cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of α-and δ-tocopherol-lipoic acid ester co-drugs on the response of the rabbit bladder to in vitro ischemia/reperfusion.

Objective Obstructive bladder dysfunction (OBD) caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common medical problem in ageing men. As the prostate enlarges and compresses the urethra, the bladder wall thickness and the bladder is termed "compensated" because its function is still relatively normal. Subsequently, bladder function begins to fail and this change is termed "decompensation." The extent of decompensation progresses from mild through severe. Bladder decompensation is mediated by cyclical ischemia followed by reperfusion (I/R) resulting in an increased generation of free radicals and oxidative stress. Previous studies demonstrated that both vitamin E (tocopherol) and alpha-lipoic acid (LA) showed significant antioxidant activity in experimental urinary bladder oxidative stress models. We hypothesized that co-drugs derived from these antioxidants would result in enhanced antioxidant activity relative to either individual compound for the treatment of oxidative stress in the lower urinary tract. Material and methods Two ester co-drugs of TOC and LA, tocopherol ester (α-TOCE) and δ-TOCE were synthesized. Six adult male New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits were divided into two groups of three rabbits each. Eight full thickness strips from each rabbit bladder were taken for in vitro I/R experiments. The strips from the first set were control rabbits (24 strips). Six strips were not incubated, while the remaining strips were incubated in α-TOCE dissolved in 1% (n=6) or 2.5% ethanol (n=6) solutions. These strips were not subjected to in vitro I/R. The strips from the second set were processed as follows: 6 strips were not incubated, while the remaining strips were incubated in α-TOCE dissolved in 1% (n=6) or in δ-TOCE dissolved in 2.5% ethanol. These strips were subjected to 1 hour in vitro ischemia followed by two hours reperfusion. Results Preliminary studies demonstrated that neither antioxidant had any effect on the contractile responses to 1% or 2.5% ethanol. Neither antioxidant had any effect on the control contractile responses. Both antioxidants protected the tissue from the initial effects of ischemia. Both antioxidants had significant protective effects on the contractile responses to all forms of stimulation after the reperfusion period. Conclusion Incubation with both antioxidants had similar protective effects on responses both to ischemia and to reperfusion.
Image quality improvement in cone-beam CT using deep learning

We propose a learning method to generate corrected CBCT (CCBCT) images with the goal of improving the image quality and clinical utility of on-board CBCT. The proposed method integrated a residual block concept into a cyclegenerative adversarial network (cycle-GAN) framework, which is named as Res-cycle GAN in this study. Compared with a GAN, a cycle-GAN includes an inverse transformation from CBCT to CT images, which could further constrain the learning model. A fully convolution neural network (FCN) with residual block is used in generator to enable end-toend transformation. A FCN is used in discriminator to discriminate from planning CT (ground truth) and correction CBCT (CCBCT) generated by the generator. This proposed algorithm was evaluated using 12 sets of patient data with CBCT and CT images. The mean absolute error (MAE), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), normalized cross correlation (NCC) indexes and spatial non-uniformity (SNU) in the selected regions of interests (ROIs) were used to quantify the correction accuracy of the proposed algorithm. Overall, the MAE, PSNR, NCC and SNU were 20.8±3.4 HU, 32. 8±1.5 dB, 0.986±0.004 and 1.7±3.6%. We have developed a novel deep learning-based method to generate CCBCT with a high image quality. The proposed method increases on-board CBCT image quality, making it comparable to that of the planning CT. With further evaluation and clinical implementation, this method could lead to quantitative adaptive radiotherapy.
Conclusions on Energy Policy

Among the many factors influencing energy production, a strong influence is obvious due to environmental concerns. While their limiting influence on energy production is obvious, we believe that the concerns and the corresponding restrictive measures may not have in every case a realistic basis. The consequences of restrictive measures may cost as much as a hundred billion dollars per year in the United States alone, and the actual cost may be even greater.
Feasibility and perception of a question prompt list in outpatient cancer care

Management of cancer is often characterized by difficult decisions. The National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS) has developed the “Know Yourself” tool, a question prompt list (QPL) to enable patients to participate in these decisions. We investigated the feasibility of using the NCCS tool by oncologists and their patients with cancer in a before-and-after pilot study at a tertiary medical center. We also measured patient reported decision preparedness, anxiety, satisfaction with care, trust in physician, discussion of care with their primary care physician (PCP), and general state of health, and solicited feedback from clinicians and patients on use of the form. Ninety patients and fifteen clinicians participated. Most patients reported the Tool was easy to use (91%) and would recommend it to others (73%) however fewer reported discussing the Tool at the visit (31%) or felt that it improved the quality of care (45%) or communication with the oncologist (56%). Clinicians reported Tool use in only 16 of 60 visits (27%); in these visits the Tool was helpful in identifying areas of concern (74%), guiding the clinical interaction (67%), promoting communication (62%), identifying areas of need (70%), and improving quality of care (71%). Decision preparedness, trust in physicians, uncertainty about care, anxiety, patient satisfaction and discussion of care with the PCP was unchanged with Tool use compared to non-use. The Know Yourself tool had poor uptake but was favorably received among both patients and clinicians who used it. These findings suggest some patients could benefit from QPLs. Future work should test how implementation strategies might achieve greater use.
Incorporation of Ni2+, Co2+, and Selenocysteine into the Auxiliary Fe-S Cluster of the Radical SAM Enzyme HydG.

