cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Database prescan: a time-efficient alternative to brain MRI autoprescan.

The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of database prescan as an alternative to conventional auto-prescan in pediatric brain MRI. Autoprescan parameters [receiver levels and transmit gain (TG)] were analyzed prospectively in 236 pediatric brain MRI studies. Paired t test and linear regression analysis were performed to determine predictability of autoprescan parameters by database-generated parameters. Signal-to-noise ratio, image quality, and potential time efficiency of database-generated parameters were assessed. No statistical difference (P = .13) and a high correlation between the TG of the axial fast spin echo (FSE) proton density (PD) and axial FSE T2-weighted sequences (r = .92) was seen. Strong correlations were noted between the TG of the sagittal T1-weighted and the TG of the axial FSE PD (r = .79), axial FSE T2-weighted (r = .81), and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (r = .78) sequences. The receiver levels did not change significantly between sequences. Quantitative and qualitative analyses revealed no differences in the signal-to-noise ratios of the autoprescan and the database-predicted prescan parameters. Implementation of database prescan could improve time efficiency by 28 to 33%. Autoprescan parameters can be predicted by using database-generated information while preserving the diagnostic image quality of the study. Incorporation of database prescan into commercial MRI systems could improve MRI time efficiency and patient throughput.
The interaction of unequal laminar plane plumes

Abstract Interactions between unequal laminar natural convection plumes generated by line heat sources were experimentally investigated using a Mach-Zehnder interferometer. These nominally free boundary flows were found to be affected by the presence of other similar flows which interfere with the supply of entrainment fluid. A model, based on the nature of the interacting flows, is successful in interpreting the mechanism.
THE ACTION OF THE PLANT GROWTH HORMONE.

1. Sections of Avena coleoptiles are found to show a considerable elongation when suspended in solutions of growth substance. 2. This elongation does not take place in the absence of O2 and is inhibited by KCN and phenylurethane. 3. The rate of respiration of sections of coleoptiles is increased by the addition of growth substance in concentrations which cause growth. High concentrations of growth substance inhibit growth and also respiration. 4. The increase in respiration is inhibited by KCN and phenylurethane in the concentrations which inhibit normal respiration. These concentrations are the same as those which inhibit growth. 5. From 2, 3, and 4, it seems possible that the increase in respiration caused by growth substance may be an essential part of its action in growth.
Templates for locating the whisker area in fresh flattened mouse and rat cortex

A way was devised to locate the projection fields (barrels) of the whiskers infresh neocortex of rats and mice. The cortex was quickly removed and flattened prior to fixation and staining for cytochrome oxidase. The barrels were mapped in relation to the flattened cortex by superimposing specimen and vascular outlines. The topographic location of the barrel field is consistent in rats and in mice. Simple templates were made by xerography on transparency film. Templates were used to accurately excise the barrel cortex of SmI from cortex or to place in vitro injections of HRP. The approach could be generalized to locate other cortical areas from lissencephalic brains.
Octopicola Stocki N. Sp. (Copepoda, Cyclopoida), Associated With an Octopus in Madagascar

Un Copepode nouveau du genre Octopicola, O. stocki, trouve sur le corps d'une pieuvre, Octopus (Tritaxeopus) cornutus, du nord-ouest de Madagascar, est decrit et compare a l'espece europeenne, Octopicola superbus.
Aqueous-based microencapsulation enhances virus-specific humoral immune responses in mice after parenteral inoculation

Abstract Vaccines are commonly administered by the parenteral route. Therefore, adjuvant strategies which include parenteral immunization may improve the efficacy of a nummer of current vaccines. The capacity of aqueous-based microencapsulation to enhance virusspecific IgG responses in mice inoculated intramuscularly with small quantities of antigen was evaluated. Mice were inoculated with either 10 4 , 10 3 , or 10 2 p.f.u. of microencapsulated rotavirus (bovine strain WC3), placebo microcapsules plus free virus, or virus alone. Mice were subsequently bled 1, 2, 4, 6, and 9 months after inoculation. Microencapsulation of rotavirus enhanced virus-specific humoral immune responses. In addition, virus-containing microcapsules composed of spermine-chondroitin sulfate induced levels of virus-specific antibodies greater than those found after inoculation with virus-containing microcapsules composed of spermine-alginate. Mechnisms by which microencapsulation may enhance virus-specific humoral immunity are discussed.
Dexamethasone increases de novo fatty acid synthesis in fetal rabbit lung explants.

