cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Primal meets dual: A generalized theory of logical topology survivability in IP-over-WDM optical networks

The survivable logical topology mapping (SLTM) problem in an IP-over-WDM optical network is to map each link (u, v) in the logical topology (at the IP layer) into a lightpath between the nodes u and v in the physical topology (at the optical layer) such that failure of a physical link does not cause the logical topology to become disconnected. It is assumed that both the physical and logical topologies are 2-edge connected. For this problem Kurant and Thiran [12] presented an algorithmic framework called SMART that involves successively contracting circuits in the logical topology and mapping the logical links in the circuits into edge disjoint lightpaths in the physical topology. In a recent work [21] we presented a dual framework involving cutsets and showed that both these frameworks possess the same algorithmic structure. Algorithms CIRCUIT-SMART, CUTSET-SMART, CUTSET-SMART-SIMPLIFIED and INCIDENCE-SMART were also presented in [21]. Effectiveness of both these frameworks as well as their robustness in providing survivability against multiple failures depends on the lengths of the cutset cover and circuit cover sequences on which they are based. To improve their effectiveness and robustness, in this paper we first introduce the concept of generalized cutset cover and generalized circuit cover sequences. We present an algorithm to get a generalized cutset (circuit) cover sequence from any given cutset (circuit) cover sequence. We then present GENCUTSET-SMART and GEN-CUTSET-SMART-SIMPLIFIED algorithms that remove some of the shortcomings of the dual framework of [21]. We prove that there is a one-to-one correspondence between the set of generalized circuit cover sequences and the set of generalized cutset cover sequences. We then show that for each execution of GEN-CIRCUIT-SMART there exists an execution of GEN-CUTSET-SMART-SIMPLIFIED such that the groups of edges that they map into edge disjoint lightpaths are exactly the same. In other words, the distinction between the primal and dual methods disappears when they use generalized sequences. Preliminary simulation results confirm our expectation that GEN-CUTSET-SMART-SIMPLIFIED will perform better than CIRCUIT-SMART and CUTSET-SMART-SIMPLIFIED (when started with a circuit or a cutset sequence) in terms of number of additional protection edges to be added.
Reductive dechlorination of 3,3′,4,4′-tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB77) using palladium or palladium/iron nanoparticles and assessment of the reduction in toxic potency in vascular endothelial cells

Palladium-based nanoparticles immobilized in polymeric matrices were applied to the reductive dechlorination of 3,3′,4,4′-tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB77) at room temperature. Two different dechlorination platforms were evaluated using (1) Pd nanoparticles within conductive polypyrrole films; or (2) immobilized Fe/Pd nanoparticles within polyvinylidene fluoride microfiltration membranes. For the first approach, the polypyrrole film was electrochemically formed in the presence of perchlorate ions that were incorporated into the film to counter-balance the positive charges of the polypyrrole chain. The film was then incubated in a solution containing tetrachloropalladate ions, which were exchanged with the perchlorate ions within the film. During this exchange, reduction of tetrachloropalladate by polypyrrole occurred, which led to the formation of palladium nanoparticles within the film. For the second approach, the membrane-supported Fe/Pd nanoparticles were prepared in three steps: polymerization of acrylic acid in polyvinylidene fluoride microfiltration membrane pores was followed by ion exchange of Fe2+, and then chemical reduction of the ferrous ions bound to the carboxylate groups. The membrane-supported iron nanoparticles were then soaked in a solution of tetrachloropalladate resulting in the deposition of Pd on the Fe surface. The nanoparticles prepared by both approaches were employed in the dechlorination of PCB77. The presence of hydrogen was required when the monometallic Pd nanoparticles were employed. The results indicate the removal of chlorine atoms from PCB77, which led to the formation of lower chlorinated intermediates and ultimately biphenyl. Toxicity associated with vascular dysfunction by PCB77 and biphenyl was compared using cultured endothelial cells. The data strongly suggest that the dechlorination system used in this study markedly reduced the proinflammatory activity of PCB77, a persistent organic pollutant.
Raf-like Ras/Rap-binding domains in RGS12- and still-life-like signalling proteins

Ras proteins play critical roles in regulating cell growth and differentiation, and mutated Ras genes are expressed in a variety of human cancers. Consequently, much interest has centered on the binding partners of Ras, including the Ras-binding domain (RBD) of Raf kinase. Here evidence is presented that domains homologous to the Raf RBD are present in tandem in RGS12, RGS14 and LOCO, and singly in molecules similar to mouse Tiam-1. In addition, RGS12, RGS14 and LOCO are shown to contain single "LGN motifs" that are guanine nucleotide exchange factors specific for the α-subunit of G proteins. These findings indicate "cross-talk" interactions between signalling pathways involving Ras and Rap and pathways involving Rho, Rac and Gα GTPases.
High performance avalanche transistor switchout for external pulse selection at 1.06 μm

