cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis Genotyping of Taylorella equigenitalis Isolates Collected in the United States from 1978 to 2010

Taylorella equigenitalis is the etiologic agent of contagious equine metritis (CEM), a venereal disease of horses. A total of 82 strains of T. equigenitalis isolated in the United States were analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) after digestion of genomic DNA with restriction enzyme ApaI. Twenty-eight of those strains isolated from horses in the 2009 U.S. outbreak (CEM09) were further analyzed with NotI and NaeI enzymes. When ApaI alone was used for analysis, the 82 isolates clustered into 15 different genotypes that clearly defined groups of horses with known epidemiological connections. The PFGE profiles of the CEM09 isolates were indistinguishable after digestion with ApaI, NotI, and NaeI and did not match those of isolates from previous U.S. outbreaks in 1978 and 2006 or of any other isolate from the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) culture library. Coupled with the fact that the CEM09 isolates are epidemiologically related, these results suggest a common source for the outbreak not linked to previous occurrences of CEM in the United States.
Predicting nutritional requirements and lactation performance of dual-purpose cows using a dynamic model

Abstract A dynamic application of the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) model was developed to predict annual cycles in animal nutrient requirements and performance of dual-purpose (milk and beef) cows. Interactions from mobilisation and repletion of body tissue reserves and feed biological values are accounted with a time step of one day, which considers physiological status of the animal, variation in dietary composition, and other environmental factors. This outcome was achieved by modifying the input and output structure of the CNCPS version 4.0 to compute body weight and changes in body reserves based on predicted milk production, intake of feed dry matter, and energy balance. The supply of metabolisable energy from dietary intake is supplemented by tissue mobilised to support milk synthesis in early lactation; body tissue is repleted when energy balance is positive. Predicted animal nutrient requirements, milk production, dry matter intake, and changes in body weight and body condition score over the reproductive cycle were consistent with patterns and values in published reports and field observations in the Gulf Coast of Mexico case study region. Our simulations showed that a dynamic application of the CNCPS facilitates more accurate monitoring and management of cyclic changes in energy and protein balances over the calving interval of dual-purpose cows, which can help producers to achieve productivity and profitability goals.
Relaxin increases elastase activity and protease inhibitors in smooth muscle cells from the myometrium compared with cells from leiomyomas

We investigated the effect of relaxin on extracellular matrix remodeling in cultured myometrial compared with leiomyoma smooth muscle cells. Relaxin increases elastase activity and protease inhibitor expressions in myometrial smooth muscle cells, but no effect was observed in leiomyoma cells.
Sulindac sulfide induces autophagic death in gastric epithelial cells via Survivin down-regulation: A mechanism of NSAIDs-induced gastric injury

Sulindac sulfide, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has anti-tumorigenic and anti-inflammatory activities, but causes gastric mucosal damage. NSAIDs cause gastric injury in part by down-regulation of Survivin, an apoptosis inhibitor, resulting in apoptosis induction. Autophagy is a process that promotes cellular health by destroying unwanted cellular materials. Excessive autophagy induction could lead to a non-apoptotic cell death (autophagic cell death). The present study showed that sulindac sulfide at a physiological concentration also induces autophagic death in human gastric epithelial AGS and rat gastric epithelial RGM-1 cells, and that Survivin down-regulation is a mechanism involved: Sulindac sulfide treatment increased LC3b-II and APG7 levels and cytosolic vacuole formation, indications of autophagy induction, in AGS and RGM-1 cells. Sulindac sulfide treatment induced AGS and RGM-1 cell death, which was significantly reduced by pretreatment with the autophagy inhibitors 3-methyladenine and chloroquine, indicating that sulindac sulfide induced autophagic cell death. Stable overexpression of Survivin in RGM-1 cells did not inhibit the induction of LC3b-II levels or vacuole formation by sulindac sulfide, but significantly reduced the resulting cell death, suggesting that Survivin may inhibit autophagic cell death downstream of LC3b-II induction and vacuole formation. Indeed, siRNA depletion of LC3b in AGS cells inhibited the down-regulation of Survivin levels and the induction of cell death by sulindac sulfide, confirming that down-regulation of Survivin occurs in the autophagy pathway downstream of LC3b-II induction by sulindac sulfide. Induction of Survivin-dependent autophagic cell death is a novel mechanism by which sulindac sulfide induces gastric mucosal injury.
Plasma T4 and T3 levels in Ambystoma tigrinum at various stages of metamorphosis

Circulating T4 and T3 levels were measured in Ambystoma tigrinum at various stages of development with sensitive and reliable radioimmunoassays developed in this laboratory. The minimum detectable level with these procedures was estimated to be 50 ng/100 ml for T4 and 5 ng/100 ml for T3. Significant levels of circulating thyroid hormone were observed only during the period of metamorphosis and for several days postmetamorphosis. Plasma T3 was more consistently elevated than plasma T4. In larval and adult animals plasma levels of T4 and T3 were essentially undetectable. These results resemble those previously reported from this laboratory for Rana catesbeiana. The present findings provide evidence that in urodeles, as in anurans, elevation of circulating thyroid hormone levels is required for normal metamorphosis.
Posture estimation for a canine machine interface based training system