ABSTRACT: The effects of dexamethasone on pulmonary de novo fatty acid synthesis were investigated in a fetal rabbit lung explant model. Culture of the explants for 2 or 6 days with dexamethasone produced a 48% increase in de novo fatty acid synthesis, measured by 3H2O incorporation, and a 2.5-fold increase in [3H-methyl] choline incorporation into phosphatidylcholine. A dose-response study showed this effect pleateaued at dexamethasone concentrations above 10-9 M. The distribution of the products of de novo fatty acid synthesis was altered by dexamethasone. Treated cultures had a 2.5-fold increase in esterification of the newly synthesized fatty acids to phosphatidylcholine and an increase in the proportion of all newly synthesized fatty acids that were used for phosphatidylcholine synthesis.Dexamethasone treatment significantly increased the total fatty acid content and the phosphatidylcholine fatty acid content of the explants by 27 and 85%, respectively. The newly synthesized fatty acids were esterified almost equally to the 1 and 2 positions of phosphatidylcholine; this distribution was not altered by dexamethasone. These studies demonstrate that fatty acid synthesis and distribution are regulated in the fetal lung, at least in part, by glucocorticoids. In addition, coordinate regulation of fetal lung de novo fatty acid synthesis and surfactant phosphatidylcholine production by glucocorticoids is likely.
A Comparison of Rubrics for Identifying Empirically Supported Practices with Single-Case Research

The use of single-case research methods for validating academic and behavioral interventions has gained considerable attention in recent years. As such, there has been a proliferation of methods for evaluating whether, and to what extent, primary research reports provide evidence of intervention effectiveness. Despite the recent interest in harnessing single-case research to identify empirically supported strategies, examination of these tools has revealed that there is a lack of consistency in the methodological criteria sampled and scoring procedures used to evaluate primary research reports. The present study examined the extent to which various evidence rubrics addressed specific methodological features of single-case research and classified studies into similar evidence categories. Results indicated that the methodological criteria included within rubrics tended to vary, particularly for criteria related to determining the generality of the intervention under study. Moreover, there was substantial discordance observed in the evidence classifications assigned to reviewed studies. These findings are discussed in the context of the still-developing nature of single-case evidence reviews. Recommendations for both research and practice are provided.
Method for quantitative analysis of glycosaminoglycan distribution in cultured natural and engineered cartilage.

Cartilage tissue engineering can provide a valuable tool for controlled studies of tissue development. As an example, analysis of the spatial distribution of glycosaminoglycans (GAG) in sections of cartilaginous tissues engineered under different culture conditions could be used to correlate the effects of environmental factors with the structure of the regenerated tissue. In this paper we describe a computer-based technique for quantitative analysis of safranin-O stained histological sections, using low magnification light microscopy images. We identified a parameter to quantify the intensity of red color in the sections, which in turn was proportional to the biochemically determined wet weight fraction of GAG in corresponding tissue samples, and to describe the spatial distribution of GAG as a function of depth from the section edge. A broken line regression model was then used to determine the thickness of an external region, with lower GAG fractions, and the spatial rate of change in GAG content. The method was applied to the quantitatation of GAG distribution in samples of natural and engineered cartilage, cultured for 6 weeks in three different vessels: static flasks, mixed flasks, and rotating bioreactors. © 1999 Biomedical Engineering Society. PAC99: 8780Rb, 8715Mi, 8763Lk
The isolation and characterization of a trisaccharide from porcine submaxillary glycoproteins.

Abstract The glycoproteins of mucus secretions have been studied intensively in the past twenty years. The structure of the carbohydrate moieties in these glycoproteins, however, is generally unknown. Indeed, except for the disaccharide sialyl-(1→ 6)-N-acetylgalactosamine obtained from bovine and ovine submaxillary glycoproteins ( Gottschalk, 1959 ), no other oligosaccharide has been isolated from mammalian submaxillary glycoproteins. In this paper we describe the isolation of the trisaccharide α-L-fucopyranosyl-(1→ 2)-β-D-galactopyranosyl-(1→ 4)-N-acetyl-D-galactosaminitol obtained by alkaline-reductive cleavage ( Tanaka and Pigman, 1965 ) from three porcine glycoprotein fractions. This is the first neutral oligosaccharide to be isolated from submaxillary glycoproteins.
The comparative effects of tumor-related agents on developmental marker expression in presumptive myoblasts and myotubes

Abstract The effect of a tumor promoter, 12- O -tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), on differentiation marker expression in skeletal myotubes and their immediate progenitors, presumptive myoblasts (PMbs), was investigated. The markers employed included the K-isozyme of pyruvate kinase (PK-K) and a newly characterized phosphoprotein (pp(65;4.5)), which are both normally concentrated in PMbs, and the M-isozyme of pyruvate kinase (PK-M) and phosphorylated derivatives of α- and β-tropomyosin (pT), which are normally concentrated in myotubes. PMbs treated with TPA for 3, 6 or 10 days continued to express PK-K and pp(65;4.5), and did not express PK-M or pT at detectable levels. Myotubes which were treated for 3 or 6 days were inhibited in their expression of PK-M and pT, but were not stimulated in their expression of PK-K or pp(65;4.5). The effects of TPA were reversible upon discontinuation of treatment. In parallel experiments, where pp(65;4.5) and pT were monitored, infection with Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) had similar effects. The data suggest that TPA treatment and RSV transformation do not alter the state of differentiation of target cells per se but, in the case of myotubes, do suppress the expression of that state.
Analytical Modeling of Cutting Point Trajectories in Milling