The design and performance of an avalanche transistor switchout are described. The device selects a single pulse from a train of cw or Q-switched mode-locked pulses and introduces less than ±1% amplitude variation in the selected pulse. The prepulse rejection ratio exceeds 107, and a lifetime of greater than 107 shots has been achieved.
Of Passionate Curves and Desirable Cadences: Themes on Waiwai Social Being

Compelling and evocative, Of Passionate Curves and Desirable Cadences reveals the vital cultural interconnections at the heart of a rain-forest Amerindian society. The Waiwai, who live in the remote interior of Guyana and in neighboring Brazil, follow a customary subsistence lifestyle built around swidden agriculture and hunting. How do the Waiwai experience and think about themselves and their place in the so-called modern world around them? The anthropologist George Mentore draws on years of living with the Waiwai, a compelling theoretical perspective grounded in ethnographic subjectivity, and his own Guyanese heritage to depict the social and cultural world of the Waiwai. Mentore describes the relationship between the Waiwai cultural construction of the body, settlement, houses, fields, wildlife, power, knowledge, and gift giving in a variety of contexts and roles. This web of relationships, as well as the various spaces discovered and illuminated between Mentore's social being and theirs, point to a complex organization of culture that is distinctively Waiwai. When considering the Waiwai people's "plaited" design of passion and intimacy in the way it relates to humans, plants, and animals, Mentore promises the reader that through his text you will encounter a community of truth that tames logic and desire, where well being, beauty, morality, and care encircle the transcendent self.
Codon cassette mutagenesis: a general method to insert or replace individual codons by using universal mutagenic cassettes

Abstract We describe codon cassette mutagenesis, a simple method of mutagenesis that uses universal mutagenic cassettes to deposit single codons at specific sites in double-stranded DNA. A target molecule is first constructed that contains a blunt, double-strand break at the site targeted for mutagenesis. A double-stranded mutagenic codon cassette is then inserted at the target site. Each mutagenic codon cassette contains a three base pair direct terminal repeat and two head-to-head recognition sequences for the restriction endonuclease Sapl, an enzyme that cleaves outside of its recognition sequence. The intermediate molecule containing the mutagenic cassette is then digested with Sapl, thereby removing most of the mutagenic cassette, leaving only a three base cohesive overhang that is ligated to generate the final insertion or substitution mutation. A general method for constructing blunt-end target molecules suitable for this approach is also described. Because the mutagenic cassette is excised during this procedure and alters the target only by introducing the desired mutation, the same cassette can be used to introduce a particular codon at all target sites. Each cassette can deposit two different codons, depending on the orientation in which it is inserted into the target molecule. Therefore, a series of eleven cassettes is sufficient to insert all possible amino acids at any constructed target site. Thus codon cassettes are 'off-the-shelf' reagents, and this methodology should be a particularly useful and inexpensive approach for subjecting multiple different positions in a protein sequence to saturation mutagenesis.
Strategy + Structure = Performance: The Strategic Planning Imperative

The article reviews the book “Strategy + Structure = Performance: The Strategic Planning Imperative,” edited by Hans B. Thorelli.
The status of women among the scheduled tribes in India

The scheduled tribes constitute about 8.2% of the total population in India. Although there is a large volume of anthropological literature describing the characteristics of and differences among the various tribes in India, little inter-disciplinary research has been done to uncover the status of women among the tribal population in India. This paper will analyze the status of women among the scheduled tribes in India. Frequent comparisons will be made to the social and cultural practices of the scheduled tribes, mainstream Hindus, as well as the scheduled caste population. Through this analysis, we will show the distinctiveness of the tribal cultures and the fact that many women from the scheduled tribes face less discrimination than Hindu women and those from scheduled castes.
Host specificity testing of Gonatocerus spp. egg-parasitoids used in a classical biological control program against Homalodisca vitripennis: A retrospective analysis for non-target impacts in southern California

Classical arthropod biological control programs lack a universally adopted, broadly utilitarian, and standardized risk assessment testing strategy for precisely estimating physiological and ecological host range of potential biological control agents. We implemented a rigorous host specificity testing protocol for estimating potential physiological and ecological risk to non-target species posed by exotic parasitoids utilized in a classical biological control program and subsequently evaluated it in terms of efficacy at estimating realized risk. This testing strategy was evaluated at two environmental scales, micro-scale Petri dish studies and macro-scale cage studies, with choice and no-choice host options presented on multiple plant species to two related egg parasitoids with dissimilar life history strategies. The solitary Gonatocerus ashmeadi Girault and gregarious G. fasciatus Girault (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) are non-native egg-parasitoids of the exotic Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), and were introduced as part of a classical biological control program in southern California, USA. The parasitoids’ physiological and ecological host ranges were estimated on three non-target indigenous sharpshooters and results were compared with observed non-target impacts in the field. Laboratory tests with G. ashmeadi revealed Homalodisca liturata Ball (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) eggs were a physiologically and ecologically acceptable host; Graphocephala atropunctata (Signoret) and Draeculacephala minerva Ball (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) eggs were not acceptable hosts. Tests with G. fasciatus revealed both H. liturata and D. minerva, but not G. atropunctata eggs, were a physiologically acceptable host. Only H. liturata eggs were determined to be an ecologically acceptable host for G. fasciatus. Non-target parasitism of H. liturata eggs by G. ashmeadi in southern California habitats was determined. Field surveys reported here failed to reveal parasitism of G. atropunctata or D. minerva eggs by either G. ashmeadi or G. fasciatus in the respective native habitats in southern California.
Dynamical processes in the middle atmosphere as observed from Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite limb-sounding data

