cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Case of Cerebral Amyloidoma Presenting as a Mass Lesion (P3.376)

Objective: To describe a case of primary intra-axial cerebral amyloidoma mimicking a neoplastic lesion. Background: Amyloid deposition in the brain may commonly be seen in the form of cerebral amyloid angiopathy or senile plaques. A localized mass of amyloid is called amyloidoma and is the rarest form of cerebral amyloidosis. Here we report a rare case of amyloidoma, which presented as a mass lesion and posed a diagnostic dilemma. Methods: 72 year old female presented to the hospital with staring spells concerning for focal seizures. She had a non-focal neurologic examination. Initial CT head did not reveal any abnormalities. EEG was unremarkable, and patient chose to take no medications for possible seizures. Six months later, she presented with a generalized tonic clonic seizure. At that point MRI brain revealed a gadolinium enhancing mass in the right temporal lobe. This was suspicious for a neoplasm and patient underwent a brain biopsy to establish a pathologic diagnosis. Results: MRI brain with and without contrast revealed a right temporal enhancing mass lesion with irregular margins. Histopathologic examination showed no evidence of neoplasia, H and E stain showed amorphous material with focal perivascular chronic inflammatory cell infiltrates. Congo-Red stain under polarized microscopy revealed apple green birefringence, a finding consistent with diagnosis of amyloidosis. All the tests were negative for possible causes of secondary amyloidosis. Conclusions: Primary intra axial cerebral amyloidoma is a rare entity. Amyloidomas can present as solitary or multiple lesions. Initial imaging studies may be concerning for possible neoplastic lesions due to a similarity in the clinical presentation. Primary amyloidomas should be included in the differential diagnosis of intraaxial masses, which are hyperintense on T1-weighted MRI and which show postcontrast enhancement. Brain biopsy can make a definitive diagnosis. Disclosure: Dr. Modak has nothing to disclose. Dr. Manwani has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mittal has nothing to disclose.
Mark E Josephson: Characteristics of Leadership

Mark Josephson is without a doubt the most fascinating person I have ever met. I am proud to have had a close friendship with him and I miss him immensely. I have written in the past about his amazing academic contributions, but in a way I am relieved that this is not my topic today. I will instead talk about the unique aspects of his personality that allowed him to be a great leader in the field of electrophysiology and a powerful influence on the personal development of those of us who had the great good fortune of interacting with him closely.
New Light on Factor Analysis

HOULD a farmer improve first the factors in which he is lowest? If his crop yields are low and his livestock efficiency is average, should he try to improve his crop yields first? Will this give the largest increase in income? Many farm management workers support the contention that the lowest factor should be improved first. A quotation from a recent farm management text is typical of statements that frequently appear:
Distributed placement of power generation resources in uncertain environments

To tackle the problem of long-term disasters of river basin by big dams and at the same time to meet the energy demands we propose a novel distributed allocation of power generation units along the river. The presented approach is applicable where a distribution of resources is required subject to challenges posed by uncertainty in the behavior of the environment. The problem of uncertainty is split into two parts. The short-term variations are taken care of using a distance based partitioning approach to determine the power unit co-ordinates and corresponding partitions of the geographic area based on the power demand. The key idea is to minimize the distance between probability distribution of the generated power and the total demand supposed to be catered in a local geographic partition. The long-term uncertainty is handled by assigning sleep/wake periods to the placed run-of-the-river (ROR)s. Numerical simulations on the water flow data of the Mississippi river is performed and it is shown that the proposed formulation is applicable for determining the initial unit placements and also in deciding the sleep/wake periods of the placed units. A comprehensive study of ROR placements upon varying the demand density, locality preference and time is performed. The solution based on the idea of disturb and settle can be computed in an efficient polynomial order complexity and offers exponential savings from the brute-force.
Thyrotropin-releasing hormone action: mechanism of calcium-mediated stimulation of prolactin secretion.

An elevation of cytoplasmic free calcium ion concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ) 1 serves to couple the interaction of many hormones and neurotransmitters with plasma membrane receptors to the stimulation of a variety of cellular processes. This chapter discusses the intracellular events that couple thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)-receptor interaction to the elevation of [Ca 2+ ] I in GH 3 cells. In order to understand the molecular mechanisms that mediate the elevation of [Ca 2+ ] i , it is important to identify both the potential mediators of this effect and the pool of calcium that contribute to the increase in [Ca 2+ ] i . For the investigations, GH 3 cells are utilized, a cloned cell line that is widely employed as a model to study the physiology of pituitary mammotropic cells. The chapter presents evidence from the studies in GH 3 cells—(1) TRH stimulates an elevation of [Ca 2+ ] i in part by mobilizing calcium from an intracellular, nonmitochondrial pool; (2) TRH stimulates the rapid, phospholipase C-mediated hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P 2 ), a minor plasma membrane phospholipid, to yield inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP 3 ); (3) InsP 3 is capable of rapidly mobilizing calcium from an intracellular, non mitochondrial pool. Based on these observations, the chapter explains that TRH stimulates the hydrolysis of PtdIns(4,5)P 2 to InsP 3 that, in turn, mobilizes calcium from a nonmitochondrial pool leading to elevation of [Ca 2+ ] i then to activation of exocytosis and to stimulated prolactin secretion.
Light-Sheet Imaging to Elucidate Cardiovascular Injury and Repair.

