cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection and quantification of lipid membrane binding on silica micro-tube resonator sensor

Silica micro-tube resonator is a very attractive biosensor platform for label-free detection of bio-molecules by combining high sensitivity and simple fluidic handling. We report the study of lipid membrane binding on micro-tube sensor that is probed by a prism coupling technique. Prism coupling to the micro-tube resonance modes allows thick micro-tube to be used and the selectivity of high-sensitivity modes. We were able to identify and probe a special resonance mode that has very high Electrical field at the boundary of the fluid and the inner tube wall. Unlike typical WGM modes, such resonance modes also have very high Electrical field extending into the lower index fluid region, thereby providing exceptionally high sensitivity to the fluid's refractive index change. We used this type of resonance mode to detect the formation of single bilayer lipid membrane on the inner tube wall. With 4-5nm POPC lipid membrane with refractive index around 1.46 absorbed on the inner wall, we can observe the resonance peak shift around 44pm. Mie scattering simulation of the resonance peak shift due to the bio-film absorbed onto the inner wall agrees very well with the experiment results. We also observed resonance peak shift with the membrane protein Annexin V bonding to the lipid membrane. With the present Q factor 6×104 at 1.55μm wavelength, we estimate that our devices can detect the presence of 0.1nm thick absorbed film on the inner wall of the tube. The device's sensitivity can be greatly enhanced by switching the working wavelength from infrared wavelength to visible wavelength where water absorption is minimized.© (2008) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Factor Structure of the Arthritis-Related Health Belief Instrument in Ethnically Diverse Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Chronic Pain

Nonpharmacological treatment of chronic pain in older people can be effective but attitudes and adherence to use of this treatment may differ by ethnicity. This study supports that a modified 14-item instrument based on the modified Health Belief Model—the arthritis-related health belief instrument (AHBI)—can be used across ethnically diverse older adults (i.e., European Americans, Hispanics, African Americans, and Afro-Caribbeans). Confirmatory factor analysis tested the factor structure of the AHBI to eliminate items inappropriate for this population. Structural equation modeling tested expected relationships among four latent variables—severity, susceptibility, barriers, and benefits—across the four ethnic groups. Findings suggest that the modified 14-item AHBI (eliminating two items from the original AHBI) adequately described the four latent factors pertaining to use of nonpharmacological pain therapy in this sample. All items registered substantial loadings (.41–.95) on the hypothesized factors, operating similarly across the four ethnic groups. The modified 14-item AHBI may be useful in (a) assessing how individual perceptions influence access to nonpharmacological pain therapy among ethnically diverse community-dwelling older adults, with the goal to develop and implement effective pain treatment for this population; and (b) measuring the likelihood of using nonpharmacological pain therapy by older adults. The modified 14-item AHBI can help health care providers to provide accurate pain assessment and examine domains that could affect use of nonpharmacological pain therapy by ethnically diverse older adults and guide practice with them by identifying barriers to use of such therapies and providing education to encourage their use.
Two interfacial shear strength calculations based on the single fiber composite test

The fragmentation of a single fiber embedded in a polymer matrix upon stretching (SFC test) provides valuable information on the fiber-matrix bond strength (τ), which determines stress transfer through the interface and, thus, significantly affects the mechanical properties of the composite material. However, the calculated bond strength appears to depend on data interpretation, i.e., on the applied theoretical model, since the direct result of the SFC test is the fiber fragment length distribution rather than the τ value. Two approaches are used in SFC testing for calculation of the bond strength: 1) the Kelly-Tyson model, in which the matrix is assumed to be totally elastic and 2) the Cox model using the elastic constants of the fiber and the matrix. In this paper, an attempt has been made to compare these two approaches employing theory as well as the experimental data of several authors. The dependence of the tensile stress in the fiber and the interfacial shear stress on various factors has been analyzed. For both models, the mean interfacial shear stress in the fragment of critical length (lc) was shown to satisfy the same formula (τ) = (σcD)/2lc, where D is the fiber diameter and σc is the tensile strength of a fiber at gauge length equal to lc. However, the critical lengths from the Kelly-Tyson approach and Cox model are differently related to the fragment length distribution parameters such as the mean fragment length. This discrepancy results in different (τ) values for the same experimental data set. While the main parameter in the Kelly-Tyson model assumed constant for a given fiber-matrix pair is the interfacial shear strength, the ultimate (local) bond strength τult may be seen as the corresponding parameter in the Cox model. Various τult values were obtained for carbon fiber-epoxy matrix systems by analyzing the data of continuously monitored single fiber composite tests. Whereas the mean value of the interfacial shear stress calculated in the Cox approach was comparable to the interfacial shear strength from the Kelly-Tyson model, its ultimate value characterizing the true adhesional bond strength appeared to be three or four times greater.
Aquaterra Incognita: Lost Land Beneath The Sea*