This study uses data from the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (L'ARS) to investigate two topics in middle atmosphere dynamics: the ••4-day wave" and transport processes deduced from atmospheric carbon monoxide. The 4-day wave is an eastward moving quasi-nondispersive feature with 4 day period occurring near the winter polar stratopause. Evidence of the 4day feature is presented in UARS Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) temperature, geopotential height, quasigeostrophic potential vorticity (PV). and ozone from the late southern winters of 199^2 and 1993. Space-time spectral analyses reveal a double-peaked vertical temperature structure with an out-of-phase relationship between the two peaks. The height variation of the 4-day ozone signal compares well with a linear advective-photochemical tracer model. Regions of negative PV gradient and positive Eliassen-Palm flu.K divergence are shown to occur, con­ sistent with instability dynamics playing a role in w'ave forcing. The three-dimensional wave structure resembles the PV "•charge" concept, wherein a PV anomaly in the atmosphere (anal­ ogous to an electrical charge in a dielectric material) induces a geopotential Field, a vertically oriented temperature dipole. and circulation about the vertical a.xis. Observations of carbon monoxide in the upper stratosphere and lower mesosphere from the U.ARS Improved Stratospheric and \[esospheric Sounder (ISAMS) are presented during the early northern winter I991/199"2. High CO mixing ratios are found to saturate the polar vortex. 2D analyses in the meridional plane indicate: (I) Increasing mixing ratio with altitude. (2) Large mixing ratios near the Arctic winter pole due to downward advection from the diabatic circulation. (3) -A. tropical upper stratosphere ma.ximum likely due largely to methane oxidation. IS.A.MS CO data are compared with CO output from a 3D chemistry and transport model (CTM), initialized with ISAMS CO. ISAMS and CTM horizontal distributions compare
Soft-Synchronization of Generators Using Controllable Inductive Fault Current Limiters

We describe a method for soft-synchronization of generators by controlling an inductive fault current limiter located between the generator and the grid. Our method limits the peak shaft torque and the frequency oscillations that normally occur following mistimed closure of the bus tie switch. The method improves the success rate of generator close-in, especially during emergencies or when operating with low transient-stability margin, with low inertia and, therefore, it lengthens the life of turbogenerators. This method introduces no adverse effects during an ideal (correctly timed) generator-synchronization process. We prove the success of the technique by using transient time-domain analysis and describe the control and an approach to analyze the soft-synchronization process that can be generally applied to either an infinite power system or to a limited-capacity system. After the generator is synchronized to a grid and operates stably, the transient-stability margin between the generator and the grid is not affected by this method. This soft-synchronization method has been validated by simulations with the increased critical margin of the rotor-angle difference and the improved faulty synchronization process with limited power impulse and frequency oscillation.
Solutions of Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations on quantum Minkowski spaces

Covariant differential calculi and exterior algebras on quantum homogeneous spaces endowed with the action of inhomogeneous quantum groups are classified. In the case of quantum Minkowski spaces they have the same dimensions as in the classical case. Formal solutions of the corresponding Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations are found. The Fock space construction is sketched.
Robust stabilization of discrete time, single input single output, linear time varying systems

The authors describe the notion of a generalized stability region, which turns out to be of great importance in checking the stability of a time-varying system. A scheme to stabilize families of linear time-varying systems simultaneously and robustly by a linear time-varying dynamic compensator which generalizes results in time-variant system theory is also derived. >
Binding of cytochrome c to cytochrome c-oxidase in intact mitochondria. A study with radioactive photoaffinity-labeled cytochrome c.

Abstract [3H]-p-Azidophenacylbromide-(methyl-4-mercaptobutyrimidate)-cytochrome c from Saccharomyces cerevisiae was prepared and its properties determined. The radioactive photoaffinity-labeled cytochrome c was linked by irradiation into a covalent complex with cytochrome c oxidase. Analysis of the complex on SDS-polyacrylamide gels showed that cytochrome c bound to one of the smaller subunits of cytochrome c oxidase with an apparent molecular weight of 15,000.
Women Mentoring Women: Fieldwork in the People's Republic of China

SUMMARY During the 1990–91 academic year, the authors conducted research in China—one as a professor, the other as an undergraduate student—while participating in a university exchange program. They explore the process of mentoring—the learning that occurs between student and teacher—as the barriers distinguishing the roles dissolve through the process of exploring research questions in China.
Ketone body therapy: from the ketogenic diet to the oral administration of ketone ester

