cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide binding of the orphan nuclear receptor TR4 suggests its general role in fundamental biological processes

The orphan nuclear receptor TR4 (human testicular receptor 4 or NR2C2) plays a pivotal role in a variety of biological and metabolic processes. With no known ligand and few known target genes, the mode of TR4 function was unclear. We report the first genome-wide identification and characterization of TR4 in vivo binding. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by high throughput sequencing (ChIP-seq), we identified TR4 binding sites in 4 different human cell types and found that the majority of target genes were shared among different cells. TR4 target genes are involved in fundamental biological processes such as RNA metabolism and protein translation. In addition, we found that a subset of TR4 target genes exerts cell-type specific functions. Analysis of the TR4 binding sites revealed that less than 30% of the peaks from any of the cell types contained the DR1 motif previously derived from in vitro studies, suggesting that TR4 may be recruited to the genome via interaction with other proteins. A bioinformatics analysis of the TR4 binding sites predicted a cis regulatory module involving TR4 and ETS transcription factors. To test this prediction, we performed ChIP-seq for the ETS factor ELK4 and found that 30% of TR4 binding sites were also bound by ELK4. Motif analysis of the sites bound by both factors revealed a lack of the DR1 element, suggesting that TR4 binding at a subset of sites is facilitated through the ETS transcription factor ELK4. Further studies will be required to investigate the functional interdependence of these two factors. Our data suggest that TR4 plays a pivotal role in fundamental biological processes across different cell types. In addition, the identification of cell type specific TR4 binding sites enables future studies of the pathways underlying TR4 action and its possible role in metabolic diseases.
The measurement and modeling of broadband UV-A irradiance

The estimation of ultraviolet-A radiation across the earth's surface is needed to model plant productivity and future impacts of ultraviolet-B radiation to plant productivity. We have evaluated the quality of broadband ultraviolet-A (UV-A) irradiance measurements within a UV climate monitoring network in the USA and developed a model to estimate the UV-A irradiance from measurements of the global spectral irradiance at 368-nm. The model was developed from ½ hour interval measurements made during 2000 at three locations across the United States and evaluated from ½ hour measurements made during 2000 through 2002 at seven locations. The stability of the UV-A irradiance sensors across the two year period was evaluated by comparison of changes in UV-A sensor response to changes in 368 nm AOD across years on the same (+/-3) day referenced to the change in UV-A response to changes in 368 nm AOD on sequential days during 2000. Most of the seven UV-A sensors installed during 1999 and 2000 appear to have remained stable (within detectable bounds) through 2004. UV-A irradiance was modeled using measured global 368-nm irradiance and empirical functions defining UV-A and 368-nm irradiance relationships derived from a radiative transfer model. The theoretical pseudo two stream discrete ordinates radiative transfer model provided baseline irradiance relationships between UV-A irradiance and 368-nm spectral irradiance. The model estimated the UV-A irradiance at seven locations across the USA with a mean bias error of 0.5 W m -2 and a root mean squared error of 1.5 W m -2 . The model error was comparable to the combined effect of previously-estimated UV-A and 368-nm irradiance measurement errors but greater than that of the UV-A sensor alone.
Efficacy of Treatment of Inflammatory Cytologic Abnormalities Detected By Papanicolaou Smears: A Pilot Study

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy of metronidazole versus no treatment for the empiric treatment of inflammatory cytologic changes. Materials and Methods. Patients with inflammatory changes on Pap smear were serially assigned to receive no treatment or metronidazole by one of three regimens: 2 grams orally as a single dose, 500 milligrams orally twice daily for 7 days, or 5 grams (in gel form) vaginally twice daily for 5 days. Smears were repeated 3 months after treatment. Results. The repeat smear was normal in 47 of 63 patients treated with a single dose, 40 of 62 patients treated orally for 7 days, 14 of 21 patients treated with vaginal gel, and 29 of 49 of the control group. Chi-square analysis showed no statistical significance between groups. Conclusion. There is no statistically significant difference in the resolution of cytologic inflammatory changes among the study groups. Empiric metronidazole treatment has no benefit.
Safety of low-dose low-molecular-weight-heparins in thrombocytopenic stem cell transplantation patients: a case series and review of the literature.

Few attempts have been made to examine the feasibility of safely administering low-molecular-weight-heparins (LMWHs) in the presence of concurrent thrombocytopenia. We retrospectively investigated the safety of low-dose LMWH in BMT patients, a population at risk of bleeding. In total, 26 patients received at least one dose of low-dose enoxaparin (ie 55 kg.
Tunable plasmonic metamaterial based on transparent conducting oxide

We explore tunable plasmonic metamaterials for electro-optic modulator applications based on ITO-based multilayer structures. Two different structures are investigated, and modulation depth up to 38.8% can be achieved. Preliminary results are presented for the real time response of an ITO/electrolyte gel/doped Si modulator. Furthermore, another modulator configuration is investigated by substituting electrolyte gel by high-k dielectric material (HfO 2 ).
Soil Mineral Composition in Contrasting Climatic Regions of the Great Dyke, Zimbabwe