The author proposes scientific recognition of an existing, previously undefined and unnamed global feature. Aquaterra is suggested as the new name for the lands that were alternately exposed and in...
Potential of high‐density pheromone‐releasing microtraps for control of codling moth Cydia pomonella and obliquebanded leafroller Choristoneura rosaceana

Recent large-cage studies with codling moth Cydia pomonella (L.) reveal that the removal of moths from an apple orchard using pheromone-releasing traps is more effective at reducing capture in a central monitoring trap than is a mating disruption protocol without kill/capture. The present study uses open orchard 0.2-ha plots comparing a high-density trapping scenario with mating disruption to confirm those results. Two tortricid moth pests of tree fruit are studied: codling moth and obliquebanded leafroller Choristoneura rosaceana (Harris). Codling moth treatments include Isomate CM FLEX (ShinEtsu Ltd, Japan), nonsticky traps baited with Trece CM lures (Trece, Inc., Adair, Oklahoma), and sticky traps baited with Trece CM lures, all at equal application rates of 500 dispensers ha−1, as well as a no pheromone control. These microtraps are of a novel design, small and easy to apply, and potentially inexpensive to produce. Mating disruption using Isomate CM FLEX and nonsticky traps reduces codling moth capture in standard monitoring traps by 58% and 71%, respectively. The attract-and-remove treatment with sticky traps reduces capture by 92%. Obliquebanded leafroller treatments include Isomate OBLR/PLR Plus and Pherocon IIB microtraps baited with Trece OBLR lures, both applied at 500 dispensers ha−1, as well as a no pheromone control. Mating disruption reduces capture in monitoring traps by 69%. The attract-and-remove treatment reduces capture by 85%. Both studies suggest that an attract-and-remove approach has the potential to provide superior control of moth populations compared with that achieved by mating disruption operating by competitive attraction.
Translation of RNA from unfertilised sea urchin eggs does not require methylation and is inhibited by 7-methylguanosine-5'-monophosphate.

AT fertilisation, the rate of protein synthesis in the sea urchin embryo becomes several times greater than that observed in unfertilised eggs1–4. This increase does not require the synthesis of messenger RNA (mRNA), since it occurs both in the presence of actinomycin D (ref. 5) and in enucleated parthenogenetically activated egg fragments6. These observations led Spirin7 to postulate the existence of preformed “maternal” mRNA in the eggs. Recent experiments have directly demonstrated the presence of mRNA in sea urchin egg cytoplasm by isolating it from postribosomal cytoplasmic fraction and translating it in a heterologous cell-free system8.
SYNTHESIS AND CHIROPTICAL PROPERTIES OF SOME ASYMMETRIC PLANAR CISOID DIENES

Abstract The synthesis and CD spectra of (+)-5α-androsta-14,16-diene ( 2 ), (−)-bornol[2,3- b ]cyclopenta-1,3-diene ( 3 ), (+)-2,3-dimethylenebornane ( 4b ), (−)-borno[2,3- c ]-2,5-diphenylcyclopenta-2,4-dien-1-one ( 9a ), and related compounds are reported. A significant role is attributed to substituent chirality effects in these comparatively rigid, essentially planar cisoid conjugated diene systems.
Ectopic Epithelial Implants following Surface Ablation of the Cornea

