cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
After laparoscopic Heller myotomy, do emergency department visits or readmissions predict poor long-term outcomes?

Laparoscopic Heller myotomy is a first-line treatment for achalasia. To improve outcomes after myotomy and to determine if poor early results predict later outcomes, emergency department (ED) visits and readmissions within 60 days following laparoscopic Heller myotomy were studied. Since 1992, 352 patients have undergone laparoscopic Heller myotomy and are followed through a prospectively maintained registry. Causes of ED visits and readmissions within 60 days after myotomy were determined. Patients scored their symptoms of achalasia before myotomy and at last follow-up; scores were compared to determine if the reasons leading to ED visits and/or readmissions impacted long-term outcome after myotomy. Fourteen (4%) patients had ED visits, and 18 (5%) patients had readmissions within 60 days following myotomy. Sixty-four percent of ED visits were for dysphagia/vomiting and 36% were for abdominal/chest pain, while 37% of readmissions were for dysphagia/vomiting. Pneumonia was complicated by empyema in four patients, all without leaks; two patients expired. Despite ED visits/readmissions, achalasia symptom (e.g., dysphagia, regurgitation, choking, heartburn, and chest pain) frequency and severity scores improved after myotomy (p < 0.05 for all). ED visits and readmissions are infrequent following laparoscopic Heller myotomy. ED visits were generally due to complaints related to achalasia or edema after myotomy, while readmissions were generally related to complications of operative intervention or chronic ill health. Despite ED visits or readmissions early after myotomy, symptoms of achalasia are well palliated by myotomy long-term.
The Drosophila BCL6 homolog ken and barbie promotes somatic stem cell self-renewal in the testis niche

Stem cells sustain tissue regeneration by their remarkable ability to replenish the stem cell pool and to generate differentiating progeny. Signals from local microenvironments, or niches, control stem cell behavior. In the Drosophila testis, a group of somatic support cells called the hub creates a stem cell niche by locally activating the Janus Kinase-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway in two adjacent types of stem cells: germline stem cells (GSCs) and somatic cyst stem cells (CySCs). Here, we find that ken and barbie (ken) is autonomously required for the self-renewal of CySCs but not GSCs. Furthermore, Ken misexpression in the CySC lineage induces the cell-autonomous self-renewal of somatic cells as well as the nonautonomous self-renewal of germ cells outside the niche. Thus, Ken, like Stat92E and its targets ZFH1 (Leatherman and Dinardo, 2008) and Chinmo (Flaherty et al., 2010), is necessary and sufficient for CySC renewal. However, ken is not a JAK-STAT target in the testis, but instead acts in parallel to Stat92E to ensure CySC self-renewal. Ken represses a subset of Stat92E targets in the embryo (Arbouzova et al., 2006) suggesting that Ken maintains CySCs by repressing differentiation factors. In support of this hypothesis, we find that the global JAK-STAT inhibitor Protein tyrosine phosphatase 61F (Ptp61F) is a JAK-STAT target in the testis that is repressed by Ken. Together, our work demonstrates that Ken has an important role in the inhibition of CySC differentiation. Studies of ken may inform our understanding of its vertebrate orthologue B-Cell Lymphoma 6 (BCL6) and how misregulation of this oncogene leads to human lymphomas.
Signaling pathways of D3-phosphoinositide-binding kinases in T cells and their regulation by PTEN.

Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) phosphorylate the D3 position of the myo -inositol ring of inositol phospholipids, producing, amongst others, phosphatidylinositol-(3,4,5)-trisphosphate. This activity is opposed by the lipid phosphatase PTEN, which catalyzes the removal of this phosphate. Stimulation of PI3Ks is elicited by engagement of receptors for antigen, cytokines and chemokines, and by co-stimulatory molecules. Kinases and other enzymes containing pleckstrin homology domains are activated by binding to these phospholipids, affecting a variety of cellular processes that control lymphocyte function, including cell survival, proliferation, chemotaxis and cytoskeletal reorganization. This review highlights the signaling pathways of these kinases and other enzymes in T cells, their biological effects, and their regulation by PTEN.
Stimulation of cartilage macromolecule synthesis by adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate.

Abstract The role of cyclic AMP in the regulation of cartilage macromolecule synthesis in vitro was studied in pelvic cartilage from 10–12 day chick embryos. Incubation of cartilages in medium containing 0.5 mM cyclic AMP resulted in a 30% inhibition of 35SO4−2, [3H]leucine and [3H]uridine incorporation into proteoglycan, total protein and RNA, respectively. Higher concentrations of cyclic AMP had no greater effects. In contrast, butyrylated cyclic AMP derivatives (0.5–5.0 mM) added to the incubation medium stimulated (50–100%) the incorporation of these radiolabeled precursors into cartilage macromolecules. Theophylline, in concentrations (0.1–0.5 mM) which raise intracellular cyclic AMP, also increases the incorporation of radiolabeled precursors into macromolecules. The data indicate that exogenous cyclic AMP and butyrylated cyclic AMP derivatives have paradoxical effects on cartilage macromolecule synthesis. Butyrylated cyclic AMP derivatives, not exogenous cyclic AMP, mimic the effects of intracellular cyclic AMP. Incubation of embryonic chicken cartilage with exogenous cyclic AMP results in the extracellular degradation of the cyclic AMP to adenosine. Adenosine (0.125 mM) inhibits precursor incorporation into cartilage macromolecules. The metabolism of exogenous cyclic AMP generates sufficient adenosine to account for the observed inhibitory effects of exogenous cyclic AMP on cartilage macromolecule synthesis. Butyrylated cyclic AMP derivatives are not degraded during incubation with cartilage. The data indicate that cartilage is a tissue in which the effect of cyclic AMP is to stimulate anabolic processes.
Effects of proteolytic enzymes on ionic conductances of squid axon membranes.

