cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coupling Nonparametric Mixtures via Latent Dirichlet Processes

Mixture distributions are often used to model complex data. In this paper, we develop a new method that jointly estimates mixture models over multiple data sets by exploiting the statistical dependencies between them. Specifically, we introduce a set of latent Dirichlet processes as sources of component models (atoms), and for each data set, we construct a nonparametric mixture model by combining sub-sampled versions of the latent DPs. Each mixture model may acquire atoms from different latent DPs, while each atom may be shared by multiple mixtures. This multi-to-multi association distinguishes the proposed method from previous ones that require the model structure to be a tree or a chain, allowing more flexible designs. We also derive a sampling algorithm that jointly infers the model parameters and present experiments on both document analysis and image modeling.
Silencing CDK4 radiosensitizes breast cancer cells by promoting apoptosis

Background The discovery of molecular markers associated with various breast cancer subtypes has greatly improved the treatment and outcome of breast cancer patients. Unfortunately, breast cancer cells acquire resistance to various therapies. Mounting evidence suggests that resistance is rooted in the deregulation of the G1 phase regulatory machinery.
Constructive method for solving a nonlinear singularly perturbed system of differential equations in critical case

A singularly, perturbed system of differential equations with degenerate matrix at the derivative is considered. The existence and construction of the periodic solutions are investigated in critical case. For the analysis of these algorithms the apparatus of Lyapunov's finite majorizing equations is used. An implementation of this method is given in two examples.
Performance analysis of reservation random access protocols for wireless access networks

A key issue in future wireless access networks is the design of multiaccess protocols that enable dispersed voice and data terminals to efficiently share the terminal-to-base radio channel. A promising class of multiaccess protocols for wireless access is that of reservation random access (RRA) protocols, in which voice talkspurt packets and data packets are statistically multiplexed over TDMA frames. Voice terminals obtain reservations for their talkspurts using a random access protocol. An analysis method for evaluating the performance of a class of RRA protocols is developed. The method is based on a Markovian model, whose stationary solution is obtained via an iterative computational procedure based on matrix decomposition techniques. Subject to a maximum delay constraint, the voice packet dropping rate and distribution of the number of packets dropped from a talkspurt are evaluated for three RRA protocol examples, and comparisons are made with the performance of an ideal hypothetical multiplexer. The transient performance of RRA protocols is evaluated by simulating their response to sudden changes in the number of active voice terminals. Finally, suggestions for the design of integrated voice/data RRA protocols are made. >
Stability of Layered Dredged Sediment Deposits at Subaqueous Sites

Covering, or capping, dredged-sediment deposits at subaqueous disposal sites is a technique to isolate contaminated sediment from the aqueous environment and to contain it on the site. After deposition, the sediments will consolidate with the expulsion of pore water and the layers may deform. If the deformation is extensive, the cap may be disrupted. Two conditions must be met for internal instability in the deposit; (1) the upper layer must be more dense than the lower and (2) the shear stress along the interface between the layers must exceed the strength of the deposit. Mathematically, the second condition is \delta \rho gh>(\alpha \tau) where \delta\rho is the difference in density between the layers, h is the height of irregularities in the interface between the layers and ( \alpha \tau ) is the creep limit stress of the deposit. The creep limit stress is some fraction, \alpha , of the shear strength \tau . A deposit of dredged mud under a one-meter thick cap of sand might be expected to support irregularities about 1 m high.
Electron Capture in M-Shell X-Ray Production from Heavy Elements by 25- and 35-MeV Fluorine Ions

M-shell x-ray production cross sections have been measured for thin solid targets (~2 ?g/cm2) of Au, Pb, Bi, and U for 25 and 35 MeV incident 199Fq+ ions (q = 4, 5, 6, 8, 9). The target M-shell x-ray production cross sections by projectiles with one or two K-shell vacancies are found to be enhanced over those by projectiles without K-shell vacancies. The cross sections averaged over target thickness were measured as a function of target thicknesses. Electron capture (EC) to the L-, M-, ...shells and EC to the K-shell of the projectile, have been extracted from the data. These are compared with the predictions of first Born theories, i.e., OBK of Nikolaev for EC. The data are also compared with the theory by Brandt and Lapicki that goes beyond the first Born approximation, i.e., the ECPSSR approach which accounts for the Energy loss, Coulomb deflection and Relativistic effects in the Perturbed Stationary State theory.
A Rapid Chemical Means for Removing Labile Glycohemoglobin

We have devised a rapid and convenient method of eliminating the contribution of labile glycosylated hemoglobin in the hemoglobin A, assay. The procedure requires a 30-min incubation of erythrocytes in 30 mM semicarbazide and 12 mM aniline (pH 5, 38°C). This chemical means of eliminating the labile fraction is as effective as a 14-h incubation in isotonic saline as measured with high-pressure liquid chromatography or electrophoresis methods. The removal of the labile glycosylated hemoglobin fraction preserves the assay as a reliable index of chronic metabolic control.
Droplet evaporation and condensation in the near-continuum regime