A modeling methodology applicable to milling is proposed. This methodology represents a unified approach, in which the essential features of previously developed analytic and numerical models are integrated. It employs homogeneous transformation technique and matrix formulation of the tool geometry. A systematic approach underlying the methodology facilitates separation of various features and phenomena characteristic of milling in the process of model building. It also assures the coherence and compatibility of various derived models. Thus, these models can be developed incrementally, by increasing their sophistication until the desired level of agreement with the actual process is achieved. As an example, equations of cutting point trajectories in face milling are derived. These equations are used to estimate the actual tool geometry and texture of the generated surface on the basis of measured cutting forces.
Kinetic roughening of amorphous Zr 65 Al 7.5 Cu 27.5 films investigated in situ with scanning tunneling microscopy

Kinetic roughening of amorphous Zr65Al7.5Cu27.5 films investigated in situ with scanning tunneling microscopy / B. Reinker, M. Moske, K. Samwer. - In: Physical review. B. 56. 1997. S. 9887-9893
CD4+ T Cell Plasticity—Th2 Cells Join the Crowd

In this issue of Immunity, Hegazy et al. (2010) report that in response to lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection, fully differentiated virus-specific Th2 cells can be reprogrammed into GATA-3(+)T-bet(+) cells capable of producing both interleukin-4 and interferon-gamma.
Structure and expression of the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii alad gene encoding the chlorophyll biosynthetic enzyme, δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (porphobilinogen synthase)

cDNA clones for the alad gene encoding the chlorophyll biosynthetic enzyme ALA dehydratase (ALAD) from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii were isolated by complementation of an Escherichia coli ALAD mutant (hemB). The C. reinhardtii alad gene encodes a protein that has 50 to 60% sequence identity with higher plant ALADs, and includes a putative Mg2+-binding domain characteristic of plant ALADs. Multiple classes of ALAD cDNAs were identified which varied in the length of their 3′-untranslated region. Genomic Southern analysis, using an ALAD cDNA as a probe, indicates that it is a single-copy gene. This suggests that the differently sized ALAD cDNAS are not the products of separate genes, but that a primary ALAD transcript is polyadenylated at multiple sites. A time course determination of ALAD mRNA levels in 12-h light: 12-h dark synchronized cultures shows a 7-fold increase in ALAD mRNA at 2 h into the light phase. The ALAD mRNA level gradually declines but continues to be detectable up to the beginning of the dark phase. ALAD enzyme activity increases 3-fold by 6 h into the light phase and remains high through 10 h. Thus, there is an increase in both ALAD mRNA level and ALAD enzyme activity during the light phase, corresponding to the previously observed increase in the rate of chlorophyll accumulation.
Melting behaviour, crystal transformation and morphology of sulfonated poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibres

Abstract High temperature wide-angle X-ray diffraction (HTWAXD) has elucidated the differences in the structural changes in undrawn and crimped sulfonated poly(ethylene terephthalate) (SPET) fibres during heating from 230°C through melting. Both the heat-induced crystals and the drawing-induced crystals in the undrawn and crimped SPET fibres are triclinic. The HTWAXD data suggest that different morphologies are responsible for the distinct melting behaviour between the undrawn and drawn SPET fibres. It is thought that spherulites and bundled crystals are induced by heating and drawing in the undrawn and drawn SPET fibres, respectively. Upon heating, the undrawn fibres crystallize into spherulitic crystals ( T m = 257°C) whose structure do not change at temperatures approaching melting. The drawing-induced bundle crystals in the crimped fibres melt at a lower melting temperature of 249°C. The bundled crystals are oriented to the fibre axis, but highly stressed, less perfect, and smaller in size, therefore melt at lower temperatures. With increasing temperatures, the partially melted paracrystalline structure transforms into a pseudohexagonal crystalline structure before reorganizing into spherulites which melt subsequently.
Fiber Routing, Wavelength Assignment and Multiplexing DWDM-Centric Converged Metro/Aggregation Networks

The planning problem of novel DWDM-centric converged metro/aggregation networks is solved by algorithms based on intelligent wavelength assignment and an auxiliary-graph approach that exploits load-balanced routing and the optical-multiplexing capability of WSSes.
Specific recruitment of protein kinase A to the immunoglobulin locus regulates class-switch recombination

Immunoglobulin class-switch recombination (CSR) requires activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID). Deamination of DNA by AID in transcribed switch (S) regions leads to double-stranded breaks in DNA that serve as obligatory CSR intermediates. Here we demonstrate that the catalytic and regulatory subunits of protein kinase A (PKA) were specifically recruited to S regions to promote the localized phosphorylation of AID, which led to binding of replication protein A and subsequent propagation of the CSR cascade. Accordingly, inactivation of PKA resulted in considerable disruption of CSR because of decreased AID phosphorylation and recruitment of replication protein A to S regions. We propose that PKA nucleates the formation of active AID complexes specifically on S regions to generate the high density of DNA lesions required for CSR.
Structure-activity relations for anticholinergic 2(1-aryl(or cyclohexyl)-1-hydroxy-1-phenyl)methyl-1,3-dioxolans.