Dogs and humans have worked in partnership throughout history thanks to dogs' unique capability of detecting signals in human voices or gestures and learning from human inputs. Traditional canine training methods rely solely on subjective visual observations made by trainers. We propose a canine body-area-network (cBAN) to incorporate context-aware sensing with objective detection algorithms to augment the sensitivity and specificity of human trainer's awareness of the dogs they are training. As an initial effort, we developed a Bluetooth-based wireless infrastructure and tested inertial measurement units as cBAN sensor nodes to electronically assess the posture of the dogs. As a result, we were able to optimize the sensor locations and distinguish different postures using the distinct patterns in the measured angles.
SEMI-ANALYTIC MODEL OF THE MOON'S ROTATION *

A comprehensive semi-analytic model of the Moon's rotation has been developed and libration tables have been compiled which are suitable for the analysis of lunar laser ranging measurements (Eckhardt, 1981). In the model, the Moon is considered to be rigid, elastic (using a potential disturbance Love number) or anelastic (using a complex Love number), and its gravity potential is represented through its fourth degree harmonics. The Moon is assumed to move about the Earth according to the Analytic Lunar Ephemeris (ALE) of Deprit, Henrard and Rom (Henrard, 1976), and it is torqued by the Earth and Sun. The ALE is supplemented by the additive and planetary perturbations of the improved Lunar Ephemeris (ILE; Eckert et al., 1954) modified for the Earth figure perturbations according to Van Flandern (1976), and with some corrections to resolve minor inconsistencies. The direct effects of the Earth figure and the rotation of the ecliptic are also included in the model. To derive the main libration theory from the ALE, the Euler dynamical equations are solved iteratively using a digital computer to perform all the semi-analytic mathematical manipulations required. The libration perturbations are solved by the computer in two iterations, taking into account cross terms between the main theory and the perturbations. The overall libration model is estimated to be accurate to 0'.'010; this is the truncation level of the tabulated libration series.
Aging Changes in Clinical Thermometers

In order to decrease the manufacturing time required to produce satisfactory clinical thermometers, heat-treatment schedules have been developed to replace the aging period required to insure that the volumes of the thermometer bulbs will not change appreciably after the thermometers are placed in use. Two methods of heat treatment are reported, together with the results of a determination of the changes in the bulb volumes over a period of approximately 6 months after heat-treating. Thermometers which had been heat-treated showed average changes in reading of 0.03°F. or less, while the thermometers which had received no heat-treatment changed by the equivalent of as much as 0.10°F.
Ignition experiments and models of a plastic bonded explosive (PBX 9502)

Ignition experiments from various sources, including our own laboratory, have been used to develop a simple four-step, pressure-dependent ignition model for PBX 9502, which is composed of 95% by mass triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) and a 5% by mass chlorotrifluoroethylene/vinylidine fluoride binder. The four-steps include drying, mono-furazan formation, and decomposition of mono-furazan and TATB into equilibrium products. Our experiments were both sealed and vented and included various ullage percentages ranging from 18% to 75% of unfilled confinement volume. Our sample densities ranged from 38% of the theoretical maximum density (TMD) to 98% TMD. We observed a decrease in ignition times with the higher density samples, an increase in ignition times with increased venting, and an increase in ignition times with increased ullage. From our experiments, we conclude that decomposition of PBX 9502 is pressure dependent, open pore decomposition occurs in low-density experiments, and that closed pore decomposition occurs when the samples are pressed to near full density. In some of our confined high-density experiments we have observed for the first time, multiple temperature excursions prior to ignition caused by internal pressure generation.
Adaptive Design and Decision Analysis—Companions for Transforming Clinical Development

Although the traditional drug development paradigm under which clinical testing proceeds in clearly defined, sequential phases has been a viable model for many years, it is becoming increasingly less sustainable given the challenges of today's environment and expectations for the future. Regulatory agencies as well as pharmaceutical developers are taking steps to support modernizing and increasing the efficiency of drug development. In the arena of clinical trial methodologies, adaptive designs have received much recent attention, holding considerable promise as a means of improving efficiency. In parallel, structured decision analysis as a discipline has the potential for more widespread application in clinical development than is currently witnessed. In this article, we highlight the natural connection that exists between the principles underlying both adaptive design and decision analysis. The latter may be seen as an enabling tool for the former and warrants consideration for more deliberate applicati...
Modulation of hypoglossal motoneuron excitability by intracellular signal transduction cascades

