the extracellular binding and intracellular substrate cleavage steps of its toxic action, reveal that minimal structural changes occur upon binding a ganglioside or after substrate cleavage. The unique structure of this toxin provides information for developing preventive measures against botulism.
Stroke recovery and rehabilitation.

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the stroke recovery and rehabilitation. The goal of post-stroke rehabilitative interventions is to shift the recovery curve upwards so that patients achieve higher levels of function than they would have “spontaneously.” Stroke patients may be exposed to a variety of activities and experiences that have the potential to influence outcome. Patients can benefit from participation in multidisciplinary rehabilitative interventions. Optimization of functional benefits may be achieved through combinations of new physiotherapeutic approaches aimed at providing more intensive practice, along with pharmacological treatments, avoidance of potentially harmful centrally acting drugs, and possibly incorporation of a progenitor cell transplantation strategy. A variety of polypeptide growth factors have the capacity to support neural outgrowth, synaptogenesis, and neurogenesis after stroke and other brain injuries. These include basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (Veg-f), osteogenic protein-1 (OP-1), erythropoietin (EPO), and granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF). The chapter discusses the data from animal model studies, robot-assisted therapy, supported treadmill training, constraint-induced movement therapy, clinical studies and experimental studies of pharmacotherapy, and various adjunctive therapies.
Mobilizing and Excising the Nasal Fat Pad in Upper Blepharoplasty

After the initial incision and removal of skin and muscle, bluntly spread the fascia over the nasal fat pad with a hemostat. Ballottement the globe will prolapse the fat pad forward. Make an “X”-shaped incision over the nasal fat pad, deepening the incision until the fat prolapses. Grasp the protruding knuckle of fat with forceps and use a cotton-tip applicator to bluntly strip away tissues retaining the nasal fat pad. Supplemental local anesthesia injection is usually required at the base of the nasal fat pad. The fat pad may be excised across a closed hemostat or divided using a laser against a backstop. Adequate hemostasis is important because of the caliber of vessels associated with the fat pocket.
Chemical defense and self-defense. Biochemical transformations of contact insecticides produced by soldier termites

Abstract Soldiers of the advanced genera of rhinotermitids (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) produce lipophilic contact insecticides formally derived from fatty acids. Each of these defense substances possesses a reactive electrophilic center (vinyl ketone, nitroalkene, or β-ketoaldehyde) responsible for toxicity. We describe the synthesis of radioactively-labelled defense secretions of two of these species and their use in studying the substrate-selective detoxication by worker termites. Preliminary studies on biosynthesis of defense secretions by termite soldiers are also discussed.
Ancient Text Messages of the Yorùbá Bàtá Drum: Cracking the Code

Reviewed Medium: book Authors: Amanda Villepastour Year: 2010 Pages: 192 Publisher: Ashgate Publishing ISBN: 978-0-7546-6753-7 (hard cover).
Datacenters: New challenges and opportunities for optical technologies

The main aspects of high-speed networking in data centers are discussed. The key challenges, as well as opportunities, for employment of optical network technologies to address current and future challenges are identified.
MULTILEVEL ANALYSIS OF DAILY TIME USE AND TIME ALLOCATION TO ACTIVITY TYPES ACCOUNTING FOR COMPLEX COVARIANCE STRUCTURES USING CORRELATED RANDOM EFFECTS

In this paper multilevel analysis is used to study individual choices of time allocation to maintenance, subsistence, leisure, and travel time exploiting the nested data hierarchy of households, persons, and occasions of measurement. The multilevel models in this paper examine the joint and multivariate correlation structure of four dependent variables in a cross-sectional and longitudinal way. In this way, observed and unobserved heterogeneity are estimated using random effects at the household, person, and temporal levels. In addition, random coefficients associated with explanatory variables are also estimated and correlated with these random effects. Using the wide spectrum of options offered by multilevel models to account for individual and group heterogeneity, complex interdependencies among individuals within their households, within themselves over time, and within themselves but across different indicators of behavior, are analyzed. Findings in this analysis include large variance contribution by each level considered, clear evidence of non-linear dynamic behavior in time-allocation, different trajectories of change in time allocation for each of the four dependent variables used, and lack of symmetry in change over time characterized by different trajectories in the longitudinal evolution of each dependent variable. In addition, the multivariate correlation structure among the four dependent variables is different at each of the three levels of analysis.
Bounded and Unbounded Level Lines in Two-Dimensional Random Fields

Every two-dimensional incompressible flow follows the level lines of some scalar function ψ on ∝2; transport properties of the flow depend on the qualitative structure e.g. boundedness—of these level lines. We discuss some recent results on the boundedness of level lines when ψ is a stationary random field. Under mild hypotheses there is only one possible alternative to bounded level lines: the “treelike” random fields, which, for some interval of values of a, have a unique unbounded level line at each level a, with this line “winding through every region of the plane.” If the random field has the FKG property then only bounded level lines are possible. For stationary C 2 Gaussian random fields with covariance function decaying to 0 at infinity, the treelike property is the only alternative to bounded level lines provided the density of the absolutely continuous part of the spectral measure decays at infinity “slower than exponentially,” and only bounded level lines are possible if the covariance function is nonnegative.
Dark Matter and Structure Formation in the Universe