The syntheses and configurational assignments of some 4-dimethyl aminomethyl-2[1-aryl (or cyclohexyl)-1 -hydroxy-1-phenyl]methyl-1,3-dioxolans are described. The anticholinergic potency of the 4-dimethylaminomethyl-2[l-cyclohexyl-l-hydroxy-l-phenyl]methyl-1,3-dioxolans, both in tertiary and quaternary form, depends principally on the configuration of the benzylic carbon atom, secondly on the C-2 configuration and thirdly, and to a much lesser extent, if at all, on the C-4 configuration. The dioxolans, which are derived formally from 4-dimethylaminomethyl-2-methyl-1,3-dioxolan methiodide (or its tertiary analogue) by replacement of the 2-methyl substituent by a 2[l-aryl (or cyclohexyl)-l-hydroxy-l-phenyl]methyl group and the glycollates which are derived formally from acetylcholine (or its tertiary analogue) by corresponding substitution of the acetoxymethyl group have closely similar anticholinergic potencies.
Drug effects on canary stereotypies

Caged canaries exhibit two general repetitive stereotypies which have been termed route-tracing and spot-picking. Since certain stereotyped behaviors in chimpanzees have been related to level of arousal, and even regarded as mechanisms for regulating the arousal level, an attempt was made to determine the relationship between stereotypies and level of arousal in the canary. The arousal level was manipulated through administration of drugs known to affect arousal mechanisms. These pharmacological agents were administered orally 60 min before testing occurred. An equal volume of water served as the placebo. Stereotypies were counted in 5-min observation periods, excluding time spent singing, feeding, drinking, and preening.
A System for Performance Evaluation of Partial Differential Equations Software

This paper describes a system to systematically compare the performance of various methods (software modules) for the numerical solution of partial differential equations. We discuss the general nature and large size of this performance evaluation problem and the data one obtains. The system meets certain design objectives that ensure a valid experiment: 1) precise definition of a particular measurement; 2) uniformity in defimition of variables entering the experiment; and 3) reproducibility of results. The ease of use of the system makes it possible to make the large sets of measurements necessary to obtain confidence in the results and its portability allows others to check or extend the measurements. The system has four parts: 1) semiautomatic generation of problems for experimental input; 2) the ELLPACK system for actually solving the equation; 3) a data management system to organize and access the experimental data; and 4) data analysis programs to extract graphical and statistical summaries from the data.
Localized molecular orbital studies of transition metal complexes. II: Simple π‐accepting ligands

Localized molecular orbitals (LMOs) for several octahedral complexes are presented. Wavefunctions are calculated within the PRDDO approximations and localized by the Boys criterion. Complexes of general formula (NH3)x(CO)6-xM, M = Cr0 or Mn+ and x = 1, 2, or 3 illustrate the general trends for carbonyl complexes. Weak to moderate π-bonding results in three equivalent inner shell LMOs dominantly of metal 3s, 3p and 3d character but highly delocalized to the carbonyls. These three LMOs flank the M-CO bond axis. Other π back-bonding situations result in metal-ligand double bonds which are nonequivalent and have σ-π separability [(NH3)5(py)Mn+] and also equivalent double bonds [(NH3)5(NO)Cr+].
A Massive Disk Galaxy at z = 1.34* **

We report on the discovery of a rapidly rotating disk in a K-selected galaxy at z = 1.34. Spatially resolved kinematics are determined from deep, moderate-resolution Keck spectroscopy covering the redshifted [O II] 3727 A line. A conservative estimate of the maximum rotation velocity Vmax = 290 ± 20 km s-1, placing the galaxy among the most rapid rotators known. A Hubble Space Telescope Wide Field Planetary Camera 2 image taken in the IF814W filter (rest-frame U) shows that the [O II] emission originates in a ring of star-forming regions ~3'' (~20 h kpc) across. In the K band, the galaxy is compact, and its position coincides with the center of the star-forming ring seen in the rest-frame near-UV. The galaxy has MV = -22.4 ± 0.2 (~3L*) in the rest frame, and its spectral energy distribution is very well fitted by that of a redshifted Sb/c galaxy. The observed kinematics, morphology, and spectral energy distribution are consistent with a massive bulge-disk system at z = 1.34. The lower limit on Vmax gives an upper limit on the offset from the present-day Tully-Fisher relation. The galaxy is overluminous by less than 0.7 ± 0.4 mag in rest-frame V, consistent with previous studies of disk galaxies at lower redshift. Taken together, these results suggest that some of the most luminous spiral galaxies in the nearby universe were already in place ~1010 yr ago, placing a constraint on models for their formation.
Time-lapse imaging of a localized weak change with multiply scattered waves using numerical-based sensitivity kernel