Purpose of Review: Real-time 3-dimensional (3-D) imaging of cardiovascular injury and regeneration remains challenging. We introduced a multi-scale imaging strategy that uses light-sheet illumination to enable applications of cardiovascular injury and repair in models ranging from zebrafish to rodent hearts. Recent Findings: Light-sheet imaging enables rapid data acquisition with high spatiotemporal resolution and with minimal photo-bleaching or photo-toxicity. We demonstrated the capacity of this novel light-sheet approach for scanning a region of interest with specific fluorescence contrast, thereby providing axial and temporal resolution at the cellular level without stitching image columns or pivoting illumination beams during one-time imaging. This cutting-edge imaging technique allows for elucidating the differentiation of stem cells in cardiac regeneration, providing an entry point to discover novel micro-circulation phenomenon with clinical significance for injury and repair. Summary: These findings demonstrate the multi-scale applications of this novel light-sheet imaging strategy to advance research in cardiovascular development and regeneration.
Fully Dynamic Theory

The theory of piezoelectricity is based on a quasistatic approximation [1]. As a result, in this theory, although the mechanical equations are dynamic, the electromagnetic equations are static, and the electric field and the magnetic field are not dynamically coupled. Therefore, the theory of piezoelectricity does not describe the wave behavior of electromagnetic fields. For many applications in piezoelectric acoustic wave devices, the quasistatic theory is sufficient; but there are situations in which full electromagnetic coupling needs to be considered. When electromagnetic waves are involved, the complete set of Maxwell equations needs to be used, coupled to the mechanical equations of motion. Such a fully dynamic theory has been called piezoelectromagnetism by some researchers. Solutions for the propagation of plane waves in an unbounded piezoelectromagnetic medium were obtained in [2]. In addition to waves that are essentially acoustic, there are also waves that are essentially electromagnetic. These two groups of modes interact through piezoelectric coupling. Effects of viscosity and conductivity on plane waves were analyzed in [3].
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS ON THE HYDROLOGIC RESOURCES OF EUROPE: A SIMPLIFIED CONTINENTAL SCALE ANALYSIS

U.S. Country Studies supported analyses of climate change impacts on water resources have been completed or are underway in the following Central and Eastern European nations: Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Romania, Estonia, Russian Federation, and the Ukraine. Climate change impacts on the hydrologic resources of these countries is being performed at the river basin scale using monthly water balance models using GCM-based climate scenarios. The authors have performed a regional analysis of climate change impacts on the Hydrologic Resources of Europe using the Turc Annual Model. The regional analysis was done with GIS methodolgies using regional climate databases. The regional results were compared to the U.S. Country Studies hydrologic assessmnent results to validiate the use of this simplified methodolgy for making regional climate change assessment. Results from three countries showed acceptable performace of the annual approach . Using GCM-based climate scenarios regional analysis of potential climate change impacts on the hydrologic resources of Europe was conducted and national and regional results are presented.
Improved Accuracy for Automated Communication Pattern Characterization Using Communication Graphs and Aggressive Search Space Pruning.

An understanding of a parallel application’s communication behavior is useful for a range of activities including debugging and optimization, job scheduling, target system selection, and system design. Because it can be challenging to understand communication behavior, especially for those who lack expertise or who are not familiar with the application, I and two colleagues recently developed an automated, search-based approach for recognizing and parameterizing application communication behavior using a library of common communication patterns. This initial approach was effective for characterizing the behavior of many workloads, but I identified some combinations of communication patterns for which the method was inefficient or would fail. In this paper, I discuss one such troublesome pattern combination and propose modifications to the recognition method to handle it. Specifically, I propose an alternative approach that uses communication graphs instead of traditional communication matrices to improve recognition accuracy for collective communication operations, and that uses a non-greedy recognition technique to avoid search space dead-ends that trap the original greedy recognition approach. My modified approach uses aggressive search space pruning and heuristics to control the potential for state explosion caused by its non-greedy pattern recognition method. I demonstrate the improved recognition accuracy and pruning efficacy of the modified approach using several synthetic and real-world communication pattern combinations.
How experimental research in agriculture has gone from lab to field

Abstract Agriculture has a long tradition of randomized experiments in the research station and of comparative demonstration plots under scientist control. The BDK Nobelists have pioneered randomized field experiments under agency control to fight global poverty, thus making behavior, contextual circumstances, and institutional constraints key determinants of outcomes. In agriculture, experimentation has massively responded in jumping the fence from lab to field, with already major advances as to how to better use agriculture for development. We document how this has happened and how the methodology of field experiments has to be adapted to perform in the challenging context of developing country agriculture.
Activation-Induced Cell Death of Effector T Cells: A Third Mechanism of Immune Tolerance