The problem of quasi-steady state evaporation and condensation of aerosol droplets is re-examined to determine the effect of the molecular interaction model on the predicted mass transfer rates in the Knudsen regime. A new expression for the mass flux is obtained that contains explicitly the dependence of the rate process on the accommodation coefficient and on the molecular weight ratio of the vapor and gas molecules. The analysis, based on the solution of the Boltzmann equation by the method of Grad for Maxwellian molecules, is shown to yield results in the near-continuum regime (Kn<1) very close to a number of previous theoretical analyses based on hard sphere molecules and semi-theoretical correlations, including the Fuchs–Sutugin equation. These results indicate that the theoretical predictions are not sensitive to the molecular interaction model used, but depend strongly on the method of solution in the near-free-molecule regime where the method of Grad fails. As the continuum regime is approached, the solution becomes independent of the accommodation coefficient. Theoretical predictions agree with previously published evaporation data for isothermal evaporation of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) in air and dibutyl sebacate (DBS) in nitrogen using an accommodation coefficient of 1.0 for DBP and 0.9 for DBS.
On the stability and instantaneous velocity of grasped frictionless objects

An efficient quantitative test for form closure valid for any number of contact points is formulated as a linear program, the optimal objective value of which provides a measure of how far a grasp is from losing form closure. When the grasp does not have form closure, manipulation planning requires a means for predicting the object's stability and instantaneous velocity, given the joint velocities of the hand. The classical approach to computing these quantities is to solve the systems of kinematic inequalities corresponding to all possible combinations of separating or sliding at the contacts. All combinations resulting in the interpenetration of bodies or the infeasibility of the equilibrium equations are rejected. The remaining combination is consistent with all the constraints and is used to compute the velocity of the manipulated object and the contact forces, which indicate whether or not the object is stable. A linear program whose solution yields the same information as the classical approach, usually without explicit testing of all possible combinations of contact interactions, is formulated. >
What getting sick means.

The concepts of health, disease and death have intrigued man since the beginning of time and are continually evolving. In the nonwestern societies the models which have been proposed for the etiology of disease have a dichotomous view of disease causation which is derived from either natural or supernatural forces. In the Western societies these concepts are well defined. The numerous advances in the fields of genetics and molecular biology have added a new dimension to the understanding of the various factors involved in the pathogenesis of disease processes. These advances have allowed a greater understanding of numerous disease processes including the inborn errors of metabolism, endocrine disorders and human neoplasia. Several recent advances in the areas of molecular biology and physiology allowing this increased understanding of human disease are presented. (Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 14:157S-163S, 1990)
EVIDENCE Of ENDEMIC GOITER AND IODINE DEfICIENCy IN A MOuNTAINOus AREA Of HAITI

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate reports of iodine-deficiency disorder in a specific area of Haiti. Methods In March 2008, this cross-sectional study was performed in an area 15 miles northeast of Jacmel, Haiti, within the Chaine de la Selle Mountains. Before arrival of the study team, an announcement was made throughout local villages soliciting volunteers to meet at a central location. Of those who arrived, participants were selected in an attempt to sample individuals from all age groups, regardless of goiter status. After providing verbal informed consent, each participant was photographed and assigned a number to be used to protect privacy. An examiner performed palpation of the thyroid gland on each participant in accordance with World Health Organization criteria. Results of palpation were classified into 3 grades: grade 0, the thyroid gland was not palpable; grade 1, the thyroid gland was palpable but not visible; and grade 2, the thyroid gland was palpable and visible while the patient was in a normal position. Casual urine samples were collected from each participant and analyzed spectrophotometrically for urinary iodine concentration. Results Eighty-eight individuals aged 2 to 72 years participated in the study. Median urinary iodine concentration was 39 μg/L. Of the 88 participants, 82 (93%) were iodine deficient (18 [20%] were severely deficient), and 45 (51%) had goiter on physical examination, including 27 with grade 1 goiters and 18 with grade 2 goiters. Conclusions We have documented iodine deficiency with associated endemic goiter in this previously uninvestigated Haitian population, for which world health agencies currently lack definitive data. These data have potential implications for both the local area and the country as a whole where further evaluation and treatment are needed for persons at high risk for iodine-deficiency disorder. (Endocr Pract. 2009;15:298-301)
Rapid positional cloning of zebrafish mutations by linkage and homozygosity mapping using whole-genome sequencing

