cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A new approach to design a low profile dipole antenna backed by a Mushroom-like Electromagnetic Bandgap (EBG) surface

Various electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) surfaces have been widely applied to enhance the radiation efficiency of low profile dipole antennas. Previous design approaches are primarily based on the reflection phase profile of the EBG surface, which is derived by a plane wave incidence. They need to be augmented since the reflection phase profiles don't account for the complex near field interaction between the EBG surface and dipole antenna. The work presented in this paper is partially an extension of our previous research on a low profile dipole antenna backed by a frequency selective surface (FSS) [S. Zhan et al., 2007]. That paper shows that when dipole antennas are resonant at a frequency band where a TM surface wave is suppressed but a TE surface wave is supported; without any modification, the dipole antenna could be flush mounted on the frequency selective surface and achieve a very good radiation efficiency. Further research finds that the same design approach is applicable to a mushroom-like high impedance EBG surface, which is shown in Fig. 1. In this paper, transmission properties of a TM and a TE surface wave on the EBG surface are measured by two monopole antennas. Their different effects to vary the antenna input impedance are discussed. A dipole antenna integrated with the EBG ground surface is built based on the new design approach. A two-port network analyzer is utilized to verify the improvement of radiation efficiency of the low profile dipole antenna.
Recovering field of view lines by using projective invariants

Establishing correspondences between moving objects is an important problem in multiple camera tracking, and field of view (FOV) lines have been introduced in literature as an efficient tool to resolve the consistent labeling issue. We introduce a new and robust method to find the FOV lines, which uses projective invariants that does not rely on the object movement in the scene and does not require information about the camera parameters. As the labeling scheme suggested before is based on the distance of an object to an FOV line, accurate recovery of the FOV lines provides reliable labeling, and makes less errors in the process. We present results on different sequences, obtained from the PETS200I database, which show the robustness of the algorithm in recovering all visible FOV lines of another camera in the current camera view.
Feeding kinematics of Kogia and Tursiops (Odontoceti:Cetacea): characterization of suction and ram feeding

The feeding kinematics of dwarf and pygmy sperm whales ( Kogia sima and K. breviceps ) and bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus were characterized and compared incorporating the Ram-Suction Index (RSI). Mean RSI data support a suction feeding strategy for Kogia (-0.67±0.29; mean ± s.d.) and a ram feeding strategy for Tursiops (0.94±0.11; mean ± s.d.). Tursiops displayed two ram-based feeding behaviours: open gape approach, where gape was at least 50% of maximum in the first video field, and closed gape approach, where gape increased near food items. Four feeding phases were identified in both odontocetes: preparatory, jaw opening, gular depression and jaw closing. The mean Kogia feeding cycle duration (470±139 ms) was significantly shorter ( P <0.003) than all Tursiops groups (pooled: 863±337 ms; open gape approach: 1211±207 ms; closed gape approach: 662±207 ms). Kogia mean maximum gape angle (39.8±18.9°), mean maximum opening and closing gape angle velocities (293±261 deg. s-1 and 223±121 deg. s-1, respectively) were significantly greater ( P <0.005) than pooled Tursiops mean maximum gape angle (24.8±6.6°), mean maximum opening and closing gape angle velocities (84±56 deg. s-1 and 120±54 deg. s-1, respectively). Negative Kogia RSI values were correlated with increasing maximum gular depression and retraction, wide gape angle, and rapid opening gape angle velocity. Kinematic data support functional hypotheses that odontocetes generate suction by rapid depression of the hyoid and tongue.
Photolysis products of rose bengal lactone diacetate

Abstract Rose bengal lactone diacetate I (3,6-O,O′-diacetyl rose bengal), when irradiated in tetrahydrofuran (THF) at 300 nm, undergoes a series of reactions starting from photofragmentation of acetate groups, followed by gradual deiodination and dechlorination, and leading to the complete deiodination and partial dechlorination of the xanthene skeleton.
Thermonuclear ignition and runaway in Type Ia supernovae.

Recent theoretical models of type Ia SN explosions are examined analytically. Qualitatively, the process described involves mass transfer to a C/O white dwarf in a binary system, bringing it near the Chandrasekhar limit and initiating runaway carbon burning. Particular attention is given to (1) carbon ignition and the convective Urca process, which acts to delay runaway, (2) detonation and deflagration models of SN dynamics, and (3) the application of observational data (light curves and spectra) to place limits on dynamical models. It is shown that most deflagration-type models do not give good agreement with spectroscopic observations, while those that do fail to explain density profiles deduced from other observations. Further research on damped-detonation models is recommended. 32 refs.
Integrating cell phones and mobile technologies into public health practice: a social marketing perspective

Mobile communications are being used for many purposes, from instant messaging (IM), mobile or microblogging (Twitter), social networking sites (Facebook, MySpace), e-mail to basic voicemail. A brief background on cell phone and mobile technology use in public health is reviewed. The focus of the article is framing the use of mobile technologies in public health from a social marketer's perspective--using the 4 Ps marketing mix as a guide.
Nicotinic antagonist α-bungarotoxin binding to rat hippocampal neurons containing nitric oxide synthase