This chapter aims to present an introduction to current research on the nature of the cosmological dark matter and the origin of galaxies and large scale structure within the standard theoretical framework: gravitational collapse of fluctuations as the origin of structure in the expanding universe. General relativistic cosmology is summarized, and the data on the basic cosmological parameters ($t_o$ and $H_0 \equiv 100 h \kmsmpc$, $\Omega_0$, $\Omega_\Lambda$ and $\Omega_b$) are reviewed. Various particle physics candidates for hot, warm, and cold dark matter are briefly reviewed, together with current constraints and experiments that could detect or eliminate them. Also included is a very brief summary of the theory of cosmic defects, and a somewhat more extended exposition of the idea of cosmological inflation with a summary of some current models of inflation. The remainder is a discussion of observational constraints on cosmological model building, emphasizing models in which most of the dark matter is cold and the primordial fluctuations are the sort predicted by inflation. It is argued that the simplest models that have a hope of working are Cold Dark Matter with a cosmological constant ($\Lambda$CDM) if the Hubble parameter is high ($h \gsim 0.7$), and Cold + Hot Dark Matter (CHDM) if the Hubble parameter and age permit an $\Omega=1$ cosmology, as seems plausible in light of the data from the Hipparcos astrometric satellite. The most attractive variants of these models and the critical tests for each are discussed.
Kavain inhibition of LPS-induced TNF-α via ERK/LITAF

Kavain, an extract from the shrub Piper Methysticum, was recently reported to modulate TNF-α expression in both human and mouse cells via regulation of LPS-Induced TNF-Alpha Factor (LITAF). The purpose of the present study was to define the molecular pathway(s) associated with Kavain effects on TNF modulation. In vitro studies using WT mouse primary macrophages showed that Kavain significantly reduced E.coli LPS-induced TNF-α production but this effect was almost abrogated in LITAF-/- and ERK2-/- cells. Therefore we reintroduced the ERK2 gene in ERK2-/- cells and partially restored E.coli LPS-induced LITAF-mediated TNF-α production. The translocation of LITAF into to nucleus was found to be dependent on ERK2 S206 residue. Kavain inhibits LITAF/TNF-α expression via dephosphorylation of ERK2 in response to E.coli LPS. Finally, in vivo, Kavain had a significant anti-inflammatory effect on wild type mice that developed Collagen Antibody Induced Arthritis (CAIA), but only a minor effect in ERK2-/- mice also affected by CAIA. Based on these findings, we concluded that ERK2 may be the kinase upstream of LITAF with its Serine residue 206 being crucial for the regulation of LPS-induced TNF-α.
Comparison of Radiographic and Anatomic Femoral Varus Angle Measurements in Normal Dogs

Objective— To determine if the clinically practiced method of radiographic femoral varus angle (R-FVA) measurement is repeatable, reproducible, and accurate. Study Design— Radiographic and anatomic study. Animals/Sample Population— Normal Walker hound cadavers (n=5) and femora (n=10). Methods— Cadavers were held in dorsally-recumbent and torso-elevated positions as 3 craniocaudal radiographs were made of each femur, by each of 2 different technicians. Femora were then harvested for direct measurement of anatomic femoral varus angle (A-FVA). R-FVA was measured on each radiograph by each of 3 examiners on 3 separate occasions. Intra-observer (repeatability) and inter-observer (reproducibility) variance in R-FVA measurement and the strength of relationship between R-FVA and A-FVA (accuracy) were determined. Results— Mean (±SD) A-FVA was 5.2±2.1° (range, 2.4–8.2°). Mean (±SD) R-FVA was 5.8±1.0° (range, 2.7–9.6°). Intra-observer variance (range: 11–16%) and inter-observer variance (16%) were acceptable. The strength of relationship between measured R-FVA and A-FVA (maximum adjusted R2<0) was unacceptably low regardless of observer, patient position, or radiographic technician. Conclusion— R-FVA measurement was repeatable and reproducible, but not statistically accurate in predicting A-FVA in these 5 normal Walker hounds. The detected inaccuracy may be real or the result of a selection bias for normal dogs obscuring the true relationship. Clinical Relevance— R-FVA may not be an accurate method of femoral varus measurement in dogs with A-FVA 10°), the procedure would not have been erroneously performed in any of the normal dogs of this study.
Selective recognition and extraction of the uranyl ion from aqueous solutions with a recyclable chelating resin