PURPOSE. To determine the direct contribution of the epithelium to the generation of complications using a phototherapeutic keratectomy model. METHODS. A mouse model with a genetically labeled epithelium was used to determine whether any epithelium-derived cells persist in the stroma up to 1 month after surgery. Also, gross histology and macrophotography of excimer-ablated rabbit corneas were analyzed for evidence epithelial ingrowths into the stroma. RESULTS. Epithelium-derived cells were present in the wounded stroma 1 month after surgery. Micrographs taken during the first 4 days during healing evidenced epithelial invasion of the stroma in one and sometimes more locations in the same cornea. Gross histology also revealed that the epithelial invasions can result in complete delamination of stromal tissue and subsequent inclusion of the stromal material in the epithelium. The epithelial inclusions ultimately created a highly irregular corneal surface. CONCLUSIONS. Ectopic epithelia are a known complication of LASIK and LASIK-like procedures. The data presented here indicate that ectopic epithelia are also a complication of surface ablation techniques. The knowledge that these complications are present following surface ablations provides a new understanding of the biological response to surface ablation techniques and suggests new avenues of study to improve clinical outcomes of those for whom LASIK-based techniques are not an option. (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2012;53:7760‐7765) DOI:10.1167/iovs.12-10768
Standard method for measurement of bulk etch in CR-39

Abstract An accurate, consistent and convenient method for the measurement of the bulk etch is essential in the calibration of any track detector. It is an especially important parameter for CR-39 in particular, since the predominantly measured parameters are the track opening dimensions. Of several bulk etch techniques available, many groups use the method employing the measurement of track diameters of fission fragments. The limitations and difficulties of this system are discussed and the more accurate method of using the sample mass change is proposed, especially when more than about 15 μm of detector surface is removed.
Magnetic resonance imaging: Generating a new pulse in the physical therapy profession

The ability to refer for diagnostic tests is particularly relevant to the topic of this special issue on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). As a doctoring profession, one could argue that the ability to refer a patient for MRI (and other imaging applications) must be available to the direct-access physical therapist. Though the prescription for and use of MRI has not typically been considered within the scope of physical therapist practice, this may be the perfect time to challenge the obstacles precluding the obtainment of such diagnostic privileges and to specifically provide perspective on why and how such a specialized privilege could positively impact the provision of physical therapy services and patient outcomes. An expected obligation of such autonomy, however, is accountability. Is our entire profession adequately prepared to accept the role of, or the responsibilities associated with, referral for imaging privileges? J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2011;41(11):803–805. doi:10.2519/jospt.2011.0109
Are low-cost carrier passengers less likely to complain about service quality?

Abstract Complaints made by airline passengers to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) are often used in academic research and in the media as a proxy for the quality of commercial air service in the United States. In this paper, we test whether passengers of network carriers are more likely to make a complaint to the DOT about service quality failures than passengers of low-cost carriers. Through a fixed-effects regression, we find that passengers of low-cost carriers like Southwest Airlines are less likely to complain about service quality than passengers of network carriers like United Airlines, given the same levels of service quality and controlling for yearly fixed effects. This behavior could be explained by price-based expectations of service quality, lack of information about how to complain to the DOT, or qualitative differences in front-line customer service between airlines.
An ordinal analysis of admissible set theory using recursion on ordinal notations

The notion of a function from ℕ to ℕ defined by recursion on ordinal notations is fundamental in proof theory. Here this notion is generalized to functions on the universe of sets, using notations for well orderings longer than the class of ordinals. The generalization is used to bound the rate of growth of any function on the universe of sets that is Σ1-definable in Kripke–Platek admissible set theory with an axiom of infinity. Formalizing the argument provides an ordinal analysis.
Erratum to: Special Scientific Session of the International Skeletal Society, San Diego, California, September 2011