The hippocampus is a major target of alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BTX) binding. This ligand binds to the alpha 7 nicotinic, cholinergic receptor, which has been implicated in hippocampal habituation to repetitive auditory stimulation, a phenomenon thought to involve inhibitory neurons. This study examined whether alpha-BTX binds to neurons containing nitric oxide synthase (NOS), a marker of one subgroup of inhibitory hippocampal neurons. Rat hippocampal sections were processed for NOS immunohistochemistry, photographed and then processed for [125I]alpha-BTX autoradiography. Comparison between the distribution of neurons immunoreactive for NOS and those positive for alpha-BTX binding in the same regions of the hippocampal formation revealed a variable degree of colocalization of NOS and alpha-BTX. Of the cells labeled with alpha-BTX, 2% in the dentate gyrus and 40% in the hippocampus proper were also immunoreactive for NOS. These NOS/alpha-BTX neurons were most prevalent in CA1 stratum oriens. The results suggest a possible role for NOS-containing neurons in alpha 7-mediated inhibition to repetitive auditory stimulation in rat hippocampus.
The use of "bug" in computing

There has been much speculation concerning the early use of the word "bug" in the language of computer science, technology, and practice. The purpose of the article is to indicate what may be the earliest application of "bug" in the context of computers. When the IBM ASCC/Harvard Mark I was installed at Harvard University, Robert V.D. Campbell was in charge of the operation of the machine. Bob Campbell supervised the testing and first runs of the machine and remained in charge of the machine and its operation until the spring of 1944. Campbell kept a detailed log book, recording almost every aspect of the operation of the new machine, including the preparation of the first programs and the various kinds of difficulties that arose. On April 17 1944, Campbell recorded an entry in which reference was made to "bugs" in the ASCC/Mark 1. This is thought to be the first mention of the word "bug" in relation to a computer. >
New insights into the formation of active nonsense-mediated decay complexes

In the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway, an exon-junction protein complex (EJC) and hUpf proteins mediate rapid downregulation of aberrant mRNAs that terminate translation upstream of the last splice junction. Two EJC subunits, Y14 and RNPS1, have been proposed to act as a link between splicing and NMD by recruiting hUpf3 and the other hUpf proteins. New studies now present evidence that Y14 is directly involved in NMD, and that Y14 is required for hUpf3 activity. These findings suggest unforeseen intricacies in the formation of active NMD complexes.
A Review of Pediatric Nonrespiratory Sleep Disorders

Sleep problems are extremely common during childhood, from infancy to adolescence. Despite the prevalence of sleep problems, childhood sleep disorders are often underrecognized and undiagnosed, despite being either preventable or treatable. Sleep impacts almost all aspects of a child's functioning, and thus the increased recognition and treatment of sleep disorders will positively affect a child's well-being. Children experience the same broad range of sleep disturbances encountered in adults, including sleep apnea, insomnia, parasomnia, delayed sleep phase, narcolepsy, and restless legs, but their clinical presentation, evaluation, and management may differ. Although snoring and sleep apnea may be the most common indication for an overnight sleep study in a child, one quarter of children presenting to a sleep clinic for evaluation will have a second sleep diagnosis, which is often nonrespiratory in nature. Especially in children, ruling out sleep apnea is rarely the end point of the sleep evaluation. Clinicians involved in sleep medicine must be prepared to recognize, evaluate, and manage plans for sleep disorders across the lifespan of the patient. This article will provide an updated review of nonrespiratory pediatric sleep disorders within a developmental framework.
PDE1 isozymes, key regulators of pathological vascular remodeling

Pathological vascular remodeling is a hallmark of most vascular disorders such as atherosclerosis, postangioplasty restenosis, allograft vasculopathy, and pulmonary hypertension. Pathological vascular remodeling is a multi-cell-dependent process leading to detrimental changes of vessel structure and eventual vessel occlusion. Cyclic nucleotide signaling regulates a variety of vascular functions ranging from cell contractility to cell growth. Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs), a large family of structurally and functionally distinct isozymes, regulate cyclic nucleotide levels and compartmentalization through catalyzing their degradation reaction. Increasing evidence has suggested that one of the important mechanisms for specific cyclic nucleotide regulation is exerted through selective activation or inhibition of distinct PDE isozymes. This review summarizes the work done to characterize the role and therapeutic potential of PDE1 isozymes in pathological vascular remodeling.
Toward the mechanism of dynamical couplings and translocation in hepatitis C virus NS3 helicase using elastic network model