Multiply scattered seismic waves, due to their long path length within a finite volume, provide information that can be used to detect and image weak time-lapse changes within a medium. Such weak changes are usually not resolved with singly scattered waves. Previous use of multiply scattered waves for time-lapse monitoring assume statistical homogeneity of the scattering property of the scattering medium. This homogeneity is usually characterized by either a constant mean free path or a diffusion coefficient. In a realistic medium, however, this assumption of homogeneity likely breaks down. We demonstrate the capability of resolving a localized time-lapse velocity change within a three-layer 2-D scattering model using multiply scattered waves. The layers within the model have different scattering properties. The imaging algorithm requires numerically generating the sensitivity kernel that correctly represents the statistical heterogeneity of the scattering model. We localize the weak velocity change, but the resolution of the imaged change degrades with increasing coda traveltime. A comparison of the imaged changes from the numerical kernel and the kernel that assumes statistical homogenous model suggests that the numerical kernel provides a stronger constraint on the shape of the imaged velocity change.
An Energy-Efficient Markov Chain-Based Randomized Duty Cycling Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks

To extend the life time of a wireless sensor network, sensor nodes usually switch between dormant and active states according to a duty cycling scheme. In randomized schemes, sensors use only partial or no information about their neighbors, and rely on randomness to generate working schedules. Duty cycling schemes are often evaluated in terms of the connection delay, i.e., the time until two neighboring nodes are simultaneously active, and the connection duration, i.e., the time until at least one of them switches to the dormant state. In this paper, we argue that duty cycling time (energy) efficiency, i.e., the ratio of time (energy) employed in ancillary operations when switching from and into deep sleep mode, is an important performance metric too. We present experimental results using Sun SPOT sensors that support our claim and highlight the performance trade-off between connection delay and time (energy) efficiency for a traditional scheme based on independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) random variables. We propose a novel randomized duty cycling scheme based on Markov chains with the goal of (i) reducing the connection delay, while maintaining a given time (energy) efficiency, or (ii) keeping a constant connection delay, while increasing the time (energy) efficiency. The proposed scheme is analyzed mathematically by deriving the time efficiency, connection delay and duration in terms of the time slot length, duty cycle, and cost of set up and tear down operations. Analytical results demonstrate that the Markov chain-based scheme can improve the performance in terms of connection delay without affecting the time efficiency, or vice versa, as opposed to the trade-off observed in traditional schemes. Experimental results using Sun SPOT sensor nodes with the minimum number of operations during transitions from and into deep sleep mode confirm the mathematical analysis of the proposed Markov chain-based randomized scheme.
New developments in barbiturate abuse.

(1970). New Developments in Barbiturate Abuse. Clinical Toxicology: Vol. 3, No. 1, pp. 57-65.
Analysis of an optical burst switching router with tunable multiwavelength recirculating buffers

Optical burst switching (OBS) presents challenges to the design of optical routers. This paper considers how to dimension a router of N input data ports with an additional M fiber delay lines (FDLs) in an OBS network. The router incorporates tunable FDLs that can vary their size to fit the burst being buffered. Tunable FDLs can be approximated using a set of static FDLs of unequal sizes. For this, the size of static FDL set is monotonically increased, in step size increments, from minimum burst size until the throughput increase is equal to the corresponding tunable FDL configuration. Simulation results for a 32-input port router with 256 tunable delays achieve up to 20% higher throughput than static delays at high input port load. Multiple recirculations are a critical requirement; when packets can circulate only once through the buffer, no measurable improvement is achieved after the number of FDLs becomes equal to the number of input data ports. When recirculation is permitted, throughput increases by up to 40%, depending on a combination of the number of FDLs added and the recirculation limit, which must increase in tandem (e.g., for 32 buffers with eight recirculations or 256 buffers with 16 recirculations). For a given number of FDLs, there is an optimal recirculation limit beyond which there is no measurable throughput benefit. By varying the recirculation limit or number of FDLs, tunable buffering can match the gain achieved by wavelength conversion, possibly at lower hardware cost.
Microstructure and residual stresses in Al2O3 prepared by ion beam assisted deposition

Alumina films synthesized by ion beam assisted deposition (EBAD) were characterized in terms of their microstructure and residual stress. Normalized energy per deposited atom, En, ranged from 0 to 130 eV/atom. The microstructure of PVD films (E n =0) is a mixture of crystalline (γ-Al 2 O 3 ) and amorphous phases and IBAD films are amorphous. Density and stoichiometry vary between 2.6 and 3.1 g/cm 3 and 1.3 and 1.6, respectively. Neither are dependent on either ion-to-atom arrival rate ratio, R, or E n . The film porosity is in the form of small (4-6 nm) voids of density 10 17 - 10 18 cm -3 . Bombarding gas is incorporated with 80% efficiency to levels of 4-5 at. %. A tensile residual stress of 0.3 GPa exists in PVD films. A rapid transition to high compressive stresses occurs with increased E n , with a saturation of -0.4 GPa occurring at high E n There is a strong correlation between gas incorporation and residual film stress. However, no existing models are capable of providing a quantitative explanation of the results.
Patients who failed endoscopic stenting for left-sided malignant colorectal obstruction suffered the worst outcomes

