cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incorporation of security and fault tolerance mechanisms into real-time component-based distributed computing systems

The volume and size of real-time (RT) distributed computing (DC) applications are now growing faster than in the last century. The mixture of application tasks running on such systems is growing as well as the shared use of computing and communication resources for multiple applications including RT and non-RT applications. The increase in use of shared resources accompanies with it the need for effective security enforcement. More specifically, the needs are to prevent unauthorized users: (1) from accessing protected information; and (2) from disturbing bona-fide users in getting services from server components. Such disturbances are also called denial-of-service attacks.
Redistributive Preferences and Political Participation: Evidence from Norway

The question of how demand for redistribution impacts civic engagement has received little or no attention in the literature. This paper examines the relationship between redistributive attitudes and political participation using national election surveys from Norway. Consistent with the predictions of a redistributive preferences model of participation, individual demand for redistribution is found to positively influence a broad range of political activities in baseline probit regressions. An instrumental variables analysis suggests the baseline estimates are biased due to endogeneity and understate the true effect of redistributive preferences.
The spelling difficulty of consonant letter clusters

Summary Experts in spelling have not investigated the specific effects of the presence of adjoining consonant letters on the spelling difficulty of monosyllabic words. The findings of a study of the presence of consonant clusters and digraphs in such words spelled by second‐, third‐ and fourth‐grade children reveal that these letter clusters create significant spelling problems for them. The effect of these letter clusters dissipates as children mature in their spelling skills. There is room for remarkable improvement in children's spelling of words containing consonant clusters and digraphs. Suggestions for instruction for this end are provided.
Fuzzy logic methods in recommender systems

Here we consider methodologies for constructing recommender systems. The approaches studied here differ from collaborative filtering, they are based solely on the preferences of the single individual for whom we are providing the recommendation and make no use of the preferences of other collaborators. We have called these reclusive methods. Another important feature distinguishing these reclusive methods from collaborative methods is that they require a representation of the objects. Considerable use is made of fuzzy set methods for the representation and subsequent construction of justifications and recommendation rules. It is pointed out these reclusive methods rather than being competitive with collaborative methods are complementary.
How sensitive are jet centerline velocities to an opposing flow? Implications for using the centerline method to quantify regurgitant jet flow

A method for quantifying peak mitral and tricuspid regurgitant jet flow rate that utilizes a measure of jet orifice velocity (Uo, m s-1), a distal centerline velocity (Um, m s-1), and the intervening distance (X, cm) was recently developed. This method, however, modeled the regurgitant jet as a free jet, whereas many atrial jets are counterflowing jets because of jet opposing intra-atrial flow fields (counterflows). This study evaluated the feasibility of using the free jet quantification equation in the atrium where ambient flow fields may alter jet centerline velocities and therefore reduce the accuracy of jet flow rate calculations. A 4 cm wide chamber was used to pump counterflows of 0, 4, and 22 cm s-1 against jets of 2.3, 4.8, and 6.4 s-1 originating from a 2 mm diameter orifice. For each counterflow-jet combination, jet centerline velocities were measured using laser Doppler anemometry. For free jets (no counterflow), flow rate was calculated with 98% mean accuracy. For all jets in counterflow, the calculation was less accurate as (i) the ratio of jet orifice velocity to counterflow velocity decreased (Uo/Uc, where Uc is counterflow velocity), i.e. the counterflow was relatively more intense, an (ii) centerline measurements were mad further from the orifice. But although counterflow lowered jet centerline velocities beneath free jet values, it did so only significantly in the jet's distal portion, while the initial portion (X/D < 16, where D is jet orifice diameter) of a jet in counterflow behaved essentially as a free jet. Therefore, regurgitant jets, although not classically free because of systolic atrial inflow, will decay in their initial portions as free jets and hence are candidates for quantification with the centerline technique.
Performance of the ATLAS transition radiation tracker readout with high energy collisions at theLHC

Abstract The ATLAS Transition Radiation Tracker is the outermost of the three subsystems of the ATLAS Inner Detector. It contributes significantly to the precision of the momentum measurement of charged particles and to the identification of electrons. On the TRT front end electronics this is realized by discriminating the straw signal against two separate thresholds: a low one for tracking and a high one for electron identification. The electronics can also be configured to provide a trigger signal, which has been utilized to build a cosmic ray trigger that became extremely useful for the TRT as well as other subdetectors during ATLAS commissioning. This note will describe the TRT readout electronics and data acquisition, with emphasis on the experience gained during the first years of operation.
Activation of ribulose bisphosphate car☐ylase in intact chloroplasts by CO2 and light