Forward genetic screens in zebrafish have identified >9000 mutants, many of which are potential disease models. Most mutants remain molecularly uncharacterized because of the high cost, time and labor investment required for positional cloning. These costs limit the benefit of previous genetic screens and discourage future screens. Drastic improvements in DNA sequencing technology could dramatically improve the efficiency of positional cloning in zebrafish and other model organisms, but the best strategy for cloning by sequencing has yet to be established. Using four zebrafish inner ear mutants, we developed and compared two approaches for ‘cloning by sequencing’: one based on bulk segregant linkage (BSFseq) and one based on homozygosity mapping (HMFseq). Using BSFseq we discovered that mutations in lmx1b and jagged1b cause abnormal ear morphogenesis. With HMFseq we validated that the disruption of cdh23 abolishes the ear's sensory functions and identified a candidate lesion in lhfpl5a predicted to cause nonsyndromic deafness. The success of HMFseq shows that the high intrastrain polymorphism rate in zebrafish eliminates the need for time-consuming map crosses. Additionally, we analyzed diversity in zebrafish laboratory strains to find areas of elevated diversity and areas of fixed homozygosity, reinforcing recent findings that genome diversity is clustered. We present a database of >15 million sequence variants that provides much of this approach's power. In our four test cases, only a single candidate single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) remained after subtracting all database SNPs from a mutant's critical region. The saturation of the common SNP database and our open source analysis pipeline MegaMapper will improve the pace at which the zebrafish community makes unique discoveries relevant to human health.
Data selection for acoustic emotion recognition: Analyzing and comparing utterance and sub-utterance selection strategies

Data selection is an important component of cross-corpus training and semi-supervised/active learning. However, its effect on acoustic emotion recognition is still not well understood. In this work, we perform an in-depth exploration of various data selection strategies for emotion classification from speech using classifier agreement as the selection metric. Our methods span both the traditional utterance as well as the less explored sub-utterance level. A median unweighted average recall of 70.68%, comparable to the winner of the 2009 INTERSPEECH Emotion Challenge, was achieved on the FAU Aibo 2-class problem using less than 50% of the training data. Our results indicate that sub-utterance selection leads to slightly faster convergence and significantly more stable learning. In addition, diversifying instances in terms of classifier agreement produces a faster learning rate, whereas selecting those near the median results in higher stability. We show that the selected data instances can be explained intuitively based on their acoustic properties and position within an utterance. Our work helps provide a deeper understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, and trade-offs of different data selection strategies for speech emotion recognition.
Gene Duplication within the Family Salmonidae: Disomic Inheritance of Two Loci Reported to Be Tetrasomic in Rainbow Trout

We describe our studies of the genetics of allelic variation for NADP-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) in rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri). Five populations of rainbow trout were studied to determine the phenotypic distribution of IDH; 453 progeny from a number of controlled matings were examined to determine the nature of inheritance of these alleles. The variation was found to be the result of four alleles producing protein subunits of differing electrophoretic mobilities. Progeny from crosses clearly demonstrated the presence of two disomic loci controlling the variation, rather than one tetrasomic locus as had been previously reported. These findings support our contention that the hypothesis of a tetraploid event in salmonid evolution should not be uncritically accepted.
Effect of bacterial flora and mouse genotype (euthymic or athymic) on scrapie pathogenesis.

Euthymic and athymic female BALB/c mice, reared under either germfree or defined flora conditions, were used to investigate the pathogenesis of scrapie after intracerebral or intraperitoneal inoculation. Time in days to onset of clinical signs (Stage I), to endstage (Stage II), and the time interval between Stage I and Stage II were compared among groups. In addition, scrapie agent titers in spleen were determined at 28 and 90 days after infection, as were agent titers in spleen and brain at Stage II. Three-way analysis of variance indicated that the bacterial flora, the presence or absence of a thymus, and the route of agent inoculation interact to produce significant differences in the pathogenesis of disease. The three factors in the experimental design also influenced the spleen titers of scrapie infectivity. The variation in scrapie pathogenesis among the groups of mice is likely to be mediated by differences in their reticuloendothelial systems. These differences may alter the agent’s adsorption in spleen and/or route of transport from spleen to brain.
The modulation of estrogen-induced apoptosis as an interpretation of the women’s health initiative trials

The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) consisted of two placebo controlled trials: one in women with a uterus, using conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) plus medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and the second trial in women without a uterus used CEE alone. The study population average age was approximately 63 years. Although the predicted rise in breast cancer occurred in the MPA plus CEE trial, the CEE alone trial, had a sustained decrease in breast cancer incidence. A unifying theory is presented that explains the decrease in breast cancer based on the new biology of estrogen-induced apoptosis in long-term estrogen deprived nascent breast cancer cells. Glucocorticoids block estrogen-induced apoptosis and MPA has glucocorticoid activity. This is why MPA increases breast cancer when used with CEE as menopausal hormone replacement. A safer menopausal hormone therapy can now be designed with a more selective synthetic progestin such as norethindrone acetate.
Carboplatin and fluoropyrimidine-based treatment for metastatic gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancer: A retrospective review of the Stanford experience

e15686 Background: There is no single standard chemotherapy regimen for the treatment of metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma. At Stanford Cancer Center (SCC) we regularly use a regimen of carboplatin and 5- fluorouracil (CF) or carboplatin and capecitabine (CX) for the treatment of these patients. Methods: A single institution retrospective review of patients with metastatic gastric and GEJ adenocarcinoma treated with CF or CX was conducted. Patients received carboplatin AUC 6 on day 1 and either 5-FU at 200 mg/m2/day (via continuous IV infusion) or capecitabine at 1,000 mg/m2 po BID for 14 days, repeated every 21 days. Only patients treated at SCC who received ≥ 2 cycles of chemotherapy were included. Results: Fourty-five patients were identified. The majority (62%) were male. Median age at diagnosis was 66 years. Twenty-nine (64%) had gastric and 16 (36%) had GEJ cancers. Thirty-six patients (80%) were chemotherapy-naive. Twenty-nine (64%) had poorly differentiated and 1...
The 5-hydroxytryptamine2B receptor and 5-HT receptor signal transduction in mesenteric arteries from deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertensive rats.