The effects of proteolytic enzymes on ionic conductances of squid axon membranes have been studied by means of the voltage clamp technique. When perfused internally α-chymotrypsin (1 mg/ml) increased and prolonged the depolarizing after-potential. Sodium inactivation was partially inhibited causing a prolonged sodium current, and peak sodium and steady-state potassium currents were suppressed. The time for sodium current to reach its peak was not affected. Leakage conductance increased later. On the other hand, carboxypeptidases A and B, both at 1 mg/ml, suppressed the sodium and potassium conductance increases with little or no change in sodium inactivation. The mechanism that controls sodium inactivation appears to be associated with the structure of membrane proteins which is modified by α-chymotrypsin but not by carboxypeptidases and is located in a position accessible to α-chymotrypsin only from inside the membrane.
Looking Back at Oneself in Time: Another Approach to the Actor-Observer Phenomenon:

Two studies were reported in which a mean trait attribution pattern parallel to the Jones-Nisbett actor-observer effect was obtained within subjects when people were asked to describe what they were like in the past, are like now, and will be like in the future. This argues in favor of the perspective or salience explanation of the actor-observer phenomenon. Both temporal and role defined actor-observer differences, while statistically significant, were due to a minority of subjects. This minority did not differ from the majority on measures of locus of control and self-consciousness. Problems and implications were discussed briefly.
Rules and infractions: an anthropological essay.

Thanks to empirical, interactionist sociology we now have a fairly good understanding of the social dynamics of labelling people deviants.’ Social anthropologists have a good deal to contribute to the understanding of the social dynamics of labelling and sanction. We have always been justly proud of our studies of jurisprudence, formal and informal legal codes, and judicial process. We have certainly expended more effort and intelligence than most other social scientists in the study of rules, and the effect of rules on the worlds of meaning and everyday conduct. I would like to set out a guide that I have been using implicitly to study rules and rule-breaking over the past 10 years as I investigated deviance in traditional society. I am therefore going to talk about the way I think about rules, and the way that I think the different kinds of rules are manipulated.
Scaling turbulent flame speeds of negative Markstein length fuel blends using leading points concepts

Abstract This work describes analyses of turbulent flame speeds, S T , of negative Markstein length fuel blends using leading point models. One implication of these models is that the maximum laminar burning velocity, S L ,max , of highly stretched flames or “critically stretched flames”, is the appropriate flame speed scale with which to parameterize the turbulent flame speed. More specifically, it leads to a scaling approach for the turbulent flame speed of the form S T S L ,max = f 〈 u rms ′ 〉 LP S L ,max , τ S L ,max τ flow , where τ S L ,max and τ flow are the chemical time-scale associated with the leading point and a characteristic fluid mechanical time-scale, respectively. In this paper, we apply these scalings to data sets from the literature which explore pressure and fuel composition effects on S T . Amongst these data sets are new measurements, acquired by our group, of S T , GC for H 2 /CO mixtures at pressures up to 20 atm. It is shown that this approach can scale turbulent burning velocities from a range of different data sets, with significantly different fuel compositions, pressures, and stoichiometries. This result is particularly significant in understanding the strong pressure effects manifested in these data. Nonetheless, we also emphasize that time-scale, length scale, and Reynolds number effects on these correlations are difficult to differentiate as they exhibit similar pressure sensitivities, and further work is needed to conclusively understand the coupled (and very strong) effects of mixture stretch sensitivity and pressure on turbulent burning velocities.
Antifeedant and mosquitocidal compounds from Delphinium x cultorum cv. Magic fountains flowers.