Abstract Motoneuronal excitability is highly modulated by various inputs; however, comparatively little is known about postsynaptic signal transduction cascades that affect motoneuron excitability. In this review, we discuss the role of intracellular signaling cascades in the modulation of respiratory motoneuronal excitability. In particular, protein kinases and phosphatases dynamically and constitutively modulate respiratory-modulated inputs to XII motoneurons: (i) activation of protein kinase A (PKA) potentiates both excitatory and inhibitory drive currents; (ii) protein kinase G (PKG) depresses excitatory currents, and (iii) inhibition of protein phosphatases potentiates excitatory drive currents. We also describe a novel form of persistent plasticity (in vitro long-term facilitation; ivLTF) of motoneuronal output. ivLTF is induced by episodic activation of 5-HT 2 or α 1 -adrenoreceptors and is manifested as an increase in the amplitude of XII nerve output due to an increase in α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid (AMPA)-mediated motoneuronal drive currents. Blockade of Group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors or protein kinase C (PKC) prevents the induction of ivLTF.
Activation of the Raf‐1/MEK/ERK cascade by bile acids occurs via the epidermal growth factor receptor in primary rat hepatocytes

Bile acids have been reported to activate several different cell signaling cascades in rat hepatocytes. However, the mechanism(s) of activation of these pathways have not been determined. This study aims to determine which bile acids activate the Raf-1/MEK/ERK cascade and the mechanism of activation of this pathway. Taurodeoxycholic acid (TDCA) stimulated (+235%) the phosphorylation of p(74) Raf-1 in a time (5 to 20 minutes) and concentration-dependent (10 to 100 micromol/L) manner. Raf-1 and ERK activities were both significantly increased by most bile acids tested. Deoxycholic acid (DCA) was the best activator of ERK (3.6-fold). A dominant negative Ras (N17) construct expressed in primary hepatocytes prevented the activation of ERK by DCA. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-specific inhibitor (AG1478) significantly inhibited (approximately 81%) the activation of ERK by DCA. DCA rapidly (30 to 60 seconds) increased phosphorylation of the EGFR (approximately 2-fold) and Shc (approximately 4-fold). A dominant negative mutant of the EGFR (CD533) blocked the ability of DCA to activate ERK. In conclusion, these results show that DCA activates the Raf-1/MEK/ERK signaling cascade in primary hepatocytes primarily via an EGFR/Ras-dependent mechanism.
Suppression of Corticospinal Excitability During Negative Motor Imagery

To investigate the effect of negative motor imagery on corticospinal excitability, we performed transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies in seven healthy subjects during imagination of suppressing movements. Subjects were asked to imagine suppression of TMS-induced twitching movement of their nondominant left hands by attempting to increase the amount of relaxation after receiving an auditory NoGo cue (negative motor imagery), but to imagine squeezing hands after a Go cue (positive motor imagery). Single- and paired-pulse TMS were triggered at 2 s after Go or NoGo cues. Motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) were recorded in the first dorsal interosseus (FDI), abductor pollicis brevis (APB), and abductor digiti minimi (ADM) muscles of the left hand. Paired-pulse TMS with subthreshold conditioning stimuli at interstimulus intervals of 2 (short intracortical inhibition) and 15 ms (intracortical facilitation) and that with suprathreshold conditioning stimuli at interstimulus interval of 80 ms (long intracortical inhibition) were performed in both negative motor imagery and control conditions. Compared with the control state (no imagination), MEP amplitudes of FDI (but not APB and ADM) were significantly suppressed in negative motor imagery, but those from all three muscles were unchanged during positive motor imagery. F-wave responses (amplitudes and persistence) were unchanged during both negative and positive motor imagery. During negative motor imagery, resting motor threshold was significantly increased, but short and long intracortical inhibition and intracortical facilitation were unchanged. The present results demonstrate that excitatory corticospinal drive is suppressed during imagination of suppressing movements.
A Twenty-Five Year Experience with the University-Based Statewide Program for Infection Control and Epidemiology (SPICE), 1981-2005

ISSUE: The university-based program, SPICE, was initiated in 1980 in North Carolina (NC) to assist community hospitals in managing tuberculosis (TB) patients in their facility as specialized TB facilities were being phased out. The program began to focus on infection control as needs of hospitals changed. SPICE is based at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division.
Fast estimation of Bifurcation Conditions using Noisy Response Data

In this work we consider the effects of noise on system behavior during parameter sweeps through bifurcations that induce sharp jumps in response amplitudes. These problems arise in a variety of applications, including the use of bifurcation amplification in micro-sensors. Due to inherent system noise, the observed bifurcation events are stochastic in nature and one must estimate parameter values from a distribution. A stochastic dynamical systems analysis allows one to distill the problem to a one-dimensional, one-parameter Fokker-Planck equation, where the parameter is the ratio of the noise intensity to sweep rate. Approximate closed form solutions for the distributions are obtained in the limits of slow and fast parameter sweep rates, and a numeric solution captures the intermediate sweep range that bridges these two approximations. These results are essential for quantifying errors in bifurcation amplifiers and for optimizing bifurcation detection schemes, as used in sensing applications. Preliminary experimental results for a parametrically excited microdevice show good qualitative agreement with the theory.
Investigation of optical absorption and the structure of thin metal foils