Ketone bodies (KBs), acetoacetate and β-hydroxybutyrate (βHB), were considered harmful metabolic by-products when discovered in the mid-19th century in the urine of patients with diabetic ketoacidosis. It took physicians many years to realize that KBs are normal metabolites synthesized by the liver and exported into the systemic circulation to serve as an energy source for most extrahepatic tissues. Studies have shown that the brain (which normally uses glucose for energy) can readily utilize KBs as an alternative fuel. Even when there is diminished glucose utilization in cognition-critical brain areas, as may occur early in Alzheimer's disease (AD), there is preliminary evidence that these same areas remain capable of metabolizing KBs. Because the ketogenic diet (KD) is difficult to prepare and follow, and effectiveness of KB treatment in certain patients may be enhanced by raising plasma KB levels to ≥2 mM, KB esters, such as 1,3-butanediol monoester of βHB and glyceryl-tris-3-hydroxybutyrate, have been devised. When administered orally in controlled dosages, these esters can produce plasma KB levels comparable to those achieved by the most rigorous KD, thus providing a safe, convenient, and versatile new approach to the study and potential treatment of a variety of diseases, including epilepsy, AD, and Parkinson's disease.
Infrared spectroscopy studies of structure and orientation in clay-reinforced polyamide-6 nanocomposites

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy was used to study the surface (by means of external reflection) and the bulk (by means of transmission measurements on microtomed slices) of specimens obtained by injection moulding of a commercial polyamide-6 clay-based nanocomposite material (NCH = nylon clay hybrid) at different mould temperatures and with different part geometries. Comparisons were made with equivalent non-reinforced polymer (PA-6). For the PA-6, the mould temperature influences the crystalline structure, with the y phase predominating at 50°C and the a phase at 80°C. However, in the NCH material the y phase is favoured, even at 80°C. In all cases the crystallinity increases on going from the surface to the core. The polymer chains are oriented in the flow direction, and the orientation is higher for parts with more elongated shapes. It does not vary greatly across the part thickness, except for a thin surface layer, where it is significantly higher. Both at the surface and in the bulk, the crystalline phase orientation is higher for the NCH than for the PA-6.
Cardiac electrical system involvement in Alström syndrome: uncommon causes of dilated cardiomyopathies

Alstrom syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder with dilated cardiomyopathy in 60% of patients. Despite the frequency of cardiac involvement in Alstrom syndrome, conduction system abnormalities or arrhythmias have not been characterized previously. We report two siblings with Alstrom syndrome with conduction system involvement with left bundle branch block on electrocardiogram (ECG). One patient had first degree atrioventricular block in addition to bundle branch block and underwent pacemaker implantation. This same patient developed intra-atrial reentry tachycardia requiring anti-arrhythmic medication and eventual trans-catheter ablation. The second patient developed atrial and ventricular arrhythmias and underwent placement of a bi-ventricular defibrillator. These findings suggest that cardiac conduction system involvement and clinical arrhythmia may be significant yet under-recognized complications in patients with Alstrom syndrome. Patients should be routinely screened with ECG and Holter monitoring in addition to echocardiographic assessment and a cardiologist experienced with cardiomyopathy should be an integral part of the care team.
Decline in Hepatitis E Virus Antibody Prevalence in the United States From 1988–1994 to 2009–2010

Background Previous population-based estimates in the United States have shown a relatively high prevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) antibody. We sought to determine whether changes in the prevalence of HEV antibody have occurred over time. Methods We analyzed data from the 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and NHANES III (1988-1994). Using the same serologic assay, we compared the estimated anti-HEV immunoglobulin G (IgG) prevalence and risk factors for antibody positivity for the 2 periods. Results The prevalence of HEV antibody among those aged ≥6 years declined from 10.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 9.1%-11.4%) during 1988-1994 to 6.0% (5.2%-6.8%) during 2009-2010, and the prevalence for those of US birth ranged from 9.6% (8.4%-10.9%) to 5.2% (4.4%-6.2%). Among US-born persons, the estimated HEV antibody prevalence declined significantly for all subgroups of age, sex, region of residence, and number of persons per room in the household; significant declines also were observed for persons at or above poverty level and for persons of non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black, and Mexican American race/ethnicity. No clear associations with food consumption were found. Conclusions The anti-HEV prevalence is declining in the United States. Although the decline suggests a decrease in exposure to HEV over time, the risks associated with exposure remain unknown.
Pediatric thyroidectomy: a collaborative surgical approach.