Six volatile compounds, ethylmethylbenzene (1), 1-isopentyl-2,4,5-trimethylbenzene (2), 2-(hex-3-ene-2-one)phenylmethyl ketone (3), E and Z isomers of 3-butylidene-3H-isobenzofuran-1-one (4 and 5),...
Predicting Adherence to Diabetic Eye Examinations : Development of the Compliance with Annual Diabetic Eye Exams Survey

Objective To identify variables that predict adherence with annual eye examinations using the Compliance with Annual Diabetic Eye Exams Survey (CADEES), a new questionnaire designed to measure health beliefs related to diabetic retinopathy and annual eye examinations. Design Questionnaire development. Participants Three hundred sixteen adults with diabetes. Methods We developed the CADEES based on a review of the literature, the framework of the Health Belief Model, expert opinion, and pilot study data. To examine content validity, we analyzed participant responses to an open-ended question asking for reasons why people do not obtain annual eye examinations. We evaluated construct validity with principal components analysis and examined internal consistency with Cronbach's α. To assess predictive validity, we used multivariate logistic regression with self-reported adherence as the dependent variable. Main Outcome Measures Associations with self-reported adherence (defined as having a dilated eye examination in the past year). Results The content analysis showed that CADEES items covered 89% of the reasons given by participants for not obtaining an annual eye examination. The principal components analysis identified 3 informative components that made up 32% of the variance. Multivariate logistic regression modeling revealed several significant predictors of adherence, including beliefs concerning whether insurance covered most of the eye examination cost ( P P P = 0.02), and whether diabetic eye disease can be seen with an examination ( P = 0.05). Lower hemoglobin A1c levels ( P P = 0.01), and a longer duration of diabetes ( P = 0.02) also were associated with adherence. A multivariate model containing CADEES items and demographic variables classified cases with 72% accuracy and explained approximately 24% of the variance in adherence. Conclusions The CADEES showed good content and predictive validity. Although additional research is needed before finalizing a shorter version of the survey, our findings suggest that researchers and clinicians may be able to improve adherence by (1) counseling newly diagnosed patients, as well as those with uncontrolled blood glucose, on the importance of annual eye examinations and (2) discussing perceived barriers and misconceptions.
Development of microcolumn-based one-site immunometric assays for protein biomarkers.

Abstract One-site immunometric assays that utilize affinity microcolumns were developed and evaluated for the analysis of protein biomarkers. This approach used labeled antibodies that were monitored through on-line fluorescence or near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence detection. Human serum albumin (HSA) was utilized as a model target protein for this approach. In these assays, a fixed amount of labeled anti-HSA antibodies was mixed with samples or standards containing HSA, followed by the injection of this mixture onto an HSA microcolumn to remove excess antibodies and detect the non-retained labeled antibodies that were bound to HSA from the sample. The affinity microcolumns were 2.1 mm i.d. × 5 mm and contained 8–9 nmol of immobilized HSA. These microcolumns were used from 0.10 to 1.0 mL/min and gave results within 35 s to 2.8 min of sample injection. Limits of detection down to 0.10–0.28 ng/mL (1.5–4.2 pM) or 25–30 pg/mL (0.38–0.45 pM) were achieved when using fluorescein or a NIR fluorescent dye as the label, with an assay precision of ±0.1–4.2%. Several parameters were examined during the optimization of these assays, and general guidelines and procedures were developed for the extension of this approach for use with other types of affinity microcolumns and protein biomarkers.
Identification of anti-inflammatory targets for Huntington’s disease using a brain slice-based screening assay

Huntington's disease (HD) is a late-onset, neurodegenerative disease for which there are currently no cures nor disease-modifying treatments. Here we report the identification of several potential anti-inflammatory targets for HD using an ex vivo model of HD that involves the acute transfection of human mutant huntingtin-based constructs into rat brain slices. This model recapitulates key components of the human disease, including the formation of intracellular huntingtin protein (HTT)-containing inclusions and the progressive neurodegeneration of striatal neurons-both occurring within the native tissue context of these neurons. Using this "high-throughput biology" screening platform, we conducted a hypothesis-neutral screen of a collection of drug-like compounds which identified several anti-inflammatory targets that provided neuroprotection against HTT fragment-induced neurodegeneration. The nature of these targets provide further support for non-cell autonomous mechanisms mediating significant aspects of neuropathogenesis induced by mutant HTT fragment proteins.
Role of intragastric pH in cytoprotection by antacids in rats

Antacids containing Al(OH)3 have been shown to stimulate the protective and reparative processes in the gastric mucosa exposed to various ulcerogens but the mechanisms of these effects are unknown. This study was designed to determine the role of intragastric pH and mucosal formation of prostaglandins (PG) in antacid-induced protection of gastric mucosa against ethanol or aspirin damage. Maalox 70 and its active component, Al(OH)3, were used alone at the original pH (7.5 and 6.0, respectively) and lower pH or were combined with ranitidine or histamine before intragastric administration of 100% ethanol or acidified aspirin to induce acute mucosal lesions. Maalox and Al(OH)3 were relatively more effective to protect against the damage due to ethanol, and to some extent also due to aspirin, when given at a pH (pH 2) lower than at their original pH. Pretreatment with ranitidine, which itself did not change ethanol-induced damage, greatly reduced the protection afforded by Maalox or Al(OH)3, whereas pretreatment with histamine enhanced this protection. Maalox and Al(OH)3 at their original or low pH did not alter significantly the capability of gastric mucosa to generate PG but resulted in a significant increase in luminal release of PG. Pretreatment with indomethacin to reduce mucosal generation of PG failed to affect the protective effects of Maalox or Al(OH)3 at their original or lower pH. We conclude that Maalox 70 and Al(OH)3 protect the gastric mucosa against ethanol damage but that this protection requires the presence of acid and may not depend entirely upon the mucosal production of PG.
QUIESCENT CENTRE OF THE PRIMARY ROOT OF GLYCINE MAX