Hepatitis C virus NS3 helicase is an enzyme that unwinds double-stranded polynu- cleotides in an ATP-dependent reaction. It pro- vides a promising target for small molecule thera- peutic agents against hepatitis C. Design of such drugs requires a thorough understanding of the dynamical nature of the mechanochemical func- tioning of the helicase. Despite recent progress, the detailed mechanism of the coupling between ATPase activity and helicase activity remains un- clear. Based on an elastic network model (ENM), we apply two computational analysis tools to probe the dynamical mechanism underlying the allosteric coupling between ATP binding and polynucleotide binding in this enzyme. The corre- lation analysis identifies a network of hot-spot residues that dynamically couple the ATP-bind- ing site and the polynucleotide-binding site. Sev- eral of these key residues have been found by mutational experiments as functionally impor- tant, while our analysis also reveals previously unexplored hot-spot residues that are potential targets for future mutational studies. The confor- mational changes between different crystal struc- tures of NS3 helicase are found to be dominated by the lowest frequency mode solved from the ENM. This mode corresponds to a hinge motion of the highly flexible domain 2. This motion simulta- neously modulates the opening/closing of the domains 1-2 cleft where ATP binds, and the domains 2-3 cleft where the polynucleotide binds. Additionally, a small twisting motion of domain 1, observed in both mode 1a nd the computed ATP binding induced conformational change, fine- tunes the binding affinity of the domains 1-3 interface for the polynucleotide. The combination of these motions facilitates the translocation of a single-stranded polynucleotide in an inchworm- like manner. Proteins 2007;67:886-896. V C 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. y
Robot programming by human demonstration: the use of human variation in identifying obstacle free trajectories

Programming by human demonstration is an intuitive method of robot programming, in which the programmer demonstrates how a task is performed using a human/robot teaching device that measures human motion, and the data gathered is used to generate the robot program. A direct duplication of the demonstrated trajectory would result in unnecessary robot motion due to human "wiggles" and unintended motion. To identify a more satisfactory robot trajectory, a method is presented that uses multiple demonstrations of the same task. Variation in human trajectories between trials is attributed to human inconsistency and is used to define an obstacle free region, by applying the Jordan curve theorem. The shortest path within the obstacle free region is determined, resulting in a shorter robot path than any of the demonstrations. Thus the presence of human inconsistency is used to improve robot performance. The analysis is restricted to planar translational motion. >
Impact of Brachytherapy on Local Recurrence Rates After Sublobar Resection: Results From ACOSOG Z4032 (Alliance), a Phase III Randomized Trial for High-Risk Operable Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer

Purpose A major concern with sublobar resection (SR) for non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is high local recurrence (LR). Adjuvant brachytherapy may reduce LR This multicenter randomized trial compares SR to SR with brachytherapy (SRB). Patients and Methods High-risk operable patients with NSCLC ≤ 3 cm were randomly assigned to SR or SRB. The primary end point was time to LR, where LR included recurrence at the staple line (local progression), in the primary tumor lobe away from the staple line, and in ipsilateral hilar nodes. The trial was designed to have a 90% power to detect a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.315 in favor of SRB, using a one-sided type I error rate of 0.05 with a sample size of 100 eligible patients in each arm. Results Two hundred twenty-four patients were randomly assigned; 222 patients were evaluable for intent-to-treat analysis. Median age was 71 years (range, 49 to 87 years). No differences were found in baseline characteristics. Median follow-up time was 4.38 years (range, 0.04 to 5.59 y...
The influences and countermeasures of wind farm access to transmission line differential protection

Large-capacity wind power will have impact on transmission line protection when short circuit occurs. This paper built the dynamic simulation model of different wind turbine generator through physical devices, and tested through operation and faults. By analysis of characteristics of wind farm model, this paper analyzed the influences of wind power to transmission line differential protection and proposed countermeasures to adapt and overcome the problem.
Treatment of Congestion in Congestive Heart Failure: Ultrafiltration Is the Only Rational Initial Treatment of Volume Overload in Decompensated Heart Failure

“If you have always done it that way, it is probably wrong.” — Charles F. Kettering, 1876–1958 The morbidity of decompensated heart failure is due to volume overload, a consequence of increased total body sodium.1,2 Failure to adequately reduce total body sodium contributes to progressive ventricular dysfunction, worsening heart failure, and excess morbidity. Ultrafiltration is the gold standard for sodium-volume removal and is the only intervention shown to improve outcomes in a randomized controlled trial of patients hospitalized with decompensated heart failure.3 Diuretics are inherently inferior because they produce hypotonic urine4,5and undesirable hemodynamic and neurohormonal changes.6,7 Therefore, ultrafiltration is the preferred initial treatment for patients hospitalized with decompensated heart failure and sodium-volume overload. Response by Shin and Dec on p 499 The earliest descriptions of heart failure date back more than 3500 years to the Egyptian civilization. Even then, symptoms were correctly attributed to volume excess.8 It was not until the early 20th century that researchers recognized the role of salt in the formation of edema. In 1901, researchers found that salt fed to patients with congestive heart failure could not be recovered as chloride in the urine.8 This represents one of the earliest descriptions of heart failure as a sodium avid state. Later, it was demonstrated that liberal salt intake increased congestive symptoms and pulmonary edema in patients with heart failure whereas patients on salt-restricted diets could tolerate large amounts of water without any further increases in congestion or edema.8 Other studies confirmed the primary role of salt, not water, in the formation of edema in heart failure. By 1948, sodium was widely recognized as the major determinant in extracellular fluid volume.1 Today, it is understood that sodium retention in heart failure is under the influence of the sympathetic and …
Detection of benzopyrene-deoxyguanosine adducts by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