Abstract Introduction We have developed a collaborative approach to pediatric thyroid surgery, with operations performed at a children's hospital by a pediatric surgeon and an endocrine surgeon. We hypothesize that this strategy minimizes specialist-specific limitations and optimizes care of children with surgical thyroid disease. Methods Data from all partial and total thyroidectomies performed by the pediatric-endocrine surgery team at a tertiary children's hospital between 1995 and 2009 were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Statistical analyses were performed with IBM SPSS software (SPSS, Chicago, IL). Results Thirty-five children met the inclusion criteria (69% female; median age, 13 years; median follow-up, 1119 days). The indications for operation were thyroid nodule (71%), genetic abnormality with predisposition to thyroid malignancy (17%), multinodular goiter (5.7%), Grave disease (2.9%), and Hashimoto thyroiditis (2.9%). Sixteen children (46%) underwent thyroid lobectomy, and 19 children (54%) underwent total thyroidectomy. Median length of stay was 1 day (1 day after lobectomy vs 2 days after total thyroidectomy, P Conclusions For pediatric thyroidectomy and thyroid lobectomy, collaboration of high-volume endocrine and pediatric surgeons as well as pediatric endocrinologists at a dedicated pediatric medical center provides optimal surgical outcomes.
In vivo water state measurements in breast cancer using broadband diffuse optical spectroscopy

Structural changes in water molecules are related to physiological, anatomical and pathological properties of tissues. Near infrared (NIR) optical absorption methods are sensitive to water; however, detailed characterization of water in thick tissues is difficult to achieve because subtle spectral shifts can be obscured by multiple light scattering. In the NIR, a water absorption peak is observed around 975 nm. The precise NIR peak's shape and position are highly sensitive to water molecular disposition. We introduce a bound water index (BWI) that quantifies shifts observed in tissue water absorption spectra measured by broadband diffuse optical spectroscopy (DOS). DOS quantitatively measures light absorption and scattering spectra and therefore reveals bound water spectral shifts. BWI as a water state index was validated by comparing broadband DOS to magnetic resonance spectroscopy, diffusion-weighted MRI and conductivity in bound water tissue phantoms. Non-invasive DOS measurements of malignant and normal breast tissues performed in 18 subjects showed a significantly higher fraction of free water in malignant tissues (p < 0.0001) compared to normal tissues. BWI of breast cancer tissues inversely correlated with Nottingham-Bloom-Richardson histopathology scores. These results highlight broadband DOS sensitivity to molecular disposition of water and demonstrate the potential of BWI as a non-invasive in vivo index that correlates with tissue pathology.
Topographic mapping of glaucomatous visual field defects to scanning laser polarimetry of the peripapillary nerve fiber layer.

Background and objective To map retinal sensitivity values within glaucomatous visual field defects (VFD) to corresponding values of scanning laser polarimetry (SLP) of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer using the Wirtschafter disc sector classification. Methods Eyes with glaucomatous VFD (N = 28) underwent SLP and Humphrey automated perimetry. The Wirtschafter disc sector classification was used to obtain SLP values corresponding to VFD. The average and modulated SLP values were calculated and correlated with VFD. Results No significant correlation was found between retinal sensitivity and the Wirtschafter disc sector SLP values, using average values (P =.904) or modulated values (P =.409). Conclusion Despite use of modulation parameters customized to correspond with the Wirtschafter disc sector classification, topographic mapping of retinal sensitivity levels within glaucomatous VFD to corresponding SLP values was not possible in this group of glaucomatous eyes.
Associations of eldercare and competing demands with health and work outcomes among manufacturing workers

ABSTRACTEmployees juggling eldercare and work report work–family conflicts and poor health-related outcomes, but little is known about eldercare demands (ECDs) in the context of competing demands in the manufacturing workforce. This study determines how ECDs vary by age, gender, income, and job category, and how ECDs and competing demands are associated with health-related and work-related outcomes, among manufacturing workers. Employees from six manufacturing companies completed questionnaires. ECDs were defined as providing assistance to an adult aged 65 and older due to disability or chronic illness; those with ECDs were asked how many care-hours per week and whether assistance included personal care. Workers over age 45 were more likely than younger workers to report ECDs. After adjusting for competing demands and socio-demographic characteristics, ECDs were associated with greater depressive symptoms and family-to-work conflict (FWC), providing 5 or more hours of eldercare weekly was associated with ...
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease [5] (multiple letters)

To the Editor: Metastatic relapse after the complete resection of an apparently localized primary tumor indicates that disseminated cancer cells, present at the time of surgery, are sometimes undet...
Scalable Fast Multipole Method for Large-Scale Electromagnetic Scattering Problems on Heterogeneous CPU-GPU Clusters

This letter investigates a hybrid framework for the solution of large-scale electromagnetic scattering problems by using the fast multipole method (FMM) on a heterogeneous CPU-GPU system. Enabling the use of both CPU and GPU resources available in the cluster allows for solving significantly larger problem sizes than using only CPU or GPU resources. The performance is evaluated on a 13-node cluster equipped with NVIDIA Tesla M2090 GPUs. The experimental results demonstrate that our FMM implementation on CPU-GPU is up to 72.3× faster than that of the 12-core eight-node CPU implementation. The scalability of the CPU-GPU implementation is very close to the theoretical expectations.
Effect of adrenal cortical extract in hypertensive subjects.