Ultramafic-derived soils impact agricultural productivity and environmental quality. The mineralogy of soils developed from ultramafic parent materials of the Great Dyke, Zimbabwe, at Mpinga (~800 mm mean annual rainfall) and Bannockburn (~500 mm) were investigated to evaluate possible mineral transformation pathways under different climatic regions and landscape positions. Mineral characterization was conducted by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Clay minerals observed at both study sites included talc, chlorite, vermiculite, Fe oxides, and Fe- and Cr-rich smectite. Serpentine occurred at the Mpinga site, but only at specific landscape positions, suggesting the influence of local transport and weathering phenomena as well as parent rock composition. Palygorskite was observed at the Bannockburn site only, in association with calcic horizons. Unique to these soils was the absence of micas, the negligible presence of feldspars and relatively smaller amounts of kaolinite. The majority of the clay minerals were inherited from the parent materials by physical and chemical weathering. Iron- and Cr-smectite and Fe oxides were formed by precipitation from saturated solutions and the hydrolytic oxidation of the Fe-rich parent materials, respectively. The occurrence and composition of the primary and secondary clay minerals of the Great Dyke reflect the composition of parent materials and the localized variations in climatic conditions. Localized differences in mineralogy point toward the importance of understanding the localized mineralogy and chemistry as an aid in developing effective site-specific agricultural and environmental management strategies.
Autonomic nervous system evaluation of patients with vasomotor rhinitis

Objective To demonstrate the utility of quantitative neurological laboratory testing of autonomic nervous system dysfunction and to apply this methodology to further study the relation of chronic vasomotor (nonallergic) rhinitis to the autonomic nervous system. Methods It has been suspected that vasomotor rhinitis is due either to a hyperactive parasympathetic nervous system or an imbalance between it and the sympathetic nervous system. The exact relation has not been determined. Recently neurological laboratories have been developed in which a battery of tests can be performed to determine reactivity of the autonomic nervous system. Results Autonomic nervous system testing was performed on 19 patients with symptoms fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for vasomotor rhinitis and the results were compared with 75 sex- and age-matched control subjects. Patients with vasomotor rhinitis had significant abnormalities of their sudomotor, cardiovagal, and adrenergic subscores. Their composite autonomic scale score was significantly impaired at 2.43, as compared with 0.11 for controls (P < .005). Conclusion Autonomic nervous system dysfunction is significant in patients with vasomotor rhinitis. Possible factors that trigger this dysfunction including nasal trauma and extraesophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux are discussed.
ECG CHANGES AFTER CEREBRAL STIMULATION. I. ANOMALOUS ATRIOVENTRICULAR EXCITATION ELICITED BY ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE MESENCEPHALIC RETICULAR FORMATION.

Abstract Unipolar electrodes were stereotaxically implanted in the mesencephalic reticular formation of adult boxer dogs anesthetized with Surital sodium. Electrical stimulation (60 c.p.s. of alternating current) of a circumscribed area at the level of the pons produced an anomalous atrioventricular excitation similar to the WPW phenomenon observed in clinical medicine. Bilateral section of the vagosympathetic trunks had no effect on the production of this aberrant cardiac rhythm; however, it could no longer be elicited after section of the spinal cord at the level of the second cervical vertebra. These results demonstrate that the WPW-like complexes observed in this study are mediated exclusively by the sympathetic division of the antonomic nervous system. Electrical stimulation of the distal cut-end of the right vagosympathetic trunk, after the aberrant rhythm had been elicited by cerebral stimulation, abolished the abnormal response.
Office-Based Laryngeal Injections

Office-based vocal fold injection (VFI), though initially described more than a century ago, has recently reemerged as an attractive alternative to VFI performed during microsuspension laryngoscopy. Multiple office-based approaches exist, including percutaneous, peroral, and transnasal endoscopic approaches. Surgeon preference typically dictates the approach, although patient tolerance or anatomic variations are also key factors. Regardless of the approach or indication, a myriad of technical considerations make preparation and familiarity requisite for optimal patient outcomes. Office-based VFI offers several distinct advantages over traditional direct or microsuspension laryngoscopy VFI, making it a standard of treatment for a variety of indications.
Training resident physicians in fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy. How many supervised examinations are required to achieve competence

Twenty-five resident physicians performed 495 fiberoptic sigmoidoscopic examinations that were graded for overall skill according to a six-point competence scale. In general, 24 to 30 examinations were required to become competent at fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy. Trainees with prior rigid sigmoidoscopy experience achieved competence more quickly than those with no prior rigid sigmoidoscopy experience. As experience increased, unassisted insertion distance and luminal visualization increased, insertion time and assisted time decreased, and management scores and percent correct diagnoses improved. Trainees detected 93 to 100 percent of polyps and cancers viewed by the experienced sigmoidoscopist once competence was achieved. These data indicate that programs for training primary care physicians in fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy are feasible, help define the number of examinations required to become competent, and indicate that such trainees should be effective in cancer screening.
Evaluating cardiac symptoms in the athlete: is it safe to play?