A method for the detection of BPDE-d guanosine adducts using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOFMS) is described and illustrated. The results indicate that MALDI is capable of detecting two other DNA benzopyrene adducts, which are trace products formed during the synthesis of BPDE-d guanosine. This MALDI-TOFMS method offers the potential for the detection of DNA adducts in human tissue using very limited sample purification and preparation. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does Patent Litigation Have an Effect on Patent Grants for Patenting-Intensive Firms?

This paper examines the effect of patent litigation on patenting-intense firms' knowledge production. Utilizing the knowledge production function approach in the patenting literature, I hypothesize that increases in patent litigation at the firm level reduces firm-level resources which in turn reduces knowledge production. To test the hypothesis, I construct a new, unique dataset by linking firm-level patent, financial, and patent litigation data for 194 firms from 2000-2010. Specifying a dynamic non-linear GMM model, I find that an increase in past patent litigation has a small, but statistically significant negative effect on patent production for small firms relative to large firms.
WITHDRAWN: Novel opportunities for computational biology and sociology in drug discovery.

Department of Medicine, Department of Human Genetics, Institute forGenomicsandSystemsBiology,UniversityofChicago,Chicago,IL60637,USAThe Publisher regrets that this article is an accidental duplication of anarticle that has already been published, DOI of original article: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tibtech.2010.01.004.The duplicate article has therefore been withdrawn.The fullElsevier PolicyonArticleWithdrawalcanbefoundathttp://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy.TIBTEC789 No.ofPages1
Retropubic urethrolysis without resuspension for the management of posturethropexy urinary retention and voiding dysfunction.

ABSTRACT Objective: The goal of this study was to determine the efficacy of retropubic urethrolysis without resuspension for the surgical treatment of postoperative urinary retention. Methods: A retrospective chart review was done of six women with posturethropexy urinary retention or voiding dysfunction who underwent retropubic urethrolysis between July 1999 and June 2000. Results: An average of 27.0 (±19.6) months elapsed between obstructive incontinence procedure and urethrolysis. The mean maximum detrusor pressure during voiding was elevated at 52.7 (±31.7) cm H2O. The mean maximum flow rate during voiding was decreased at 16.3 (±10.8) cm H2O. The average postvoid residual volume was 152.9 ± 71.6 mL, significantly decreased postoperatively to 36.9 ± 40.0 mL (t = 3.37, p ± 0.043). Postoperative cystourethroscopy showed a completely free and mobile urethra. In the short term, all patients had resolution of their symptoms. No patient had return of stress incontinence in a mean clinical follow-up of 3.3 ±...
Examining the influence of anecdotal stories and the interplay of individual differences on reasoning

ABSTRACTIn two experiments, we explored whether anecdotal stories influenced how individuals reasoned when evaluating scientific news articles. We additionally considered the role of education level and thinking dispositions on reasoning. Participants evaluated eight scientific news articles that drew questionable interpretations from the evidence. Overall, anecdotal stories decreased the ability to reason scientifically even when controlling for education level and thinking dispositions. Additionally, we found that article length was related to participants' ratings of the news articles. Our study demonstrates that anecdotes can discourage scientific reasoning while also pointing to the potential influence of article length on judgements of quality.
High-salt diet upregulates activity and mRNA of renal Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase in Dahl salt-sensitive rats

We examined the effect of a high-salt (HS) diet on the regulation of renal cortical Na(+)-K(+)-adenosinetriphosphatase (Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase) in young Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) and salt-resistant (DR) rats. The activity of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, determined in permeabilized proximal tubule segments, was similar in DS and DR rats on normal salt (NS) diet. HS diet resulted in a twofold increase in proximal tubule Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity in DS rats but not in DR rats. The mRNA abundance, which was also similar in DS and DR rats on NS diet, increased after 2 days on HS diet in both innervated and denervated kidneys from DS rats but had no effect in DR rats. The activity of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase and the content of alpha 1- and beta-protein in cortical homogenate were similar in DS and DR rats on both NS and HS diets. Treatment with benserazide, an inhibitor of dopa decarboxylase, upregulated proximal tubule Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity and increased Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase mRNA in DR rats on HS diet. Taken together, these data indicate that there is a primary defect in the dynamic hormonal regulation of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity in intact tubular cells, which might stimulate Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase transcription.
Mean lifetimes of the γ cascades in the Cu 61 continuum