Summary The quiescent centre of Glycine max was observed to change in size at various times after sowing. It increases in size during early development, then decreases with a corresponding reduction of the cell population of the root. Delimitation of quiescent centre boundaries is difficult in view of dramatic changes in size of regions of non-DNA synthesis within the primary root.
An optical technique for measuring surface recombination velocity

The surface recombination velocity is a critical parameter in silicon device applications including solar cells. In this work, we developed and applied a contactless optical/radio-frequency technique to provide quick, contactless measurement of the surface recombination velocity. The basic technique is to probe the excess carrier lifetime in the surface and bulk regions of a semiconductor wafer by varying the excitation wavelength. Here, we have derived a theoretical functional model that describes the experimental photoconductive transient. A curve fitting procedure provides a determination for both the bulk recombination lifetime and the surface recombination velocity.
Room temperature nano-square plasmon laser

We report plasmon lasers with strong cavity feedback and optical confinement to 1/20th wavelength. Strong feedback arises from total internal reflection of plasmons, while confinement enhances the spontaneous emission rate by up to 18 times.
Matrigel cytometry: A novel method for quantifying angiogenesis in vivo

Many of the current in vivo methods to evaluate angiogenesis are poorly quantifiable. Recently, the Matrigel plug assay has become the method of choice in many studies involving in vivo testing for angiogenesis. When known angiogenic factors are mixed with Matrigel and injected subcutaneously into mice, endothelial cells migrate into the gel plug. These endothelial cells form vessel-like structures, a process that mimics the formation of capillary networks. Here, we present a modification of the traditional Matrigel assay with improved method to quantify the amount of endothelial cells that incorporate into the plug. The removed plugs were subjected to a mild protease treatment, yielding intact cells. The liberated cells were then stained using an endothelial cell-specific markers, and counted by flow cytometry. This novel combination of FACS analysis with the traditional Matrigel assay improves the ability to quantify in vivo angiogenesis, and for the first time enables to determine the number of migrating and proliferating endothelial cells which reflects the angiogenesis rate.
Exon-specific oligonucleotide probes localize HLA-DQ beta allelic polymorphisms.

The HLA genetic region consists of a large multigene complex which includes a number of highly homologous α and β genes encoding class II polypeptides, clustered in three major loci, DP, DQ, and DR. Analysis of genomic polymorphisms at each of these loci is of considerable interest due to the role of particular structural polymorphisms in immune function, but this analysis has been hampered by difficulty in distinguishing between such highly homologous loci. We have identified locus-specific and exon-specific class II gene sequences in order to produce synthetic oligonucleotide probes which hybridize specifically to DQ β genes. Two such oligonucleotide probes are described which are specific for the β 1 and β 2exons of DQ (DC) β which identify DQ β genes in digests of cellular DNA and which can be used to characterize restriction sites flanking the two oligonucleotide-specific regions. By sequentially hybridizing these probes in modified Southern analyses, we have been able to generate a tentative “restriction map” of a newly identified DQ β allele from digests of total genomic DNA. This oligonucleotide mapping technique discriminates between two HLA-DQw3 + alleles, DQ3.1 and DQ3.2, permitting the recognition of structural polymorphisms with DQ β which are highly associated with type I diabetes mellitus.
Two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic turbulence - Cylindrical, non-dissipative model

Incompressible magnetohydrodynamic turbulence is treated in the presence of cylindrical boundaries which are perfectly conducting and rigidly smooth. The model treated is non-dissipative and two-dimensional, the variation of all quantities in the axial direction being ignored. Equilibrium Gibbs ensemble predictions are explored assuming the constraint of constant axial current (appropriate to tokamak operation). No small-amplitude approximations are made. The expectation value of the turbulent kinetic energy is found to approach zero for the state of maximum mean-square vector potential to energy ratio. These are the only states for which large velocity fluctuations are not expected.
Platelet-derived growth factor-dependent association of the GTPase-activating protein of Ras and Src.

Here we report that the platelet-derived growth factor β receptor (βPDGFR) is not the only tyrosine kinase able to associate with the GTPase-activating protein of Ras (RasGAP). The interaction of non-βPDGFR kinase(s) with RasGAP was dependent on stimulation with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and seemed to require tyrosine phosphorylation of RasGAP. Because the tyrosine phosphorylation site of RasGAP is in a sequence context that is favoured by the Src homology 2 (‘SH2’) domain of Src family members, we tested the possibility that Src was the kinase that associated with RasGAP. Indeed, Src interacted with phosphorylated RasGAP fusion proteins; immunodepletion of Src markedly decreased the recovery of the RasGAP-associated kinase activity. Thus PDGF-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of RasGAP results in the formation of a complex between RasGAP and Src. To begin to address the relevance of these observations, we focused on the consequences of the interaction of Src and RasGAP. We found that a receptor mutant that did not activate Src was unable to efficiently mediate the tyrosine phosphorylation of phospholipase Cγ (PLCγ). Taken together, these observations support the following hypothesis. When RasGAP is recruited to the βPDGFR, it is phosphorylated and associates with Src. Once bound to RasGAP, Src is no longer able to promote the phosphorylation of PLCγ. This hypothesis offers a mechanistic explanation for our previously published findings that the recruitment of RasGAP to the βPDGFR attenuates the tyrosine phosphorylation of PLCγ. Finally, these findings suggest a novel way in which RasGAP negatively regulates signal relay by the βPDGFR.
At-home or in-office fluoride application does not significantly reduce subsequent caries-related procedures in ambulatory adults of any caries-risk level.