One of the most profound increases in vascular responsiveness in hypertension has been observed for serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT). This study investigates the hypothesis that the increase in vascular responsiveness to 5-HT is the result of altered 5-HT receptor signal transduction. Mesenteric arteries were dissected from deoxycorticosterone- (DOCA) salt hypertensive and sham-normotensive rats for use in isolated tissue experiments. Agonist contractile potencies indicated that a 5-HT2 receptor mediates contraction to 5-HT in both sham and DOCA-salt arteries. In arteries from sham rats, ketanserin (5-HT2A/5-HT2C selective), LY53857 (5-HT2 selective) and spiperone (5-HT2A/5-HT2C selective) shifted contraction to 5-HT (pKB = 8.58, 8.35 and 9.52, respectively) indicating that a 5-HT2A receptor mediates contraction in arteries from normotensive rats. By contrast, ketanserin and spiperone did not shift contraction to 5-HT in DOCA-salt mesenteric arteries (pKB > 6.52, > 7.52, respectively). LY53857 did shift the response to 5-HT in DOCA-salt mesenteric arteries (pKB = 7.85). Thus, contraction in arteries from DOCA-salt rats is predominantly mediated by 5-HT2B receptors. Unlike the 5-HT receptor in the sham mesenteric artery and aorta (5-HT2A receptor), the 5-HT receptor in DOCA-salt mesenteric arteries and stomach fundus (5-HT2B receptor) were relatively insensitive to phenoxybenzamine (10-300 nM). These data suggest that the 5-HT2B receptor is insensitive to phenoxybenzamine, is increased in number or, alternatively, has increased G protein coupling. DOCA-salt mesenteric arteries were more sensitive to contraction by the direct G protein stimulator AIF4- (-log EC50 [M]: DOCA-salt = 2.82 +/- 0.04; sham = 2.55 +/- 0.03, P < .05). PCR analyses indicated an increase in mRNA for the 5-HT2B receptor in mesenteric arteries of DOCA-salt hypertensive arteries, supporting an increase in receptor number. Taken together these studies demonstrate significant changes in 5-HT receptor signal transduction in DOCA-salt hypertension, both at the level of the receptor and G protein and may provide one reason why ketanserin has proved to be a relatively ineffective antihypertensive agent in some forms of hypertension.
The Relationship of Images and Political Affiliations to Orientations Toward Foreign Aid for India

During the past two decades, India has had prominent place in the American foreign aid program. Over the period 1946-1967, India was allocated approximately twelve percent of the total U.S. funds authorized for economic and health programs in all less-developed countries.' The only state in the world that has obtained more nonmilitary aid money from the United States is Great Britain. However, if economic and food assistance is computed on a per capita basis, India has continually received less support than several other of the developing nations.2 A high degree of American involvement in Indian development has been prompted by the fact that within India's boundaries are contained two-fifths of the population of the "uncommitted" new nations. The country occupies a geographically strategic location in Asia. India's political leadership has enjoyed widespread respect throughout the Third World. India is a democracy and the only country in Asia outside Communist
Therapeutic interchange of ampicillin-sulbactam for cefoxitin

A therapeutic interchange program based on microbial patterns within an institution is described. A change in anaerobic susceptibility patterns, increased prevalence of enterococcal infections, and cost factors provided the rationale for the therapeutic interchange of ampicillin-sulbactam for cefoxitin. Ampicillin-sulbactam was recommended for prophylaxis in intraabdominal or gynecological surgery as well as for treatment for gynecological infections. Cefoxitin was restricted to penicillin-allergic patients and women who were pregnant or breast-feeding. The transition from cefoxitin to ampicillin-sulbactam proceeded smoothly as a result of preliminary education of pharmacists and physicians. Pharmacists participated in continuing-education programs and received concise guidelines for the interchange and follow-up instructions; physicians learned of the program from the drug newsletter published by the pharmacy department. Three months after the program began, only one physician was resistant to the interchange. After the program began, 11 antimicrobials, including cefoxitin, were used less frequently and ampicillin-sulbactam use increased. No adverse clinical consequences from the interchange were detected. A therapeutic interchange program based on institution-specific microbial patterns and educational efforts by the pharmacy department produced a change in physician prescribing.
Genetic character of wild measles virus causing an accidental case after immunization with live attenuated measles vaccine