Objective Concern regarding the risk of sudden unexpected cardiac death has fueled interest in athletes who experience chest pain, syncope, or palpitations during training and competition. This review examines the etiology and evaluation of these symptoms in young athletes. Data sources/synthesis Previously published reports that have provided a base of expert opinion were examined to define the optimal means of assessment before returning athletes to play. Results A well-defined differential diagnosis must be considered to rule out heart disease and define noncardiac causes of these symptoms. Conclusions Athletes who experience symptoms such as chest pain, syncope, and palpitations during competition and training can be safely returned to play only after the evaluation is completed.
The stability of alkaline phosphatase in sodium dodecyl sulfate.

While sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is a most effectieve detergent for solubilizing membrane proteins, this detergent is also an effective protein denaturant [l-4] . At appropriate detergent concentrations and after equilibrium dialysis, the SDS-protein complexes formed contain approximately 1.4 g of SDS bound/g protein [ 1,2] . By raising the ionic strength and the SDS concentrion, the amount of detergent bound can be increased to about 2 g/g protein [3]. However with most enzymes which have been studied activity is completely lost after treatment with SDS. Alkaline phosphatase (orthophosphoric monoester phosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.1) was released from milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) in a soluble, active form by treatment of the membrane with SDS. Enzyme activity was recovered after electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels containing SDS. Four other mammalian alkaline phosphatases and the enzyme from E. coli retained activity over a wide range of detergent concentrations.
Dynamic Transition States of ErbB1 Phosphorylation Predicted by Spatial Stochastic Modeling

ErbB1 overexpression is strongly linked to carcinogenesis, motivating better understanding of erbB1 dimerization and activation. Recent single-particle-tracking data have provided improved measures of dimer lifetimes and strong evidence that transient receptor coconfinement promotes repeated interactions between erbB1 monomers. Here, spatial stochastic simulations explore the potential impact of these parameters on erbB1 phosphorylation kinetics. This rule-based mathematical model incorporates structural evidence for conformational flux of the erbB1 extracellular domains, as well as asymmetrical orientation of erbB1 cytoplasmic kinase domains during dimerization. The asymmetric dimer model considers the theoretical consequences of restricted transactivation of erbB1 receptors within a dimer, where the N-lobe of one monomer docks with the C-lobe of the second monomer and triggers its catalytic activity. The dynamic nature of the erbB1 phosphorylation state is shown by monitoring activation states of individual monomers as they diffuse, bind, and rebind after ligand addition. The model reveals the complex interplay between interacting liganded and nonliganded species and the influence of their distribution and abundance within features of the membrane landscape.
Analytical and Finite Element Analysis of Thermal Stresses in TiN Coatings

The thermal residual stress and associated effects in TiN coatings with planar and nonplanar surface roughness on silicon (100) substrates were analyzed using both analytical and finite element (FE) modeling. The effect of growth temperature (Ts), thickness, and the modulus of elasticity on the stress evolution in TiN coatings is reported. The results indicate that the variable thermal stress in the TiN coatings is due to the existence of both positive and negative temperature gradients and thus the resultant existence of disparity of the coefficient of thermal expansion between the substrate and the coating.
Characterization of non-linear adsorption properties of dextran-based polyelectrolyte displacers in ion-exchange systems

Abstract Experimental studies were carried out on the non-linear adsorption properties of dextran-based polyelectrolytes in anion- and cation-exchange chromatographic systems. By monitoring both the induced salt gradients and sequential breakthrough fronts, parameters were determined for use in a Steric Mass Action (SMA) model of non-linear ion-exchange chromatography. These parameters include: total ion capacity of the columns, characteristic charge, steric factor, equilibrium constant, and maximum adsorptive capacity for each of the polyelectrolytes. In addition the number of functional groups were determined by elemental analysis. The values of the SMA parameters were found to be independent of salt and polyelectrolyte bulk phase compositions. Parameters were also determined for a variety of proteins. Experimental isotherms for the polyelectrolytes and proteins were compared with those simulated by the SMA model. Finally, the implications of polyelectrolyte adsorption properties with respect to their ability to act as efficient displacers in ion-exchange displacement systems are discussed.
Medication utilization patterns among type 2 diabetes patients initiating Exenatide BID or insulin glargine: a retrospective database study