Abstract The activity of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) car☐ylase in intact spinach chloroplasts is shown to depend on light and CO2. This activity was measured upon lysis of chloroplasts and assay of the initial activity using nonlimiting substrate concentrations. Incubation of chloroplasts at 25 °C in the absence of CO2 results in a gradual inactivation of the RuBP car☐ylase. In the presence of CO2 the initial activity is preserved or increased. CO2 is also able to reactivate the chloroplast car☐ylase previously inactivated in the absence of CO2. Upon illumination of the chloroplasts, additional activation was observed. This light activation results from an increased affinity for CO2 of the chloroplast car☐ylase. At pH 7.8, the enzyme in dark-adapted chloroplasts required 112 μ m CO2 for half activation, while in the light it required 24 μ m CO2. The light activation was inhibited by 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea, carbonylcyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone, or dl -glyceraldehyde. Part of the light activation is most likely due to increased Mg2+ in the stroma. dl -Glyceraldehyde inhibition also suggests that some intermediate of the photosynthetic carbon cycle is involved. These results suggest that photosynthetic CO2 assimilation in the chloroplast depends upon the amount of activation of the RuBP car☐ylase. This activation is regulated by CO2 and light-induced changes in the chloroplast stroma such as pH, Mg2+, and intermediates of the photosynthetic carbon cycle.
Fall detection using RF sensor networks

The number of people aged 65 and over continues to rapidly increase, leading to a greater need for technologies to assist in caring for an aging population. Among these technologies are fall detection systems, since falling is a major concern for the elderly. In this paper we present a method of detecting falls using radio tomographic imaging. A two-level array of RF sensor nodes is deployed around the perimeter of a room, and the shadowing losses in the signals relayed between sensors is used to detect a person's horizontal and vertical position. Training data is used to provide a relationship between the attenutation measured as a function of height and a person's pose, which is then used in a hidden Markov model. During system operation, a forward algorithm estimates the most likely current state at each time. If the time between a standing pose and a lying down pose is too short, the system detects a fall. Using a collected experimental test set, we show that the system can distinguish falls from controlled lying down actions (e.g., sitting on the floor) with 100% reliability and no false alarms.
Advancement flaps: a basic theme with many variations.

Background. The advancement flap involves the linear advancement of tissue in one direction. Despite its straightforwardness and simple concept, it can be used to close a variety of defects, ranging from small defects on the scalp or extremities to large, complicated defects involving cosmetic units on the face. Objectives. To provide a basic and useful review for the indications, advantages, disadvantages, and techniques for the use of advancement flaps in the reconstruction of defects in dermatologic surgery. Materials and Methods. We performed a literature search for articles discussing advancement flaps and compiled a brief review of our findings. Results. The movement of the advancement flap must be balanced by the blood supply of the flap. The excision of Burow's triangles along various aspects of the advancement flap can increase movement and improve cosmesis of the flap. The types of advancement flaps discussed include the single advancement flap, double advancement flap, A-T flap (O-T flap), Burow's triangle flap (Burow's wedge flap), crescenteric advancement flap, island pedicle flap (V-Y flap), helical rim advancement flap, and facelift flap. Conclusion. Advancement flaps are versatile and useful basic flaps for repairing defects.
Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) reverses hyperglycemia in rat

Hyperglycemia in thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) null mice indicates that TRH is involved in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. Further, TRH levels in the pancreas peak during the stages of late embryonic and early neonatal beta cell development. These observations are consistent in linking TRH to islet cell proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we examined the effect of TRH administration in damaged pancreatic rat (streptozotocin, STZ) to determine whether TRH could improve damaged pancreatic beta cells function. We hypothesize that TRH is able to reverse STZ-induced hyperglycemia by increasing pancreatic islet insulin content, preventing apoptosis, and potentially induce islet regeneration. It was found that following intra-peritoneal (ip) injection, TRH (10 microg/kg body weight (bwt)) reverses STZ (65 mg/kg bwt)-induced hyperglycemia (TRH given 3 days after STZ injection). Increased circulating insulin levels and insulin content in extracted pancreas suggests that TRH reversed STZ-induced hyperglycemia through improving pancreatic islet beta cell function. Further studies show a significantly lower level of apoptosis in islets treated with TRH as well as the presence of proliferation marker nestin and Brdu, suggesting that the TRH has the potential to prevent apoptosis and stimulate islet proliferation.
The Use of BaF2 Buffer Layers for the Sputter-Deposition of Ticabacuo Thin-Film Superconductors

Thin films of the Tl-based superconductors often have relatively poor properties because of film/substrate interdiffusion which occurs during the anneal. We have therefore investigated the use of BaF{sub 2} as a diffusion barrier. TlCaBaCuO thin films were deposited by dc magnetron sputtering onto MgO substrates, both with and without an evaporation-deposited BaF{sub 2} buffer layer, and post-annealed in a Tl over-pressure. Electrical properties of the films were determined by four-point probe analysis, and compositions were measured by ion-backscattering spectroscopy. Structural analysis was performed by x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The BaF{sub 2} buffer layers were found to significantly improve the properties of the TlCaBaCuO thin films. 8 refs., 3 figs.
Assessing reliable and clinically significant change in social phobia: Validity of the social phobia and anxiety inventory

The ability of the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory (SPAI) to measure change as a function of treatment for social phobia was assessed. In addition to determining treatment sensitivity of the SPAI, changes over the course of treatment were examined to determine if they were reliable and clinically significant. The results indicated that although a number of measures showed statistically significant change, only on the SPAI was that change reliable and clinically significant. The use of outcome measures that are reliable and clinically significant for social phobia as well as other disorders is discussed.
Effects of potassium bicarbonate on distal nephron Na-K-ATPase in adrenalectomized rabbits.