SummaryThe continued administration of an adrenal cortical extract for one month, to four subjects with uncomplicated hypertensive vascular disease on a constant regimen, was associated with a decrease in “resting” blood pressure in 3 instances, a small rise in arterial tension in one.
Winning their trust.

The ranks of the U.S. medical profession will soon grow by 16,000 physicians, as the class of 2011 graduates from medical schools throughout the country. These new physicians will go on to receive graduate medical training that is superb by global standards. Once in practice, they will be encouraged to uphold high quality standards through licensing and certification, activities of specialty societies, and participation in a growing array of incentive programs (e.g., quality-measure reporting, meaningful use of information technology, and care models fostering enhanced communication and coordination of care). All this emphasis on the quality of care aims to maximize . . .
Combined force and voltage measurement in rapidly superfused guinea pig heart cells

We describe the construction and use of a setup that allows the rapid exchange of the solution surrounding an isolated guinea pig heart cell while simultaneously measuring the isometric force and membrane potential (Em). Cells were stably attached, by means of poly-L-lysine, to a force transducer which was adapted from one previously used for a study of frog atrial cells [N. Shepherd and F. Kavaler.Am. J. Physiol. 251 (Cell Physiol. 20): C653-C661, 1986]. The modified transducer is simple to construct and use and can be readily added to existing patch-clamp setups. The strength of attachment of a cell to the transducer exceeded the strength of the gigaseal in all of the experiments. The membrane potential was measured by means of patch electrodes and a high-impedance voltage follower. Rapidly changing extracellular K concentration [( K]o) from 5.4 to 10.8 mM caused a positive change of Em by 16.5 +/- 1.4 mV with a half-time (t1/2) of 27 +/- 4 ms. Replacing calcium in the perfusate by magnesium instantly abolished the contraction and shortened the action potential. Twitch tension returned stepwise to the control value on return of calcium to the perfusate. Our initial observations show that the patch electrode can be used successfully in conjunction with the isometric force transducer and rapid extracellular solution changes for studies of excitation and contraction coupling in isolated mammalian heart cells.
“Destruction derby” dictates galactic nucleus dynamics

Astronomers cannot use visible radiation to look at the centre of our Milky way galaxy as only one visible photon in 1012 can pierce the murky interstellar medium that lies between the Earth and the galactic centre. Therefore astronomers have been forced over to the near-infrared to study the curious collection of luminous objects in the central parasec (≈13.2 light years) of the Milky way. At a wavelength of 2μm, for example, the Rayleigh scattering cross-section of the intervening dust grains is considerably reduced, and as much as 10% of the radiation from the galactic nucleus can reach us.
The association between brain volumes, delirium duration, and cognitive outcomes in intensive care unit survivors: the VISIONS cohort magnetic resonance imaging study*.

Objective Delirium duration is predictive of long-term cognitive impairment (LTCI) in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) survivors. Hypothesizing that a neuroanatomical basis may exist for the relationship between delirium and LTCI, we conducted this exploratory investigation of the associations between delirium duration, brain volumes and LTCI.
Motion Detection Implementation on a Game Using Raspberry Pi

Along with the development of advanced gaming technology, we can play the game with so many tools or platforms such as console games, PC games, mobile games and handheld games. The disadvantage of those games is the difficulty to connect additional sensors to the PC computer. Large power requirements will also be a constraint. Besides, the size of the PC could be a weakness that makes it difficult to carry and play anytime. Raspberry is a small computer that can be added with motion detection sensors. By using the raspberry, the researchers managed to create a game "Crows Adventure" that uses motion detection sensor as the controller. Some of the sensors used in the game is UDS Sensor ( Ultrasonic Sensor disctance ) and touch sensors are applied to smarthphone to control the game. This allows the use of sensors in making more varied games by using raspberry devices.
The Taxonomy and Relationships of the African Small Barbs (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae)

Through a series of phylogenetic and taxonomic works, the unwieldy and non-monophyletic genus Barbus was reduced to just the typical Barbus of Europe and East Asia and most of the small, African, diploid barbs (‘Barbus'). The genus Enteromius Cope, 1867 was recently elevated to rename most of the small African ‘Barbus'; however, this designation has been controversial. Opponents of this change argue the designation was based on poorly supported phylogenies and state these changes would disrupt currently well-supported monophyletic groups; however, the genus is currently in use, and it is necessary to determine the species that should be recognized as Enteromius. Herein, we present a list of species placed in Enteromius and provide a description of the genus. We list the species of the other small African barbs (Barboides, Barbopsis, Caecobarbus, Clypeobarbus, Pseudobarbus, and ‘Pseudobarbus'). We also contribute 36 cytochrome b sequences of Enteromius to further build an understanding of the phylogenetic relationships among members of this group, and to aid in further taxonomic decisions.
Role of Cathepsins, in Particular Cathepsins B and D in Breast Cancer: Mechanisms and Clinical Implications