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses a third mechanism of immune tolerance by which self-reactive effector T cells can be eliminated on encountering tissue cells that are devoid of costimulatory activity. Clonal deletion is a successful mechanism for eliminating T cells whose receptors recognize self-antigens expressed by bone marrow-derived antigen-presenting cells (APCs). The best data at present come from studies of T-cell responses to artificially introduced tissue-specific antigens. Hammerling et al . have now provided some evidence that shows clonal deletion caused by tissue-specific antigens. The chapter presents a study on activation-induced death of cloned effector T cells. The fate of effector T cells is determined by co-stimulatory activity of the cells they react with; effector T cells can be further expanded if antigens are presented by cells with co-stimulatory activity. However, these same T cells are deleted if they interact with antigens expressed on cells that lack co-stimulatory activity.
The Cost of Applying to Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency.

Integrated plastic surgery remains one of the most competitive specialties within the National Resident Matching Program. Although the burden of applying to surgical residencies has been studied, the literature lacks data specific to integrated plastic surgery applicants. This study reports the current total cost, along with the outcomes of applying to and interviewing for integrated plastic surgery residency. Methods A survey was sent to applicants in the 2018-2020 integrated plastic surgery application cycles. Survey questions focused on applicant demographics and home medical school characteristics, application processes, interview attendance, interview cost, and applicant financing. Comparative and regression analyses were performed on survey responses. Results The survey was distributed to 493 applicants. An estimated 245 (49.7%) applicants responded. On average, applicants applied to 68.3 ± 16.4 (mean ± SD) programs, received 17.6 ± 11.4 interview invites, and attended 12.6 ± 5.7 of the interviews they received. On average, each applicant spent a total of $6690 ± $4045 during the interview season, with individual interviews costing $531. Residency programs providing financial assistance supplemented $73 ± $64 per interviewee, corresponding to 13.7% of per-interview cost. To cover costs, 33.8% of applicants sought additional funding, and 30.7% of applicants stated that they had supplemental income, with an average monthly supplemental income of $1971 ± $1558. Conclusions This study quantifies the recent total and per-interview cost of applying to integrated plastic surgery residency. It also identifies the importance of cost to applicants and how the cost burden of residency applications is supported.
Within-subject, double-blinded, randomized, and placebo-controlled evaluation of the combined effects of the cannabinoid dronabinol and the opioid hydromorphone in a human laboratory pain model.

This Phase II study evaluated analgesia, abuse liability, and cognitive performance of hydromorphone and oral delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; dronabinol) using a within-subject, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, human laboratory trial. Healthy adults (N = 29) with no history of drug use disorder received combinations of placebo, hydromorphone (4 mg; oral), and dronabinol (2.5 mg, 5.0 mg, 10 mg; oral). Primary outcomes were quantitative sensory testing (QST) measures of acute (thermal, pressure pain; thermal, punctate probe temporal summation; cold pressor; conditioned pain modulation) and chronic pain (capsaicin 10% topical cream with thermal rekindling), measures of drug abuse liability, cognitive functioning, and adverse events. Subgroup analyses were conducted within opioid-responders (endorsed >20 on a Drug Effect visual analog scale during the hydromorphone-only condition) and nonresponders. A consistent dose-effect relationship of dronabinol on hydromorphone across all measures was not observed. Analgesia only improved in the hydromorphone + dronabinol 2.5 mg condition. Hydromorphone + dronabinol 2.5 mg showed the lowest and hydromorphone+dronabinol 5 mg showed the highest risk for abuse. Hydromorphone+dronabinol 10 mg produced a high rate of dysphoric effects, and hydromorphone+dronabinol 5 mg and hydromorphone + dronabinol 10 mg produced AEs. Subgroup analyses showed subjective effects and abuse risk was increased among opioid responders and largely absent among nonresponders. Overall, only hydromorphone+dronabinol 2.5 mg modestly enhanced hydromorphone-based analgesia and hydromorphone + dronabinol 5 mg and 10 mg increased risk for abuse and AEs. These data can help inform opioid-sparing efforts in clinical pain populations. Demonstration that potential opioid effects varied as a function of participant opioid sensitivity (e.g., responder status) is a novel finding that warrants additional research.
Pharmacokinetics of oral antimycobacterials and dosing guidance for Mycobacterium avium complex treatment in cystic fibrosis