Na−K-ATPase activity in the connecting tubule (CNT) and cortical collecting duct (CCD) has been shown to be influenced by KCl both in the presence and in the absence of aldosterone. To investigate if the aldosterone-independent effect of K+ on Na−K-ATPase can be produced by other K+ salts, we studied the effects of dietary KHCO3 on Na−K-ATPase and ouabain-insensitive Mg-ATPase activities in four nephron segments of adrenalectomized (ADX) rabbits. The segments examined were: the distal convoluted tubule (DCT), CNT, CCD and medullary collecting duct (MCD). All diets were similar in composition except their KHCO3 contents which were 100, 300, 500 and 700 meq/kg in groups 1 to 4 respectively. Increasing KHCO3 in the diet increased K+ excretion (7×) and urine pH (6.6 to 8.3). Na−K-ATPase activity in the CCD increased >200% as dietary KHCO3 was increased to 700 meq/kg. There was a linear relation between Na−K-ATPase activity in this segment and steady state plasma K+ as well as K+ excretion in the urine. However, Na−K-ATPase activity in the CCD was lower in KHCO3-fed ADX rabbits than the KCl-fed animals studied previously under similar conditions. There were no significant differences in Na−K-ATPase activities in DCT, CNT and MCD among the four groups given different KHCO3-diets. It is concluded that dietary intake of KHCO3 can also influence Na−K-ATPase activity in the CCD independent of aldosterone.
Differential responses of tallgrass prairie species to nitrogen loading and varying ratios of NO3– to NH4+

Worldwide atmospheric N deposition varies in both quantity and composition of inorganic N forms (NO3– and NH4+). Many studies designed to assess the potential consequences of N pollution, however, pay little attention to the relative abundance of N forms. We hypothesized that native species with different physiological properties will show varying responses to different forms and amounts of N deposition. Here, we assessed the responses of six herbaceous species native to tallgrass prairies in North America to increased N loading at differing ratios of NO3– : NH4+. Individual plants of each species were grown for roughly 80 d in a sand culture under field conditions, three N levels (0.1, 1, 3 mM N), and three ratios of NO3– : NH4+ (1:1, 4:1, 1:3). Analysis of total biomass and relative growth rate revealed a significant 3-way interaction between N level, NO3– : NH4+ ratio, and species. We found that the C3 grasses showed a greater relative response to increasing N addition than did C4 grasses or forbs. We also found a strong correlation between specific root uptake capacity for N and growth response to N level, for five of the six species. Specific leaf area of green leaves and % N of senesced leaves both showed a significant N-level by ratio interaction. Cautiously interpreted, these species-specific responses in growth and tissue quality could lead to changes in community-level and ecosystem dynamics as atmospheric N deposition continues to rise. We suggest that future studies addressing the potential impacts of N loading on natural communities use inorganic N compositions that are consistent with those expected from atmospheric deposition.
Lymphocyte vaccination again t experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis: evaluation of vaccination protocols

Abstract Repeated vaccination with encephalitogenic but not other T cell lines could effect marked resistance to ‘active’ experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced by injection of GP-BP in adjuvant. Partial resistance to active EAE was observed in rats recovered from ‘passive’ line-mediated EAE and in rats vaccinated with T cells attenuated by irradiation or ganglioside treatment. However, no resistance was observed in animals given low doses of activated encephalitogenic T cells. Treatment with hydrostatic pressure alone was found to be ineffective as a means of attenuation, and vaccination with pressure-treated encephalitogenic T cells actually induced mild signs of EAE. However, vaccination with cells that were first pressure treated and then irradiated prevented both clinical and histologic signs of active EAE. In contrast, protection against passive EAE appeared to be clonotypic. Lymphocyte vaccination induced delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions against autologous T cells, mostly to shared antigens, demonstrating the immunogenicity of multiple antigens on the vaccinating cells.
A new method of determining aerosol size distributions from multistage sampler data