The radical SAM enzyme HydG generates CO- and CN–-containing Fe complexes that are involved in the bioassembly of the [FeFe] hydrogenase active cofactor, the H-cluster. HydG contains a unique 5Fe-4S cluster in which the fifth “dangler” Fe and the coordinating cysteine molecule have both been shown to be essential for its function. Here, we demonstrate that this dangler Fe can be replaced with Ni2+ or Co2+ and that the cysteine can be replaced with selenocysteine. The resulting HydG variants were characterized by electron paramagnetic resonance and X-ray absorption spectroscopy, as well as subjected to a Tyr cleavage assay. Both Ni2+ and Co2+ are shown to be exchange-coupled to the 4Fe-4S cluster, and selenocysteine substitution does not alter the electronic structure significantly. XAS data provide details of the coordination environments near the Ni, Co, and Se atoms and support a close interaction of the dangler metal with the FeS cluster via an asymmetric SeCys bridge. Finally, while we were unable to ...
A trust model for spreading gossip in social networks: a multi-type bootstrap percolation model

We introduce here a multi-type bootstrap percolation model, which we call T-Bootstrap Percolation (T-BP), and apply it to study information propagation in social networks. In this model, a social n...
Deformable mirror-based axial scanning for two-photon mammalian brain imaging.

Significance: To expand our understanding of the roles of astrocytes in neural circuits, there is a need to develop optical tools tailored specifically to capture their complex spatiotemporal Ca2+ dynamics. This interest is not limited to 2D, but to multiple depths. Aim: The focus of our work was to design and evaluate the optical performance of an enhanced version of a two-photon (2P) microscope with the addition of a deformable mirror (DM)-based axial scanning system for live mammalian brain imaging. Approach: We used a DM to manipulate the beam wavefront by applying different defocus terms to cause a controlled axial shift of the image plane. The optical design and performance were evaluated by an analysis of the optical model, followed by an experimental characterization of the implemented instrument. Results: Key questions related to this instrument were addressed, including impact of the DM curvature change on vignetting, field of view size, image plane flatness, wavefront error, and point spread function. The instrument was used for imaging several neurobiological samples at different depths, including fixed brain slices and in vivo mouse cerebral cortex. Conclusions: Our implemented instrument was capable of recording z -stacks of 53 μm in depth with a fine step size, parameters that make it useful for astrocyte biology research. Future work includes adaptive optics and intensity normalization.
Théorie et pratique d’une pensée intempestive. À propos du Devoir d’indignation d’Ambroise Kom

Dans cet article, je propose une reflexion theorique inspiree de l’ouvrage Le Devoir d’indignation (2012) d’Ambroise Kom, en me focalisant sur ce que j’ai nomme une pensee intempestive qui recoupe les oscillations d’une reflexion qui, faisant l’eloge de la dissidence, en appelle au devoir d’indignation. A partir des reflexions d’Ambroise Kom sur la fiction du monde noir et de sa diaspora, je mettrai en relief des points de croisement entre litterature et philosophie, en proposant en effet que le renouvellement de la pensee critique qui s’applique aux litteratures africaines devra passer par des approches philosophiques, notamment celles centrees autour du rapport entre esthetique et politique.
Temporary hold of mycophenolate augments humoral response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: a case series.

Mycophenolate is the mainstay of treatment for many organ and life-threatening manifestations of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMD). In contrast to most patients with RMD, those taking mycophenolate have an attenuated humoral response to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination.1 2 The American College of Rheumatology recently recommended withholding mycophenolate for 1 week after vaccination to enhance immunogenicity in this vulnerable population.3 Thus, we sought to analyse the impact of withholding perivaccination mycophenolate in 24 patients with RMD. We leveraged our observational prospective cohort of patients with RMD without prior COVID-19 who underwent SARS-CoV-2 vaccination between 17 December 2020 and 13 May 2021.2 Information on demographics, diagnoses, immunosuppressive regimens and management of perivaccination immunosuppression was collected via electronic questionnaire. One month following vaccination, venipuncture samples were obtained and tested on the semiquantitative Roche Elecsys anti-SARS-CoV-2 S enzyme immunoassay which tests for antibodies against the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein; a consistent correlate of neutralising antibody.4 We compared the percentage of participants with detectable anti-RBD antibody in the group that withheld mycophenolate (n=24) to the group that continued mycophenolate (n=171) using Fisher’s exact test (online supplemental table 1). Crude and adjusted logistic regression analyses were performed to assess associations between antibody response and the primary variable of withholding mycophenolate, as well as after adjusting for clinical characteristics (age, sex, race, vaccine type (mRNA vs adenovirus vector), use of rituximab and glucocorticoids). Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare anti-RBD titers of the …
Role of Liver Macrophages (Kupffer Cells) in Bacterial Cell Wall-Induced Hepatic Inflammation