Abstract Background Treatment failure of Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) pulmonary disease occurs in about 30% of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) and may be a result of abnormal drug concentrations. Methods Prospective, cross-over, single-dose PK study of 20 pancreatic insufficient individuals with CF and 10 healthy controls (HC). CF subjects received simultaneous doses of oral azithromycin, ethambutol, and rifampin in the fasting state and with food and pancreatic enzymes, separated by two weeks. HC received fasting doses only. A non-compartmental model was used to estimate PK parameters of drugs and metabolites. Results Azithromycin maximum concentration (Cmax ) was higher and rifampin Cmax was lower in fasting CF subjects compared to HC, while other PK measures, including those for ethambutol, were similar. Addition of food and enzymes did not improve the Cmax of the antimycobacterial drugs. Nineteen of 20 CF subjects had one or more abnormal Cmax z-scores in either the fasting or fed state (or both), when compared to HC. Conclusion PK profiles of azithromycin and ethambutol were similar between CF and HC, except azithromycin Cmax was slightly higher in people with CF after a single dose. Rifampin PK parameters were altered in persons with CF. Addition of food and enzymes in CF subjects did not improve PK parameters. Standard dosing guidelines should be used as a starting point for people with CF initiating MAC therapy and therapeutic drug monitoring should be routinely performed to prevent the possibility of treatment failure due to abnormal drug concentrations. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02372383 Prior abstract publication: 1. Martiniano S, Wagner B, Brennan L, Wempe M, Anderson P, Nick J, Sagel S. Pharmacokinetics of oral MAC antibiotics in cystic fibrosis. Am J Resp Crit Care Med A4842-A4842, 2017. 2. Martiniano SL, Wagner BD, Brennan L, Wempe MF, Anderson PL, Nick JA, Sagel SD. Pharmacokinetics of oral MAC antibiotics in cystic fibrosis. J Cyst Fibros 16: S52–53, 2017.
PHARMACOLOGIC MANAGEMENT OF MYOFASCIAL PAIN AND DYSFUNCTION

SUMMARY Pharmacologic management is an important adjunctive treatment for myofascial pain and dysfunction. A wide selection exists of chemical agents that can be used to block reception, transmission, and perception of pain and to produce muscle relaxation. Knowledge of the biochemistry of pain and the pharmacologic action of specific drugs allows the most appropriate choice of medication. Understanding the patient in terms of compliance and tolerance of side effects leads to successful management with pharmacologic therapy.
Loop Reflector Assisted Si-Ge Waveguide Avalanche Photodiodes

A Si-Ge waveguide avalanche photodiode with loop reflector has been demonstrated to enhance the responsivity without compromising the speed. It enables a responsivity of 1.12 A/W, a bandwidth of 25 GHz, a build-up time limited gain-bandwidth product of 296 GHz, and a highest gain-bandwidth product of 497 GHz.
Drawing to improve metacomprehension accuracy

Abstract We examined the effect of drawing sketches on metacomprehension accuracy of science texts for 5th grade (ages 10–11) students (Study 1: N = 60, Study 2: N = 62). Students either received instruction on drawing organizational sketches, which focused on capturing the relationships described in texts, or representational sketches, which focused on capturing details described in texts. They then read and drew sketches for texts, predicted their performance, and completed tests. They completed this procedure for five texts. Metacomprehension accuracy was greater for students instructed to draw organizational sketches than for students instructed to draw representational sketches or those in a control group who did not draw (Study 2). Performance on comprehension tests was also greater for students instructed to draw organizational sketches than for students in other groups. The superior metacomprehension accuracy was explained in terms of the cue-utilization framework of metacognitive monitoring (Koriat, 1997).
Imaging distributed sources with sparse ESM technique and Gaussian process regression

Emission source microscopy (ESM) technique can be utilized for the localization of electromagnetic interference sources in complex and large systems. In this work, a Gaussian process regression (GPR) method is applied in real-time to select sampling points for the sparse ESM imaging. The Gaussian process regression is used to estimate the complex amplitude of the scanned field and its uncertainty allowing to select the most relevant areas for scanning. Compared with the random selection of samples the proposed method allows to reduce the number of samples needed to achieve a certain dynamic range of the image, reducing the overall scanning time. Results for simulated and measured 2D scans for multiple and distributed emission source are presented.
Strategic Orientation in the Globalization of Software Firms

In the search for profits, software firms are globalizing their development activities. Some firms achieve greater profits by becoming more efficient, whereas others do so by reaching new markets; some do both. This paper creates an a priori typology of strategies based on the extent to which firms are focused on operational improvement or market access, have a dual focus or are unfocused. We find that firms with these strategies differ in degree of internationalization, organization of offshoring and performance outcomes related to offshoring. Market-oriented firms receive a greater proportion of their total revenue from sales outside the U.S., showing a greater international orientation. They keep more of their offshore development in-house via captive operations. They also are most likely to report increased non-U.S. sales as a result of offshoring. On the other hand, operations-oriented firms have lower levels of international sales, are more likely to go offshore via outsourced software development, and achieve greater costs savings and labor force flexibility as a result of offshoring. Operations-oriented firms also face more obstacles in offshoring, perhaps because of their reliance on outsourcing. Dual focus firms generally achieve some of the best of both strategies, whereas unfocused firms achieve lower cost benefits.
Campaign Analysis: An Introductory Review