An ion exchange polymer 1, incorporating a chelating ligand engineered for the uranyl ion was prepared and its ability to remove uranium from aqueous solutions was studied. The chelating module was shown to form a 1 : 1 complex with the uranyl ion in solution. Comparisons of 1 with the standard imidodiacetate chelating resin, Chelex 100 were performed in uranyl extraction experiments. 1 effectively extracts uranyl ion from aqueous solutions, including spiked seawater, and is fully recyclable for at least 15 extraction cycles.
Crawfish Tails: A Curious Tale of Foreign Trade Policy Making

This paper presents a case study of the demand for and supply of protectionism upon exposure to international trade. The examination of the crawfish industry demonstrates that theories of the demand for protectionism often provide inadequate or incomplete explanations of outcomes. The curious aspect of this case is that crawfish producers failed to organize to demand protection despite having many factors working in their favor. In fact, political representatives at the state level organized demand from federal agencies on their behalf, thus supplying protection without any real organized demand. In the end, only a handful of crawfish processors (not producers) received any benefits from protection, and Chinese imports still dominate the U.S. crawfish market. The result is consistent with the notion that the U.S. system of trade regulation is designed to produce the appearance, but not the substance of protection in order to uphold general principles of freer trade while making elected officials look responsive to their constituents.
A Deep Insight into the Sialotranscriptome of the Gulf Coast Tick, Amblyomma maculatum

Background Saliva of blood sucking arthropods contains compounds that antagonize their hosts' hemostasis, which include platelet aggregation, vasoconstriction and blood clotting; saliva of these organisms also has anti-inflammatory and immunomodullatory properties. Perhaps because hosts mount an active immune response against these compounds, the diversity of these compounds is large even among related blood sucking species. Because of these properties, saliva helps blood feeding as well as help the establishment of pathogens that can be transmitted during blood feeding. Methodology/Principal Findings We have obtained 1,626,969 reads by pyrosequencing a salivary gland cDNA library from adult females Amblyomma maculatum ticks at different times of feeding. Assembly of this data produced 72,441 sequences larger than 149 nucleotides from which 15,914 coding sequences were extracted. Of these, 5,353 had >75% coverage to their best match in the non-redundant database from the National Center for Biotechnology information, allowing for the deposition of 4,850 sequences to GenBank. The annotated data sets are available as hyperlinked spreadsheets. Putative secreted proteins were classified in 133 families, most of which have no known function. Conclusions/Significance This data set of proteins constitutes a mining platform for novel pharmacologically active proteins and for uncovering vaccine targets against A. maculatum and the diseases they carry.
Comparing Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Trial Results in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are proved, effective agents for the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure. New data suggest that angiotensinconverting enzyme inhibitors may be effective therapy for patients following acute myocardial infarction. Results from clinical trials, such as the Survival and Ventricular Enlargement trial, have demonstrated that captopril attenuates left ventricular enlargement, minimizes and/or prevents the subsequent development of overt congestive heart failure, and improves survival in patients with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction after myocardial infarction. Clinical reinfarctions and need for subsequent revascularization procedures were also reduced with captopril. In the Acute Infarction Ramipril Efficacy study, patients with clinically evident heart failure following acute myocardial infarction who received ramipril demonstrated a significant reduction in mortality and cardiovascular events. The mortality benefit in this study was evident within 30 days, possibly reflecting differences in patients studied (ie, population with highrisk heart failure in the Acute Infarction Ramipril Efficacy study as opposed to population with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction in the Survival and Ventricular Enlargement trial). Contrary results have been reported in another major postmyocardial infarction trial, the Cooperative New Scandinavian Enalapril Survival Study, which evaluated enalaprilat/enalapril maleate in unselected patients with acute myocardial infarction. This article reviews the recent trials using angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition after myocardial infarction and will explore the reasons why angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition seems to be beneficial in this clinical setting. (Arch Intern Med. 1994;154:2029-2036)
Crude subcellular fractionation of cultured mammalian cell lines

The expression and study of recombinant proteins in mammalian culture systems can be complicated during the cell lysis procedure by contaminating proteins from cellular compartments distinct from those within which the protein of interest resides and also by solubility issues that may arise from the use of a single lysis buffer. Partial subcellular fractionation using buffers of increasing stringency, rather than whole cell lysis is one way in which to avoid or reduce this contamination and ensure complete recovery of the target protein. Currently published protocols involve time consuming centrifugation steps which may require expensive equipment and commercially available kits can be prohibitively expensive when handling large or multiple samples. We have established a protocol to sequentially extract proteins from cultured mammalian cells in fractions enriched for cytosolic, membrane bound organellar, nuclear and insoluble proteins. All of the buffers used can be made inexpensively and easily and the protocol requires no costly equipment. While the method was optimized for a specific cell type, we demonstrate that the protocol can be applied to a variety of commonly used cell lines and anticipate that it can be applied to any cell line via simple optimization of the primary extraction step. We describe a protocol for the crude subcellular fractionation of cultured mammalian cells that is both straightforward and cost effective and may facilitate the more accurate study of recombinant proteins and the generation of purer preparations of said proteins from cell extracts.
Optineurin Negatively Regulates TNFα- Induced NF-κB Activation by Competing with NEMO for Ubiquitinated RIP