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Outcomes Associated with Dentists' Risk Assessment Brad Rindal D, Rush WA, Perrin NA, Maupome G, Bader JD. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2006;34(5):381-6 Level of Evidence 2b Purpose/Question There seem to be two questions addressed: (1) Do dentists provide appropriate fluoride interventions to high caries-risk adults? (2) Does in-office or at-home fluoride intervention significantly reduce the subsequent caries-related procedures? Source of Funding Information not available Type of Study/Design Retrospective Cohort Study
Spectroscopic evidence for a delocalized excited state in the magnus salts

Abstract The polarized single-crystal spectra of the Magnus salts [Pt(NH 3 ) 4 ][PtCl 4 ], [Pd(NH 3 ) 4 ] [PtCl 4 ], [Pt(NH 3 ) 4 ] [PdCl 4 ], and [Pd(NH 3 ) 4 ][PdCl 4 ] have been obtained in the quartz ultraviolet and visible regions. These results provide strong evidence for a delocalized excited state being associated with the intense ultraviolet transition found in the spectra of the Magnus salts. One thus has available an important new criterion for the evaluation of the theoretical treatments of these systems.
Interconnection wiring considerations in evaluating the value of large photovoltaic system designs

Interconnection wiring influences performance in large-scale photovoltaic systems. Wiring can also constitute a significant portion of total construction costs especially if metal prices and labor rates continue to rise. This paper analyzes the influences that layout and wiring selection have on the cost-to-performance ratio, i.e., $/W metric, used to evaluate system designs. Results suggest that keeping array areas as square as possible and using minimum sized wires would result in the best $/W values. This paper also proposes an adjustment to the $/W metric to facilitate an understanding of a design's response to performance changing events such as cloud cover.
The ultrastructure of the plasmodesmata of the salt glands ofTamarix as revealed by transmission and freeze-fracture electron microscopy

Numerous plasmodesmata occur in the walls between the secretory cells ofTamarix salt glands. The plasmalemma bounds the plasmodesmata and is continuous from cell to cell. In freeze-fracture, the e-face of the plasmalemma within the plasmodesmata is virtually devoid of intramembranous particles while, in contrast, the p-face is decidedly enriched with particles. The axial components appear to be a tightly curved membrane bilayer, as judged from measurements and their appearance in freeze-fracture, and the e-face of this membrane is also devoid of particles. Observations from both thin sections and freeze-fracture replicas indicate the presence of a circular cluster of six particles around the axial component near the cytoplasmic termini of the plasmodesmata. These particles extend from the p-face of the axial component to the p-face of the plasmalemma. These observations are summarized in a model.
Combined dyslipidemia in obese children: Response to a focused lifestyle approach

Background Combined dyslipidemia (elevated triglyceride [TG] ± non–high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [non-HDL-C] ± total cholesterol [TC] ± low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C] ± reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C]) is seen in >40% of obese children. Primary recommended treatment is weight loss with limited reports of any other approach. Objective In children with combined dyslipidemia, evaluate the response to a clinical protocol focused on diet composition change and increased activity with no direct weight loss approach. Methods Retrospective review of lipid profile and growth parameter changes in patients 6 to 18 years of age with diagnosis of combined dyslipidemia seen between December 31, 2009, and December 31, 2011, managed with this protocol through 2 follow-up visits. Combined dyslipidemia diagnosed when ≥2 lipid values exceed the upper limit of normal for TC, TG, non-HDL-C, or LDL-C ± HDL-C below the lower limit of normal. Results Fifty-three patients were identified, 55% male, 92% obese, mean age 12.1 ± 3.4 years with mean follow-up 9.2 months. Lipid parameters (mean ± SD, mg/dL) improved significantly ( P 2 ( P Conclusions Focused lifestyle changes significantly improved combined dyslipidemia in obese children. With no direct weight loss approach, body mass index decreased in 58%.
An algorithm to determine the directional relationship between arbitrarily-shaped polygons in the plane