The reduction of the Doppler shift for several bound-state transitions in $^{61}\mathrm{Cu}$ due to the intervening $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ cascades from the continuum was measured, using the Doppler-shift-attenuation method in a $p\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ coincidence arrangement that employed the $^{58}\mathrm{Ni}(\ensuremath{\alpha},p\ensuremath{\gamma})^{61}\mathrm{Cu}$ reaction at 19.7 MeV. It is found that the mean lifetimes of cascades that begin at the most probable excitation energy of \ensuremath{\sim} 9.5 MeV in $^{61}\mathrm{Cu}$ and populate the 2336.2-keV (9/${2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$), 2611.8-keV (9/${2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$), and 3015.6-keV (11/${2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$) states are, respectively 0.29 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.12, 0.19 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.07, and 0.43 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.14 ps. The mean lifetimes of the cascades feeding the above three states were found to increase with increasing total energy available for the cascades with an approximately linear dependence with slopes of 40 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 22, 29 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 12, and 69 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 12, and 69 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 20 fs/MeV. These results are consistent with an increase in the $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ multiplicity in the cascades with increasing total available cascade energy.[NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{58}\mathrm{Ni}(\ensuremath{\alpha},p\ensuremath{\gamma})^{61}\mathrm{Cu}$, ${E}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}=19.7$ MeV; measured $\overline{\ensuremath{\tau}}({E}^{*})$, the energy dependence of the mean lifetimes of the $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ cascades in $^{61}\mathrm{Cu}$. Enriched targets, Ge(Li) $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ detectors, annular Si(Li) detector, Doppler-shift analysis of line shapes.]
Biodegradation of a Food Processing Wastewater Utilizing Phanerochaete Chrysosporium

Soybean hulls are processed into soy flour in a method similar to paper mill production. During the process, the soybean hull wastewater (SHW) is discharged into an anaerobic lagoon and then into an aeration basin. From there, it passes to a facultative lagoon before discharge. Even after this conventional treatment, the SHW has extremely high amounts of Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and a high pH. We have developed an attached growth, packed-bed bioreactor (PBR) containing the white rot fungus (WRF), Phanerochaete chrysosporium . This fungus secretes enzymes that catalyze oxidation reactions that result in degradation of recalcitrant compounds such as PCB, PCP, and pesticides. Previous studies utilizing the fungus in a bioreactor found that it could decolorize a polymeric dye. We hypothesize that the WRF could degrade the SHW and reduce the TKN and COD. We also assessed the effectiveness of pH adjustment of the SHW before introduction into the bioreactor. The objectives were to evaluate the ability of P. chrysosporium grown in a PBR to degrade the SHW containing high concentrations of TKN and complex organic compounds and to investigate the effectiveness of pH adjustment of the SHW before treatment in the PBR. The WRF in the PBR was fed an N-limited media for 5 days before introduction of the SHW. The effluent was sampled daily and measure for TKN, COD and pH. The pH adjusted wastewater was recycled through the PBR and the effluent was sampled daily and measure for TKN, COD and pH. Within 48 hours, 63% of the TKN and 37% of the COD was degraded. The pH of the effluent increased steadily from an initial pH of 4.88 to 8.59 at 24 hours. Within 72 hours, the effluent pH was equal to the influent pH. At this point, degradation within the PBR ceased. Continuous adjustment of pH during recycling of the wastewater within the PBR resulted in an increase in the amount of TKN and COD degraded. Over 90% of the TKN and approximately 33% of the COD was removed during treatment within the PBR. The pH of the SHW in the PBR had a significant effect on fungal degradation. The reduction of COD was more sensitive to pH changes than the reduction of TKN. With the improved pH control in the PBR during recycling events, a greater amount of TKN and COD were removed from the wastewater. These positive results indicate that treatment of recalcitrant wastewater with the WRF deserves further investigation.
Synthetic biology: A foundation for multi-scale molecular biology

The field of synthetic biology has made rapid progress in a number of areas including method development, novel applications, and community building. In seeking to make biology “engineerable,” synthetic biology is increasing the accessibility of biological research to researchers of all experience levels and backgrounds. One of the underlying strengths of synthetic biology is that it may establish the framework for a rigorous bottom-up approach to studying biology starting at the DNA level. Building upon the existing framework established largely by the Registry of Standard Biological Parts, careful consideration of future goals may lead to integrated multi-scale approaches to biology. Here we describe some of the current challenges that need to be addressed or considered in detail to continue the development of synthetic biology. Specifically, discussion on the areas of elucidating biological principles, computational methods, and experimental construction methodologies are presented.
A Differential Hemolysis Technique Using a Coulter Counter to Assay Erythrocyte Chimerism

SummaryAn improved technique for measuring erythrocyte chimerism in cattle is described. The method utilizes a Coulter counter to count directly the proportion of cells remaining after differential...
Abstract B090: A Toll-like receptor 5 agonist entolimod as a potential anticancer immunotherapeutic agent