Reported outcomes of patients followed failed endoscopic stenting for acute left-sided malignant colonic obstruction remained lacking. This study aims to compare the outcomes between endoscopic stenting and emergency surgery in patients with acute left-sided malignant colonic obstruction and to identify factors that predict failed stenting. A retrospective review of all patients with acute left-sided malignant colonic obstruction in the National University Hospital, Singapore was performed. From January 2007 to October 2013, 165 patients, with a median age of 68 years (range, 25–96), formed the study group. Sixty-nine (41.8 %) patients underwent immediate surgery. Endoscopic stenting was attempted in 96 (58.2 %) patients and was successful in 76 (79.2 %). The remaining 20 (20.8 %) failed the procedure and were operated immediately. Three of the patients who were successfully stented but did not improve clinically also required emergency surgery. Patients that failed stenting were 13.3 (95 % confidence interval (CI), 3.61–48.8; p < 0.001) times more likely to develop severe adverse events than those who were successfully stented. The group of patients who failed stenting was also 3.3 (95 % CI, 1.19–9.20; p = 0.026) times more likely to develop severe adverse events than those operated immediately. The only factor that predicted failure of stenting was a more acute angulation between the tumour and the distal lumen. Patients who failed endoscopic stenting fared worse than those who were successfully stented and also those who underwent emergency surgery upfront. Identification of factors that predict failures may be vital to minimise morbidity in these high-risk patients.
Research on Social Issues in Elementary School Physical Education

Abstract The social and cultural norms children learn in schools can have a powerful effect on a variety of lifestyle decisions that will affect their physical and mental health. In this article we examine research on social issues in elementary school physical education. We provide an overview of how teachers’ actions and behaviors affect what children learn in the social context of the gymnasium and, particularly, what they learn about engaging in physical activity. We examine how motor ability, gender, race, ethnicity, and social class influence socialization in physical education and affect children’s choices about engaging actively in learning activities. The theoretical constructs of self‐schema and the hidden curriculum are used to illustrate how school experiences interact with what children view as possible for themselves, and how implicit messages enhance or constrain children’s involvement in physical activity.
Single-source interferometric multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering with a photonic crystal fiber light source

An interferometric multiplex coherent anti-Stokes scattering (iMCARS) system that utilizes the supercontinuum of a photonic crystal fiber as both the Stokes and local oscillator sources for broadband heterodyne detection is demonstrated.
Metabolite recognition principles and molecular mechanisms underlying riboswitch function.

Riboswitches are mRNA elements capable of modulating gene expression in response to specific binding by cellular metabolites. Riboswitches exert their function through the interplay of alternative ligand-free and ligand-bound conformations of the metabolite-sensing domain, which in turn modulate the formation of adjacent gene expression controlling elements. X-ray crystallography and NMR spectroscopy have determined three-dimensional structures of virtually all the major riboswitch classes in the ligand-bound state and, for several riboswitches, in the ligand-free state. The resulting spatial topologies have demonstrated the wide diversity of riboswitch folds and revealed structural principles for specific recognition by cognate metabolites. The available three-dimensional information, supplemented by structure-guided biophysical and biochemical experimentation, has led to an improved understanding of how riboswitches fold, what RNA conformations are required for ligand recognition, and how ligand binding...
Aim2 Deficiency Stimulates the Expression of IFN-Inducible Ifi202 , a Lupus Susceptibility Murine Gene within the Nba2 Autoimmune Susceptibility Locus

Murine Aim2 and p202 proteins (encoded by the Aim2 and Ifi202 genes) are members of the IFN-inducible p200 protein family. Both proteins can sense dsDNA in the cytoplasm. However, upon sensing dsDNA, only the Aim2 protein through its pyrin domain can form an inflammasome to activate caspase-1 and induce cell death. Given that the p202 protein has been predicted to inhibit the activation of caspase-1 by the Aim2 protein and that increased levels of the p202 protein in female mice of certain strains are associated with lupus susceptibility, we compared the expression of Aim2 and Ifi202 genes between Aim2-deficient and age-matched wild-type mice. We found that the Aim2 deficiency in immune cells stimulated the expression of Ifi202 gene. The increased levels of the p202 protein in cells were associated with increases in the expression of IFN-β, STAT1, and IFN-inducible genes. Moreover, after knockdown of Aim2 expression in the murine macrophage cell line J774.A1, IFN-β treatment of cells robustly increased STAT1 protein levels (compared with those of control cells), increased the activating phosphorylation of STAT1 on Tyr-701, and stimulated the activity of an IFN-responsive reporter. Notably, the expression of Aim2 in non-lupus-prone (C57BL/6 and B6.Nba2-C) and lupus-prone (B6.Nba2-ABC) splenic cells and in a murine macrophage cell line that overexpressed p202 protein was found to be inversely correlated with Ifi202. Collectively, our observations demonstrate an inverse correlation between Aim2 and p202 expressions. We predict that defects in Aim2 expression within immune cells contribute to increased susceptibility to lupus.
A Multiplicity of Mediators: Alternative Forms of Transcription Complexes Communicate with Transcriptional Regulators