NF-kappaB essential modulator (NEMO), the regulatory subunit of the IkappaB kinase (IKK) that activates NF-kappaB, is essential for NF-kappaB activation. NEMO was recently found to contain a region that preferentially binds Lys (K)63-linked but not K48-linked polyubiquitin (polyUb) chains, and the ability of NEMO to bind to K63-linked polyUb RIP (receptor-interacting protein) is necessary for efficient tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha)-induced NF-kappaB activation. Optineurin is a homolog of NEMO, and mutations in the optineurin gene are found in a subset of patients with glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disease involving the loss of retinal ganglion cells. Although optineurin shares considerable homology with NEMO, in resting cells, it is not present in the high-molecular-weight complex containing IKKalpha and IKKbeta, and optineurin cannot substitute for NEMO in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NF-kappaB activation. On the other hand, the overexpression of optineurin blocks the protective effect of E3-14.7K on cell death caused by the overexpression of TNFalpha receptor 1 (TNFR1). Here we show that optineurin has a K63-linked polyUb-binding region similar to that of NEMO, and like NEMO, it bound K63- but not K48-linked polyUb. Optineurin competitively antagonized NEMO's binding to polyUb RIP, and its overexpression inhibited TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB activation. This competition occurs at physiologic protein levels because microRNA silencing of optineurin resulted in markedly enhanced TNFalpha-induced NF-kappaB activity. These results reveal a physiologic role for optineurin in dampening TNFalpha signaling, and this role might provide an explanation for its association with glaucoma.
Quantitative evaluation of reflex and voluntary activity in children with spasticity.

Abstract Lebiedowska MK, Fisk JR. Quantitative evaluation of reflex and voluntary activity in children with spasticity Objective: To determine whether increased reflexes are related to functional impairment in children with spasticity. Design: Descriptive measurement study. Setting: Rehabilitation department in Poland. Participants: Sixteen able-bodied children and 29 children with spasticity. Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Measurement of modulation function of knee tendon reflexes by isometric knee extension, maximum isometric knee flexion, and extension torques, and scoring of ambulation in patients. Results: In able-bodied children, the reflex modulation function increased with voluntary knee extension, reached maximum at 5% to 20% of voluntary extension, and then decreased. The reflex modulation function in patients fell into 2 major categories. In the majority of affected limbs, the modulation function was inverse, with maximum reflex response at relaxation, and decreased with an increase of voluntary extension. In the remaining limbs, the shape of the reflex modulation function was normal, although other parameters changed. Isometric torques decreased more in flexion (65%) than in extension (39%). A torque decrease was a result of cocontraction more often during knee flexion (65%) than in knee extension (24%). The larger the reflexes, the more flexion torque decreased and ambulation deteriorated. This pattern occurred in patients with inverse modulation function but not in those with normal modulation function. The reciprocal inhibition from knee flexors to extensors could be affected in patients with inverse modulation function and cocontraction during flexion, whereas other mechanisms occurred in other patients. Conclusions: The experimental design has potential as a quantitative measure of abnormal control in children with spasticity and can lead to more precise treatment selection criteria.
Ultrastructure of sugarbeet leaves infected with beet western yellows virus

An electron microscope study of sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.) leaves infected with beet western yellows virus (BWYV) revealed isometric particles, 24–30 nm in diameter, in phloem and mesophyll cells. Compared to ribosomes the particles were slightly larger, more deeply stained, and sharper in outline. Many particles showed an electron lucent center. The particles are assumed to be the virus. A comparison of leaves of different ages from the same systemically infected plant suggested the following sequence in the spread of the virus. In a given leaf, the particles appear initially in mature sieve elements, then move to adjacent companion and parenchyma cells. From these cells, the virus spreads to phloem and mesophyll cells not in contact with the sieve tubes. The presence of virus particles in plasmodesmata between sieve elements and adjacent nucleate cells, as well as between contiguous parenchyma cells, indicates that complete particles are transported from cell to cell through plasmodesmata. Within the sieve tube, the particles traverse the sieve plates, for they frequently occur in sieve plate pores jointly with the P-protein. In the lumen of the sieve element, the particles occur close to the cell wall, sometimes in association with endoplasmic reticulum. In parenchyma cells (including companion cells), particles are most conspicuous and most numerous in the nuclei. Their close association with the nucleolus suggests that the latter may be involved in viral multiplication. In older infected leaves, particles within the nuclei form crystalline arrays. Within the cytoplasm, particles are commonly located close to the wall and may be aligned along the microtubules.
Dynamic Changes in Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Structure in Ventricular Myocytes