Abstract A new method is presented of determining the cumulative size distributions of aerosols from data obtained with a multistage cascade impactor and high efficiency backing filter. Given the capture efficiency-particle diameter characteristics of the impactor stages and the density of the particle material, the experimenter need only record the relative masses of deposit on the stage of the impactor and filter after aerosol sampling. With an N-stage impactor, the aerosol is theoretically approximated by a mixture of N + 1 monodisperse aerosols in proportions determined from the experimental data, and then the equivalent cumulative size distribution of the mixture is synthesised. The calculation involved is considerable, but is conveniently performed by computer, making the method suitable for routine use. The application to May's cascade impactor has been examined in detail, employing a computer program which gives up to twenty-four pairs of values of diameter and cumulative frequency. Tests have been made with a wide variety of model size distributions. These show that the median diameter and the interquartile diameters are determined to within 5 per cent and 15 per cent respectively, provided that the experimental data used are accurate. Furthermore, the shape of the distribution curve is clearly shown, even with bimodal distributions. The method is a significant improvement on May's E.D.S. method and is worthy of use, especially for comparative purposes.
A unified model for the combined temporal and spatial Broca-Sulzer effect

A briefly pulsed light is brighter than a pulse of longer duration. For a brief flash of fixed duration and small area, enlarging a target results initially in an increase in brightness. Beyond some critical area, the target dims with further increases in size. These two phenomena are the temporal and the spatial Broca-Sulzer effect respectively. Each effect can be modeled using a generalization of the Hartline-Ratliff equation. The resulting analysis produces a mathematically unified treatment of both effects.
Response of the Ross Ice Shelf, Antarctica, to ocean gravity-wave forcing

Comparison of the Ross Ice Shelf (RIS, Antarctica) response at near-front seismic station RIS2 with seismometer data collected on tabular iceberg B15A and with land-based seismic stations at Scott Base on Ross Island (SBA) and near Lake Vanda in the Dry Valleys (VNDA) allows identification of RIS-specific signals resulting from gravity-wave forcing that includes meteorologically driven wind waves and swell, infragravity (IG) waves and tsunami waves. The vibration response of the RIS varies with season and with the frequency and amplitude of the gravity-wave forcing. The response of the RIS to IG wave and swell impacts is much greater than that observed at SBA and VNDA. A spectral peak at near-ice-front seismic station RIS2 centered near 0.5 Hz, which persists during April when swell is damped by sea ice, may be a dominant resonance or eigenfrequency of the RIS. High-amplitude swell events excite relatively broadband signals that are likely fracture events (icequakes). Changes in coherence between the vertical and horizontal sensors in the 8-12 Hz band from February to April, combined with the appearance of a spectral peak near 10 Hz in April when sea ice damps swell, suggest that lower (higher) temperatures during austral winter (summer) months affect signal propagation characteristics and hence mechanical properties of the RIS.
Glass-forming ability of a CaONb2O5 composition by sol-gel and conventional preparation methods

Abstract The preparation and crystallization behavior of a CaONb2O5 composition formed by conventional and sol-gel methods are reported. Contrary to the results of Topol and co-workers, the 15CaO85Nb2O5 (wt%) composition appears to be a reluctant glass former. Although amorphous gels can be prepared, crystallization initiates when the gel is heated to 550°C or above. Both the gel and the supercooled liquid exhibit a strong tendency to form a calcium niobate crystalline phase at all temperatures. Changes in the IR spectrum and XRD patterns upon heating at increasingly elevated temperatures allow for the interpretation of the transformations which occur as a result of these thermal treatments.
Dual Rickart Modules

Rickart property for modules has been studied recently. In this article, we introduce and study the notion of dual Rickart modules. A number of characterizations of dual Rickart modules are provided. It is shown that the class of rings R for which every right R-module is dual Rickart is precisely that of semisimple artinian rings, the class of rings R for which every finitely generated free R-module is dual Rickart is exactly that of von Neumann regular rings, while the class of rings R for which every injective R-module is dual Rickart is precisely that of right hereditary ones. We show that the endomorphism ring of a dual Rickart module is always left Rickart and obtain conditions for the converse to hold true. We prove that a dual Rickart module with no infinite set of nonzero orthogonal idempotents in its endomorphism ring is a dual Baer module. A structure theorem for a finitely generated dual Rickart module over a commutative noetherian ring is provided. It is shown that, while a direct summand of a...
Late Cenozoic mammals from northwestern Mexico

ABSTRACT Ten geographically restricted vertebrate faunas are recognized in late Cenozoic deposits of northwestern Mexico. The late Hemphillian Yepomera fauna of Chihuahua with 27 mammal genera and the Irvingtonian El Golfo of Sonora with 23 mammal genera are the most diverse and most securely placed in a temporal framework among the ten late Cenozoic faunas of northwestern Mexico. The presently known Hemphillian (early Pliocene) vertebrate record of northwestern Mexico indicates an abundance and diversity of both horses and cricetid rodents, and suggests a center of diversificacion for these mammal groups in Mexico prior to the Great American Interchange.
Application of ball bearing cage RF temperature sensor in high speed turbocharger