Abstract An electron microscopy study of the structures of vapor deposited gold and silver foils (150–1200A thickness) of significant grain size difference has revealed, in conjunction with optical absorption measurements in the spectral range 0.30 – 0.75 microns, that absorption is unaffected by metal crystal defect structure. Values for the optical absorption coefficients measured in this work are observed to agree well with previously determined values. It is concluded that variations of optical absorption in the range 0.30 – 0.75 microns as observed in previous investigations, must have their origin in heavy surface contamination and surface roughness rather than internal structure variations. The results also tend to support the validity of using thin film absorption measurements to obtain optical constants characteristic of bulk material.
Density functional formalism at finite temperatures with some applications

Abstract A density functional theory of inhomogeneous electron systems at finite temperatures is developed. Some applications are discussed. In particular, an atom in a hot, dense plasma is studied as a prototype problem of considerable current interest.
Aspartame and Seizure Susceptibility: Results of a Clinical Study in Reportedly Sensitive Individuals

The high intensity sweetener aspartame has been implicated anecdotally in seizure provocation. This possibility was investigated with a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. After an extensive search, 18 individuals (16 adults and 2 children) who had seizures allegedly related to aspartame consumption were admitted to adult or pediatric epilepsy monitoring units where their EEG was monitored continuously for 5 days. Aspartame (50 mg/kg) or identically enpackaged placebo was administered in divided doses at 0800, 1000, and 1200 h on study days 2 and 4. All meals were uniformly standardized on treatment days. No clinical seizures or other adverse experiences were observed after aspartame ingestion. Mean plasma phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations increased significantly after aspartame ingestion (83.6 microM) as compared with placebo (52.3 microM). Results suggest that aspartame, in acute dosage of approximately 50 mg/kg, is no more likely than placebo to cause seizures in individuals who reported that their seizures were provoked by aspartame consumption.
Reliability based quality (RBQ) technique for evaluating the degradation of reliability during manufacturing

Abstract Complex, modern day aviation systems such as Army helicopters require much more than sophisticated performance and versatility. Such systems demand high levels of field reliability to render their operation both safe and cost effective. To meet this need, a total life cycle reliability program is required — one that does not stop after design and development but continues through production and field use. Only through a total life cycle program that is executed by well disciplined engineering methods and procedures, can safe, reliable, and economical helicopter systems be achieved. In order to assure that helicopter systems and components are reliable and cost-effective, a comprehensive methodology is being developed by the U.S. Army Aviation Research and Development Command (AVRADCOM). The basic framework for developing the methodology is defined in AVRADCOM's R&M management guidebook (1). The entire range of reliability engineering efforts as they relate to all phases of a helicopter's life cycle are covered in the guidebook. This paper addresses the production phase, which historically contributes to helicopter unreliability, and which traditionally has had no detailed reliability engineering procedures. It discusses how to assess and control the reliability of a helicopter system or component as it leaves production, by performing reliability and quality control analyses that account for production degradation factors due to manufacturing induced defects and imperfect inspection.
Poster - Thurs Eve-11: Quantitative imaging of 213Bi alpha-emitter with a beta-imager.

Targeted alpha‐particle emitter therapy is emerging as a promising approach for treating metastatic cancer. An understanding of the biodistribution of targeted alpha‐emitters at the cell level is important in evaluating potential efficacy and toxicity. This is best accomplished by autoradiography of tissue samples, ex vivo. We have investigated the feasibility of using a high resolution, quantitative beta‐imager (Biospace Mesures β‐Imager) to detect the short‐lived alpha‐particle emitter, Bismuth‐213 ( 213 Bi ) . The advantages of this detector include: shorter acquisition time than film‐based autoradiography, which is critical for an isotope with such a short half‐life; high resolution; and data acquisition in list mode. While our interest in 213 Bi lies in the α, the decay chain includes high energy β− particles, enabling this study. Published studies using the β‐Imager show predominantly qualitative results, with the quantitative depending on long exposure time or direct comparisons. At low count rate the detector auto‐regulates by varying the HV, directly affecting the results. We imaged a phantom prepared from 213 Bi in 5% gelatin. We plot only the results in a narrow HV range and fit an exponential decay function to obtain a half‐life close to the expected value. We plot the ratio of the exponential fit to the measured count rate value against HV for all count rates and find a functional correlation between HV and count rate. A similar correction for gas flow ratio variations is also applied. As the remaining fluctuations conform to Gaussian statistics, this suggests that we have successfully calibrated 213 Bi for future studies.
Orientation determination and defect analysis in the near-cubic intermetallic γ-TiAl using SACP, ECCI, and EBSD