The fidelity of excitation-contraction (EC) coupling in ventricular myocytes is remarkable, with each action potential evoking a [Ca²⁺](i) transient. The prevalent model is that the consistency in EC coupling in ventricular myocytes is due to the formation of fixed, tight junctions between the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and the sarcolemma where Ca²⁺ release is activated. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the SR is a structurally inert organelle in ventricular myocytes. Our data suggest that rather than being static, the SR undergoes frequent dynamic structural changes. SR boutons expressing functional ryanodine receptors moved throughout the cell, approaching or moving away from the sarcolemma of ventricular myocytes. These changes in SR structure occurred in the absence of changes in [Ca²⁺](i) during EC coupling. Microtubules and the molecular motors dynein and kinesin 1(Kif5b) were important regulators of SR motility. These findings support a model in which the SR is a motile organelle capable of molecular motor protein-driven structural changes.
The effect of intraoperative duplex on the management of postoperative stroke.

Background. Stroke after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) may be a result of intraoperative ischemia, embolism, or thrombosis at the operative site. Intraoperative duplex should eliminate the occurrence of a severe internal carotid artery (ICA) thrombosis and, thus, negate the benefit of reoperation. This article will detail the results of our evolving treatment algorithm for immediate versus delayed post-CEA neurologic deficit (ND). Methods. We studied patients who had an ND after CEA from 1988 to 2000. Results. Thirty-two patients (3.2%) had a post-CEA ND (26 related stroke or transient ischemic attack, 6 other); 31 had a satisfactory intraoperative duplex post-CEA, 1 was not tested. Fifteen patients awoke from operation with a related deficit, 5 of whom were re-explored and all had a patent ICA. One patient without lateralizing signs who was not re-explored had extensive thrombosis at postmortem. The remaining 9 all had a duplex-proven patent ICA. Ten patients had a lucid interval before their related ND. Six patients were re-explored and all had thrombosed ICAs; 5 of the 6 improved postthrombectomy. Four patients were not re-explored for various reasons; a carotid thrombosis was not later diagnosed in any of these patients. Conclusions. Intraoperative and postoperative duplex has modified our treatment of post-CEA stroke. No longer are all patients re-explored. Patients with a normal intraoperative duplex who awaken with an immediate stroke do not usually have occlusive thrombus and routine re-exploration does not benefit these patients. Patients who have an ND develop after a lucid period may have a thrombosed ICA despite a normal intraoperative duplex, and unless there is a timely normal duplex, re-exploration is recommended and appears to benefit these patients. (Surgery 2002;132:761-6.)
Axisymmetric adhesion test to examine the interfacial interactions between biologically-modified networks and models of the extracellular matrix

The adhesion between artificial extracellular matrixes (ECMs), or scaffolds, and native tissue is an often overlooked component of the tissue engineering design process. Therefore, we developed an axisymmetric adhesion test method to examine the interfacial interactions between hydrogel scaffolds and a model of the articular cartilage ECM. Semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPNs), consisting of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid) [P(NIPAAm-co-AAc)] hydrogels and physically entangled linear P(AAc) chains grafted with peptides that bind to hyaluronic acid (HA), were synthesized, and the adhesion between the P(NIPAAm-co-AAc)-based semi-IPNs and hemispherical glass lenses (plain or HA-grafted) was examined as a function of temperature, contact time, and semi-IPN type. The adhesion between the semi-IPNs and the lenses significantly increased with increasing contact time and significantly decreased with increasing temperature, independent of the P(NIPAAm-co-AAc)-based matrix type. Furthermore,...
The Electroencephalogram in Cases of Tuberculous Meningitis

Summary Electroencephalographic examinations of 7 children with streptomycin-treated tuberculous meningitis showed that clinical deterioration, which set in in 3 cases, was accompanied by EEG changes in the form of large 4–5/sec. waves. In 1 case EEG changes were the first indication of deterioration. In 4 cases which were restored to complete or almost complete health the EEG changes noted earlier in the disease disappeared. Thus repeated EEG recordings may be of prognostic value and even indicate a need for intensified treatment. Resume Les examens encephalographiques de 7 enfants ayant meningite tuberculeuse traitee par la streptomycine, montrent que l'aggrevation clinique constatee dans 3 cas est accompagnee de ehangements EEG sous forme de grandes ondes 4–5 sec. Dans 1 cas les changenients ERG etaient les premieres indications de l'aggravation. Dans 4 cas, lesquels ont entierement ou presque entierement recouvre. la sante, les changements EEG, survenus auparavant au cows de la maladie, ont disparu. Des contrdles EEG repetes peuvent donc avoir une valeur prognostique et peuvent aussi indiquer la nekessite d'intensifier le traitement. Zusammenfassung Elektroencephalografische Untersuchungen bei 7 Kindern mit tuberkuloser mit Streptomycin behandelter Meningitis zeigen, dass eine klinische Verschlechterung, welche in 3 Fallen auftrat, von EEG Veranderungen in Form von grosser 4–5/Sek.-Wellen gefolgt ist. In 1 Fall traten Veranderungen im EEG vor anderen Zeichen einer Verschlechterung auf. In 4 Fallen, welche zu voller oder so gut wie voller Genesung kamen, vorschwanden die wahrend des fruheren Krankheitsverlaufes aufgetretenen Veranderungen des EEG. Wiederholte EEG Kontrollen konnen deshalb von prognostischem Wert sein und auch die Notwendigkeit einer intensiven Behandlung stutzen. Resumen Los exanienes electroencefalograficos en ninos de 7 anos eon meningitis tubercular tratada con estreptomicina muestran que una deterioracion clinica, que comenzo en 3 casos, fue acompanada de alteraciones EEG en forma de grandes ondas de 1–5 segundos. En un caso las alteraciones EEG fueron la primera indicacion de deterioracion. En cuatro casos, que han sido completa o casi completamente curados, las alteraciones EEG, observadas al principio de la enfermedad, han desaparecido. Repetidos controles EEG pueden ser de valor para el pronostico y pueden indicar la necesidad de un tratamiento intensificado.
High-resolution 3D coronary vessel wall imaging with near 100% respiratory efficiency using epicardial fat tracking: reproducibility and comparison with standard methods.