The application of a radio frequency ball bearing cage temperature telemeter in a high speed turbocharger is demonstrated. A temperature dependent LC tank circuit is adhered to the bearing cage and wirelessly monitored using an axially displaced stationary receiver coil. The cage sensor is installed in a turbocharger rotor-bearing system and is able to withstand the harsh conditions of being tested at speeds up to 77,000 r/min. The sensor tracks the transient temperature response within the bearing due to mechanical losses and external heating. This sensor concept may be utilized to monitor bearing performance at high speeds, detect loss of lubricant and impending failure, and implement predictive analytics using measured data.
The relationship of neonatal feeding practices and the pathogenesis and prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis

Enteral alimentation is critical to the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).1 In 1978, Brown and Sweet2 proposed that aggressive feeding protocols contributed to the pathogenesis of NEC. By instituting a very conservative feeding protocol with modest daily enteral volume increments and stopping feedings with the slightest suggestion of feeding intolerance, they were able to reduce the incidence of NEC. Other studies also suggested that affected infants were fed either too rapidly or with excessive daily increments.3–8 Because NEC is primarily a disease of premature infants, it seems logical to suggest that immature gastrointestinal functions (digestion, motility, defense mechanisms, vascular and microvascular circulation, and mucosal integrity) may contribute to …
Nine-Wavelength Spectroscopy Guided by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Improves Breast Cancer Characterization

Combining nine discrete wavelengths for NIR Spectroscopy with MRI allows quantitative estimation of breast cancers in contrast scans. Combinations of PMT and spectrometers are used with validation in phantoms, normal subjects and pilot human cancers.
The use of simulation and bootstrap in information-based group sequential studies.

In this paper, we present an information-based design and monitoring procedure which applies to any type of model for any type of group sequential study provided there is a unique parameter of interest one can estimate efficiently. Simulation techniques are described to handle the design phase of this procedure. Since designs depend on potentially unreliable guesses of nuisance parameters, we propose a bootstrap method that uses the information available at the interim analysis times to generate projections and prediction intervals for the time at which the study will be fully powered. A monitoring broad can use this information to decide whether a redesign of the trial is warranted. We also show how to use simulation to redesign studies in progress. We illustrate all of these techniques with data from AIDS Clinical Trial Group Protocol 021. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Derrida and the Impossibility of Forgiveness

Derrida's recent book, On Cosmopolitanism and Forgiveness, offers a succinct and elegant understanding of forgiveness as ‘impossibility’, unencumbered by any conditions or threats of instrumentalization. However it also contains a disturbing implication. The first part of this article discusses the theory at length, followed by a series of critiques in the second part that shows how his aporetic theory of forgiveness is morally dangerous, for it unwittingly rests upon erasing the memory of the transcendental shortcomings of his conception. The article goes on to outline an alternative theory of forgiveness.
Outflow from the ionosphere in the vicinity of the cusp

[1] Low-energy ion outflows from the ionosphere are known to be an important source of plasma for the magnetosphere. The objective of this study is to describe the spatial relationships between low-energy ionospheric outflows and the cusp. The analysis is similar to that used in superposed epoch analyses, except that a spatial reference is used instead of a temporal one. Data from the Thermal Ion Dynamics Experiment (TIDE) supported by data from the Toroidal Imaging Mass-Angle Spectrograph (TIMAS) and Hydra, during low-altitude, perigee passes over the South Pole by the Polar spacecraft are used. The presence of isotropic ions from the magnetosheath is used to define the equatorward boundary of the cusp. By using this magnetospheric boundary as a reference point instead of invariant latitude, the temporal variability of the cusp location with respect to the Earth is removed. Poleward of this boundary in the cusp proper, observations show ionospheric outflow in addition to the isotropic magnetosheath ions. A technique used to separate the ion distributions originating from the two sources is presented and applied in order to calculate moments of the outflowing ion distribution. Ionospheric outflow is found to occur in the cleft region that extends ≈1.5° equatorward of the low-latitude cusp boundary and in the cusp that extends ≈5° poleward of this boundary. Both the parallel and perpendicular temperatures of the outflowing ions are found to be approximately a factor of 3 larger on the equatorward side of this cusp boundary, i.e., in the cleft.
Design and organization in a computerized psychology laboratory

This paper presents six; principles of laboratory organization and design. These six principles are an outgrowth of the past 7 years’ experience in the Mathematical Models Laboratory of the Psychology Department at Indiana University. Each of the six principles is formally stated and then followed by explanation and examples.
Hypothermia and percutaneous coronary intervention during acute myocardial infarction

Hypothermia has proven to be one of the most potent and consistent adjunctive therapies for infarct size reduction in numerous preclinical studies, when administered prior to reperfusion. The mechanisms leading to protection are multifactorial. Early clinical trials failed to demonstrate a decrease in infarct size, likely due to the difficulty in achieving adequate cooling prior to reperfusion. Post-hoc analysis of these trials demonstrated that patients with anterior myocardial infarction that were cooled to less than 35°C at the time of percutaneous coronary intervention showed a significant reduction in infarct size. These results were supported by a recent pilot study that showed a 38% reduction in infarct size in patients with anterior or inferior myocardial infarction, where cooling to less than 35°C was achieved before reperfusion, without significant delay in door-to-balloon time. Hypothermia remains a promising adjunctive therapy to reperfusion for acute myocardial infarction. A major clinical tr...
Growth and characterization of N‐polar GaN and AlGaN/GaN HEMTs on (111) silicon