Objective To analyze the genetic character of measles virus causing a measles-like case on day 9 after immunization with live attenuated measles vaccine so as to confirm the case as vaccine-associated one or accidental one caused by wild measles virus.Methods Nucleic acids were extracted from the throat swab of the patient and sequenced after amplification of 450 nucleotides at C-terminus of measles virus nucleoprotein(NP) by RT-PCR,based on which the genetic relationship as well as homologies of nucleotides and amino acids of the strain to the representational strains of wild measles virus strains of all the 24 genotypes and Chinese vaccine strain(Shanghai-191) were analyzed.Results The virus causing the case was wild measles virus of subgenotype H1a,of which the homologies of nucleotides and amino acids were 97.5% ～ 99.5% and 96.6% respectively to those of the representational strain of wild measles virus of genotype H1 epidemic in China,while were only 91.2% and 86.7% respectively to those of Shanghai-191 strain.Conclusion The measles-like case appeared after immunization with live attenuated measles vaccine was caused by accidental infection with wild measles virus of genotype H1,but not measles vaccine-associated.
Characterization of ultrastructural and metabolic abnormalities in semen from men with spinal cord injury.

AbstractBackground: In men with spinal cord injury (SCI) , fertility is impaired because of a combination of ejaculatory dysfunction and poor semen quality. We hypothesized that ultrastructural and metabolic abnormalities of sperm could be an underlying factor in infertility in these men.Methods: To investigate mechanisms contributing to the abnormal sperm parameters, we analyzed seminal constituents and sperm ultrastructure in ejaculates from 7 men with SCI and compared them with 5 control subjects. Sperm adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content was measured using a firefly luciferase bioluminescent assay kit, and ultrastructure was evaluated by electron microscopy. Seminal oxidative stress (8-iso-prostaglandin F-2a [8-iso-PGF2a]) and transforming growth factor-β1(TGF-β1 J levels were measured by specific enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay kits.Results: Semen samples from men with SCI showed azoospermia (3) and severe asthenospermia (2; motility 0-5%). A majority (65'7'o) of sperm from asthenospermic sample...
Cold agglutinin disease

A variable hemolytic process occurs in the presence of cold agglutinin disease, a relatively rare disorder. On exposure to cold, the patient undergoes accelerated hemolysis through a process involving complement fixation. The degree of hemolysis depends on the titer of the agglutinin, the thermal range of its activity, and the degree of cold and duration of exposure.
Elevated CO2 and temperature increase soil C losses from a soybean–maize ecosystem

Warming temperatures and increasing CO2 are likely to have large effects on the amount of carbon stored in soil, but predictions of these effects are poorly constrained. We elevated temperature (canopy: +2.8 °C; soil growing season: +1.8 °C; soil fallow: +2.3 °C) for 3 years within the 9th-11th years of an elevated CO2 (+200 ppm) experiment on a maize-soybean agroecosystem, measured respiration by roots and soil microbes, and then used a process-based ecosystem model (DayCent) to simulate the decadal effects of warming and CO2 enrichment on soil C. Both heating and elevated CO2 increased respiration from soil microbes by ~20%, but heating reduced respiration from roots and rhizosphere by ~25%. The effects were additive, with no heat × CO2 interactions. Particulate organic matter and total soil C declined over time in all treatments and were lower in elevated CO2 plots than in ambient plots, but did not differ between heat treatments. We speculate that these declines indicate a priming effect, with increased C inputs under elevated CO2 fueling a loss of old soil carbon. Model simulations of heated plots agreed with our observations and predicted loss of ~15% of soil organic C after 100 years of heating, but simulations of elevated CO2 failed to predict the observed C losses and instead predicted a ~4% gain in soil organic C under any heating conditions. Despite model uncertainty, our empirical results suggest that combined, elevated CO2 and temperature will lead to long-term declines in the amount of carbon stored in agricultural soils.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in the Cancer Patient

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the patient with cancer can be a lifesaving intervention after cardiac arrest. In this chapter, we will explore the use of CPR in patients with malignancy and consider how its use can alter cardiac arrest outcomes in terms of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and survival to hospital discharge. In patients with malignancy, methods to improve CPR outcomes may be related to the deployment of care paradigms that include earlier provision of palliative and supportive care to minimize cancer-related symptoms while providing CPR to selected patients that are more likely to benefit from its use. Finally, we consider decision-making around the issue of family-witnessed resuscitation.
India and the NPT after the Cold War

American efforts to stem the spread of nuclear weapons would appear more likely to succeed in the post-cold war era than was the case during the cold war. Without the nuclear standoff based on mutual assured destruction between the United States and the former Soviet Union, western nuclear guarantees to third parties would now appear more credible. All states facing potential nuclear threats can be brought under a credible western nuclear umbrella, unless they fear nuclear threats from a U.S.-led West itself. With the West now having achieved undisputed military supremacy, one American “proliferation watcher” even suggested that the United States should not think just in terms of containing nuclear-weapon proliferation, but should attempt now to “win” the war against proliferation.1
Airway Smooth Muscle and Asthma