Intraperitoneal injection of peptidoglycan-polysaccharide cell wall fragments from group A streptococci (SCW) results in the dissemination of the fragments primarily to the spleen, liver, bone marrow, and peripheral joints [1]. Early localization of SCW within Kupffer cells (KC) of the hepatic sinusoids is followed by acute hepatic edema and leukocyte infiltration. Although the acute inflammation resolves over the next 3–5 days, many KC remain laden with SCW antigens and granulomas develop over the next 2–3 weeks. The granulomas are composed primarily of macrophages, T lymphocytes, and less numerous neutrophils and mast cells [2]. Infiltrating fibroblasts encapsulate the granulomas and synthesize large amounts of collagen types I and III and other matrix proteins. In the final stage (12–24 weeks post injection) the chronic inflammatory reaction diminishes and the granulomas exhibit scar tissue. The role of KC in orchestrating the evolution of SCW-induced inflammation, granuloma formation, and fibrosis are not well elucidated.
Pharmacist-provided Ambulatory Patient Care: Progressing Pharmacy Practice and Preparing the Next Generation of Pharmacists

Objectives The role of the pharmacist within the U.S. healthcare system has shifted beyond that of dispensing prescription medications and now includes the provision of a variety of cognitive services, including medication therapy management (MTM). The focus of such services is to place emphasis on a patient-centered approach to ensure optimal medication use. Continued advancement relies both on the commitment of current pharmacists to these services, as well as preparing future pharmacists to succeed in this role. The purpose of this article is to describe the approaches of three MTM sites to providing patient care, conducting research, completing efforts focused on service, and educating future pharmacists. Methods The article offers a pharmacist-provided description of three distinct MTM sites that have been established in cooperation with the University of Minnesota. Pharmacists describe three unique approaches to implementation of pharmacist-provided MTM services. Site 1 provides a description of care in a stand-alone clinic, which places the pharmacist and patient separate from patients' other healthcare providers. Site 2, which is an embedded clinic, describes pharmacists' provision of cognitive services within a health system that also delivers other healthcare services. Site 3 is a unique setting that acts as a stand-alone clinic when offering general health services, and like an “embedded” clinic when treating mental health needs. Results The description of each site explains the similarities and differences of each clinic and how it impacts the pharmacists' approaches to delivery of care, research, service, and education. The sites described in this article offer three pharmacist-provided MTM service implementation approaches, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. Conclusion Future pharmacists' ability to observe the direct impact of MTM services helps to inspire the next generation of pharmacists to expand pharmacist-delivered patient care services.
Morphogical Characteristics of OB Spectra and Environments

Following a brief exposition of the morphological process, two examples of its application in contemporary astronomy are presented. The first comprises a major digital, blue-violet spectral classification program on Galactic O stars, that has already revealed three special categories or new members thereof: the Ofc class with C III lambda4650 emission comparable to N III lambda4640, the Of?p class of magnetic oblique rotators, and the ONn class of nitrogen-rich rapid rotators. All of these categories portend further understanding of massive stellar atmospheres and evolution. The second example concerns the structure of massive young clusters and nebulae as a function of age on timescales of the order of or less than 10 Myr, which has provided a new insight into the Antennae major-merger starburst.
From PGUE to G-SU to UFFC-S, 1953-1997 a historical perspective

The need for a distinct forum for ultrasonic engineering technology prompted a group of concerned engineers and scientists to petition the Institute of Radio Engineers (IRE) for the formation of the Professional Group on Ultrasonic Engineering (PGUE) in 1953. Within the first year the newly formed group grew in membership to several hundred, sponsored technical sessions at the National Electronic Conference, Acoustical Society Symposium, and IRE National Convention, and had published the first issue of the Transactions. The Group chose as its focus, ultrasonic measurements, communications, and processing, with emphasis on applications, devices, techniques, and associated circuitry. In 1963 the membership voted to change the name to the Professional and Technical Group on Sonics and Ultrasonics. In 1985 we became the IEEE Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control (UFFC) Society to reflect the expanded interests of the Society. The UFFC Society sponsors the annual Ultrasonics Symposium, the biennial International Symposium on Applications of Ferroelectrics and the annual International Frequency Control Symposium. In the past 45 years our Society has grown and flourished as a top technical IEEE society through its symposia, publications, member sponsorship and awards, and its cooperative activities with other technical societies. We presently have 2200 members in 68 countries. The society has remained strong through the foresight and wisdom of its outstanding volunteer leadership and the strong support of its members.
Information diffusion in international markets