Smooth, high quality N-polar GaN-on-silicon films with treading dislocation densities comparable to Ga-polar GaN-on-Si films and N-polar GaN/AlGaN/GaN transistors were demonstrated by metal-organic chemical vapour deposition on (111) Si substrates misoriented 3.5° toward [11]. The N-polarity was established through high magnesium doping during deposition of the AlGaN strain management layers. The results encourage future exploration of N-polar (Al,Ga,In)N-on-silicon hetero-structures. (© 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Preparation and Calibration of Carrier-Free 209 Po Solution Standards

Carrier-free 209Po solution standards have been prepared and calibrated. The standards, which will be disseminated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology as Standard Reference Material SRM 4326, consist of (5.1597 ±0.0024) g of a solution of polonium in nominal 2 mol · L-1 hydrochloric acid (having a solution density of (1.031±0.004) g · mL-1 at 22 °C) that is contained in 5 mL flame-sealed borosilicate glass ampoules, and are certified to contain a 209Po alpha-particle emission rate concentration of (85.42±0.29) s-1 · g-1 (corresponding to a 209Po activity concentration of (85.83 ±0.30) Bq · g-1) as of the reference time of 1200 EST 15 March 1994. The calibration was based on 4πα liquid scintillation (LS) measurements with two different LS counting systems and under wide variations in measurement and sample conditions. Confirmatory measurements by 2πα gas-flow proportional counting were also performed. The only known radionuclidic impurity, based on α- and photon-emission spectrometry, is a trace quantity of 208Po. The 208Po to 209Po impurity ratio as of the reference time was 0.00124 ±0.00020. All of the above cited uncertainty intervals correspond to a combined standard uncertainty multiplied by a coverage factor of k = 2. Although 209Po is nearly a pure α emitter with only a weak electron capture branch to 209Bi, LS measurements of the 209Po a decay are confounded by an a transition to a 2.3 keV ( Jπ= 1/2-) level in 205Pb which was previously unknown to be a delayed isomeric state.
The Evolutionarily Conserved Mediator Subunit MDT-15/MED15 Links Protective Innate Immune Responses and Xenobiotic Detoxification

Metazoans protect themselves from environmental toxins and virulent pathogens through detoxification and immune responses. We previously identified a small molecule xenobiotic toxin that extends survival of Caenorhabditis elegans infected with human bacterial pathogens by activating the conserved p38 MAP kinase PMK-1 host defense pathway. Here we investigate the cellular mechanisms that couple activation of a detoxification response to innate immunity. From an RNAi screen of 1,420 genes expressed in the C. elegans intestine, we identified the conserved Mediator subunit MDT-15/MED15 and 28 other gene inactivations that abrogate the induction of PMK-1-dependent immune effectors by this small molecule. We demonstrate that MDT-15/MED15 is required for the xenobiotic-induced expression of p38 MAP kinase PMK-1-dependent immune genes and protection from Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. We also show that MDT-15 controls the induction of detoxification genes and functions to protect the host from bacteria-derived phenazine toxins. These data define a central role for MDT-15/MED15 in the coordination of xenobiotic detoxification and innate immune responses.
Correlations between education and arthritis in the 1971-1975 NHANES I.

Abstract Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey I, 1971–1975 (NHANES I) were used to analyze associations among highest education level and arthritis. The dependent variables indicated whether the respondent had ever been diagnosed with any form of arthritis by a physician (10,678 women and 7243 men) or whether physician X-ray readings suggested arthritis of the knee (3491 women and 3119 men). These variables did not distinguish between osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis. It is likely that the great majority of the sample reporting or diagnosed with arthritis had osteoarthritis. There were strong univariate correlations between answers to the general arthritis question and the knee question on the one hand and gender, age, body mass, schooling, income and employment on the other. Respondents' education level was found to be strongly and negatively associated with self-reported arthritis in the larger samples both before and after controls were entered for employment, income and potential biological risk factors. The association between self-reported arthritis or arthritis of the knees and education was weaker for men, but not for women after employment and income were accounted for. When body mass was accounted for, the association between self-reported arthritis or arthritis of the knees and education was weaker among women but not men. Long-run preventive strategies to combat osteoarthritis ought to consider investments in education.
Fragmented QRS complexes on 12-lead ECG: a marker of cardiac sarcoidosis as detected by gadolinium cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