Airway smooth muscle has complex physiologic properties during normal breathing and under pathophysiologic conditions such as asthma. The contractility of airway smooth muscle, its stiffness, and its physiologic functions are modulated dynamically in response to a local environment that changes constantly during breathing. Signaling pathways activated by contractile stimuli and local mediators interact with pathways mediated by junctional protein complexes at adhesion sites that are regulated by environmental stimuli such as extracellular matrix proteins and local mechanical forces. These pathways control cytoskeletal dynamics and nuclear processes that determine the physiologic and phenotypic properties of the airway smooth muscle cell. Pathophysiologic conditions that alter the cellular environment may disturb normal cytoskeletal dynamics to cause changes in airway smooth muscle contractility and compliance and to alter the phenotype and physiologic functions of the cell, leading to the airway hyperresponsiveness and airway structural remodeling characteristic of asthma.
In-situ semantic 3D modeling

Semantic 3D models of indoor scenes enable compelling interior design applications such as remodeling, refurnishing and rearrangement of furniture. However, creating these models is still a challenging task. Most existing approaches are designed to work ex-situ or out of context, and rely on the modeler's memory, photographs or measurements from the scene. We propose a novel in-situ, mobile capture system that leverages quick and easy semantic input from the user and offloads tedious reconstruction and modeling tasks to the computer. In this way, our system combines the advantages of automatic and manual CAD based methods to significantly reduce modeling time and effort. Our approach runs on commodity mobile devices and can potentially scale to a much larger audience of casual mobile phone users.
The Necessity or Expediency of the Churches Inquiring into the Writings of David Hume Esquire and Calling the Author to Answer Before the Spiritual Courts (1756)

In 1756 the Scots Magazine reported on a committee debate in the Church of Scotland on a motion to investigate the writings of David Hume (1711–76), which were suspected of advancing “infidel” prin...
The Extended Finite Element Method

This chapter discusses level-set topology optimization methods where the governing state equations are discretized by the Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM). In contrast to conventional methods that map the level-set function into a density distribution of a fictitious material, the XFEM allow preserving the crisp geometry information of level-sets in the mechanical model. A brief introduction into the XFEM will be provided and its application to topology optimization will be illustrated with problems in fluid mechanics.
Enhancing the College Student Experience: Outcomes of a Leisure Education Program:

Background: Experiential education in higher education provides opportunities for college student development that contribute to student success. As such, a leisure education program is posited as ...
Moving Labyrinths: Virgil’s Art of Multiple Narrative

In the Aeneid Virgil creates a complex semantic labyrinth where multiple traditions, each belonging to a separate historical or mythic context, are drawn into what appears to be a single new narrative. That new narrative is in constant dialogue with its constituent elements and so exists in a paradoxically unstable Einsteinian geography of space and time. Neither readers nor the hero Aeneas can ever be sure how to position themselves to understand what is seen or experienced. Further, as Virgil’s narrative of Daedalus shows, he not only becomes, like Daedalus, a maker of, and prisoner within, labyrinths of his own design but also pressures the reader to collaborate in creating (and escaping) them.
Stresses and Elastic Constants at the Atomic Scale and the Link to the Continuum

We report here on recent work aimed at clarifying the definition of various atomic-level stress measures and the relationships between them. We also offer a definition for the local elastic constants. Finally, we examine the convergence of volume-averaged versions of these quantities to their continuum counterparts as the length scale, the radius of the averaging volume in the present case, approaches the continuum scale.
Acute Kidney Injury in Children With Acute Respiratory Failure.

Background. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in critically ill children and develops in association with organ system dysfunction, with acute respiratory failure (ARF) one of the most common. We...
Interactive Ventilatory Effects of Carotid Body Hypoxia and Hypocapnia in the Unanesthetized Dog

In a previous study (5) we demonstrated that moderate normoxic hypocapnia, when limited to the carotid sinus region (carotid body), could markedly inhibit ventilation and VT in the awake or sleeping (Non-REM and REM) dog. TI and TE were not changed significantly, thus there was no tendency for carotid body hypocapnia to produce apnoeas. The ventilatory inhibition was graded over the range of carotid body hypocapnia (ΔPCBCO2 = -7 to -15 Torr relative to eupnoea) but the stimulus: response slope was most sensitive over the eupnoea to -7 Torr range at least during wakefulness and Non-REM sleep. In other words, in these conditions there was clearly no “dog-leg” present in the ventilatory response to carotid body hypocapnia (2). During REM sleep there was no consistent ventilatory response until ΔPCBCO2 was > -7 Torr (Fig. 1). During wakefulness and Non-REM sleep the inhibitory effect was probably maximal between about -10 and -15 Torr as perfusion of the carotid body with normocapnic and hyperoxic blood (PCBO2>500 Torr) produced ventilatory inhibition that was essentially identical in time course, magnitude and ventilatory pattern to that produced by -10 to -15 Torr carotid body hypocapnia. Given the well known inhibitory effects of hyperoxia on carotid sinus nerve output (3,4) we concluded that carotid body hypocapnia in the -10 to -15 range must virtually silence chemoreceptor output in the carotid body.
Attempts at Locating the Site of Action of Genes Affecting Behavior