Consistent with the biological relevance of cathepsins B and D, their overexpression, translational or post-translational modifications, and mitogenic effects are hallmarks of breast cancer. Several studies have established a link between increased expression of cathepsins B and D and tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. This review outlines the potential role of these two cathepsins, specifically in breast cancer, and different mechanisms involved during tumor progression and metastasis. The development of various therapeutic strategies, including specific inhibitors, gene targeted therapy, and antibodies against cathepsins in an attempt to curb breast tumor progression holds a promising future. However, from a translational perspective, further extensive studies are needed in order to unravel the therapeutic abilities of cathepsins B and D in controlling breast cancer.
Reader performance in the ultrasonographic evaluation of oropharyngeal carcinoma

Abstract Objective To examine reader performance in evaluating oropharyngeal anatomy on ultrasonography. Materials and methods Ultrasound images of the oropharynx comprising normal and malignant anatomic variants were organized into slideshows. Slideshows were administered to 6 readers blinded to participant tumor status and with varying experience reading oropharyngeal sonograms. A training slideshow oriented readers to images of the oropharynx with and without malignant lesions. Readers then evaluated images in a test slideshow for tumor presence and marked orthogonal long and short dimensions of the tumor. Results were analyzed for accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, inter-reader agreement, and measurement error relative to prospectively-identified reference measurements. Results Eighty-seven percent of base of tongue (BOT) sonograms were identified correctly by a majority of readers. In identifying BOT tumors, median accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and Fleiss’s kappa were 79%, 73%, 85%, and 0.51, respectively. Median measurement error in the long and short axes for BOT tumors was −2.6% (range: −40% to 29%) and −2.6% (range: −56% to 156%), respectively. Eighty-four percent of palatine tonsil sonograms were identified correctly by a majority of readers. In identifying tonsil tumors, median accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and Fleiss’s kappa were 77%, 74%, 78%, and 0.41, respectively. Median measurement error in the long and short axes for tonsil tumors was 3.8% (range: −45% to 32%) and −6.5% (range: −83% to 42%), respectively. Conclusions Overall, US has clinically useful sensitivity for identification of oropharyngeal carcinoma among readers of diverse clinical backgrounds and experience. US may be useful for the evaluation of features such as tumor dimensions.
Bracciolini, Andreini, Benetti. Percorsi e contesti degli dèi mascherati

Questo articolo analizza le edizioni del 1618 delle Bravure di Capitan Spavento di F. Andreini e Lo Scherno degli dei di F. Bracciolini, e anche una commedia («commedia ridicolosa») di A. Benetti, ...
Early-vegetative tall fescue hay vs alfalfa hay as a supplement for cattle consuming low-quality roughages.

Two studies were conducted to evaluate high-quality tall fescue hay as a supplement to beef cattle fed low-quality roughages. In Exp. 1, 15 ruminally cannulated Hereford x Angus steers (average weight 390 kg) were blocked by weight and assigned randomly to one of three treatments: 1) tall fescue straw, no supplement; 2) tall fescue straw plus tall fescue hay supplement; 3) tall fescue straw plus alfalfa hay supplement. The 28-d digestion study consisted of 14 d of adaption, 6 d of intake data, and 6 d of collection of feces, respectively, with a 1-d ruminal sampling (d 27) and ruminal evacuations (d 28). In Exp. 2, 90 gestating Hereford x Angus cows were stratified by age and body condition and, within stratum, assigned randomly to three replications of the same treatments as described for Exp. 1. In both studies, a basal diet of tall fescue straw was fed with ad libitum access, alfalfa hay was fed at .4% BW, and tall fescue hay was fed at a level isonitrogenous with the alfalfa hay (.61% BW). In Exp. 1, DMI was at least 13% greater (P < .01) for supplemented steers than for nonsupplemented steers and was 12% greater (P < .10) for steers receiving supplemental tall fescue hay than for alfalfa hay-supplemented steers. Digestibility of DM was greater for supplemented steers than for nonsupplemented steers (P < .05) and, between supplement treatments, greater for tall fescue hay-supplemented steers than for alfalfa hay-supplemented steers (P < .10). Ruminal ammonia values peaked at 3 h after feeding and were higher for steers fed supplement treatments than for those fed the control treatment from just before feeding through 6 h after feeding (P < .10). In Exp. 2, supplemented cows gained more BW than nonsupplemented cows (P < .01), and the tall fescue hay-supplemented cows gained more BW (P < .10) than cows supplemented with alfalfa hay. Likewise, supplemented cows lost less condition (P < .01) than their nonsupplemented counterparts during the 84-d supplementation period, and cows receiving tall fescue hay supplement tended (P = .23) to lose less condition than cows receiving alfalfa hay supplement. No differences in calf growth were noted among treatment groups (P < .10). In conclusion, supplementation of high-quality tall fescue hay to cows fed low-quality forage diets seems to result in performance that is similar to or better than that of cows receiving alfalfa hay supplements when fed on an isonitrogenous basis.
Cation Signaling in Striated Muscle Contraction