Globalization has been a persistent phenomenon of the post-war period. The gross volume of cross-border capital flows has grown at an average of 25 percent a year, and trade in goods and services has also increased, albeit not as dramatically, but at least twice as fast as world GDP over the past 20 years. Yet, consumers and investors continue to spend and hold a disproportionate share of their assets in local markets-the so-called home-bias has been emphasized by many recent empirical studies. For many researchers, this home bias reflects information asymmetries and the fact that acquiring information across international borders is relatively costly. The main objective of the authors is to identify channels through which information gets disseminated across international markets. They consider three potential channels through which information can affect import and foreign equity purchase decisions in 14 OECD countries. The first channel consists of information spillovers from the commercial to the financial markets and vice-versa. Financial investors and importers share common information, which is also frequently conveyed to them by the same source-banks or financial intermediaries. The second and third channels emphasize seller and buyer reputations in international markets. The seller reputation channel stresses the importance given by, for example, importers in the United States who are considering buying products from Italy to the experience that Canadian and Japanese importers may have accumulated on Italian exporters. The buyer reputation channel examines to what extent a foreign investor or trader seeks information on the reliability of the foreign buyer by assessing his reputation in other countries. While the last two channels are equally important in explaining bilateral import flows, buyer reputation appears to be of greater importance for equity flows in the sample. The authors argue that these three channels may help provide some insights about the recent episodes of contagion across markets and countries that occurred over the past decade. These information channels can create virtuous or vicious circles that may, in turn, lead to unexpected changes in investors' and traders' behaviors across markets.
Furling control for small wind turbine power regulation

In this paper, we analyze the steady-state performance and the impact on the power system of the dynamics of small wind turbines with power regulation based on furling control. Using an example of battery charging wind turbine system, we develop its model. In this model, we introduce damping as a component of the restraining moment. This is a novel concept that is not used in the current wind turbine designs. To investigate the merit of this concept, we perform a simulation study using the RPM-Sim simulator. The study shows that such damping improves the response but we should consider a trade-off between maximizing the wind power capture and minimizing the fatigue damage effects that result from the bang-bang operation. Then, we study the battery charging system with the peak power tracker (PPT). Finally, we present a simulation study of two utility-connected wind turbine systems with furling. We considered the operation of the system without and with the PPT. In the first case study, we use the gain of a DC/DC converter to implement the peak power tracking. In the second case study, we eliminate the DC/DC converter.
Efficient CFAR detection of line segments in a 2-D image

A computationally efficient algorithm is proposed for detecting line segments in an image of additive, i.i.d. (independent, identically distributed) Gaussian noise. Meteors, satellites, or other moving objects may be optically detected using the algorithm. A CFAR (Constant False Alarm Rate) characteristic is designed into the algorithm to give equal probabilities of false alarm for all streak lengths. Compared to the 2-D optimum matched filter approach, the algorithm loses 2 dB in signal-to-noise ratio, but requires hundreds of times less computation.
Low-crosstalk semiconductor optical amplifiers

Summary form only given. We have previously proposed that using a waveguide optical amplifier with an exponentially increased gain profile we can greatly reduce the crosstalk between different wavelength channels. In this work, we propose to use the selective-area-growth (SAG)-technique produced gain materials to implement such kind of exponentially increased gain material, which requires only a single electrode and with simple uniform current injection. The SAG type of material uses oxide masks on top of semiconductor wafers to obtain materials with different wavelengths in one single crystal growth. The proposed method can reduce the crosstalk effect, improve the SOA performance, and makes it compatible to the EDFA. We believe that it will make the SOA an attractive candidate for optical amplification and switching applications at the metro and access area. It can also help SOA to serve as a gain medium for future photonic integrations.
Rapid and convergent evolution in the glioblastoma multiforme genome.

Abstract Determining which mutations drive tumor progression is a defining question in cancer genomics. We analyzed sequence evolution in Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) by computing the number of parallel mutations and by estimating ω = dN / dS , a measure of the strength and direction of selection. The ω values of almost all 7617 mutated genes in GBM are much higher than in germline genes. We identified only 21 genes under significant positive selection in GBM, as well as 29 genes under significant purifying selection, including several zinc finger proteins. Therefore, most of the high ω values in the GBM genome are due to weaker purifying selection rather than positive selection. We also found multiple recurrent mutations in GBM, several of which are associated with patient survival time. Our results suggest that convergence and neutral evolution play a significant role in GBM, and that sites with recurrent mutations can serve as molecular diagnostics of the clinical course of GBM tumors.
Intestinal Warfare: The Role of Short‐Chain Fructooligosaccharides in Health and Disease