Type 2 diabetes is a common and costly illness, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Despite this, there is relatively little information on the ‘real-world’ medication utilization patterns for patients with type 2 diabetes initiating exenatide BID or glargine. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ‘real-world’ medication utilization patterns in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with exenatide BID (exenatide) versus insulin glargine (glargine). Adult patients( ≥18 years of age) with type 2 diabetes who were new initiators of exenatide or glargine from October 1, 2006 through March 31, 2008 with continuous enrollment for the 12 months pre- and 18 months post-index period were selected from the MarketScan® Commercial and Medicare Databases. To control for selection bias, propensity score matching was used to complete a 1:1 match of glargine to exenatide patients. Key study outcomes (including the likelihood of overall treatment modification, discontinuation, switching, or intensification) were analyzed using survival analysis. A total of 9,197 exenatide- and 4,499 glargine-treated patients were selected. Propensity score matching resulted in 3,774 matched pairs with a mean age of 57 years and a mean Deyo Charlson Comorbidity Index score of 1.6; 54% of patients were males. The 18-month treatment intensification rates were 15.9% and 26.0% (p < 0.0001) and the discontinuation rates were 38.3% and 40.0% (p = 0.14) for exenatide and glargine, respectively. Alternatively, 14.9% of exenatide-treated patients switched therapies, compared to 10.0% of glargine-treated patients (p < 0.0001). Overall, glargine-treated patients were more likely to modify their treatment [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.33, p < 0.0001] with shorter mean time on treatment until modification (123 vs. 159 days, p < 0.0001). Compared to exenatide-treated patients, glargine-treated patients were more likely to discontinue [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.25, p < 0.0001] or intensify therapy (HR = 1.72, p < 0.0001) but less likely to switch (HR = 0.71, p < 0.0001) the index therapy. Patients treated for type 2 diabetes with exenatide BID or insulin glargine differ in their adherence to therapy. Exenatide-treated patients were less likely to discontinue or modify treatment but more likely to switch therapy compared to glargine-treated patients.
College Freshmen Smokers versus Nonsmokers: Academic, Social, and Emotional Expectations and Attitudes toward College

Abstract In September 1996, 544 college freshmen completed a 142-item survey assessing their academic, social, and emotional expectations of college and attitudes toward cigarette smoking. Differences were explored based on gender and smoking status. Twenty-seven percent (n=148) were smokers, 58% (n=86) of whom were female. Chi-square analyses revealed several significant relationships. Smokers rated themselves significantly higher than nonsmokers in several measures of academic performance, including reading speed, reading comprehension, and earning a B average or higher. They also had significantly higher expectations of the college experience than did nonsmokers. Female smokers were less likely than nonsmoking females to expect to be popular and to be depressed; however, their academic performance expectations were higher than nonsmoking females. Male smokers were more likely than nonsmoking males to expect to be held to the “highest academic standards” and rated themselves as more competitive and more...
Cation Ordering in Brownmillerite-Perovskite Intergrowth Structures

Brownmillerite-perovskite intergrowths of the type m(A2B2O5)•n(ABO3), where m = 1 and n = 1, were investigated with respect to cation ordering. It was found that Sr3ln2ZrO8, Sr3ln2HfO8, Ba3Sc2TiO8 and Ba3ln2TiO8 form in a disordered cubic structure, while Sr3Sc2ZrO8 and Ba3Sc2ZrO8 form an ordered cation arrangement. The Arrhenius plots of the oxygen ion conductivity of Ba3Sc2ZrO8, Sr3ln2HfO8, and Ba3ln2TiO8 contain discontinuities that appear to be caused by an oxygen vacancy order-disorder transition. High temperature powder- X ray diffraction did not show any evidence for cation ordering that might otherwise have created the changes in activation energy in the conductivity plots.
The spatiotemporal form of urban growth: measurement, analysis and modeling

This study explores the combined application of remote sensing, spatial metrics and spatial modeling to the analysis and modeling of urban growth in Santa Barbara, California. The investigation is based on a 72-year time series data set compiled from interpreted historical aerial photography and from IKONOS satellite imagery. Spatial metrics were used both specifically to assess the impact of urban development in four administrative districts, and generally to analyze the spatial and temporal dynamics of urban growth. The metrics quantify the temporal and spatial properties of urban development, and show definitively the impacts of growth constraints imposed on expansion by topography and by local planning efforts. The SLEUTH urban growth and land use change model was calibrated using the multi-temporal data sets for the entire study region. The calibrated model allowed us to fill gaps in the discontinuous historical time series of urban spatial extent, since maps and images were available only for selected years between 1930 and 2001. The model also allowed a spatial forecast of urban growth to the year 2030. The spatial metrics provided a detailed description of the accuracy of the model's historical simulations that applied also to forecasts of future development. The results illustrate the utility of modeling in explaining the amount and spatial pattern of urban growth. Even using modeling, however, the forecasting of urban development remains problematic and could benefit from further research on spatial metrics and their incorporation into the model calibration process. The combined approach using remote sensing, spatial metrics and urban modeling is powerful, and may prove a productive new direction for the improved understanding, representation and modeling of the spatiotemporal forms due to the process of urbanization.
Copyright and the New Materialism