Abstract Crystal orientation and defect analysis for the commercially important γ-TiAl intermetallic compound is complicated by the near-cubic tetragonality of the L10 TiAl crystal structure. The selected area channeling pattern (SACP) method successfully reveals the γ-TiAl superlattice information, allowing accurate discrimination between the c and a directions that are commonly unattainable by the conventional electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) method. Combination of this orientation information with crystal defect images obtained via the electron channeling contrast imaging (ECCI) method allows for rapid identification of active deformation systems in individual grains using a trace analysis scheme. Because SACP and ECCI are scanning electron microscopy (SEM) based techniques, analysis can be carried out on regularly shaped macroscopic samples, allowing association of the sample stress state and active defect systems. This has been shown in relation to defect analysis associated with strain transfer at grain boundaries. Additionally, the orientations determined via SACP have been used to correct EBSD data in order to reveal localized rotation due to retained strain within individual grains.
Comment on 'public and private bureaucracies: a transaction cost economic perspective,' by Oliver Williamson

action costs economics to the problem of public versus private provision of services. Specifically he provides a new and insightful analysis of why the State Department is not privatized using the criteria of remediableness. In doing so, Professor Williamson adds a new hazard to the list the transactions costs, namely probity, that can help us understand why foreign affairs departments are not privatized. In these comments I highlight how transaction costs, by focusing attention on the nature of a good, can help us better understand bureaucracies, and then pose some questions that arise naturally when thinking about the implications of remediableness for transaction costs economics. The standard competitive model is built on the concept of a well-defined good, distinguished by its physical characteristics, date of production, and prevailing state of the world. Contract law ensures that bargains for the exchange of well-defined goods are protected by law, with courts imposing appropriate damages for the breach of contract. The work of Hart, Shleifer, and Vishny (1997) illustrates the importance of holdup and how the potential for contract renegotiation can help us better understand the choice between public and private provision of services. However, as Williamson (1985) notes, the theory of transaction costs is based on of the "combined ramifications of bounded ra-
Measuring routing congestion for multi-layer global routing

We propose an accurate measure of channel routing density and its application to global routing. Our congestion metric calculation method considers the wire scenarios in a channel.
MEMS-enabled thermal management of high-heat-flux devices EDIFICE: embedded droplet impingement for integrated cooling of electronics

Abstract This paper reports the development of embedded droplet impingement for integrated cooling of electronics (EDIFICE). The EDIFICE project seeks to develop an integrated droplet impingement cooling device for removing chip heat fluxes in the range 70–100 W/cm2, employing latent heat of vaporization of dielectric fluids (50–100 μm droplets) to achieve these high heat removal rates. Micro-manufacturing and micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) will be discussed as enabling technologies for innovative cooling schemes recently proposed. A novel feature to enable adaptive on-demand cooling is MEMS sensing (on-chip temperature, remote IR temperature and ultrasonic dielectric film thickness) and MEMS actuation. EDIFICE will be integrated within the electronics package and fabricated using advanced micro-manufacturing technology (e.g., deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) and complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) CMU-MEMS). The development of EDIFICE involves modeling, CFD simulations, and physical experimentation on test beds. In this study, numerical simulations are performed to investigate EDIFICE jet impingement cooling with a dielectric coolant and the influence of several parameters such as jet diameter, jet velocity, and latent heat effects. This paper also presents flow visualization of micro-jet break-up, induced by MEMS micro-nozzles of irregular shapes and flow swirling to generate droplets with desirable dispersion. To enhance liquid spreading on the impingement surface and to create a thin film for effective evaporation, MEMS micro-structured surfaces are fabricated. All of these components are made from silicon and enabled by integrated-MEMS process technologies.
Phased arrays of micromirrors for programmable shaping of ultrashort pulses

Summary form only given. We demonstrate a new class of spatial light modulators, based on phased mirror arrays with tilt and shift that is built in the commercially available MUMPS technology. These devices, when expanded to larger array sizes, will find applications in femtosecond pulse shaping, higher order dispersion compensation, and wide bandwidth optical communications. Extensions to two-dimensional arrays will be useful in adaptive optics and correction of spatial beam aberrations.
Fabrication Methods and Performance of Low-Permeability Microfluidic Components for a Miniaturized Wearable Drug Delivery System

In this paper, we describe low-permeability components of a microfluidic drug delivery system fabricated with versatile micromilling and lamination techniques. The fabrication process uses laminate sheets which are machined using XY milling tables commonly used in the printed-circuit industry. This adaptable platform for polymer microfluidics readily accommodates integration with silicon-based sensors, printed-circuit, and surface-mount technologies. We have used these methods to build components used in a wearable liquid-drug delivery system for in vivo studies. The design, fabrication, and performance of membrane-based fluidic capacitors and manual screw valves provide detailed examples of the capability and limitations of the fabrication method. We demonstrate fluidic capacitances ranging from 0.015 to 0.15 muL/kPa, screw valves with on/off flow ratios greater than 38000, and a 45times reduction in the aqueous fluid loss rate to the ambient due to permeation through a silicone diaphragm layer.
A New Software Tool for Removing, Storing, and Adding Abnormalities to Medical Images for Perception Research Studies