Short-chain fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are a long-studied functional food made up of a glucose molecule linked to between 2 and 4 fructose molecules and not significantly digested in the small intestine. Short-chain FOS provide an energy source that is relatively specific for beneficial bacteria in the large intestine, with even small amounts leading to dramatic increases in bifidobacteria, which have a variety of health benefits in and of themselves. In addition, a predicable fall in pathogenic bacteria, such as clostridia, occurs as bifidobacteria increase. This has implications for several disorders, ranging from liver disease to antibiotic-associated diarrhea to colon cancer. Short-chain FOS are metabolized to short-chain fatty acids, lowering pH in the colon. This facilitates calcium absorption, which may be beneficial for individuals with renal and liver disease, and has implications for colon cancer protection as well. Short-chain fatty acids are the preferred substrate for colonic epithelial cells, which are potentially beneficial for those with ulcerative colitis risk. Other effects of short-chain FOS include an effect on cholesterol metabolism through interference with enterohepatic circulation of cholesterol. Short-chain FOS allow for a favorable shift in the balance of healthful vs harmful organisms, lowering colonic pH while providing an energy source for the gut, with significant implications for disease prevention.
WebRogue: virtual presence in web sites

WebRogue is an application for virtual presence over the Web. It provides the Web Browser with a chat subwindow that allows users connected to the same Web site to meet, share opinions and cooperate in a totally free, non moderated and uncensored environment. Each time the user loads a Web page in the Web Browser, WebRogue opens a discussion channel in a centralized server application, that is completely decoupled from the Web server, using the URL of the Web site as a key. Thus whenever a new page is loaded the user can see who is connected, as if entering a physical site. Interactivity is supported by means of two type of commands: comunication commands allow synchronous interaction as with chat or instant messaging software; Social commands allow cooperation: group surfing, exchange of visit-cards and wait in line.
Pattern in craniofacial biology: Evidence from the old world monkeys (Cercopithecidae)

An understanding of craniofacial growth, both evolutionarily and clinically, requires an investigation of pattern —geometric relations that remain relatively constant among growing structures or components of the skull. Several craniofacial biologists have suggested that specific morphological relations remain invariant during growth and in interspecific comparisons of adults of varying size. We tested the hypothesized invariance of a series of craniofacial angles in a sample of adult Old World monkeys. Fifteen angles were determined from lateral cranial radiographs. Criteria for examining angular invariance included tests for significant correlations and regression slopes with palatal length (overall skull size), tests for significant mean differences (ANOVAs) in angular values between the two subfamilies of Cercopithecidae — Cercopithecinae and Colobinae — and the computation and ranking of standard deviations (SDs) and coefficients of variation (CVs). Results indicate that most of the cranial angles purported to be invariant do not in fact meet the criteria for acceptance. One of the few cranial angles that evinces a somewhat constant value is that between the posterior maxillary plane and the neutral axis of the orbits, providing very limited support for Enlow’s (1982) claim that this region represents a fundamental anatomical interface (at least within Old World monkeys). Our analysis suggests that while there may be several relatively invariant structural relations within the skull, most of those previously discussed as representing evidence of pattern in primate-wide or mammal-wide comparisons are incorrect.
The Dimensions of the Aorto‐Ilio‐Femoral Arterial Segment

A comparative study was made of the mean diameters of the abdominal aorta and the common iliac, external iliac and common femoral arteries. The diameter of the external iliac or common femoral arteries when compared with that of the infrarenal abdominal aorta was found to be half, while the diameter of the common iliac artery was considerably larger than half that of the aorta.
Genetic Analysis of Macromolecular Transport across the Nuclear Envelope

Abstract Numerous factors that promote movement of macromolecules in and out of the nucleus have now been identified. These include both soluble cytoplasmic and nucleoplasmic proteins and proteins of the nuclear pore complex (NPC). Genetic analyses of the nuclear transport process in the model organism, the budding yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiae,have revealed remarkable conservation of all of these factors. In addition, important clues as to how these factors promote the unique bidirectional movement across the NPC have emerged from studies of yeast. We summarize the characterization and genetic interactions of the soluble transport factors and present data to illustrate how genetic experiments can be used to further define the import and export pathways.
Contribution of Serum Inflammatory Markers to Changes in Bone Mineral Content and Density in Postmenopausal Women: A 1-Year Investigation