Background: Fragmented QRS complexes (fQRS) on a 12-lead ECG are a marker of myocardial scar in patients with coronary artery disease. Cardiac sarcoidosis is also associated with myocardial granuloma formation and scarring. We evaluated the significance of fQRS on a 12-lead ECG compared to Gadolinium-delayed enhancement images (GDE) in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). Method and results: The ECGs of patients (n = 17, mean age: 52 ± 11 years, male: 53%) with established diagnosis of sarcoidosis who underwent a CMR for evaluation of cardiac involvement were studied. ECG abnormalities included bundle branch block, Q wave, and fQRS. fQRS, Q wave, and bundle branch block were present in 9 (53%), 1 (6%), and 4 (24%) patients, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of fQRS for detecting abnormal GDE were 100% and 80%, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of Q waves were 11% and 100%, respectively. Conclusions: fQRS on a 12-lead ECG in patients with suspected cardiac sarcoidosis are associated with cardiac involvement as detected by GDE on CMR.
A BASIC Program for Computing the Coefficient of Concordance, rc

This paper presents a program, written in BASIC, for computing the coefficient of concordance, rc. The coefficient of concordance is one useful method for comparing factor solutions obtained on the same variables in different studies or with different samples.
Incidence and risk factors for diarrhea following kidney transplantation and association with graft loss and mortality

Background: Gastrointestinal complications after kidney transplantation are associated with inferior graft outcomes. We examined the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of posttransplantation diarrhea. Study Design: Historic cohort study. Setting & Participants: We examined first kidney transplant recipients in the United States from 1995 to 2002, with follow-up through December 2002. Recipients of multiple organs were excluded. We limited our study population to Medicare beneficiaries. Predictors: Recipient, donor, and transplant characteristics were ascertained by means of US Renal Data System database inquiry. Outcomes: Incidence of diarrhea, graft loss, and death after transplantation. First episodes of diarrhea after transplantation were ascertained by using International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes using Medicare billing data. Cause of diarrhea was classified as infectious or not and according to specific cause. Graft loss and death were ascertained from the date of the first diarrhea episode. Results: We enrolled 41,442 patients. Mean follow-up was 758 399 days. We observed 7,103 diarrhea cases and 8,104 graft losses (4,201 deaths). The 3-year cumulative incidence of diarrhea was 22%, with 18% diagnosed as noninfectious diarrhea with an unspecified cause. Using multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis, factors associated with increased risk of unspecified noninfectious diarrhea were female sex (hazard ratio [HR], 1.40; 95% confidence interval, 1.33 to 1.48), type 1 diabetes (HR, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.06 to 1.37), and regimens containing tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil (HR, 1.37; 95% confidence interval, 1.28 to 1.46). Unspecified noninfectious diarrhea was associated with increased risk of graft failure (HR, 2.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.98 to 2.28) and patient death (HR, 2.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.85 to 2.24). Limitations: Use of claims data to ascertain patient characteristics and events; inability to make causal inference based on retrospective designs. Conclusions: Regimens containing tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil were associated with increased risk of noninfectious diarrhea. Episodes of noninfectious diarrhea doubled the hazard of graft loss and patient death. Am J Kidney Dis 51:478-486. © 2008 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
Diversity of mammalian voltage-gated sodium channels.

: A variety of different isoforms of mammalian voltage-gated sodium channels have been identified. These channels can be classified into three different types. Eight type 1 isoforms have been identified in the CNS, PNS, skeletal muscle, and heart. All of these channels have been expressed in exogenous systems, and all of the genes have been mapped. Three type 2 isoforms have been identified in heart, uterus, and muscle. These channels diverge from the type 1 channels in critical regions, and have not been functionally expressed, so their significance is unknown. A single isoform identified in the PNS may represent a third class of channels, in that it diverges from both type 1 and 2 channels. The type 3 channel has not been functionally expressed.
Complications of Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty in Patients Convalescing from Acute Myocardial Infarction

Abstract Disagreement exists with regard to the role of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) in patients convalescing from acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Routine PTCA within the tist few days after thrombolytic therapy offers no benefit beyond that resulting from thrombolysis.1–3 Nevertheless, many physicians believe that even patients in stable condition are best served by diagnostic angiography and appropriate revascularization at some later point in their convalescence.4 However, there is evidence that the risk of death and major complications in such patients is greater than is true for PTCA performed outside the setting of AMI.5,6 The Treatment of Post Thrombolytic-Stenoses Study Group encountered a mortality of 2.1% in stable patients treated electively with PTCA 4 to 14 days after AMI,7 a figure substantially greater than that in patients with no recent AMI.5,6 Few data are available comparing the procedure-related morbidity and mortality associated with PTCA in contemporaneously treated patients with and without recent AMI. To provide insight into this issue, we compared results in those with AMI within 30 days of the PTCA with those with no such history.
Infliximab in the treatment of psoriasis in patients previously treated with etanercept