Among the many differences between the C57BL/6J and A/J inbred mouse strains are several differences in behavior. In an effort to understand aspects of the mechanisms underlying these behavioral differences, we have constructed a series of A↔C57 chimeras. Study of the chimeras should allow us to find out (i) whether any of the behaviors are governed by single cells or single clones, (ii) how many distinct, independently controlled differences underlie the behaviors we measure, and (iii) which tissues control the behaviors.
Studies of the Fate of Platelets in Rats and Man

The tissue distribution of 51Cr-labeled platelets and erythrocytes was determined in normal and asplenic rats. Two hours after injection, the distributions in tissues of RBC and platelet 51Cr were not significantly different except in the spleen which contained platelet 51Cr (12 per cent), significantly in excess of red cell 51Cr (1.4 per cent). As labeled platelets were removed from the bloodstream, 80.2 per cent of the injected 51Cr was deposited in the spleen, liver and marrow of normal animals. During the same interval, radioactivity in all other sites examined diminished to less than 10 per cent of initial values. In splenectomized animals, hepatic uptake of radioactivity was twice that observed in normal animals. Studies in normal human subjects using external scintillation scanning suggest that similar quantitative considerations apply to man in that, normally, one-third of total platelets are sequestered in the liver and one-third in the spleen while in asplenic individuals two-thirds are destroyed in the liver. These observations suggest that the majority of platelets are cleared from the circulation by the reticuloendothelial system after becoming "senescent" but they do not elucidate the nature of "senescence" or the circumstances leading to it.
Enantioselective fluorination of homoallylic alcohols enabled by the tuning of non-covalent interactions

The study of the enantioselective fluorination of homoallylic alcohols via chiral anion phase transfer (CAPT) catalysis using an in situ generated directing group is described. Multivariate correlation analysis, including designer π-interaction derived parameters, revealed key structural features affecting the selectivity at the transition state (TS). Interpretation of the parameters found in the model equation highlights the key differences as well as similarities for the reaction of homoallylic and allylic substrates. A similar T-shaped π-interaction was found to occur between the substrate and the catalyst. The tuning of this crucial interaction by identification of the best combination of phosphoric acid catalyst and boronic acid directing group allowed for the development of a methodology to access γ-fluoroalkenols in typically high enantioselectivities (up to 96% ee).
Authorship and Scales of Adaptation in Chillers

In the late 1980s, a joint French-English venture set out to produce authorized adaptations of a number of Patricia Highsmith stories for a TV series called Chillers (Mistress of Suspense in the UK). All twelve episodes were hosted by Anthony Perkins and adapted by a different writer and directed by a different director; consequently, the series varies in thematic concern and artistic achievement. While the series evokes a certain continuity in adapting Highsmith’s themes into a European context, this chapter indicates the ways multivalent authorship—as in a television production—operates more palpably and more chaotically in adaptations than in other narratives.
Four weeks of training with simple postural instructions changes trunk posture and foot strike pattern in recreational runners

Abstract Objectives Previous studies showed that adopting forward trunk lean and forefoot strike patterns may reduce risk of running-related knee injuries. However, the process of learning such forms is unclear. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of a 4-week training using simple postural instructions to elicit these changes. Design Longitudinal intervention study. Setting A training included postural instructions: 1) lean your trunk forward, and 2) land on the front part of your feet. Participants Eighteen recreational runners. Main outcome measures Participants were assessed prior to training (PRE), immediately after the instructions (iPST), during training at 2 weeks (2WK) and 4 weeks (4WK), and 7–10 days after the conclusion of training (RET). Assessment consisted of running trials performed at self-selected and controlled speeds, during which the trunk and foot strike angles were assessed. Results Comparing to PRE, forward trunk angle significantly increased by approximately 3.5° and foot strike angle by approximately 7° at 2WK, 4WK and RET. Conclusions A 4-week training with simple postural instructions induced significant changes in trunk and foot strike patterns in recreational runners. Future study is needed to develop clinical therapeutic protocols for runners with and at risk of running-related knee injuries.
Antibiotic stewardship targets in the outpatient setting.

Background Outpatient prescriptions comprise 60% of antibiotic use. This study prospectively identified inappropriate antibiotic use enabling a focused approach to outpatient antimicrobial stewardship. Methods Outpatients at the Veterans Affairs Western New York Healthcare System were identified via an electronic antibiotic alert from June 2017 to September 2017. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression identified stewardship targets. Results Of the 1,063 patients, 40% of antibiotic prescriptions were not indicated. Urinary tract infections (21%), bronchitis (20%), skin structure infections (17%), and sinusitis (10%) were common causes of inappropriate antibiotic use. Azithromycin (37%) was prescribed unnecessarily most often, followed by ciprofloxacin (16%), amoxicillin/clavulanate (13%), and cephalexin (12%). The correct drug was chosen in 52%, dose in 81%, and duration in 75% of patients. When the antibiotic was indicated, the correct drug was 2.9 times more likely to be prescribed and 2 times more likely to have the correct duration and receive care in the emergency room. Discussion Focusing on 4 drugs; amoxicillin/clavulanate, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, and cephalexin accounted for 80% of unnecessary drug use. This study provides a guide to concentrate efforts during implementation of an outpatient stewardship program. Conclusions Poor antibiotic prescribing was found in the outpatient setting. This study identifies areas for improvement via stewardship.
Developments in in situ environmental cell high-resolution electron microscopy and applications to catalysis