Purpose To quantitatively assess the performance and reproducibility of 3D spiral coronary artery wall imaging with beat-to-beat respiratory-motion-correction (B2B-RMC) compared to navigator gated 2D spiral and turbo-spin-echo (TSE) acquisitions. Materials and Methods High-resolution (0.7 × 0.7 mm) cross-sectional right coronary wall acquisitions were performed in 10 subjects using four techniques (B2B-RMC 3D spiral with alternate (2RR) and single (1RR) R-wave gating, navigator-gated 2D spiral (2RR) and navigator-gated 2D TSE (2RR)) on two occasions. Wall thickness measurements were compared with repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Reproducibility was assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results In all, 91% (73/80) of acquisitions were successful (failures: four TSE, two 3D spiral (1RR) and one 3D spiral (2RR)). Respiratory efficiency of the B2B-RMC was less variable and substantially higher than for navigator gating (99.6 ± 1.2% vs. 39.0 ± 7.5%, P < 0.0001). Coronary wall thicknesses (± standard deviation [SD]) were not significantly different: 1.10 ± 0.14 mm (3D spiral (2RR)), 1.20 ± 0.16 mm (3D spiral (1RR)), 1.14 ± 0.15 mm (2D spiral), and 1.21 ± 0.17 mm (TSE). Wall thickness reproducibility ranged from good (ICC = 0.65, 3D spiral (1RR)) to excellent (ICC = 0.87, 3D spiral (2RR)). Conclusion High-resolution 3D spiral imaging with B2B-RMC permits coronary vessel wall assessment over multiple thin contiguous slices in a clinically feasible duration. Excellent reproducibility of the technique potentially enables studies of disease progression/regression. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:77–86. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Shear-induced demixing in polymeric membrane dopes

Abstract One of the critical challenges in producing hollow fiber membranes is controlling fiber microstructure. The dope solutions involved possess (by design) an inherent thermodynamic sensitivity to phase separation, and are therefore susceptible to shear-induced microstructural changes when they are subjected to the complicated flow conditions that accompany spinning. This study demonstrates that shear-induced demixing is relevant in polymeric membrane dopes, and that it can affect macrovoid formation. Furthermore, we find that surprisingly subtle changes in shear history can affect demixing. Our investigation consisted of a two-tier approach. First, we used shear-small-angle light scattering (shear-SALS) to observe the microstructural evolution in liquid dope solutions before, during, and after shear flow. By varying the speed at which samples were syringe-loaded into the rheometer, we found that the pattern (and hence, the microstructure) observed after demixing varied based on shear history. In the second set of experiments, dopes with varying shear histories were extruded into a non-solvent bath to form solid fibers. Despite the fact that the fibers were all extruded under identical conditions, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the number of macrovoids observed varied widely between fibers. A comparison of the shear-SALS and extrusion results showed that shear-demixing is strongly linked to macrovoid formation. Our findings suggest that low-shear, upstream flow conditions (e.g., in supply tubing) could be just as important for fiber microstructure as the high-shear flow within the actual spinneret.
Upper Limit on Parity-Nonconserving Optical Rotation in Atomic Bismuth

We have searched for optical rotation near the 8757-\AA{} magnetic-dipole absorption line in atomic bismuth vapor. The experiment is sensitive to parity nonconservation in the weak neutral-current interaction between electrons and nucleons in atoms. We find $R\ensuremath{\equiv}\mathrm{Im}(\frac{{E}_{1}}{{M}_{1}})=(\ensuremath{-}0.7\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3.2)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}8}$, which is considerably smaller than the value $R=\ensuremath{-}2.5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}7}$ obtained by central-field calculations for this bismuth line using the Weinberg-Salam theory of neutral currents.
Conduction block in the inferior vena caval-tricuspid valve isthmus: association with outcome of radiofrequency ablation of type I atrial flutter.