Liver metastases are a major common cause of mortality of patients with different types of cancer due to lack of effective treatment options. Anticancer immunotherapy provides an attractive approach for developing a more effective systemic therapy for patients with metastatic liver cancer. We generated a Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) agonistic agent entolimod™ (CBLB502), a pharmacologically optimized derivative of bacterial Salmonella flagellin that is now at advanced stage of clinical development as a medical countermeasure to reduce adverse side effects of radiation therapy. We also found that entolimod, in addition to its radioprotective properties, has anticancer effects against a variety of TLR5-positive tumors and TLR5-negative tumors residing in a TLR5-expressing environment such as the liver in mice. We hypothesized that entolimod can suppress tumor growth in a TLR5-responsive microenvironment such as the liver independently of the TLR5 status of tumor cells. We tested the therapeutic potential of entolimod against TLR5 responsive and non-responsive tumors using mouse triple negative 4T1 breast and CT26 colorectal adenocarcinoma models mimicking clinically occurring development of post-surgery liver metastases in cancer patients. Our results demonstrate that entolimod treatment was efficient in suppressing metastatic growth when injected systemically in both models. Investigating the mechanism of entolimod9s antitumor activity we found that several major transcriptional factors, such as NF-κB, STAT-3 and AP-1, are rapidly activated in hepatocytes leading to a short-term neutrophilic infiltration and long-term NK cell accumulation and activation that coordinate CD8+ and CD4+ T cell immunity against liver metastases. This resulted in significant improvement of long-term tumor-free survival and durable, tumor-specific T cell memory. Importantly, unlike other TLR agonists entolimod is safe and does not show signs of septic shock even with systemic administration. Moreover, the results of two phase 1 clinical trials with 150 healthy volunteers and 26 patients with advanced cancers demonstrated good tolerability and safe profile of the response, which supports entolimod9s potential as an immunotherapeutic agent. This also suggests that entolimod can be potentially combined with radiation, chemotherapeutic, targeted, and other immunotherapeutic agents to improve the efficacy of anticancer therapy. Citation Format: Craig Brackett, Bojidar Kojouharov, Sandra Gollnick, Andrei Gudkov, Lyudmila Burdelya. A Toll-like receptor 5 agonist entolimod as a potential anticancer immunotherapeutic agent. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR Inaugural International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference: Translating Science into Survival; September 16-19, 2015; New York, NY. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2016;4(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B090.
David Oliver: The pundits who do doctors down.

Rigorous, lengthy medical training is a good thing. High levels of public trust in doctors don’t result from qualifications obtained like lottery tickets.1 Yet a select right wing commentariat with no credible background in healthcare argues that medics are overqualified, overpaid, or operating a cartel to increase income and status. The Times newspaper quoted UK taxpayer costs of £560 000 (€735 000; $820 000) to train a consultant, conveniently forgetting the decade spent in paid employment, delivering clinical services night and day while studying for exams in “spare time.” Henry Hill, of the Conservative Home blog, proposed an …
Stemmed Humeral Replacement

A critical component of a successful anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty is the humeral component. Stemmed designs remain the gold standard. The goal of the humeral component is to restore shoulder function by replicating native anatomy, achieving solid initial fixation, and maintaining fixation in the long term, all while preserving native bone stock. Implant design and technique has evolved with distinct strategies employed to achieve these goals, with press-fit components being supplanted by on-growth and ingrowth coatings and monoblock components being replaced with implant modularity and variability with respect to inclination and offset. Both cemented and cementless fixation continue to be commonly utilized and each has advantages and disadvantages. Indications for stemmed humeral replacement include a variety of end-stage degenerative and posttraumatic processes of the humeral articular surface. While with modern designs and techniques humeral component survival to aseptic loosening or revision or any reason is excellent, stress shielding and osteolysis continue to occur and cause concern for the future given the increasing frequency of these procedures and the increasing numbers being performed in younger patients.
Identifying and Analyzing Posttranslational Modifications

The aim of this chapter is to present an overview of bench-top methodology for the structural elucidation of modified proteins and peptides. The techniques covered in previous chapters provide most of the basics for studying protein modifications.
C/EBPα Binds and Activates the Distal PU.1 Enhancer.