Copyright has long rested upon a series of dualistic doctrinal structures, including the fundamental dichotomy between the immaterial “work” and its fixation in a physical “copy.” This distinction, which was never entirely coherent even in traditional media, has broken down in the face of digital instantiations of creativity. The disconnection between legal doctrine and new media has now resulted in decades of incomprehensible decisions regarding the fixation of works in computer circuitry or the transmission of works across telecommunications media, particularly the Internet. However, during the past several years, an increasing number of scholars in a variety of fields have begun to re-emphasize the centrality of matter in their exploration of the world. New materialism might offer copyright a path out of such unsustainable distinctions, by providing a viewpoint that traverses the artificial opposition of work and copy, recognizing the primacy of matter in the development of creative expression.
Invasive Arthropods and Approaches for Their Microbial Control

Invasive arthropod species cause ever-increasing economic, environmental and public health problems. Microbes (i.e. viruses, bacteria, fungi, nematodes and protists) have been used very successfully for eradicating and controlling a range of invasive arthropods in diverse ecosystems worldwide. Many eradication and control programs using microbes have used inundative augmentation (widespread application) approaches while some control programs have instead focused on classical biological control (point release and natural spread). This chapter provides a short history of past use of microbes for control of invasive arthropods as well as an introduction to the subjects that will be covered in this book.
Endoscopic Component Separation for Ventral Hernia Repair

Incisional hernias are chronic post-incisional abdominal wall defects which result in the protrusion of abdominal contents through the incisional opening. These defects, which Jean Rives initially referred to as a “disease process,” are a serious complication of abdominal surgery and primarily contribute to chronic pain, bowel obstruction, strangulation, incarceration, while secondarily resulting in a reduction in quality of life and employment. Ramirez et al. first described their component separation technique for complex abdominal wall hernia repairs, which utilized a technique that separated individual muscle components of the abdominal wall. This allowed greater mobilization of each unit over a greater distance, facilitating tension-free abdominal wall closure for patients with very large and complex incisional hernias. However, this technique resulted in significant morbidity and postoperative complications due to the mobilization of large undermining skin flaps, seroma formation under Gallaudet’s fascia, and skin necrosis.
Information Studies Without Information

In philosophy of language, the phenomena fundamental to human communication are routinely modeled in ways that do not require commitment to a concept of “information” separate from those of “data,” “meaning,” “communication,” “knowledge,” and “relevance” (inter alia). A taxonomy of conceptions of information may be developed that relies on commonly drawn philosophical distinctions (between linguistic, mental, and physical entities, between objects and events, and between particulars and universals); in such a taxonomy, no category requires the label “information” in order to be differentiated from others. It is suggested that a conception of information-as-relevance is currently the most productive of advances in theoretical information studies.
Source Coding With Feed-Forward: Rate-Distortion Theorems and Error Exponents for a General Source

In this work, we consider a source coding model with feed-forward. We analyze a system with a noiseless, feed-forward link where the decoder has knowledge of all previous source samples while reconstructing the present sample. The rate-distortion function for an arbitrary source with feed-forward is derived in terms of directed information, a variant of mutual information. We further investigate the nature of the rate-distortion function with feed-forward for two common types of sources- discrete memory- less sources and Gaussian sources. We then characterize the error exponent for a general source with feed-forward. The results are then extended to feed-forward with an arbitrary delay larger than the block length.
Conditioning of Gastric Secretion by Epinephrine in Rats

SummaryConditioning of gastric secretion was studied in rats using epinephrine as unconditioned stimulus. Although epinephrine itself produced a marked inhibition of gastric secretion, a conditioned paradoxical increase was noted during the 1-hr period of observation immediately prior to drug administration. It appears that the initial increase of secretion during the sessions of drug phase occurred as a result of an adaptive compensatory mechanism in anticipation of its marked inhibition.This work was supported by USPHS Grant No. BM-17824. Authors gratefully acknowledge the help of Dr. S. L. Schwartz of Georgetown University School of Medicine for statistical analysis.
Effects of FSGS-associated mutations on the stability and function of myosin-1 in fission yeast

Point mutations in the human MYO1E gene, encoding class I myosin Myo1e, are associated with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a primary kidney disorder that leads to end-stage kidney disease. In this study, we used a simple model organism, fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, to test the effects of FSGS-associated mutations on myosin activity. Fission yeast has only one class I myosin, Myo1, which is involved in actin patch assembly at the sites of endocytosis. The amino acid residues mutated in individuals with FSGS are conserved between human Myo1e and yeast Myo1, which allowed us to introduce equivalent mutations into yeast myosin and use the resulting mutant strains for functional analysis. Yeast strains expressing mutant Myo1 exhibited defects in growth and endocytosis similar to those observed in the myo1 deletion strain. These mutations also disrupted Myo1 localization to endocytic actin patches and resulted in mis-localization of Myo1 to eisosomes, linear membrane microdomains found in yeast cells. Although both mutants examined in this study exhibited loss of function, one of these mutants was also characterized by the decreased protein stability. Thus, using the yeast model system, we were able to determine that the kidney-disease-associated mutations impair myosin functional activity and have differential effects on protein stability.
Poster: Modeling insertion point for general purpose haptic device simulations for minimally invasive surgeries