Abstract Objectives. We sought to 1) correlated conduction block in the asthmus of the right atrium between the inferior vena cava and the tricuspid annulus with the efficacy of catheter ablation of type I atrial flutter, and 2) characterize the effects of ablative lesions on the properties of isthmus conduction. Background. There are few data on the mechanism of persistent suppression of recurrence of atrial flutter by catheter ablation. Methods. Thirty-five patients with type I atrial flutter underwent catheter mapping and ablation. Radiofrequency lesions were applied in the isthmus. Transisthmus conduction before and after the lesions was assessed during atrial pacing in sinus rhythm from the medial and lateral margins of the isthmus at cycle lengths of 600, 400 and 300 ms and the native flutter cycle length. Isthmus conduction block was defined using multipolar recording techniques. There were three treatment groups: group 1 = radiofrequency energy applied during flutter, until termination (n = 14); group 2 = radiofrequency energy applied during atrial pacing in sinus rhythm from the proximal coronary sinus at a cycle length of 600 ms, until isthmus conduction block was observed (n = 14); and group 3 = radiofrequency energy applied until an initial flutter termination, after which further energy was applied during atrial pacing in sinus rhythm until isthmus conduction block was observed (n = 7). Results. In group 1, after the initial flutter termination, isthmus conduction block was observed in 9 of the 14 patients. In each of these nine patients, flutter could not be reinitiated. In each of the remaining five patients, after the initial flutter termination, isthmus conduction was intact and atrial flutter could be reinitiated. Ultimately, successful ablation in each of these patients was also associated with isthmus conduction block. In groups 2 and 3, isthmus conduction block was achieved during radiofrequency energy application, and flutter could not subsequently be reinitiated. Before achieving conduction block, marked conduction slowing or intermittent block, or both, was observed in some patients. In some patients, isthmus conduction block was pacing rate dependent. In addition, recovery from conduction block was common in the laboratory and had a variable time course. At a mean follow-up interval of 10 months (range 1 to 21), the actuarial incidence of freedom from type 1 flutter was 80% (recurrence in three patients at 7 to 15 months). Conclusions. Isthmus conduction block is associated with flutter ablation success. Conduction slowing or intermittent block, or both, in the isthmus can occur before achieving persistent block. Recovery of conduction after achieving block is common. Follow-up has revealed a low rate of flutter recurrence after achieving isthmus conduction block, whether the block was achieved in conjunction with termination of flutter.
A comparative analysis of the price-process model of mortgage valuation

Abstract This paper compares the performance of the price-process model, which efficiently sets prepayments as a function of call option values, with a traditional interest-rate-process model, which sets prepayments as a function of interest rate spreads. The empirical results indicate that the price-process model is more consistent with GNMA market prices. Tests on more recent data indicate that the price-process modeling framework has continued to be more accurate in explaining GNMA prices than other mortgage-pricing models reported in the literature.
A Versatile Photocleavable Bifunctional Linker for Facile Synthesis of Substrate-DNA Conjugates for the Selection of Nucleic Acid Catalysts

Covalent photocleavable attachment of small molecules or peptides to oligonucleotides is an integral strategic element in the selection of novel nucleic acid enzymes. Here, we report the synthesis of a multipurpose, photocleavable bifunctional linker (PCBL) suitable for nucleic acid selections and other biotechnology applications. PCBL contains a photocleavable O-nitrobenzyl group flanked on one side by an N-hydroxysuccinimidyl ester (reactive toward primary amines) and on the other side by a sulfhydryl. To demonstrate the utility of PCBL, the linker was used to couple an analog of the antibiotic chloramphenicol (Cam) to the 5‘ end of an amino-modified 8-mer DNA oligo. Coupling was confirmed by MALDI-TOF spectrophotometry. Decoupling was performed by irradiating the coupled species with near-UV light (approximately 360 nm), regenerating the original amino-modified oligo. Ligation of the Cam−PCBL−DNA conjugate to random-sequence RNA generated a diversity library appropriate for the selection of new ribozym...
A multitechnique surface analysis study of the adsorption of H2, CO and O2 on BiPt(111) surfaces

Abstract The interactions of H2, CO and O2 on Bi-precovered Pt(111) surfaces have been examined using temperature programmed desorption (TPD), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS) and low energy electron diffraction (LEED). For H2 and CO, Bi predominantly acts as a laterally dispersed, inert site blocker. Oxygen adsorption on Bi Pt(111) surfaces is considerably more complex, with significant enhancement of O2 dissociation at 100 K for both low ( ≤ 1 kcal mol ).
Goodness‐of‐fit testing using components based on marginal frequencies of multinomial data