C/EBPα and PU.1 are both key regulators of myeloid development. C/EBPα (−/−) mice have markedly reduced granulocyte-monocyte progenitors, and PU.1 (−/−) mice lack B cells and monocytes and have greatly reduced neutrophil numbers. Genetic evidence indicates that higher levels of PU.1 are required for monocyte as compared to granulocyte development. Exogenous PU.1 or C/EBPα converts B-lineage to monocytic cells and increases monocyte as compared to granulocyte production from transduced myeloid progenitors cultured in IL3/IL6/SCF or in GM-CSF. We previously demonstrated that activation of C/EBPα-ER with estradiol induces PU.1 mRNA within 4 hr even in the presence of cycloheximide and that C/EBPα binds and activates the PU.1 promoter via a site conserved in the murine and human genes. However, binding to the promoter site in a gel shift assay was weak compared to the strong binding site in the neutrophil elastase promoter. To obtain further evidence for regulation of the PU.1 gene by C/EBPα, we have now investigated regulation of the 240 bp proximal segment of the PU.1 distal enhancer located at −14 kb. We focused on the proximal segment of the enhancer due to is strong transcriptional activating activity when linked to the PU.1 promoter, compared to the repressive effect of the distal enhancer segment. Five sites within the proximal enhancer (C1–C5) fit the C/EBP consensus site T(T/G)NNGNAA(T/G) or differed from this consensus by 1 bp. Each was evaluated for binding to C/EBPα expressed transiently in 293T cells. Site C1 bound C/EBPα weakly, and C2 and C5 each bound C/EBPα strongly. Binding of C/EBPα to the endogenous proximal enhancer segment was also demonstrated in the HF1 myeloid cell line using the chromosomal immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay. HF1 cells were employed for this assay due to their high-level expression of C/EBPα. Sites C1, C2, and C5 were mutated individually within the enhancer, which was then linked to the PU.1 promoter and the luciferase cDNA. Mutation of C1 minimally reduced the activity of this reporter, mutation of C2 reduced activity 2-fold, and mutation of C5 reduced activity 5-fold, on average, upon transient transfection into the more readily tranfectable 32DPKCδ cell line. These data provide further support for the conclusion that C/EBPα directly activates the PU.1 gene and that induction of PU.1 by C/EBPα, potentially in cooperation with additional factors such as c-Jun, helps direct bipotent myeloid progenitors to commit to the monocytic lineage.
Highly accurate palmprint recognition using statistical and wavelet features

Palmprint is one of the most useful physiological biometrics that can be used as a powerful means in personal recognition systems. The major features of the palmprints are palm lines, wrinkles and ridges, and many approaches use them in different ways towards solving the palmprint recognition problem. Here we have proposed to use a set of statistical and wavelet-based features; statistical to capture the general characteristics of palmprints; and wavelet-based to find those information not evident in the spatial domain. Also we use two different classification approaches, minimum distance classifier scheme and weighted majority voting algorithm, to perform palmprint matching. The proposed method is tested on a well-known palmprint dataset of 6000 samples and has shown an impressive accuracy rate of 99.65%–100% for most scenarios.
Exploring site-specific chemical interactions at surfaces: a case study on highly ordered pyrolytic graphite

A material's ability to interact with approaching matter is governed by the structural and chemical nature of its surfaces. Tailoring surfaces to meet specific needs requires developing an understanding of the underlying fundamental principles that determine a surface's reactivity. A particularly insightful case occurs when the surface site exhibiting the strongest attraction changes with distance. To study this issue, combined noncontact atomic force microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy experiments have been carried out, where the evolution of the local chemical interaction with distance leads to a contrast reversal in the force channel. Using highly ordered pyrolytic graphite surfaces and metallic probe tips as a model system, we find that at larger tip-sample distances, carbon atoms exhibit stronger attractions than hollow sites while upon further approach, hollow sites become energetically more favorable. For the tunneling current that is recorded at large tip-sample separations during acquisition of a constant-force image, the contrast is dominated by the changes in tip-sample distance required to hold the force constant ('cross-talk'); at smaller separations the contrast turns into a convolution of this cross-talk and the local density of states. Analysis shows that the basic factors influencing the force channel contrast reversal are locally varying decay lengths and an onset of repulsive forces that occurs for distinct surface sites at different tip-sample distances. These findings highlight the importance of tip-sample distance when comparing the relative strength of site-specific chemical interactions.
A simplified flow for synthesizing digital FIR filters based on common subexpression elimination

Based on the conventional common subexpression elimination (CSE) algorithm, in this paper we propose a new flow, which reduces redundant recursive cycles so that the required total runtime is shorten. The proposed CSE flow can save at most N-3 (N > 3) recursive loops for pattern searching and pattern elimination processes from the conventional CSE algorithm, where N stands for the maximum number of nonzero bits in all possible patterns from all coefficients. The conventional CSE algorithm examines patterns based on N nonzero bits through all the coefficient set. The searching loop is repeated for N, N-1, N-2…2 nonzero bit patterns. In our proposed flow, all possible common patterns with various lengths of nonzero bits are searched at one time. The pattern searching and frequency calculation loops are only performed when the new coefficient set is formed after pattern elimination process of all patterns with maximum frequency, which reduces the redundant recursive cycles of patterns search and frequency calculation from the conventional CSE algorithm. Furthermore, the commensurate amount of adders along the critical path is also achieved by the proposed method for pattern selection.
Integration of Load Management into an Energy-oriented Production Control

Abstract In order to be more energy-cost-efficient, companies may choose time-variable tariffs with their energy provider or expand their energy self-supply depending on their capability for flexible energy consumption. Therefore, flexible energy consumption has to be reflected in the companies’ production planning and control. This paper presents a strategy for an energy-oriented production control, which treats electric energy as a limited production capacity where load profiles for manufacturing are predetermined. The focus of this strategy is the identification and integration of measures for load management into production control in order to cope with unexpected events and disruption on the shop floor which in turn have adverse effects on the overall energy consumption. This energy-oriented production control aims to synchronize the energy demand in manufacturing with a limited energy supply and thereby to minimize energy costs.
Difference in risk factors associated with biochemical recurrence after salvage RT compared to post-prostatectomy patients with negative margins.