Using analytical methods to derive insights into military operational planning is as old as the 2500 year writings of Sun Tzu. Broad in nature, campaign analysis is a field of application, rather than a focused academic discipline. In this introductory review we define and introduce a process for campaign analysis, illustrate where analysis has been informative in past campaigns, discuss how it is used today, and how it is evolving for future military planners. We summarize by highlighting that although campaign analysis uses tools from operations research, systems analysis, and the social sciences, its value is judged solely on its ability to provide the commander with timely, useful, and measurable information to guide decisions. It can supplement, but never replace military judgment. Keywords: campaign analysis; military judgment; force structure; OPLAN; US military; combat planning process; warfare analysis
Human Subjects Research, Ethics, Stopping Rules for Randomized Clinical Trials

Introduction Statistical Approaches to Data Monitoring Sequential Designs Monitoring for Lack of Effect Monitoring for Safety Issues in the Implementation of Stopping Rules Need for Judgment Concerns About Designs That Permit Early Termination of Clinical Trials Keywords: human subjects research; ethics
Solution of Large, Sparse, Irregular Systems on a Massively Parallel Computer

A set of tools is introduced which allow engineers and scientists to obtain solutions to large finite-element problems by utilizing multiple-instruction, multiple-data (MIMD) parallel computers. The finite-element mesh is decomposed so that each resulting sub-domain is connected to at most two other subdomains. The node-numbering of the decomposed mesh is such that the resulting set of finite element equations will have a border-block diagonal structure. A parallel algorithm is used to assemble, factor and solve the set of simultaneous algebraic equations that result from the finite-element method (FEM). In this paper, we demonstrate the method on a message passing parallel computer for two- and three-dimensional electrostatic problems, governed by Laplace's equation. Results and performance data for the algorithm as applied to electrostatics problems are given. The current work is an extension of the algorithm described and implemented in Reference [1].
A theory of concentric, kink, and sinusoidal folding and of monoclinal flexuring of compressible, elastic multilayers: III. Transition from sinusoidal to concentric-like to chevron folds

Abstract A basic, sinusoidal solution to the linearized equations of equilibrium for compressible, elastic materials provides solutions to several problems of folding of multilayers. Theoretical wavelengths are comparable to those predicted by Ramberg, using viscosity theory, and to those predicted by elementary folding theory. The linearized analysis of buckling of a single, stiff, elastic layer, either isolated or within a soft medium, suggests that wavelengths computed with elementary beam theory are remarkably similar to those computed with the linearized theory for wavelength-to-thickness ratios greater than about five. This is half the limit of ten normally assumed for use of the elementary theory. The theory and experiments with deep beams of rubber or gelatin indicate that thick, homogeneous layers folded with short wavelengths assume internal forms strikingly similar to those of the ideal concentric fold. Thus, mechanical layering clearly is not required to produce concentric-like forms. Further, the theory suggests that “arc and cusp” structure, or “pinches”, at edges of deep beams as well as chevron-like forms in single or multiple stiff layers are a result of a peculiar, plastic-like behavior of elastic materials subjected to high normal stresses parallel to layering. In a sense, the elastic material “yields” to form the hinge of the chevron fold, although the strain vanishes if the stresses are released. Accordingly, it may be impossible to distinguish chevron forms produced in elastic-plastic materials, such as cardboard or aluminum and perhaps some rock, from chevron forms produced in purely elastic materials, such as rubber. Analysis of the theory shows that, just as high axial stresses make straight, shortened multilayers the unstable form and sinusoidal waves the stable form, stresses induced by sinusoidal displacements of the multilayer make the sinusoidal waveform unstable and concentric-like waves the stable form. Thus, concentric-like folds appear to be typical of folded multilayers according to our analysis. Further, where the layers have short wavelengths in the cores of the concentric-like folds, the stiff layers “yield” elastically at hinges and straighten in limbs. Thus the concentric-like pattern is replaced by chevron folds as the multilayer is shortened. In this way we can understand the sequence of events from uniform shortening, to sinusoidal folding, to concentric-like folding, to chevron folding in multilayers composed of elastic materials.
Electronic equalization in optical fiber communications

Electronic equalizers, which have been used widely in wireless and wireline communications, have recently been recognized as effective solutions for mitigating the impairments in the optical communications channel as well. Now with the increasing availability of voltage-tunable integrated circuits for high speed operation, equalizers, in particular those based on the minimum mean-square error (MMSE) criterion have emerged as practical and cost-effective solutions. Certain properties of the optical domain, however, are different than other communications systems where these equalizers have been used. We study the effects of these properties on the performance of the MMSE equalizers through eigenanalysis of the input autocorrelation matrix.
Probabilistic aspects of the strength of fiber-dominated short-fiber composites II: Biased fiber distribution

Abstract A statistical model for the strength of short non-aligned fiber composites is derived from first principles for fiber-dominated fracture. Exact implementation of this model must rely on Monte Carlo methods; however, simple approximations for the mean and standard deviation of the strength may be obtained. The model shows that the mean strength increases and the coefficient of variation (COV) decreases with increasing fiber length, exclusive of any critical length considerations. Decreasing fiber volume fraction is predicted to lower mean strength and to increase its COV. The utility of the model is demonstrated for comparing the relative strength-reinforcing efficiencies of various aligned-fiber, random fiber and biased fiber distributions. This comparison is robust with respect to assumed parameters in the model. Either continuous random or [0°, ±60°] quasi-random composites are shown to have 37% of the strength of aligned-fiber composites; a simple cosine orientation distribution has 53% of the aligned-fiber strength.
Sulphite toxicity: a critical review of in vitro and in vivo data.