Abstract The directional relationship between two polygons (e.g. left, above, beside, east, north) is an important spatial property and can also be used as a selection criterion for retrieving objects from a spatial database. If the database is large, this could help significantly in speeding search by reducing the size of the necessary search space. This paper builds upon past work to develop a model for determining the directional relationship in 2-D space between two simply-connected polygons of arbitrary shape, size and distance from each other. The model is based on visual interpretation and is data structure independent. The model is also stated in algorithmic terms, and is found to have a computational complexity of O ( n ), where n is the total number of vertices or cells used to represent the two polygons.
Crack healing and stress relaxation in Al2O3-SiC nanocomposites

The crack-healing behavior of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-SiC nanocomposite was studied using Vickers indentations to generate precracks. After annealing in argon for 2 h at 1,300 C, radial cracks in the nanocomposite healed: The cracks closed and there was a small degree of rebonding in the vicinity of the crack tip. In contrast, radial cracks in alumina grew when exposed to the same annealing treatment. The different responses are attributed to the fracture mode and toughening mechanism in each material: In the nanocomposite, the cracks close as the residual stresses surrounding the indentations relax. Radial cracks open and grow in Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} because microstructural toughening is diminished during heating to the annealing temperature. An implication is that strength-limiting machining flaws in these materials behave similarly, thereby accounting for the strengthening effect of annealing in this ``nanocomposite`` system.
Representations of assembly sequences

This paper analyses four representations for assembly sequences which are based on directed graphs, on AND/OR graphs, on establishment conditions, and on precedence relationships. The latter includes two types: precedence relationships between the establishment of one connection between parts and the establishment of another connection, and precedence relatioships between the establishment of one connection and states of the assembly process. The paper discusses how each representation is related to the others. The correctness and completeness of these representations are also addressed. The results presented are needed to prove the correctness and completeness of algorithms for the generation of mechanical assembly sequences.
Mechanical Behavior of Polycrystalline Magnesium Oxide at High Temperatures

Abstract : The paper describes high temperature tensile deformation of polycrystalline magnesia prepared by (a) single crystal recrystallization and (b) hot pressing. Recrystallized polycrystalline magnesia goes through a brittle-ductile transition at 1700C (strain rate 0.0001/ sec). The brittleness below 1700C is due to a lack of slip systems and grain boundary sliding. At 1700C grain boundary migration produces corrugations in the interface which interfere with sliding. About 1700C the matrix becomes sufficiently plastic through multiple slip and polygonization to accommodate any distortion. Polycrystalline specimens then neck down for completely ductile fracture. Hot pressed magnesia starts to go through a transition at 2200C, i.c., 500C higher. The increase is attributed to the presence of pores and impurity. Porosity is considered to promote grain boundary sliding by (a) providing the source for intergranular sliding, (b) decreasing the interfacial contact area, (c) preventing grain boundary migration and corrugation. These observations confirm that high temperature deformation occurs by dislocation glide and climb and grain boundary sliding and migration. (Author)
The Islamic State and American National Security

The beheading of hostages and other acts of barbarism carried out by Islamic Republic militants do not constitute sufficient cause for direct American military involvement in the multi-sided armed conflicts underway in Iraq and Syria (2014). Conventional measures of American national interest do not warrant the expenditure of such blood and treasure as seem necessary to affect the outcomes of these conflicts. The idealistic goal of democracy promotion, a recurring theme in American foreign policy discourse, is unlikely to be achievable in the near future.
New Intercommunity Infanticides by the Chimpanzees of Ngogo, Kibale National Park, Uganda

Hostile intercommunity relations, including attacking and killing extra-community infants of both sexes have occurred at most wild chimpanzee sites. We describe three recent cases of intercommunity attacks on infants committed by members of the Ngogo chimpanzee community in Kibale National Park, Uganda. Two of the attacks resulted in confirmed infanticides while a third attack probably resulted in the infant's death. In common with previous accounts of chimpanzee infanticides, the attacks described here occurred during boundary patrols outside the Ngogo community's usual range, adult and adolescent males were the main participants, one infant was cannibalized after being killed, and the victims’ mothers did not accompany the attacking party back to the Ngogo range. However, the patrol parties during each infanticide were larger than before and included females from the Ngogo community. Our observations indirectly support both the range expansion and imbalance of power hypotheses, which address why and under which conditions chimpanzee intercommunity encounters lead to aggression. These cases of intercommunity infanticide add to the growing database of the phenomenon in wild chimpanzees.
Rapid cardiac T1 mapping within two heartbeats

Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) imaging is an important CMR method than can detect salvageable myocardium after myocardial infarction [1-2]. Recently, T2-weighted-imaging has gained a significant interest to assess myocardial edema [3]. However, clinical interpretation of T2-weighted-imaging could be hindered by surface coil effects which yield non-uniform signals. Multi-point T1 mapping approaches, such as Modified Look-Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) [4], have been proposed to measure myocardial T1, but, as a multiple heartbeat acquisition, it may be sensitive to cardiac motion and arrhythmia. We propose to develop a 2-second cardiac T1 mapping pulse sequence for assessment of myocardial edema (pre-contrast) and infarction (post contrast) in patients with acute myocardial infarction.
Can nonlinear deformation amplify subtle differences in linear viscoelasticity