Bone formation and resorption are influenced by inflammatory processes. We examined the relationships among inflammatory markers and bone mineral content (BMC) and density (BMD) and determined the contribution of inflammatory markers to 1-yr changes in BMC and BMD in healthy postmenopausal women. This analysis included 242 women at baseline from our parent Soy Isoflavones for Reducing Bone Loss project who were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups: placebo, 80 mg/d soy isoflavones, or 120 mg/d soy isoflavones. BMD and BMC from the lumbar spine (LS), total proximal femur (hip), and whole body were measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and the 4% distal tibia by peripheral quantitative computed tomography. Serum inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, interleukin [IL]-1 beta, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-alpha], and white blood cell count [WBC]) were measured at baseline, 6, and 12 mo. Because of attrition or missing values, data analysis at 12 mo includes only 235 women. Significant associations among IL-6, TNF-alpha, and WBC were observed with percent change in LS, hip, and whole body BMC and BMD. Multiple regression analysis indicated that in combination inflammatory markers accounted for 1.1-6.1% of the variance to the observed 12-mo changes in BMC and BMD. Our results suggest that modifying inflammatory markers, even in healthy postmenopausal women, may possibly reduce bone loss.
Structural response of 120-scale models of the CRBR to a simulated HCDA

Abstract The structural integrity of scale models of the Clinch River Breeder Reactor (CRBR) vessel and head under a simulated hypothetical core disruptive accident (661 MWs) is evaluated experimentally. Tests of three 1 20 - scale models of the CRBR, each of increasing complexity, showed the effects of the upper internals structure (UIS), a thermal liner, and other structural details on vessel and head response. A fourth model, identical to the most complex model but with more instrumentation, demonstrated experimental reproducibility. Ni 200 simulated 304 SS, the material used to fabricate the full-scale vessel wall, core barrel, and core support platform; water simulated liquid sodium; and the detonation products of a low-density explosive simulated the HCDA core loads. Loading pressures, strains, and accelerations were measured.
Convection versus conduction cooling for induction of mild hypothermia during neurovascular procedures in adults

Hypothermia for cerebral protection is usually achieved by administration of intravenous fluids at room temperature, cooling ambient air, ice packs, and a temperature-adjustable circulating water mattress. We compared cooling by conduction by using a water mattress to cool by convection by using a forced-air cooling device. Twenty patients were prospectively randomized to two groups: 10 patients cooled by convection (CC) and 10 patients cooled by traditional methods (TC). Two patients in the CC group were withdrawn from the study and excluded from the analysis; one patient for failure to cool despite the use of both techniques, and the other for the abrupt onset of arrhythmias and myocardial depression during hypothermia. Temperature was measured at the tympanic membrane, pulmonary artery, and esophageal probe sites and recorded every 15 min. The time required to reach the target temperature range of 33-34 degrees C was recorded. We found no differences in the temperatures measured at the three sites during cooling and rewarming. Baseline temperatures recorded from the pulmonary artery catheter before beginning "active cooling" were similar in both groups (TC, 35.0 +/- 0.2 degrees C vs. CC, 35.3 +/- 0.1 degrees C). We found no difference in the time to target temperature between TC and CC (TC, 178 +/- 25 min vs. CC, 142 +/- 21 min). One patient had some arrhythmias on cooling in the convective group, but her preoperative condition may have been responsible. In conclusion, cooling by convection appears to be a safe alternative to conduction cooling.
THE VISCERAL LESIONS PRODUCED IN MICE BY THE SALIVARY GLAND VIRUS OF MICE

Extensive visceral lesions containing intranuclear inclusions have been produced in mice by intraperitoneal and intracerebral inoculations of the homologous salivary gland virus. Rarely small pancreatic lesions containing inclusions have been encountered 2 weeks after subcutaneous inoculation. Many of the animals injected intraperitoneally died between the 4th and 7th day after inoculation. In spite of the extensive lesions produced in the liver and spleen, the virus could not be transferred with an emulsion of these organs.
Brucite in Carbonate Secreted by the Red Alga Goniolithon sp.

X-ray diffraction studies, chemical analyses, infrared-absorption studies, and nuclear-magnetic-resonance spectrum analysis demonstrate the existence of the mineral brucite, Mg(OH) 2 , in the skeletal carbonate secreted by the red marine alga Goniolithon sp. Electron microprobe examination of the carbonate shows that the brucite is concentrated in certain areas of the skeletal structure. These results explain the anomalously high solubility and large cell size of the Goniolithon "carbonate" observed by earlier investigators.
Time-resolved infrared studies of molecular diffusion in myoglobin.