Abstract Data on sulphite chemistry and toxicity in in vitro systems are reviewed from the perspective of potential mammalian toxicity. The observed toxicity of ingested sulphite in mammals is also summarized and the conclusions reached are compared with the results of the in vitro experiments. Information on sulphite metabolism is included to reconcile the different conclusions that may be drawn from these two sets of data. Consideration of data from all sources facilitates the selection of the specific reactions of sulphite most likely to be of toxicological significance in mammals.
Expression kinetics of miRNA involved in dermal toluene 2,4-diisocyanate sensitization.

AbstractAllergic disease is an important occupational health concern, with work-related asthma and allergic contact dermatitis being the most frequently diagnosed occupational illnesses. Diisocyanates, particularly toluene 2,4-diisocyanate (TDI), have been the leading cause of occupational asthma for many years. Understanding the mechanisms behind allergic disease is critical for treatment and prevention. Recently, the study of post-transcriptional regulation by microRNAs (miRNA) has shed light on mechanisms of allergic disease. The present studies report the expression of miRNA during the sensitization phase of an allergic response to TDI in a murine model. Female BALB/c mice were dermally exposed to TDI (0.1–15% [v/v]) or vehicle. RNA was isolated from superficial parotid lymph nodes at timepoints between 1 h and 15 days post-exposure and then miRNA expression was analyzed using array and real-time quantitative PCR analysis. Consistent changes in miRNA expression were identified for miR-21, miR-22, miR-...
High-performance hydrophobic interaction chromatography: Purification of rat liver carbamoylphosphate synthetase I and ornithine transcarbamoylase

The applicability of high-performance hydrophobic interaction chromatography using newly developed silica-based ether-bonded phases is demonstrated in the purification of the rat liver enzymes carbamoylphosphate synthetase I and ornithine transcarbamoylase from crude mitochondrial extracts. As a result of the mild adsorption/elution conditions in this high-performance chromatographic mode, the enzymes are recovered in 20 min with 3- to 15-fold increases in specific activity. Since the enzymes are labile and may aggregate in solution, in one case up to Mr 330,000, this rapid purification demonstrates the potential of hydrophobic interaction chromatography in complex biological systems.
Measurements of thermal properties of icy Mars regolith analogs

In a series of laboratory experiments, we measure thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity, and heat capacity of icy regolith created by vapor deposition of water below its triple point and in a low pressure atmosphere. We find that an ice-regolith mixture prepared in this manner, which may be common on Mars, and potentially also present on the Moon, Mercury, comets and other bodies, has a thermal conductivity that increases approximately linearly with ice content. This trend differs substantially from thermal property models based of preferential formation of ice at grain contacts previously applied to both terrestrial and non-terrestrial subsurface ice. We describe the observed microphysical structure of ice responsible for these thermal properties, which displaces interstitial gases, traps bubbles, exhibits anisotropic growth, and bridges non-neighboring grains. We also consider the applicability of these measurements to subsurface ice on Mars and other solar system bodies.
The treatment of cervical dysplasias.

Abstract Of 111 patients with untreated persistent dysplasia of the cervix, followed longer than 5 yr, 17 progressed to carcinoma in situ , one to in situ carcinoma with questionable invasion, and one to microinvasive carcinoma (17% progression). Sharp cold-knife conization of the cervix was used to treat 62 other patients with dysplasias of the cervix, proved by biopsy and with persistent dysplastic smears. Six had residual or recurrent lesions up to 9 yr later. Cryosurgery was used to treat 66 patients with dysplasia of the cervix. Fifty of these followed for 3–12 mo had ablation of the lesions, although six required two or three treatments. But 16 had persistent dysplasias as proved by cytology, although seven of the 16 had been retreated (four persisted after two freezes, and three after three freezes). Mild and moderate dysplasias may be observed as they infrequently progress. Severe dysplasias require tissue studies and conservative treatment. Sharp cold-knife conization appears to give a better cure rate than cryosurgery, although cryosurgery is simpler to carry out. All cases with dysplasia must have continuous follow-up examinations.
Evidence for Neuromodulation of Enteropathogen Invasion in the Intestinal Mucosa