39Background: Previous research has also shown that higher pathologic stage, higher Gleason score (GS) and positive margins are associated with increased rates of disease recurrence after prostatectomy and may be indicators for early intervention with adjuvant or salvage radiotherapy (SRT). Conversely, a negative surgical margin is a negative prognostic factor for the success of SRT. We sought to investigate the relative significance of prognostic factors in patients grouped by margin status and differences in their response to treatment. Methods: 227 patients were treated with SRT at our institution between Jan 2005 and Dec 2013. Patients with positive lymph nodes at surgery, those treated with adjuvant radiation and patients with metastases prior to SRT were excluded, leaving 196 for analysis. Biochemical recurrence (BCR) was defined as post-SRT PSA nadir + 0.2 ng/mL. Median follow-up was 48 mo. Covariates evaluated were factors found to be significant in previous studies on SRT (pre-SRT PSA, pathologic...
A Counsellor’s Guide to Conducting Psychobiographical Research

By nature of their interests and professional training, counsellors are ideally equipped to conduct psychobiographical research. This article positions the counselling field in the broad specialty area of psychobiography, highlights the preparedness of counsellors to conduct psychobiographical research, and emphasizes the benefits of this research endeavor to counsellors themselves and to the counselling profession. A ten-step guide to conducting and publishing psychobiography is presented.
A second law-based framework to identify high efficiency pathways in dual fuel low temperature combustion

Abstract While dual fuel low temperature combustion (LTC) has been studied before, a detailed second law analysis of dual fuel LTC is not yet available in the open literature. To address this gap, a previously validated, closed-cycle, multi-zone, simulation of diesel-natural gas dual fuel LTC was used to perform a second law analysis. For the present study, a 2.4-l single-cylinder research engine operating at a nominal load of 6 bar BMEP and 1700 rpm was used. Zone-wise thermodynamic irreversibilities as well as total cumulative entropy generated and lost available work over the closed cycle were quantified. Subsequently, two convenient second-law parameters were defined: (1) the “lost available indicated mean effective pressure” (LAIMEP), which can be interpreted as an engine-size-normalized measure of available work that is lost due to thermodynamic irreversibilities (analogous to the relationship between indicated mean effective pressure and indicated work); (2) fuel conversion irreversibility (FCI), which is defined as the ratio of lost available work to total fuel chemical energy input. Finally, parametric studies were performed to quantify the effects of diesel start of injection, intake manifold temperature, and intake boost pressure on LAIMEP and FCI. The results show that significant entropy generation occurred in the flame zone (52–61 percent) and the burned zone (31–39 percent) while packets account for less than 6 percent of the overall irreversibilities. Parametric studies showed LAIMEPs in the range of 645–768 kPa and FCIs in the range of 32.8–39.2 percent at different engine operating conditions. Although the present study focused on dual fuel LTC, the conceptual definitions of LAIMEP and FCI are generally applicable for comparing the thermodynamic irreversibilities of IC engines of any size and operating on any combustion strategy.
Foreword: Biology/embodiment/desire.

The sexological roots of “lesbian” and the “queer” turn from biologized categories of sexual difference pose an exciting set of questions and tensions for thinking about queer feminism and biologic...
Martire’s Technique for “L” Mastoplasty

The author describes a technique for mastoplasty with an L-shaped scar, adequate for all shapes of breast regardless of size or degree of ptosis or flaccidity; therefore, it is a universal surgery. Furthermore, it is an easy method to understand and carry out.
Effectiveness of conjugated estrogen in orthotopic liver transplantation

Background A retrospective study was conducted at a university hospital to determine the efficacy of conjugated estrogen in reducing blood product transfusion during orthotopic liver transplantation. Methods The charts of patients who had orthotopic liver transplantation were retrospectively reviewed. Only those having a reaction time > 30 mm or 15 minutes (normal = 19 mm to 28 mm) on computerized thromboelastogram (CTEG) at the beginning of surgery were included. One group of patients received a first dose of conjugated estrogen (100 mg i.v.) at the beginning of the case and a second dose (100 mg i.v.) just after reperfusion of the new graft. The control group did not receive estrogen. The two groups were similar in age, weight, first TEG measurements, final intraoperative hemoglobin concentration and platelet count. Blood products were given in response to hematocrit and CTEG measurements, which were determined every hour during surgery. Results The two groups did not differ in units of cryoprecipitate and platelets administered, but the intraoperative requirements for red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma were significantly lower in the estrogen group than in the control group. Conclusions Administration of conjugated estrogen is associated with a statistically significant decrease in use of red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma during orthotopic liver transplantation.