The goodness-of-fit test based on Pearson's chi-squared statistic is sometimes considered to be an omnibus test that gives little guidance to the source of poor fit when the null hypothesis is rejected. It has also been recognized that the omnibus test can often be outperformed by focused or directional tests of lower order. In this paper, a test is considered for a model on a data table formed by the cross-classification of q dichotomous variables, and a score statistic on overlapping cells that correspond to the first- through qth-order marginal frequencies is presented. Then orthogonal components of the Pearson-Fisher statistic are defined on marginal frequencies. The orthogonal components may be used to form test statistics, and a log-linear version of an item response model is used to investigate the order and dilution of a test based on these components, as well as the projection of components onto the space of lower-order marginals. The advantage of the components in terms of power and detection of the source of poor fit is demonstrated. Overcoming the adverse effects of sparseness provides another motive for using components based on marginal frequencies because an asymptotic chi-squared distribution will be more reliable for a statistic formed on overlapping cells if expected frequencies in the joint distribution are small.
Soft x-ray investigation of the effect of growth conditions on InAs/GaAs heterostructures

Abstract The effect of growth conditions on interfacial roughness in InAs/GaAs hetcrostructures prepared by molecular beam epitaxy has been investigated using synchrotron radiation. Measurement of grazing incidence X-ray reflectivity (GIXR) and total electron yield (TEY) in the soft X-ray wavelengths are used for nondestructive characterization of interfacial roughness in these semiconductor heterojunctions. Our results indicate that a smoothing process takes place during epitaxial growth, and that the measured interfacial roughness is lowest for In-stabilized deposition on a GaAs substrate at 2° off (100), and highest with As-stabilized overgrowth on GaAs(100). The surface and interfacial roughness are practically independent of the layer thickness in the range investigated (70–600 A).
Dopamine D1 binding sites in the striatum of the mutant mouse weaver

Abstract In the weaver mouse there is a major abnormality in the dopamine-containing innervation of the striatum. Dopamine islands form during development, along with some innervation of the non-islandic matrix; but during the first postnatal month much of the islandic innervation degenerates and there is a failure of the normal postnatal development of the diffuse nigrostriatal innervation. In the experiments reported here we analysed the distribution of D 1 dopamine receptor-related binding sites in the weaver striatum in an effort to test the relationship between the dopamine-containing innervation of the striatum and the synthesis and distribution of dopamine receptors there. Dopamine D 1 receptor binding sites labeled by the D 1 specific antagonist [ 3 H]SCH 23390 were studied in the striatum of 7-day and adult homozygous weaver (wv/wv) and homozygous control (+/+) mice. Saturation analysis of [ 3 H]SCH 23390 binding in adult animals suggested that the dissociation constants of the binding sites are similar in mutants and controls. The B max values in the striatum of weavers were 16% higher than in the controls when the data were expressed as fmoles/mg protein. The protein content of the adult weaver's striatum was decreased by 15 to 30%, however, so that when values were expressed as fmoles/section, no significant difference between values in weavers and homozygous controls were found. Quantitative autoradiography supported the results of saturation analysis. We conclude that the apparent increase of [ 3 H]SCH23390 binding sites in the mutants occurred as the result of shrinkage of the weaver's caudoputamen and that dopamine D 1 receptor binding sites in the caudoputamen, as assessed with [ 3 H]SCH 23390, are normal. The studies of regional distribution of [ 3 H]SCH 23390 binding sites in 7-day and adult mice indicated that the characteristic postnatal transition of the [ 3 H]SCH 23390 binding pattern from islandic to a diffuse distribution occurred normally in the weaver's caudoputamen. Thus, in spite of the degeneration and failure of development of the nigrostriatal innervation in weaver mice, D 1 binding in the weaver's striatum undergoes the elaborate change in distribution of these sites that is a hallmark of normal striatal development.
The adoption of software measures: A technology acceptance model (TAM) perspective

The use of software measures for project management and software process improvement has been encouraged for many years. However, the low level of acceptance and use of software measures in practice has been a constant concern. In this paper we propose and test a model which explains and predicts the use of software measures. The model is based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and operationalizes the perceived usefulness construct according to the ''desirable properties of software measures.'' Our research provides guidance for software engineers in selecting among different software measures and for software metrics coordinators who are planning measurement programs.
Medical informatics: Market for IS/IT

Following on the lead from earlier pilot studies, the present work uses co-occurrence analysis of INSPEC classification codes and thesaurus terms assigned to Medical Informatics journal articles and proceedings papers to reveal a more complete perspective of how information science and information technology authors view Medical Informatics. An important underlying dimension to this perspective portrays a continuum of interest from biophysics through biomechanics to biomedicine to (presumably) biology (which is noticeable in its absence). Medical Informatics may be described as the application of information science and information technology to the theoretical and practical problems of biomedical research, clinical practice, and medical education. However, study results suggest IS/IT considers its relationship to Medicine within Medical Informatics as that of supplier vs. market.