Transient infrared absorbance changes of photolyzed carbon monoxide are used to probe internal dynamics in myoglobin over the time range 50 ns to 10 \ensuremath{\mu}s and the temperature range 100 to 240 K. The infrared absorbance of the photolyzed carbon monoxide at temperatures above 170 K disappears long before the CO recombines with the iron, indicating that the carbon monoxide experiences substantial time-dependent heterogenous line broadening. We argue that this broadening occurs as the carbon monoxide diffuses a substantial distance from the heme iron binding site.
Human CD59 Incorporation into Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus Particles: Implications for the Use of Transgenic Pigs for Xenotransplantation

Transgenic pigs have been engineered to express human CD59 (hCD59) in order to suppress hyperacute rejection of xenotransplants in human recipients. In this study, porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) was produced in a porcine cell line expressing hCD59 in order to examine the effect of this complement control protein on PERV neutralization by human sera. hCD59 was found to be incorporated into PERV particles produced from engineered ST-IOWA cells. PERV incorporation of hCD59 resulted in a dramatic inhibition of complement-mediated virolysis by human serum. However, incorporation of hCD59 had no effect on neutralization of PERV by human serum, as measured in infectivity assays. Our results suggest that the use of organs from hCD59 transgenic pigs will inhibit complement-mediated virolysis, but will not compromise the protective effects of human sera on the neutralization of PERV particles.
Inhibition of hexokinase by multisubstrate analogs.

The compounds P1-(adenosine-5′)-P3-(glucose-6) triphosphate (Ap3 glucose) and P1-(adenosine-5′)-P4-(glucose-6)tetraphosphate (Ap4 glucose) were synthesized as possible transition-state analogs for hexokinase (ATP: d-hexose 6-phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.1). Both compounds were inhibitors of this enzyme, competitive against ATP and apparently uncompetitive against glucose. The inhibition constants for Ap3 glucose and Ap4 glucose were 0.43 mM and 0.37 mM, respectively. These results indicate that the inhibitors do not appreciably bind to hexokinase until the glucose binding site is filled. The sugar portion of the inhibitors therefore does not contribute to binding, and the compounds are acting as ATP analogs. Ap3 glucose and Ap4 glucose are also slow substrates for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase.
Local and Systemic Therapies for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a challenging disease to treat with median overall survival times ranging between 9-17 months for all stages of disease. Recent clinical trials have improved our understanding of the biology of MPM. However, survival results are still not ideal. For early-stage MPM, patients should be evaluated for trimodality therapy in an experienced cancer center. If treating off-protocol, MPM patients should receive a surgical staging evaluation. The decision to proceed with surgical resection also should be considered after an extensive and thorough pulmonary and cardiac evaluation. If deemed a good surgical candidate, patients should receive surgical resection (pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy), adjuvant radiation therapy (hemithoracic external beam or intensity modulated radiation therapy), and either neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy (cisplatin-pemetrexed for 4 cycles). The optimal precise sequence of the trimodality is unclear and should be decided upon by a multidisciplinary consensus for each individual patient. In general, clinical trial participation should be encouraged. Several trials are currently underway to examine intraoperative therapies, vaccines, immunotherapy additions, and novel radiation therapy techniques. Advances in the field of MPM are reliant on participation in clinical trials and identifying biomarkers that are predictive for response to systemic therapies and prognostic for survival benefit.
New strategies for complete game trees

Game playing has a long and rich history in computer science and more particularly artificial intelligence. It has served as both a source of problems for and as applications of AI techniques, see for example [2, p.113]. There have been many papers published on various heuristics, evaluation functions and search strategies for game playing.
A retrospective review of the neuropsychological test performance of physicians referred for medical infractions

Physician-related errors are rising, resulting in an increase in disciplinary actions by licensing medical authorities. It has been previously reported that cognitive impairment may be responsible for 63% of all physician-related medical adverse events. In this paper we examine neuropsychological testing results from 148 physicians referred for assessment by the California Medical Board (CMB) for various infractions. The neuropsychological test performance of the physicians was compared to normative reference samples. Overall, they performed in the average range on most measures; however, they demonstrated relative deficits on tests of sequential processing, attention, logical analysis, eye-hand coordination, verbal and non-verbal learning. These findings reveal that this cohort of physicians is performing lower than expected on tests of intellectual and neuropsychological functioning. Applying a neuropsychological framework to the assessment of physicians may uncover potential cognitive factors that contribute to medical practice errors.
Use of machine learning algorithms to classify binary protein sequences as highly-designable or poorly-designable

By using a standard Support Vector Machine (SVM) with a Sequential Minimal Optimization (SMO) method of training, Naive Bayes and other machine learning algorithms we are able to distinguish between two classes of protein sequences: those folding to highly-designable conformations, or those folding to poorly- or non-designable conformations. First, we generate all possible compact lattice conformations for the specified shape (a hexagon or a triangle) on the 2D triangular lattice. Then we generate all possible binary hydrophobic/polar (H/P) sequences and by using a specified energy function, thread them through all of these compact conformations. If for a given sequence the lowest energy is obtained for a particular lattice conformation we assume that this sequence folds to that conformation. Highly-designable conformations have many H/P sequences folding to them, while poorly-designable conformations have few or no H/P sequences. We classify sequences as folding to either highly – or poorly-designable conformations. We have randomly selected subsets of the sequences belonging to highly-designable and poorly-designable conformations and used them to train several different standard machine learning algorithms. By using these machine learning algorithms with ten-fold cross-validation we are able to classify the two classes of sequences with high accuracy – in some cases exceeding 95%.
A Directional MAC Protocol for Ad Hoc Networks