Minimally invasive surgery has revolutionized surgical procedures over the last decades. This trend has impacted the surgical simulation field and promoted a wide use of haptic devices. The majority of minimally invasive surgery simulators follow a visuo-haptic setup where ports are mounted stationary and physical constraints are used to simulate the pivot of surgical tools. This setup may add limitations to certain procedures and result in negative training, as those assumptions may not hold true during surgery. In this work, we investigate challenges in modeling general purpose haptic device simulations for minimally invasive surgeries, namely accurate pivoting around the insertion point, collisions with surrounding objects during procedure, and system scalability for various devices. The system behavior is evaluated on a Nuss procedure surgical simulator and tested by experienced surgeons on the field. The findings are promising and may benefit other surgical simulators in which the kinematics and dynamics of the surgical tool are utilized within the context of minimally invasive surgeries.
Navigation System for an Underground Distribution Inspection Platform Using Simulation

This work proposes an architecture of an inspection robot's navigation system, aiming at monitoring of power cables in underground distribution lines. This architecture is composed of two modules: i. feature extraction from environment, ii navigation approach. The feature extraction module is based on the use of the edge detector by Canny algorithm and Hough transform for identification of lines from images of environment to monitoring. The lines identified correspond to cable conformation inside the duct. This information will serve to help the navigation system. For the implementation of the navigation system two approaches were proposed: navigation based on artificial neural network and navigation based on PID control. The navigation architecture can be used in real or simulated scenarios, and it was tested in a simulated environment.
The Na conductance in the sarcolemma and the transverse tubular system membranes of mammalian skeletal muscle fibers

Na (and Li) currents and fluorescence transients were recorded simultaneously under voltage-clamp conditions from mouse flexor digitorum brevis fibers stained with the potentiometric dye di-8-ANEPPS to investigate the distribution of Na channels between the surface and transverse tubular system (TTS) membranes. In fibers rendered electrically passive, voltage pulses resulted in step-like fluorescence changes that were used to calibrate the dye response. The effects of Na channel activation on the TTS voltage were investigated using Li, instead of Na, because di-8-ANEPPS transients show anomalies in the presence of the latter. Na and Li inward currents (I(Na), I(Li); using half of the physiological ion concentration) showed very steep voltage dependences, with no reversal for depolarizations beyond the calculated equilibrium potential, suggesting that most of the current originates from a noncontrolled membrane compartment. Maximum peak I(Li) was ∼ 30% smaller than for I(Na), suggesting a Li-blocking effect. I(Li) activation resulted in the appearance of overshoots in otherwise step-like di-8-ANEPPS transients. Overshoots had comparable durations and voltage dependence as those of I(Li). Simultaneously measured maximal overshoot and peak I(Li) were 54 ± 5% and 773 ± 53 µA/cm(2), respectively. Radial cable model simulations predicted the properties of I(Li) and di-8-ANEPPS transients when TTS access resistances of 10-20 Ω cm(2), and TTS-to-surface Na permeability density ratios in the range of 40:60 to 70:30, were used. Formamide-based osmotic shock resulted in incomplete detubulation. However, results from a subpopulation of treated fibers (low capacitance) provide confirmatory evidence that a significant proportion of I(Li), and the overshoot in the optical signals, arises from the TTS in normal fibers. The quantitative evaluation of the distribution of Na channels between the sarcolemma and the TTS membranes, as provided here, is crucial for the understanding of the radial and longitudinal propagation of the action potential, which ultimately govern the mechanical activation of muscle in normal and diseased conditions.
On the dynamics of manipulators in space using the virtual manipulator approach

Robotic manipulators carried by future spacecraft are expected to perform important tasks in space, like servicing satellites. Such applications will encounter problems due to the dynamic coupling between the manipulator and the spacecraft. A Virtual Manipulator (VM) concept has been developed recently for the modelling of manipulators working in space. This paper shows that the VM facilitates planning and control of the motions of manipulators mounted on spacecraft, that minimizes the degrading consequences of manipulator/vehicle dynamic interactions. The VM is a new theoretical approach for the design and development of future space manipulator systems.
Effect of branch distribution on rheology of LLDPE during early stages of crystallization

For a series of semicrystalline ethylene−α-olefin copolymers (linear low-density polyethylene, LLDPE) produced by metallocene and Ziegler−Natta polymerization, the effect of the copolymer composition on the morphology and the evolution of linear viscoelastic properties during isothermal crystallization was studied. The purpose of this study is to explore the extreme sensitivity of rheology and processing to small variations in molecular detail in LLDPE. The metallocene LLDPE sample contains fewer branched units (2.6 mol % C-6) than the Ziegler−Natta copolymer (3.8 mol % C-6), but still, it melts at lower temperatures than the more branched Ziegler−Natta LLDPE analogue. Physical gelation as observed by rheology occurs over a broader temperature region for the metallocene LLDPE than for the Ziegler−Natta copolymer. DSC and rheological observations indicate that the solidification behavior in LLDPEs is determined more by the composition distribution than by the overall content of branched units. A HDPE was i...
CONSUMPTION OF ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI BY TERRESTRIAL AND ARBOREAL SMALL MAMMALS IN A PANAMANIAN CLOUD FOREST