Abstract Large amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) and exponential shear can be used to study the nonlinear viscoelastic properties of molten polymers. Using a kinetic network theory, the sensitivity of the nonlinear viscoelasticity of a polymer melt to small changes in the linear spectrum was calculated and compared with the sensitivity of the linear response. In LAOS, the strain amplitude and phase angle of the first harmonic were no more sensitive to changes in the relaxation time than the linear counterparts. The sensitivity of the amplitudes and phase angles of all the harmonics to changes in the linear spectrum decreases with strain amplitude. In exponential shear, the sensitivity of the maximum of the exponential shear viscosity to small changes in the relaxation time was found to decrease with increasing strain rate. However, increasing strain amplitude (in LAOS) and strain rate (in exponential shear) were both found to amplify subtle differences in the kinetic parameters of the model. Thus large shearing deformations do not significantly amplify subtle changes in the relaxation spectrum, but they do amplify subtle differences in the kinetic rate constants.
Asymptotically catastrophic convolutional codes

The minimum distance growth rate of unmerged codewords in a convolutional code is shown to depend upon the minimum average weight per branch w_{0} in the encoder state diagram. An upper bound on w_{0} is obtained for a large class of rate 1/2 codes which includes many of the best known classes of rate 1/2 codes. The hound is shown to be tight for short constraint length codes. A class of codes is defined to be asymptotically catastrophic if w_{0} approaches zero for large constraint lengths. Several classes of rate 1/2 codes are shown to be asymptotically catastrophic. These include classes containing codes known to have large free distance. It is argued that the free distance alone is not a sufficient criterion to determine a codes performance with either Viterbi or sequential decoding. A code with a low distance growth rate will yield a high bit error probability and will not perform well with truncated Viterbi decoding.
Crush Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract Background Crush trauma to the extremities, even if not involving vital organs, can be life threatening. Crush syndrome, the systemic manifestation of the breakdown of muscle cells with release of contents into the circulation, leads to metabolic derangement and acute kidney injury. Although common in disaster scenarios, emergency physicians also see the syndrome in patients after motor-vehicle collisions and patients "found down" due to intoxication. Objective The objectives of this review are to discuss the pathophysiology of crush syndrome, report on prehospital and emergency department treatment, and discuss the relationship between crush syndrome and compartment syndrome. Discussion We present the case of a young man found down after an episode of intoxication, with compartment syndrome of his lower extremity and crush syndrome. Although he eventually required an amputation, aggressive fluid resuscitation prevented further kidney injury and metabolic derangement. Conclusions Early, aggressive resuscitation in the prehospital setting, before extrication if possible, is recommended to reduce the complications of crush syndrome. Providers must be aware of the risk of hyperkalemia shortly after extrication. Ongoing resuscitation with i.v. fluids is the mainstay of treatment. Compartment syndrome is a common complication, and prompt fasciotomies should be performed when compartment syndrome is present.
The use of a computer program to analyze growth of Leucochloridium variae McIntosh, 1932 (Trematoda) in the domestic chick

Abstract A computer program was designed to facilitate growth analysis of Leucochloridium variae . Infectivity declined rapidly beyond 2 weeks in chicks exposed cloacally with chemically excysted metacercariae. Significantly more worms developed in the cloaca, but those in the bursa of Fabricius appeared more robust. A rapid growth rate in relative body- and gonadal-area was observed in 1- to 6-day-old bursal and cloacal flukes. The ratio of total gonadal- to body-area suggested that bursal worms matured and aged earlier than those in the cloaca. The width ratio of oral- to ventral-sucker and the ratio of vitelline- to body-length in mature worms remained constant in bursal and cloacal flukes.
A novel biochemical model linking dysfunctions in brain melatonin, proopiomelanocortin peptides, and serotonin in autism

A novel biochemical model for autism is presented, which proposes that a subgroup of autistic individuals may have a hypersecretion of pineal melatonin that produces a cascade of biochemical effects including a corresponding hyposecretion of pituitary proopiomelanocortin (POMC) peptides and a hypersecretion of hypothalamic opioid peptides and serotonin (5-HT). The model is reviewed, and supporting animal and clinical research, is summarized. The first arm of the model suggests that increases in pineal melatonin results in hypersecretion of 5-HT in hypothalamus and blood. The second arm of the model indicates that hypersecretion of melatonin also inhibits the release of hypothalamic corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH). Hyposecretion of CRH may result in decreased release of both pituitary B-endorphin (B-E) and adrenocorticotrophin hormone (ACTH); this, in turn, may result in decreased plasma concentrations of B-E, ACTH, and cortisol. In autism, a genetically determined hypersecretion of hypothalamic B-E may further contribute to an inhibition of pituitary B-E because of negative feedback inhibition. Therefore, autism may reflect a dysfunction in the pineal-hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis which, modulates POMC and 5-HT systems of the brain. This model is consistent with numerous clinical investigations implicating hypersecretion of brain 5-HT and opioid peptides in autism. The model may have heuristic importance in guiding future research in the biochemistry of autism.
A theoretical investigation of human skin thermal response to near-infrared laser irradiation