Rationale and Objectives Image perception studies have been difficult to perform using clinical images because of the problems associated with obtaining proven abnormalities and appropriate normal controls. The objective of this research was to develop and evaluate interactive software that allows the seamless removal, archiving and insertion of abnormal areas from computed tomography (CT) lung image sets for use in image perception research. Materials and Methods The software tools for removing, archiving, and adding lesions are described in detail. The efficacy of the software to remove abnormal areas of lung CT studies was evaluated by having radiologists select the one altered image from a display of four. The software for adding lesions was evaluated by having radiologists classify displayed CT slices with lesions as real or artificial along with their confidence level. Results Observers could not reliably detect when images had been altered by the software. In the lesion-removal experiment, the observers correctly identified the altered display in only 15.8 ± 2.8 of 56 sets. In the lesion-add experiment, the observers correctly identified the artificially placed lesions in 38.2 ± 3.9 of 77 sets. The frequency distribution of the correct responses did not differ from that expected from chance selection. Conclusions The results from both of these experiments demonstrate that radiologists could not distinguish between original and altered images. We conclude that this software can be used with volumetric CT lung images for creating normal control and target data sets for medical image perception research.
Multichannel Differential Group Delay Emulation and Compensation via a Phase Pulse Shaper

We developed a differential group delay (DGD) emulator which is based on a high spectral resolution phase pulse shaper. DGD generation has been demonstrated for up to four wavelength channels independently and simultaneously, with DGD accuracy of approximately 1 ps for up to 400-ps DGD range. For each channel, DGD versus frequency profiles can be arbitrarily programmed to user specifications. Multichannel DGD compensation has also been demonstrated using the same setup.
Studies on RF-optical dual mode wireless communication modules

Some recent studies on radio-frequency (RF) and free-space optical (FSO) dual-mode communication are reported. A novel hybrid packaging is proposed to integrate RF/FSO front-end circuits on a single compact PCB by sharing space and structural components. Full-wave electromagnetic simulation was applied to design RF and predict coupling between RF and optical circuits. A hybrid RF/FSO package design was developed, prototyped and experimentally studied using a modified quasi-Yagi antenna with split directors to form pads for optical transmitting (VCSEL) and receiving (PiN) diode chips. Dual-mode link connectivity was investigated in simulations and experiments. A data rate of 2.5 Gbps was demonstrated for the optical channel despite 15–20 dB electromagnetic coupling between the optical and microwave circuits.
Enhanced Delivery in Disruption Tolerant Networks using Advantaged Nodes with Directional Antenna Capability

Disruption tolerant networks are designed to deal with the limited connectivity among mobile nodes due to mobility, short range radios or terrain obstacles. Several routing schemes have been proposed for DTNs. These routing schemes rely on the node mobility to deliver packets amidst frequent and extended network partitions using a store-and-forward approach. Recently, researchers have proposed that special stationary nodes are deployed to enhance contact opportunities and hence improve the delivery performance. In this paper, we propose adding directional antenna capability to such advantaged nodes to further enhance the delivery performance. We evaluate the extent of the improved delivery performance when these advantaged nodes are deployed in grid-like or random manners. Unlike the earlier work, in our evaluation, we do not assume that one can learn the mobility patterns of the moving nodes since such learning is not feasible in military and emergency disaster scenarios. Our results indicate that an additional 14% (10%) improvement in delivery ratio can be achieved with grid-like (random) deployments. The improvement in average delivery latency is about 5%.
Structural basis of IAP recognition by Smac/DIABLO

Apoptosis is an essential process in the development and homeostasis of all metazoans. The inhibitor-of-apoptosis (IAP) proteins suppress cell death by inhibiting the activity of caspases; this inhibition is performed by the zinc-binding BIR domains of the IAP proteins. The mitochondrial protein Smac/DIABLO promotes apoptosis by eliminating the inhibitory effect of IAPs through physical interactions. Amino-terminal sequences in Smac/DIABLO are required for this function, as mutation of the very first amino acid leads to loss of interaction with IAPs and concomitant loss of Smac/DIABLO function. Here we report the high-resolution crystal structure of Smac/DIABLO complexed with the third BIR domain (BIR3) of XIAP. Our results show that the N-terminal four residues (Ala-Val-Pro-Ile) in Smac/DIABLO recognize a surface groove on BIR3, with the first residue Ala binding a hydrophobic pocket and making five hydrogen bonds to neighbouring residues on BIR3. These observations provide a structural explanation for the roles of the Smac N terminus as well as the conserved N-terminal sequences in the Drosophila proteins Hid/Grim/Reaper. In conjunction with other observations, our results reveal how Smac may relieve IAP inhibition of caspase-9 activity. In addition to explaining a number of biological observations, our structural analysis identifies potential targets for drug screening.
Choosing Appropriate Imaging Techniques

In this chapter, a logical approach to choosing among the various cardiac imaging techniques is proposed. Imaging modalities most commonly employed in the evaluation of cardiac disease are chest roentgenography, cardiac angiography, radionuclide imaging, ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Electrocardiography and electrophysiologic studies, though crucial in the evaluation of cardiac electrical abnormalities, are technically not imaging modalities. The decision algorithm requires a basic knowledge of the imaging modalities themselves, including their indications and contraindications, which have been described in the preceding chapters. Most important, however, the treating physician should formulate a clear clinical question which will guide selecting an appropriate imaging test. Most cardiac clinical scenarios can be thought of in terms of questions of structure, function, or both.
Comparison of two wireless ad hoc routing protocols on a hardware test-bed