Fecal pellets collected from 10 small-mammal species captured in a Panamanian cloud forest were examined for presence of spores of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Fifty-two percent of the 94 fecal samples examined contained spores of ≥1 of 6 arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi species, including Sclerocystis coremioides, Glomus fasciculatum, G. rubiforme, G. geosporum, and 2 unidentified Glomus species. G. fasciculatum was the most frequently encountered species, occurring in 87% of the fecal samples that contained spores and occurring in diets of 7 small-mammal species occupying terrestrial and arboreal habitats. Peromyscus mexicanus and Oryzomys devius frequently consumed arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and may be important spore dispersers in terrestrial habitats. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal spores also were common in diets of the primarily arboreal rodent Reithrodontomys mexicanus, suggesting a potentially important role of this species in the dispersal of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal spores to epiphytes of Neotropical cloud forests.
Use of nanostructure-initiator mass spectrometry to deduce selectivity of reaction in glycoside hydrolases

Chemically synthesized nanostructure-initiator mass spectrometry (NIMS) probes derivatized with tetrasaccharides were used to study the reactivity of representative Clostridium thermocellum β-glucosidase, endoglucanases, and cellobiohydrolase. Diagnostic patterns for reactions of these different classes of enzymes were observed. Results show sequential removal of glucose by the β-glucosidase and a progressive increase in specificity of reaction from endoglucanases to cellobiohydrolase. Time-dependent reactions of these polysaccharide-selective enzymes were modeled by numerical integration, which provides a quantitative basis to make functional distinctions among a continuum of naturally evolved catalytic properties. Consequently, our method, which combines automated protein translation with high-sensitivity and time-dependent detection of multiple products, provides a new approach to annotate glycoside hydrolase phylogenetic trees with functional measurements.
Communication over non-Gaussian channels - Part I: Mutual information and optimum signal detection

Gaussian distribution as a source of additive noise is a wellknown modeling assumption, which lead to important and insightful results on the channel capacity, detection reliability, and estimation accuracy. It is also well-recognized that in many practical settings the Gaussian distribution may not be adequate to model the underlying noise phenomenon, and various non-Gaussian noise models are employed for the design and performance analysis of communication systems. However, existing non-Gaussian noise models can be cumbersome to use as it is difficult to prescribe the model parameters and estimate them prior to signal detection, and hard to perform analysis and optimization of communication systems with realistic channel estimation. With the above challenges in mind, in the first part of our work, we introduce a model for the additive non-Gaussian channel (ANGC) with a focus on simplicity, robustness, and ease of analytical tractability. Specifically, we consider a compound noise distribution that is composed of a conditionally additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) and a Gamma distributed noise variance. This model reduces to the traditional AWGN model when the shape parameter of the Gamma distribution tends to infinity, and the detection and estimation performances on ANGC can easily be reduced to their counterparts on the AWGN channel. With this model, we first present the average mutual information when multiple antennas are employed at the transmitter and the receiver. Next, we derive closed-form expressions for the average probability of error for binary and higher-order modulations when the receiver has perfect channel state information. In the second part of our work, we consider noise variance estimation, pilot-assisted channel estimation (PACE), signal detection with PACE, and coded sequence detection with a mismatched decoding metric.
Improving germination rate of soybeans as a biofuel resource

Summary form only given. Improvements in plant quality, root strength and seed germination through different means has been the subject of research for many. For example, low intensity and extreme low frequency magnetic field on sunflower and wheat seeds germination have produced positive effect. In this study different variety of soybean seeds have been exposed to electromagnetic and magnetic fields using an anechoic chamber and Helmholtz's Coil. The objective was to determine changes in the germination rate, if any, as a function of frequency, field intensity and duration of exposure. Soybean was chosen because, compared to other bio-fuel resources, it produces the maximum energy per gram and any increase in germination due to EM or magnetic field exposure would result in a greater production of this important asset. Experiments were conducted with four different varieties of soybean seeds namely Magellan, Maverick, SS97-6946 and Williams82. Results show that at 128 Watts, 100 MHz frequency and with exposure time of 10 minutes, only one variety of soybeans (Magellan) had a seven percent increase in the germination rate and was statistically significant. With an increase in the number of seeds per batch, the percent increase of germination for Magellan got down to five while for the other three types there was no change. There was statistical significance for germination of Magellan even for this experiment. Experiments were also conducted with the seeds in magnetic field of strengths 1G 5G and 10 G and exposure durations of 1 min, 5 min, 10 min and 20 min. Positive effect with 5 and 10 G field strength is reported. The number of seeds used in the magnetic field experiments was 25 and germination rate increase was again seen in the Magellan variety. This was further analyzed through statistical analysis which showed that for 5 G and 10 G field strengths the germination rate was significant.
Cesium Ion Liquid Matrix Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry and Its Impact on the Characterization of Free Labile Biological Substances