High-resolution in situ controlled-environment electron microscopy (environmental cell TEM (ETEM) or ECELL) instrumentation and techniques, and some of the key applications to dynamic reaction studies in catalysis, are reviewed. Developments over the past decade or so have led to the novel development of ETEM for in situ studies on the atomic scale of operating catalysts under controlled environments. The powerful ETEM technique enables direct access to the important, but often metastable with respect to temperature and gas atmosphere, intermediate phases in dynamic catalysis processes. Unique insights are provided into reaction mechanisms and the sequences of microstructural and nanochemical evolution of catalyst active site structures associated with selectivity and activity, and potential deactivation and poisoning. The examples demonstrate the pivotal role of ETEM in understanding, developing and controlling novel catalysts and processes. The latest developments include wet-ETEM for in situ dynamic studies of liquid--solid reactions in polymerization and molecular electronics applications.
BOMBS AWAY: Militarization, Conservation and Ecological Restoration: By David G. Havlick. 208 pp.; maps, ills., bibliog., index. Chicago, Ill.: University of Chicago Press, 2018. $33.25 (cloth), isbn 9780226547541.

David Havlick’s book Bombs Away documents the conversion of military lands to wildlife conservation areas. Sites once known for violence or militarization are being transformed into sanctuaries for...
Mining the receptorome: an efficient approach for target discovery and validation

In this talk I will demonstrate the power of screening drugs and drug-like compounds in a massively parallel fashion against the GPCR-ome--the most abundant family in the receptorome (see Armbruste...
A shocking handshake

A 64-year-old man with ischemic cardiomyopathy, refractory congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association Class III), and chronic atrial fibrillation undergoes implantation of an InSync Sentry™ 7299 CRT-D defibrillator. The morning after the implantation, he receives a shock while shaking his cardiologist’s hand. Diagnosis and plan of action are discussed.
Orally inhaled drug particle deposition efficiency in subjects with two-level laryngotracheal stenosis

Introduction: Adjuvant therapy for laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) include inhaled corticosteroids using metered dose inhalers, but these inhalers are designed for lower airway drug delivery. Aims: This preliminary study seeks to determine stenotic particle deposition efficiency for orally inhaled drugs in LTS subjects with two stenotic sites. Methods: Three-dimensional upper airway models were reconstructed from computed tomography images in two subjects. Stenotic sites were glottis and trachea in Subject 1, glottis and subglottis in Subject 2. Inhalation airflow and drug particle transport in the airway were simulated using computational fluid dynamics modeling. Three inhalation pressures were simulated, 10Pa, 25Pa, and 40Pa. Drug particle transport was simulated for 100-950 nanoparticles and 1-50 micron particles, with particles release into the mouth at velocities of 1m/s, 5m/s, and 10m/s. Results: In Subject 1, maximal stenotic depositions were 0.86% (glottis) and 4.15% (trachea), occurring at 25Pa inhalation pressure with 1m/s actuation velocity. At the glottic stenotic site, 6-10 microns had the most deposition (2.66%), and 11-20 microns had the most deposition (13.25%) at the tracheal stenotic site. In Subject 2, maximal stenotic depositions occurred at 10Pa Inhalation pressure with 1m/s actuation velocity, and were 2.28% (glottis) and 1.93% (subglottis). At both stenotic sites, 11-20 microns had the most deposition, 7.28% (glottis) and 7.81% (subglottis). Conclusions: Preliminary findings indicate that
College students approve: Using sorghum to increase whole-grain exposure in university foodservice

University foodservice establishments provide opportunities to expose college students to whole grains, a healthier alternative to refined grains. Sorghum is a sustainable whole grain with a divers...
Signal Soft Sets for Atoms Modeling and Signal Soft Topology

In this paper we define a signal soft set as a mathematical tool to represent and study atoms, anti-atoms, electrons, anti-electrons, protons, and anti-protons, and generate a signal soft topology, with an example of signal soft topology on H2O.
Making exemption the exception, not the rule: Inclusion of all students in foreign language education

This longitudinal quantitative study examines the first and second language vocabulary development of prekindergarten students enrolled in an inclusive foreign language exploratory (FLEX) program. The FLEX program, framed by the Cognitive Retroactive Hypothesis of cross-linguistic transfer, is situated in a context where students with special needs are fully included in all academic activities. Data were collected over 2 years from 60 students in the form of standardized tests and classroom tests of first and second language vocabulary. Results indicate that all students showed evidence of learning second language vocabulary, although students with special needs scored lower than their peers. Furthermore, all participants showed evidence of first language vocabulary increases contradicting assumptions that foreign language exposure may cause interference with the first language for special needs students. Implications include discussion of the least restrictive environment for students with special needs by questioning deficiency-centered decisions about foreign language exemptions.