The already complex process of transcription by RNA polymerase II has become even more complicated in the last few years with the identification of auxiliary factors in addition to the essential general initiation factors. In many cases these factors, which have been termed mediators or co-activators, are only required for activated or repressed transcription. In some cases the effects are specific for certain activators and repressors. Recently some of these auxiliary factors have been found in large complexes with either TBP, as TBP-associated factors (TAFs) in the general factor TFIID, or with pol II and a subset of the general factors, referred to as the 'holoenzyme'. Although the exact composition of these huge assemblies is still a matter of some debate, it is becoming clear that the complexes themselves come in more than one form. In particular, at least four forms of TFIID have been described, including one that contains a tissue-specific TAF and another with a cell type-specific form of TBP. In addition, in yeast there are at least two forms of the 'holoenzyme' distinguished by their mediator composition and by the spectrum of transcripts whose expression they affect. Genetic and biochemical analyses have begun to identify the interactions between the components of these complexes and the ever increasing family of DNA binding regulatory factors. These studies are complicated by the fact that individual regulatory factors often appear to have redundant interactions with multiple mediators. The existence of these different forms of transcription complexes defines a new target for regulation of subsets of eukaryotic genes.
Photobook: tools for content-based manipulation of image databases

We describe the Photobook system, which is a set of interactive tools for browsing and searching images and image sequences. These tools differ from those used in standard image databases in that they make direct use of the image content rather than relying on annotations. Direct search on image content is made possible by use of semantics-preserving image compression, which reduces images to a small set of perceptually significant coefficients. We describe three Photobook tools in particular: one that allows search based on gray-level appearance, one that uses 2-D shape, and a third that allows search based on textural properties.
SNR improvement of four-wave mixing wavelength shifting by noise prefiltering in a semiconductor optical amplifier

Summary form only given. In this paper, we demonstrate a WDM fibre network noise prefiltering method using a bandpass filter before four-wave mixing. This approach is very robust, because the filtering is unaffected by drifting of the wavelengths of the input signals. Using this approach, we achieve all-optical wavelength shifting over 9 nm at 2.5 Gbit/s with low power penalty for a wide input-power dynamic range.
The Red and the Black: Bioluminescence and the Color of Animals in the Deep Sea

Abstract The colors of deep-sea species are generally assumed to be cryptic, but it is not known how cryptic they are and under what conditions. This study measured the color of approximately 70 deep-sea species, both pelagic and benthic, and compared the results with two sets of predictions: 1) optimal crypsis under ambient light, 2) optimal crypsis when viewed by bioluminescent “searchlights.” The reflectances of the pelagic species at the blue-green wavelengths important for deep-sea vision were far lower than the predicted reflectances for crypsis under ambient light and closer to the zero reflectance prediction for crypsis under searchlights. This suggests that bioluminescence is more important than ambient light for the visual detection of pelagic species at mesopelagic depths. The reflectances of the benthic species were highly variable and a relatively poor match to the substrates on which they were found. However, estimates of the contrast sensitivity of deep-sea visual systems suggest that even ...
Intracameral Avastin Dramatically Resolves Iris Neovascularization and Reverses Neovascular Glaucoma

PURPOSE. To report the biologic effect of intracameral bevacizumab in patients with iris neovascularization secondary to proliferative retinal vasculopathies. METHODS. Sixteen eyes of 15 patients with iris neovascularization associated with or without neovascular glaucoma secondary to proliferative retinal vasculopathies received intracameral bevacizumab (1.25 mg). Ophthalmic evaluations included Snellen visual acuity (VA), complete ophthalmic examination, fluorescein iris angiography, and slit lamp photography. Main outcome measure was change in degree of iris neovascularization. Secondary outcomes included fluorescein iris angiographic leakage, control of intraocular pressure, and changes in VA. R ESULTS. All patients with neovascularization demonstrated by slit lamp photography and fluorescein angiography (16/16 eyes) had complete (or at least partial) reduction in leakage of the neovascularization within 3 weeks after the injection. Leakage from iris neovascularization resolved in 12 of 16 (75%) eyes. In two cases recurrent leakage was seen as early as 4 weeks necessitating repeat injection. Intraocular pressure was controlled with maximum medical therapy in eight of nine eyes reducing the need for glaucoma surgery. Visual acuity improved from a median of hand motions to 20/200. C ONCLUSIONS. In summary, intracameral bevacizumab was effective in reversing iris neovascularization in the majority of patients. It also facilitated intraocular pressure control in patients with associated glaucoma. (Eur J Ophthalmol 2008; 18: 255-62)
Natural and genetically engineered viral agents for oncolysis and gene therapy of human cancers