The early foundations of organic mass spectrometry evolved with the requirement and constraint that the sample or a suitable chemical derivative thereof be volatilized without thermal degradation prior to ionization and internal energy deposition into either the ambient ion source chamber vacuum or the injection port of a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer, both usually held in the order of 200 + 50°. However, in this past decade, the inventions of new types of ion sources and techniques which obviate the requirement of sample volatilization prior to ionization per se have been occurring at a seemingly accelerating pace since the description of the first breakthrough in 1969 (viz., field desorption) and subsequently plasma desorption, laser desorption, secondary ion and thermospray techniques [1]. The steady successes, particularly using the techniques of field desorption and plasma desorption, have made sustained pioneering contributions in the characterization of previously intractable polar and labile biological substances and have set the stage for intimate mass spectrometric participation in studies of higher molecular weight biological and synthetic polymeric substances [2, 3]. Judging from the sometimes similar nature of the mass spectra observed, all of these new ionization/“desorption” techniques have attributes in common. However, their diversity (including their associated instruments’ ion optical properties, detectors, and computers) has quickly led to the ability to analyze directly the majority of compound types previously inaccessible by mass spectrometric techniques, including the polyfunctional polar, chemically and/or thermally labile biological substances, their salts, organometallic complexes, modified biopolymers, etc. [1, 2].
The Composition of the Allocation Puzzle Through Time

The allocation puzzle is the positive correlation between growth and capital outflows across developing countries. I decompose capital outflows into its components (private savings, public guaranteed debt, and international reserve flows) and document their contributions beginning from a growth episode. I show that the positive cross-sectional correlation between growth and net out flow of private savings leads the growth start, public savings lags, and international reserve lags. Finally, the positive correlation between growth and aggregated capital outflows - the allocation puzzle - disappear after twenty years. None of the proposed solutions to the allocation puzzle can match these data findings.
Fair Food: Growing a Healthy, Sustainable Food System for All, by Oran B. Hesterman

Agriculture and food systems in the United States experienced a significant transformation during the 20th century due to new technologies and shifting demographics. One result is a complex and int...
Dementia and Occupational Therapy: A Practitioner Survey

Date Presented 4/18/2015Occupational therapy practice for clients with advanced dementia is currently not well defined. Results from a practitioner survey include interventions (type, perceived effectiveness, and priorities) and perceived barriers to practice, which begin to describe the role of occ
Integrative taxonomic revision of the polymorphic flat-millipede genera Oncocladosoma and Somethus in South Australia (Diplopoda : Polydesmida : Paradoxosomatidae)

The South Australian members of the flat-millipede genera Oncocladosoma Jeekel, 1985 and Somethus Chamberlin, 1920 are revised using an integrative approach incorporating sequence data and morphology. The partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcoding gene and partial nuclear ribosomal 28S rRNA were amplified and sequenced for 15 Oncocladosoma specimens and 10 Somethus specimens and the datasets were used for molecular phylogenetic analysis and genetic distance determination. Both morphology and molecular data indicate that all species of Oncocladosoma fall within Somethus, and therefore, Oncocladosoma is synonymised with Somethus. Within those species supported by molecular data, features of the solenomere tip are relatively stable and useful for species identification. 28S rRNA has proven to provide sufficient nucleotide variation to provisionally discriminate species. Oncocladosoma castaneum ingens Jeekel, 1985, O. clavigerum Jeekel, 1985 and O. conigerum Jeekel, 1985 are junior synonyms of Somethus castaneus, comb. nov., and Somethus modicus Jeekel, 2002 is a synonym of S. scopiferus Jeekel, 2002. New records and electron scanning micrographs of gonopods are provided for S. castaneus, comb. nov., S. inflatus (Jeekel, 2002), comb. nov., S. lancearius Jeekel, 2002, S. scopiferus Jeekel, 2002, and Somethus grossi Jeekel, 1985, together with a key to the South Australian species of Somethus.
Improving Head and Neck Cancer Treatments Using Dynamic Collimation in Spot Scanning Proton Therapy

Abstract Purpose: Interest in using collimation for spot scanning proton therapy has recently increased in an attempt to improve the lateral penumbra. To investigate the advantages of such an approach for complex targets, a plan comparison between uncollimated and collimated beam spots was performed for patients with head and neck cancer. Patients and Methods: For 10 patients with head and neck cancer, previously treated with spot scanning proton therapy, uncollimated and collimated treatment plans were created using an in-house treatment-planning system capable of modeling asymmetric-beamlet dose distributions resulting from the use of a dynamic collimation system. Both uncollimated and collimated plans reproduced clinically delivered plans in terms of target coverage. A relative plan comparison was performed using both physical and radiobiological metrics on the organs at risk. Results: The dynamic collimation system improved dose-distribution conformity while preserving target coverage. The median redu...