Vertebrate striated (skeletal and cardiac) muscle contraction is regulated in a Ca2+-dependent manner by the troponin (Tn) complex through interactions with tropomyosin (Tm) and the actin filament. The Tn complex consists of three proteins: troponin I (TnI) which inhibits the actomyosin Mg2+-ATPase activity, troponin C (TnC) which binds Ca2+ ions and removes TnI inhibition, and troponin T (TnT) which makes primary interaction with Tm. These three subunits interact in a cooperative manner with each other and with Tm and actin. Binding of Ca2+ to TnC initiates structural changes in TnC which lead to structural changes in the other Tn subunits (TnI and TnT) as well as Tm. The movement of Tm on the actin filament facilitates the interaction between myosin and actin leading to muscle contraction. The cation, Ca2+, is the main regulatory and signaling molecule in striated muscle. Another cation, Mg2+, is also important in the regulation of striated muscle contraction mainly via its ability to inhibit the Ca2+ release channel, especially in skeletal muscle.
Transcriptional Activation by the Myc Oncoprotein

The Myc transcription factor functions as a downstream effector of most mitogenic signals. Myc is synthesized rapidly in response to extracellular mitogenic signals, and blocking Myc induction abolishes or at least severely attenuates any mitogenic response. Furthermore, ectopic Myc expression can often bypass the requirement for extracellular signals for entry into S phase. Thus, the Myc transcription factor is both necessary and in many ways sufficient to promote the growth of diverse cell types. Given this potent biological activity, it is not surprising that mutations in the myc gene are among the most frequent in human and animal cancers. Understanding the molecular basis of Myc function has been a central issue in the fields of cancer biology and signal transduction for 20 years.
Fluorogenic atom transfer radical polymerization in aqueous media as a strategy for detection

The development of novel approaches to signal amplification in aqueous media could enable new diagnostic platforms for the detection of water-soluble analytes, including biomolecules. This paper describes a fluorogenic polymerization approach to amplify initiator signal by the detection of visible fluorescence upon polymerization in real-time. Fluorogenic monomers were synthesized and co-polymerized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) in water to reveal increasing polymer fluorescence as a function of both reaction time and initiator concentration. Optimization of the fluorogenic ATRP reaction conditions allowed for the quantitative detection of a small-molecule initiator as a model analyte over a broad linear concentration range (pM to mM). Raising the reaction temperature from 30 °C to 60 °C facilitated sensitive initiator detection at sub-picomolar concentrations in as little as 1 h of polymerization. This method was then applied to the detection of streptavidin as a model biological analyte by fluorogenic polymerization from a designed biotinylated ATRP initiator. Taken together, these studies represent the first example of a fluorogenic ATRP reaction and establish fluorogenic polymerization as a promising approach for the direct detection of aqueous analytes and biomolecular recognition events.
Distribution of Media and Information

The chapter covers distribution networks, the major trends in electronic distribution, and the economic characteristics and implications. The author identifies the various “architectures” of distribution networks and also reviews the analytic tools for distribution management created by different disciplines, from sociology to regional planning, electrical engineering, statistics, and operations research. This leads to tools of network management, supply chain logistics, and inventory control. The author reviews wholesale distribution and its trends in a number of major media industries, such as film, books, and consumer electronics. A similar review of retail distribution follows. The business models for online media retail are discussed. A final question is the impact of distribution on content. The case study centers on the role of distribution in the future of the major German media company, Bertelsmann.
Brain-enriched microRNAs circulating in plasma as novel biomarkers for Rett syndrome.

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the X-linked gene MECP2 (methyl-CpG-binding protein 2). Minimally invasive and accurate biomarkers of disease progression and treatment response could facilitate screening of therapeutic compounds in animal models, enrollment of better-defined participants into clinical trials, and treatment monitoring. In this study, we used a targeted approach based on analysis of brain-enriched microRNAs (miRNAs) circulating in plasma to identify miRNA biomarkers of RTT using Mecp2-mutant mice as a model system and human plasma samples. An “miRNA pair” approach, i.e. the ratio between two miRNAs, was used for data normalization. Specific miRNA pairs and their combinations (classifiers) analyzed in plasma differentiated wild-type from Mecp2 male and female mice with >90% accuracy. Individual miRNA pairs were more effective in distinguishing male (homozygous) animals than female (heterozygous) animals, suggesting that disease severity correlated with the levels of the miRNA biomarkers. In the human study, 30 RTT patients were compared with age-matched controls. The results of this study showed that miRNA classifiers were able to differentiate RTT patients from controls with 85–100% sensitivity. In addition, a comparison of various age groups demonstrated that the dynamics in levels of miRNAs appear to be associated with disease development (involvement of liver, muscle and lipid metabolism in the pathology). Importantly, certain miRNA biomarker pairs were common to both the animal models and human subjects, indicating the similarity between the underlying pathological processes. The data generated in this feasibility study suggest that circulating miRNAs have the potential to be developed as markers of RTT progression and treatment response. Larger clinical studies are needed to further evaluate the findings presented here.