The extensively innervated intestinal mucosa encompasses a vast surface exposed to an array of potentially infectious microorganisms. We investigated the role of enteric nerves in modulating intracellular internalization of a multidrug-resistant Salmonella typhimurium DT104 field isolate in mucosa–submucosa sheets from the porcine ileum, a biomedical model for the human intestine. The effects of transmural electrical stimulation and drugs on intracellular internalization of Salmonella over 90 min was determined by a gentamicin-resistance assay relative to untreated tissues from the same animal serving as controls. The actin inhibitor cytochalasin D reduced internalization of Salmonella, and the mucus-disrupting agent dithiothreitol decreased its mucosal adherence. Transmural electrical stimulation increased, and neuronal conduction blockers saxitoxin and lidocaine decreased Salmonella internalization in stimulated and unstimulated tissues. Furthermore, the alpha-adrenergic/imidazoline receptor ligand phentolamine and the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist tropisetron decreased internalization in stimulated tissues. Based on these findings, enteric neural activity appears to modulate interactions between the intestinal mucosa and pathogenic bacteria.
A comparison of syringe prescription and syringe exchange in Rhode Island, USA

Prior to the year 2000, strict laws regulated the purchase and possession of syringes in Rhode Island, USA. More than 50% of the state’s AIDS cases were related to injection drug use, and injecting drug users (IDUs) in Rhode Island reused each syringe, on average, over 20 times. Rhode Island’s syringe exchange programme began in 1995, and has served over 1700 clients. In 2001, the programme exchanged almost 45,000 syringes. Participation in the syringe exchange programme is anonymous, and the programme provides education, outreach, and referral to substance abuse treatment. A syringe prescription programme for IDUs began in Rhode Island in 1999; it has served over 350 patients and prescribed more than 72,000 syringes. In addition to expanding access to sterile syringes, the syringe prescription programme also expanded patients’ access to disease screening and treatment, vaccination, primary medical care, and referral to specialists. Since 1995, there have been three major programmatic and policy approaches adopted in Rhode Island to address the issue of syringe access for injection drug users: syringe exchange, legal reform, and syringe prescription. Each approach offers different ancillary services and appears to appeal to different populations of IDUs. Adopting multiple approaches to syringe access may best serve this high-risk population.
Classifying twitter data with Naïve Bayes Classifier

Information Classification is the categorization of the huge amount of data in an efficient and useful way. In the current scenario data is growing exponentially due to the rise of internet rich applications. One such source of information is the blogs. Blogs are web logs maintained by their authors that contain information related to a certain topic and also contain authors view about that topic. Micro blogs, on the other hands, are variations of blogs that contain smaller data as compared to blogs. In this project, Twitter, a micro blogging website has been targeted to gather information on certain trending topics. The information is in the form of tweets. A tweet is a post or an update on status on the Twitter website. These tweets are extracted using Twitter Search APIs. This data is then classified into different classes based on its content. Using the classified data, features are extracted from the tweets and suggestions are given to the users based on the trending topics.
Operator formulation of interacting string field theory (III). NSR superstring

Abstract We extend the operator construction given by us earlier (for bosonic strings) to the Neveu-Schwarz-Ramond (NSR) superstrings. Witten's approach to interactions is followed. A construction of the interaction vertex for NS-NS-NS and NS-R-R string-states is given. The associated ghost interactions and the integration operator are also constructed explicitly. The field theory is formulated not only in the “bosonized” representation but also in the fundamental ghost representation. This allows a systematic expansion in terms of local fields.
Paracetamol versus ibuprofen: A randomized controlled trial of outpatient analgesia efficacy for paediatric acute limb fractures

Paediatric limb fracture is a common injury that presents frequently to the ED. The primary objective of the present study was to determine whether ibuprofen provides better analgesia than paracetamol for paediatric patients discharged with acute limb fractures. A prospective, randomized controlled study was conducted in a children's ED. Children aged 5-14 years with an acute limb fracture were randomized to be prescribed paracetamol 15 mg/kg/dose every 4 h or ibuprofen 10 mg/kg/dose every 8 h. Objective (child-reported) pain scores using the 'Faces' pain scale were measured over a 48 h period. Child-reported pain did not differ significantly between the paracetamol and ibuprofen groups (mean pain score paracetamol 2.8 [95% CI 2.4-3.4] vs 2.7 [95% CI 2.1-3.3], P = 0.73). Parent-reported sleep quality did not differ between the two groups (P = 0.78). Child-reported pain score decreased over the 48 h of measurement (P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in side-effects detected between the two groups. The present study shows that in the outpatient paediatric population, ibuprofen does not provide better analgesia than paracetamol. Pain from an acute fracture can be managed by regular simple oral analgesia and immobilization.
Real-Time Computation of Neighboring Optimal Control Laws

Feedback solutions to the neighboring optimal control problem are typically obtained by solving the matrix Riccati differential equation. In this paper, we propose a new approach based on solving linear algebraic equations in real-time. Our method is based on a pseudospectral discretization of the linear time-varying boundary value problem that arises from an application of the Minimum Principle. We show how feedback control laws can be computed without any explicit integration, construction of transition matrices or solving the matrix Riccati differential equation. This facilitates a real-time implementation of the scheme and the design of predictive guidance and control laws. A numerical example of a low thrust orbit transfer problem shows the effectiveness of the method for neighboring optimal guidance.
The Surface Effect of Sodium Iodide Scintillators