Using directional antennas in wireless ad hoc networks can greatly improve the spatial reuse and the transmission range. However, it will cause the deafness problem, which greatly impairs the network performance. This paper proposes a new MAC protocol SDMAC (Selectively Directional MAC) that can effectively address the deafness problem and significantly improve the network throughput. Simulation results show that our protocol can achieve a better performance than the existing MAC protocols using directional antennas.
Radiant Heat for Energy Conservation

It is proposed that human comfort could be provided in otherwise chilly surroundings by filling the occupied space with electromagnetic energy of centimeter wavelength. Very considerable reductions in the consumption of energy required for the heating of buildings should result from the lowering of interior temperatures thereby permitted.
Propagation of elastic waves in limestone

This report covers a continuation of the seismological investigations of quarry-blasting reported a year ago (Ewing, Crary, and Lohse, Trans. Amer. Geophys. Union, 15th annual meeting, pp. 91–94, 1934) together with a series of short profiles taken from minor explosions in an abandoned, water-filled limestone-quarry. The map in Figure 1 shows the part of eastern Pennsylvania in which the work was done. The geological formations indicated were copied from the geological map published by the Pennsylvania Department of Internal Affairs. The instruments used and the general procedure followed were the same as those described in the previous paper (see above reference). The principal results obtained consist of data upon the velocity of elastic waves in the materials of the region, and upon the geological structure of the region.
CO Hydrogenation on PdCo/NaY Catalysts: Effect of Ion Hydration on Metal Phases and Selectivity

Abstract Exposure of calcined PdCo/NaY catalyst precursors to water vapor, prior to reduction, strongly affects the CO hydrogenation activity and selectivity of the reduced bimetal catalysts. With samples that had been exposed to H2O before reduction, the formation of hydrocarbons prevails; nonhydrated reference samples of the same overall composition are mainly selective for oxygenates. After 6 h of reaction time PdCo alloy particles of 5.8 nm are detected by XRD in H2O-exposed catalysts, but in the reference samples the metal particles are below the limit of detection by XRD. The observed effects are attributed to the formation of mobile aequo-complexes of metal ions; after reduction they are converted to larger alloy particles, richer on Co, than in the reference samples. Results obtained with NaOH-neutralized and Co-free Pd/NaY catalysts are also discussed.
Breast and cervical cancer screening among Korean American elderly women.

The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence and correlates of breast and cervical cancer screening tests among Korean American elderly women. This study examined the effects of individual socio-demographic background, acculturation level (e.g., proportion of life spent in the US, spoken English proficiency), health status and access to health care on uptake of mammography and Pap smear tests in the past 2 years. Subjects were 130 Korean American women aged 60 and older living in the Greater Metropolitan Baltimore Area. A cross-sectional face-to-face interview was conducted. The 2-year prevalence was only 35% for mammography and 29% for Pap smear tests. In multiple logistic regression analysis, educational attainment, government support, multiple chronic conditions, and routine checkups were associated with having mammography. Age, acculturation and insurance were associated with having a Pap test. Taking advantage of the positive influence of identified covariates may increase the effectiveness of cancer control interventions among Korean American elderly women.
The aging of a clinical information system

The senescence of a clinical information system is more likely to have administrative than technical bases. Supporting this claim is a case study of one aging oncology information system. The case study is qualitative, as behooves the subject matter. Content analysis of several documents suggests that the change in job description of the data coordinator led to a workflow breakdown. Next, twenty-two individuals were interviewed. Notes from the interviews were coded, and the resulting patterns led to • partial support for the workflow breakdown conjecture, • refutation of the hypothesis that users disliked the character-based, human-computer interface, • support of the conjecture that political rather than technical factors drive the usage patterns of the system, and • evidence that 'political' activity will determine the future of the information system.A stakeholder matrix is proposed that addresses administrative concerns. Also, the issue of the uniqueness of any oncology clinical information system is linked to the plans for this legacy system.
Investigation of fNIRS brain sensing as input to information filtering systems

Today's users interact with an increasing amount of information, demanding a similar increase in attention and cognition. To help cope with information overload, recommendation engines direct users' attention to content that is most relevant to them. We suggest that functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) brain measures can be used as an additional channel to information filtering systems. Using fNIRS, we acquire an implicit measure that correlates with user preference, thus avoiding the cognitive interruption that accompanies explicit preference ratings. We explore the use of fNIRS in information filtering systems by building and evaluating a brain-computer movie recommender. We find that our system recommends movies that are rated higher than in a control condition, improves recommendations with increased interaction with the system, and provides recommendations that are unique to each individual.