In this paper, we compare the dynamic source routing (DSR) protocol and our energy aware dynamic source routing protocol (EADSR). The implementation of the routing protocols is carried out using the click modular router infrastructure on laptops with wireless Ethernet cards running Linux. We demonstrate the working of both ad hoc routing protocols through our experiments and highlight the energy efficient behavior of EADSR as compared to DSR.
An MMSE maximal shortening equalizer for 10GBASE-T Ether networks

Recently, IEEE is interested in specifying the next generation 10GBASE-T Ethernet network. Due to the limitations of the channel characteristics of Category 6 (CAT-6) unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cables, capacity of the channel is only slightly above the proposed 10 Gbps data rate. This poses a great challenge to the design of equalizers. This paper addresses the problem of designing a minimum mean-square error (MMSE) maximal shortening equalizer with decision feedback cancellation. Unlike traditional approaches such as the decision feedback equalizers (DFEs), the shortening equalizer optimally focuses the channel impulse response to a small number of taps. If a subsequent maximum likelihood sequence estimation (MLSE) equalizer is used, the performance loss caused by symbol-by-symbol hard decision of traditional equalizers can be reduced. However, due to the complexity involved in the shortening equalizers is generally prohibitive; it is difficult to apply them to systems using modulation with large constellations. To overcome this difficulty, we propose an equalizer that combines DFE and the shortening equalizer. Thus, with acceptable complexity, the shortened signal-to-noise ratio (SSNR) can be significantly improved.
Modeling and control of shape distribution of protein crystal aggregates

We focus on the modeling and control of protein crystal aggregates in a large-scale batch crystallizer used to produce tetragonal hen-egg-white (HEW) lysozyme crystals. We initially present a kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) simulation for the modeling of the crystal nucleation, growth, and shear-induced aggregation in an effort to control the evolution of the crystal shape distribution. Through experimental data, the crystal growth rate is calibrated and an empirical expression for the nucleation rate is also developed. Then, the method of moments is applied to a comprehensive population balance model to derive a reduced-order moment model that describes the dynamic evolution of the three leading moments of the crystal volume distribution. Along with mass and energy balances for the continuous phase, the moment model is used to design a model predictive control (MPC) strategy which drives the crystal shape distribution to a desired set-point value through the manipulation of the crystallizer jacket temperature. Compared to conventional operating strategies used in industry, it is demonstrated that the proposed MPC strategy is able to produce crystal aggregates with a desired shape distribution and a low polydispersity effectively dealing with the undesired effects of biased nucleation, depletion in the solute concentration, and changes in the average crystal shape due to the aggregation process.
Construct Validity of the Children's Music-Related Behavior Questionnaire

The purpose of this research was to investigate the construct validity of the Children’s Music-Related Behavior Questionnaire (CMRBQ), an instrument designed for parents to document music-related b...
Peptide YY receptor distribution and subtype in the kidney: effect on renal hemodynamics and function in rats

This study characterizes the location and subtype of peptide YY (PYY) receptors in rat and rabbit kidney and the effect of PYY on renal function and renal hemodynamics in rats. Receptor autoradiogr...
Timing Is Money: Does Lump-Sum Payment of Tax Credits Induce High-Cost Borrowing?

We use the Survey of Income and Program Participation to analyze the impact of the expansions of the Earned Income Tax Credit on household savings and high cost debt. Results suggest that increases in tax credit generosity are associated with increases in household savings and high-cost debt. We investigate whether these increases are due to consumption smoothing over the year. The evidence suggest that families use credit card debt, but not savings, to finance consumption between EITC payments. We take this as evidence of the presence of the credit card debt puzzle, and estimate its costs for the EITC program.
Bodies as evidence: Mapping new terrain for teen pregnancy and parenting

ABSTRACTPredominant approaches to teen pregnancy focus on decreasing numbers of teen mothers, babies born to them, and state dollars spent to support their families. This overshadows the structural violence interwoven into daily existence for these young parents. This paper argues for the increased use of participatory visual methods to compliment traditional research methods in shifting notions of what counts as evidence in response to teen pregnancy and parenting. We present the methods and results from a body mapping workshop as part of ‘Hear Our Stories: Diasporic Youth for Sexual Rights and Justice’, a project that examines structural barriers faced by young parenting Latinas and seeks to develop relevant messaging and programming to support and engage youth. Body mapping, as an engaging, innovative participatory visual methodology, involves young parenting women and other marginalised populations in drawing out a deeper understanding of sexual health inequities. Our findings highlight the ways body ...
Chronic Rhinosinusitis-Related Smell Loss: Medical and Surgical Treatment Efficacy