Near-infrared wavelengths are absorbed less by epidermal melanin mainly located at the basal layer of epidermis (dermo-epidermal junction), and penetrate deeper into human skin dermis and blood than visible wavelengths. Therefore, laser irradiation using near-infrared wavelength may improve the therapeutic outcome of cutaneous hyper-vascular malformations in moderately to heavily pigmented skin patients and those with large-sized blood vessels or blood vessels extending deeply into the skin. A mathematical model composed of a Monte Carlo algorithm to estimate the distribution of absorbed light followed by numerical solution of a bio-heat diffusion equation was utilized to investigate the thermal response of human skin to near-infrared laser irradiation, and compared it with that to visible laser irradiation. Additionally, the effect of skin surface cooling on epidermal protection was theoretically investigated. Simulation results indicated that 940 nm wavelength is superior to 810 and 1064 nm in terms of the ratio of light absorption by targeted blood vessel to the absorption by the basal layer of epidermis, and is more efficient than 595 nm wavelength for the treatment of patients with large-sized blood vessels and moderately to heavily pigmented skin. Dermal blood content has a considerable effect on the laser-induced peak temperature at the basal layer of epidermis, while the effect of blood vessel size is minimum.
An Investigation Of MSE Contributions In Transform Image Coding Schemes

The mean square error (MSE) is a classical measure of image distortion. However, this metric is generally not a faithful indication of subjective image quality. We attempt to correct this deficiency by addressing the individual error sources in transform image coding. Specifically, the component of the MSE introduced by transform coefficient deletion is separated from requantization effects. Results are demonstrated in both numerical and pictorial form.© (1975) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
UV Raman studies of peptide conformation demonstrate that betanova does not cooperatively unfold.

We used UV resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR) excited within the peptide bond π → π* electronic transitions and within the aromatic amino acid π → π* electronic transitions to examine the temperature dependence of the solution conformation of betanova, a 20-residue β-sheet polypeptide [Kortemme, T., Ramirez-Alvarado, M., and Serrano, L. (1998) Science 281, 253−256]. The 206.5 nm excited UVRR enhances the amide vibrations and demonstrates that betanova has a predominantly β-sheet structure between 5 and 82 °C. The 229 nm excited UVRR, which probes the tyrosine and tryptophan side chain vibrations, shows an increase in the solvent exposure of the tryptophan side chains as the temperature is increased. Our results are consistent with the existence of an intermediate state similar to that calculated by Bursulaya and Brooks [Bursulaya, B. D., and Brooks, C. L. (1999) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 121, 9947−9951] and exclude the previously proposed two-state cooperative folding mechanism. Betanova's structure appears to b...
The Role of RFID within EDI: Building a Competitive Advantage in the Supply Chain

Radio Frequency Identification will provide the services to gather and process product data at a rate that is unprecedented. When integrated as a component of Electronic Data Interchange it can be a powerful resource to those that harness its potential. Unlike the profit-driven retail industry the underlying supply chain revolves around meeting service levels and reducing costs at the bottom line. Operating costs are either incurred or reduced according to how efficiently inventory is moved. Limited visibility and lack of flexibility are often factors which cause opportunities for time reduction across the pipeline to go unrecognized. The services gained through integration of RFID will contribute to better pipeline management, visibility, improved forecasting, flexibility and bottom line reduction thus providing the means to gain a competitive advantage. RFID is both flexible and scalable and can therefore be implemented and integrated according to needs of the user. RFID is also a subset Radio Frequency technology which enables Smart Shelves and Environment Sensors. By creating a ubiquitous data gathering environment, which can be in close proximity to consumers, it simultaneously taps the need for data management, data sharing relationships and concerns over customer privacy.
Passive Immunization with a Polyclonal Antiserum to the Hemoglobin Receptor of Haemophilus ducreyi Confers Protection against a Homologous Challenge in the Experimental Swine Model of Chancroid

Haemophilus ducreyi, the etiologic agent of chancroid, has an obligate requirement for heme. Heme is acquired by H. ducreyi from its human host via TonB-dependent transporters expressed at its bacterial surface. Of 3 TonB-dependent transporters encoded in the genome of H. ducreyi, only the hemoglobin receptor, HgbA, is required to establish infection during the early stages of the experimental human model of chancroid. Active immunization with a native preparation of HgbA (nHgbA) confers complete protection in the experimental swine model of chancroid, using either Freund's or monophosphoryl lipid A as adjuvants. To determine if transfer of anti-nHgbA serum is sufficient to confer protection, a passive immunization experiment using pooled nHgbA antiserum was conducted in the experimental swine model of chancroid. Pigs receiving this pooled nHgbA antiserum were protected from a homologous, but not a heterologous, challenge. Passively transferred polyclonal antibodies elicited to nHgbA bound the surface of H. ducreyi and partially blocked hemoglobin binding by nHgbA, but were not bactericidal. Taken together, these data suggest that the humoral immune response to the HgbA vaccine is protective against an H. ducreyi infection, possibly by preventing acquisition of the essential nutrient heme.