The response of NaI(Tl) crystals to $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particles originating outside of the crystal was compared to that of $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particles originating within the crystal in order to determine any possible surface effects of the crystal. It was found that any such effect, if present, is too small in magnitude to explain the nonlinearity of response of NaI(Tl) crystals to $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particles of energy less than 8 Mev.
Historical fire regime and forest variability on two eastern Great Basin fire-sheds (USA)

Abstract Proper management of naturally forested landscapes requires knowledge of key disturbance processes and their effects on species composition and structure. Spatially-intensive fire and forest histories provide valuable information about how fire and vegetation may vary and interact on heterogeneous landscapes. I constructed 800-year fire and tree recruitment chronologies for two eastern Great Basin fire-sheds using fire-scar and tree establishment evidence from 48 gridded plots (500 m spacing) and from fire-scarred trees between plots. Fire-sheds are located in the Snake Range of eastern Nevada (BMC) and Wah Wah Range of western Utah (LAW) and span a range in elevation and vegetation zones typical for the region. Estimates of point mean fire interval varied more than 10-fold at both BMC (7.8–125.6 years) and LAW (13.3–138.4 years). At BMC, a distinct within-fire-shed contrast in fire frequency was difficult to explain without invoking the possibility of spatially-variable human-caused ignitions. A majority of fires were small (
Mimesis and Memory in the Narthex Mosaics at the Nea Moni, Chios

Recent studies have privileged ritual and liturgy as keys to the interpretation of Byzantine art. These texts provide a modern audience with a means of imagining the relationship between viewer and viewed, implying an overcoming of the distinction between the object and the one looking. It is a seductive and comprehensive form of analysis with a lengthy and distinguished pedigree. This essay questions this interpretive strategy by arguing against the privileging of this verbal performative text over its visual counterpart. Working from the example of the eleventh-century mosaic decoration in the Nea Moni on Chios, this paper argues that ritual practice, verbal and visual representation each offer distinct and equivalent means of knowing the subject of their forms of representation. As such, it becomes possible to question the validity of the claim that ascribes the origin of the work of art to the prior liturgical text.
Synthesis and carbene -transfer reactivity of dimeric nickel carbene cations supported by N-heterocyclic carbene ligands

Dimeric nickel bridging-carbene complex salts [{(IPr)Ni}2(μ-Cl)(μ-CR1R2)][B(ArF)4](6, R1 = R2 = Ph; 7, R1 = H, R2 = SiMe3) are synthesized by reaction of {(IPr)Ni(μ-Cl)}2 (3) with NaB(ArF)4 and N2CPh2 or N2CHSiMe3, with elimination of N2 and NaCl. The solid-state structure of 6 features an unsymmetric μ,η3-bonding motif for the bridging diphenylcarbene ligand in which one Ni center binds to the CPh2 ligand in a π-fashion involving the ipso- and one ortho-carbon of a phenyl ring along with the carbene carbon. The solution structure (NMR) of 6 indicates a C2v-symmetric structure even at −80 °C. The solid-state structure of 7 shows a (trimethylsilyl)carbene unit symmetrically disposed between the two nickel centers and bound through only the carbene-carbon atom. Diphenylcarbene-group transfer from 6 to carbon monoxide (3 equiv) gives OCCPh2 and the dimeric Ni(I)-Ni(I) carbonyl complex [{(IPr)Ni(CO)}2(μ-Cl)][B(ArF)4] (8). Excess pivaloisocyanide reacts with 6 to afford tBuNCCPh2, [(IPr)Ni(CNtBu)3][B(ArF)4] (9), and (IPr)NiCl(CNtBu) (10). Mesitylazide reacts with 6 to give the ketimine MesNCPh2 and the bridging mesitylimido dimer [{(IPr)Ni}2(μ-Cl)(μ-NMes)][B(ArF)4] (5). A secondary reaction of diphenyldiazomethane with 6 to give Ph2CCPh2 and Ph2CN–NCPh2 prevents catalytic CPh2-group transfer reactions from being realized in these systems.
A new approach to direct torque control strategy with minimization torque pulsations in permanent magnets synchronous machines

In this paper, we present a new approach to direct torque control (DTC) with minimization torque pulsations in permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM). The synchronous machine torque control, based on the DTC structure, permits to obtained high dynamic performances. In classical DTC, due to the hysteresis based scheme, the switching frequency is variable, current distortion and torque ripple are more important. Moreover high sampling frequency is needed for digital implementation. In order to obtain a constant switching frequency and hence torque ripple minimization, we introduces a new control technique for PMSM. It consists of controlling directly the electromagnetic torque by using a modulated hysteresis controller. The improvements obtained are principally a constant switching frequency in the inverter and an important reduction of the torque ripple. A digital-signal-processor (DSP) based controller is used to study the application of direct torque control method for PMSM. The implementation in a test bench shows the effectiveness of this control. Results obtained by simulation and experimental tests of this strategy are presented.