Based on personal acquaintances and experience dating back to the early 1950s, the senior author reviews the history of viral therapy of cancer. He points out the difficulties encountered in the treatment of human cancers, as opposed by the highly successful viral therapy of experimentally maintained tumors in laboratory animals, especially that of ascites carcinomas in mice. A detailed account of viral therapy of human tumors with naturally oncolytic viruses follows, emphasizing the first clinical trials with viral oncolysates. The discrepancy between the high success rates, culminating in cures, in the treatment of tumors of laboratory animals, and the moderate results, such as stabilizations of disease, partial responses, very rare complete remissions, and frequent relapses with virally treated human tumors is recognized. The preclinical laboratory testing against established human tumor cell lines that were maintained in tissue cultures for decades, and against human tumors extricated from their natural habitat and grown in xenografts, may not yield valid results predictive of the viral therapy applied against human tumors growing in their natural environment, the human host. Since the recent discovery of the oncosuppressive efficacy of bacteriophages, the colon could be regarded as the battlefield, where incipient tumor cells and bacteriophages vie for dominance. The inner environment of the colon will be the teaching ground providing new knowledge on the value of the anti-tumor efficacy of phage-induced innate anti-tumor immune reactions. Genetically engineered oncolytic viruses are reviewed next. The molecular biology of viral oncolysis is explained in details. Elaborate efforts are presented to elucidate how gene product proteins of oncolytic viruses switch off the oncogenic cascades of cancer cells. The facts strongly support the conclusion that viral therapy of human cancers will remain in the front lines of modern cancer therapeutics. It may be a combination of naturally oncolytic viruses and wild-type viruses rendered oncolytic and harmless by genetic engineering, that will induce complete remissions of human tumors. It may be necessary to co-administer certain chemotherapeutic agents, advanced cancer vaccines, or even immune lymphocytes, and targeted therapeuticals, to ascertain, that remissions induced by the viral agents will remain complete and durable; will co-operate with anti-tumor host immune reactions, and eventually will result in cures of advanced metastatic human cancers.
Fast detection of retail fraud using polar touch buttons

Video analytics have recently emerged as a promising technique of retail fraud detection for loss prevention. Efficient video analytic algorithms are highly desired for a practical fraud detection system. In this paper, we present a real-time algorithm for recognizing a cashier's actions at the Point of Sale (POS), which can be further used to analyze cashier behaviors for identifying fraudulent incidents. The algorithm uses a set of simple but effective features derived from a global representation of motion energy called Polar Motion Map (PMM). These features capture the motion patterns exhibited in a cashier's actions as a focused beam of motion energy, characterizing the actions as the extension and retraction movement of the cashier's arm with respect to a prespecified region. Our algorithm demonstrates comparable accuracy against one of the state-of-the-art event recognition techniques [1] while running significantly faster.
Data-centric security: role analysis and role typestates

In J2EE and .NET roles are assigned to methods using external configuration files, called the deployment descriptors. Assigning roles to methods, although conceptually simple, in practice it is quite complicated. For instance, in order for a deployer to assign a role r to a method m, the deployer must understand the set of roles R that are assigned to each method n that can be invoked directly or indirectly from m, and that r has to be "consistently" assigned with respect R. Understanding such role consistency is a non-trivial task. Also, in J2EE roles are defined with respect to method access and not data access. Therefore, in order to protect sensitive data, one has to encode data access control using method access control. This can lead to interesting and subtle access control problems when accessing sensitive data, including information leakage through data flow from one method to another.In this paper we focus on data-centric security by presenting two concepts: Role Analysis: We present a simple interprocedural static analysis for detecting security problems when objects are accessed by multiple methods that do not have compatible or consistent assignment of roles. We then introduce the notion of an object "escaping" a role and present a simple interprocedural static analysis for computing the set of objects that may escape a role. Consistency-Based Security and Role Typestates: We extend J2EE method-based role assignment to consistency-based role assignment. In this paper we will focus on assigning roles to typestates rather than methods.
How Many Longitudinal Modes Can Oscillate in a Quantum-Dot Laser: An Analytical Estimate

Multilongitudinal-mode oscillation in a quantum-dot (QD) laser is studied. The number of modes is shown to remain limited with increasing injection current. The maximum number of modes that can oscillate in a QD laser is analytically estimated. While this number increases with increasing surface density of QDs or cavity length, it remains limited (first increases and then decreases) with increasing scatter in the QD size. The critical tolerable values of the structure parameters are derived beyond which higher order longitudinal modes cannot oscillate. It is notable that, in addition to the maximum tolerable scatter, there also exists the minimum scatter in the QD size for each higher order mode to start lasing.
It Is Not Just Diabetes: Engaging Ethnographic Voices to Develop Culturally Appropriate Health Promotion Efforts

In this article, we examine cultural capital within the contexts of ethnography, community-based participatory research (CBPR), and holism. Because many chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes are influenced by lifestyle choices in which culture plays a central role regarding perceptions of illness and health, it is important to understand how patients and their communities perceive these cultural factors. We outline how CBPR can be used as a strategy to explore these issues among Native Americans in the northeastern United States, whose perspectives and experiences have been less visible in the published literature. As a method, CBPR provides a context to "apply" cultural capital in the research arena, while holism, as a practice, provides an excellent exemplar of how cultural capital is manifested in the day-to-day lives of Native Americans. We also illustrate the ways in which health education programs are primarily influenced by medicalized perspectives of diabetes and cancer, which demand a sing...
How Often does Treatment of Primary HIV Lead to Post-Treatment Control?:

BackgroundPost-treatment control of viraemia after discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy begun during primary HIV-1 infection is considered a potential path toward a sustained remission of infe...
Maintenance of Adrenalectomized Guinea Pigs.

SummarySeveral diets were tested for adequacy in the nutrition of the guinea pig, and the necessity of the grass juice factor for this animal was confirmed. A diet high in the grass juice factor an...