Background Infliximab has shown promising results for the treatment of severe psoriasis and may be considered in patients who are unresponsive to conventional systemic and biologic therapy. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of 19 patients treated with infliximab for severe psoriasis who had previously been treated with etanercept. These patients had recalcitrant plaque psoriasis, which was unresponsive to multiple conventional systemic therapies before treatment with etanercept. Patients were evaluated for side effects and response to therapy. Results Nineteen patients (men = 14, women=5) with a mean age of 50 years (range 34-83) were included in this study. Fourteen patients (74%) lost response after an initial improvement with etanercept, 3 had to discontinue because of insurance issues, and two failed to respond. Two of the 19 patients (11%) experienced infections while receiving etanercept. After the initiation of infliximab therapy, 17 of 19 patients (89%) showed initial improvement after 12 to 14 weeks, based on the physician's global assessment and body surface area done by a single physician. Ten patients (53%) required infliximab dose escalation to maintain control of their disease. Fifteen patients (79%) still receive infliximab therapy with favorable disease control. For these patients, the median time for treatment is 8 months (range 4-25). One patient experienced a minor infusion reaction and preferred not to continue after two infusions. Nine patients experienced minor infections. Two patients with known coronary artery disease died of myocardial infarction. Limitations This was a retrospective study at a single practice site. Conclusions Infliximab was effective in patients with psoriasis previously treated with etanercept, but the majority of patients required infusions every 6 weeks to maintain their continued response. In addition, the use of infliximab was associated with a possible increased incidence of adverse events.
Rejection of class I MHC-deficient haemopoietic cells by irradiated MHC-matched mice.

IRRADIATED MHC-heterozygous mice often reject bone marrow cells transplanted from one of the homozygous parental strains, a phenomenon ('hybrid resistance') that appears to violate the laws of transplantation1,2. Rejection of parental and allogeneic marrow cells also differs from conventional T cell-mediated rejection mechanisms as it is effected by NK1.1+cells3–5. To account for the unusual specificity of bone marrow rejection, it has been proposed that NK1.1+ cells destroy marrow cells that fail to express the full complement of self MHC class I (MHC-I) molecules5. We show here that NK1.1+ cells in normal mice reject haemopoietic transplants from mice that are deficient for normal cell-surface MHC-I expression because of a targeted mutation in the β2-microglobulin gene6–9. These findings demonstrate that deficient expression of MHC-I molecules renders marrow cells susceptible to rejection.
High-throughput and low-power DSP using clocked-CMOS circuitry

We argue that the clocked-CMOS (CMOS) circuit family provides a very high throughput and low power alternative to other existing circuit techniques for the fast developing market of portable electronics. By the virtue of self latching gates allowing very ne-grained pipelining, avoidance of precharge and short circuit power consumption, the CMOS circuit o ers very good powerdelay e ciency. We support our claims through the design of an 8-bit unsigned binary multiplier with pipelining at the gate level which can produce 500 million multiplications per second consuming only 0.8 W power using 1.0 micron technology and 3.3V power supply. By comparison the fastest previously existing pipelined multiplier has a throughput rate of 400 million multiplications per second consuming 0.8 W power at 0.8 micron technology, 5V, using wave-pipelining.
Selective indications for the management of extensive anterior epitympanic Cholesteatoma via combined transmastoid/middle fossa approach

Objectives/Hypothesis Cholesteatoma that is present in the anterior epitympanic space may extend medially along the supralabyrinthine route to the geniculate ganglion, labyrinth, and cochlea and medially toward Kawase's triangle and the anterior petrous apex. Superiorly it may erode into the middle fossa. Contemporary microsurgical techniques allow for optimal management of these lesions with minimal morbidity, provided that the irregular and complex osteology of the petrous base is understood. The objective of the study was to review the relevant regional anatomy, pathobiology, and current algorithm used in treatment of this select patient population using a combined transmastoid/middle fossa (TM/MF) approach. Methods A retrospective review was performed of all clinical and radiographic data from patients undergoing combined TM/MF management of extensive anterior epitympanic cholesteatoma between July 1984 and June 1998. Data from physical examinations, preoperative imaging studies, and operative findings and other relevant data were tabulated and analyzed for patients undergoing TM/MF management of cholesteatoma. Results Of 488 patients with cholesteatoma treated by the otological service between 1984 and 1998, 11 patients underwent TM/MF exposure and removal of anterior epitympanic cholesteatoma. Total cholesteatoma removal was accomplished in six patients. In three patients, because of facial nerve involvement, labyrinthine fistulae, or internal carotid artery involvement, open-cavity surgery was performed. In two patients, residual or recurrent cholesteatoma was exteriorized at “second-look” procedures. In this small cohort of patients the majority had extension to the arcuate eminence, geniculate ganglion, or Kawase's triangle or had “blue-lining” of the cochlea or labyrinth. To a lesser degree, the middle ear and mastoid contents were involved. Further facial nerve dysfunction or sensorineural hearing loss was not noted after surgery. Conclusions Selective TM/MF removal of cholesteatoma provides an optimal route for removing complex cholesteatoma in patients with intact sensorineural function and medial cholesteatoma extension.