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory disorder of the nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses. Olfactory dysfunction is a common manifestation of CRS and one of its cardinal diagnostic features. A decreased sense of smell can have a profound impact on a CRS patient’s quality of life and overall wellbeing. The treatment of CRS-associated olfactory dysfunction includes a wide range of medical interventions, including anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medications, and surgical interventions, including endoscopic sinus and nasal surgery. The evidence and treatment efficacy for these interventions is quite varied. This review provides a summary of the efficacy of the medical and surgical therapeutic options for CRS-associated olfactory dysfunction.
Descriptions of male and deutonymph of Laelaps nuttalli Hirst(Acari:Mesostigmata:Laelapidae)

Male and deutonymph of Laelaps nuttalli Hirst are described in the present paper.Laelaps nuttalli Hirst,1915(Figs.1-2) Male:Length of idiosoma 483-529(av.500)μm,width 299-345(av.319)μm.Dorsal shield covering almost entiredorsum,with 39 pairs of needle-like setae.Holoventral shield distinctly expanded behind level of coxae IV,with 3 pairs of sternalsetae,1 pair of metastemai setae,1 pair of genital setae,5 pairs of ventral setae,3 perianal setae and 3 pairs of pores.Ad situatedat level of middle of anus,the end extending to level of base of PA,PA long.Peritreme reaching to middle of coxa I anteriorly.Spermatodactyl of chela band-like and curve. Deutonymph:Length of idiosoma 494-552(av.523)μm,width 310-333(av.322)μm.Dorsal shield 437-483(av.460)μm long and 241-264(av.253)μm wide,setae on the shield as in male.Sternal shield with 4 pairs of setae.Anal shieldtriangular,perianal selae as in male.Metapodal shields 1 pair,oval.Peritreme reaching to middle of coxa I anteriorly. Specimens 2♀♀,4♂♂ and 2 deutonymphs,off Rattas norvegicus(Berkenhout),from Zhoushan Island(30°N,122°E),zhejiang Province,in 11 Oct.2005.Coll.LU Miao-gui.
Cost of Commuting: A Review of Determinants, Outcomes, and Theories of Commuting-Related Stress

Commuter-related stress, its history, associated determinants, outcomes in work environments and theoretical and methodological approaches are examined. In this cross-disciplinary review, I synthesize the research findings on commuting-related stress as it relates to workplace outcomes. In the extant literature, control, predictability, impedance, and length of commute are commonly associated with commuter stress. In addition, prior research has identified workplace aggression and absenteeism as prominent work-related outcomes of commuter stress.
Autophagy and mechanotransduction in outflow pathway cells

Because of elevations in IOP and other forces, cells in the trabecular meshwork (TM) are constantly subjected to mechanical strain. In order to preserve cellular function and regain homeostasis, cells must sense and adapt to these morphological changes. We and others have already shown that mechanical stress can trigger a broad range of responses in TM cells; however, very little is known about the strategies that TM cells use to respond to this stress, so they can adapt and survive. Autophagy, a lysosomal degradation pathway, has emerged as an important cellular homeostatic mechanism promoting cell survival and adaptation to a number of cytotoxic stresses. Our laboratory has reported the activation of autophagy in TM cells in response to static biaxial strain and high pressure. Moreover, our newest data also suggest the activation of chaperon-assisted selective autophagy, a recently identified tension-induced autophagy essential for mechanotransduction, in TM cells under cyclic mechanical stress. In this review manuscript we will discuss autophagy as part of an integrated response triggered in TM cells in response to strain, exerting a dual role in repair and mechanotransduction, and the potential effects of dysregulated in outflow pathway pathophysiology.
Force-activated substrates for high-precision, high-throughput optical trapping assays of ssDNA motor proteins(Conference Presentation)

Optical-trapping-based assays can measure individual proteins bind to and move along DNA with sub-nm resolution, and have yielded insight into a broad array of protein-DNA interactions. Unfortunately, collecting large numbers of high-resolution traces remains an ongoing challenge. Studying helicase motion along DNA exemplifies this challenge. One major difficulty is that helicase binding often requires a single stranded (ss)-double stranded (ds) DNA junction flanked by ssDNA with a minimum size and orientation. Historically, creating such DNA substrates is inefficient. More problematic is that data throughput is low in standard surface-based assays since all substrates are unwound upon introduction of ATP. The net result is ~2–4 high-resolution traces on a good day. To improve throughput, we sought to turn-on or activate a substrate for a helicase one molecule at a time and thereby sequentially study many molecules on an individual microscope slide. As a first step towards this goal, we engineered a dsDNA that contains two site-specific nicks along the same strand of the dsDNA but no ssDNA. Upon overstretching the DNA (F = 65 pN), the strand between the two nicks was mechanically dissociated. We demonstrated this with two different substrates: one yielding an internal ssDNA region of 1100 nt and the other yielding a 20-bp long hairpin flanked by 30 nt of ssDNA. Unwinding a hairpin yields a 3-fold larger signal while the 30-nt ssDNA serves as the binding site for the helicase. We expect that these force-activated substrates to significantly accelerate high-resolution optical-trapping studies of DNA helicases.