Erratum to: Skeletal Radiol (2011) 40:1121–1126 DOI Please note that the underlined author names below were unfortunately published with errors in two of the abstracts from the Special Scientific Session of the International Skeletal Society, California, September 2011. In addition, the award winner paper of the European Society of Skeletal Radiology 2011 is enclosed below as it was received following submission of the abstracts for publication.
Central safety factor and β N control on NSTX-U via beam power and plasma boundary shape modification, using TRANSP for closed loop simulations

The high-performance operational goals of NSTX-U will require development of advanced feedback control algorithms, including control of βN and the safety factor profile. In this work, a novel approach to simultaneously controlling βN and the value of the safety factor on the magnetic axis, q0, through manipulation of the plasma boundary shape and total beam power, is proposed. Simulations of the proposed scheme show promising results and motivate future experimental implementation and eventual integration into a more complex current profile control scheme planned to include actuation of individual beam powers, density, and loop voltage. As part of this work, a flexible framework for closed loop simulations within the high-fidelity code TRANSP was developed. The framework, used here to identify control-design-oriented models and to tune and test the proposed controller, exploits many of the predictive capabilities of TRANSP and provides a means for performing control calculations based on user-supplied data (controller matrices, target waveforms, etc). The flexible framework should enable high-fidelity testing of a variety of control algorithms, thereby reducing the amount of expensive experimental time needed to implement new control algorithms on NSTX-U and other devices.
Revisiting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program cycle of food intake: Investigating heterogeneity, diet quality, and a large boost in benefit amounts

The monthly cycle of daily food intake among adult participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is examined using data from the 2007–10 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Exogenous variation in interview and benefit receipt dates provides means for identification, and a difference-in-differences specification is used to account for the large boost in benefits that began in April 2009 via the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Caloric intake declined as much as 25% at the end of the month prior to ARRA, but not after implementation. Few differences were observed for diet quality measures or among subgroups. Increases in SNAP benefit amounts may help smooth food intake over the benefit month.
Embedded Librarian Within an Online Health Informatics Graduate Research Course: A Case Study

The Health Sciences Library and the Department of Health Informatics & Information Management at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis piloted an embedded librarian project in summer 2012. The value and effectiveness of the pilot project was evaluated by analyzing the content of e-mail questions received from the students and the students’ answers to the pre- and post-class surveys. The project received positive feedback from the students and course faculty. Librarians collaborating with teaching faculty and interacting one-on-one with students in health information-intensive courses proved to be helpful for student learning.
Geographical Disparities of Lung Cancer Mortality Centered on Central Appalachia

This article explores regional disparities in lung cancer mortality for females and males and associated factors across central Appalachia and surrounding regions. It asks, how are lung cancer mortality rates distributed geographically, what are the relative contributions of specific factors to lung cancer disparities by sex, and how do the effects of these factors vary across the study area? This study is based on county-level data of potential determinants of disease to explore local effects on lung cancer mortality. It analyzes these data using a combination of spatial statistical analyses. The analysis shows that the spatial clustering of high lung cancer mortality rates differs for females and males. Additionally, the factors associated with lung cancer for females and males differ greatly. For instance, tobacco use is associated with male lung cancer mortality, but not with female lung cancer mortality. These factors also vary in their geographical relationships with female and male lung cancer mortality.
Optimization of CubeSat System-Level Design and Propulsion Systems for Earth-Escape Missions

Small spacecraft can now perform trajectory maneuvers resulting in significant orbit changes that were once only feasible with larger spacecraft due to the development of miniaturized propulsion technology. This paper addresses the feasibility of using CubeSat Ambipolar Thruster, a large ΔV miniaturized propulsion system for constellation control, Earth escape, and planetary flybys, to enable Earth-escape maneuvers on a CubeSat form factor. Operational and trajectory variables include the power setting during thrust maneuvers, when to thrust, and the attitude control inputs. The dynamic energy available through the maneuvers, which is constrained by the power available from the sun depending on the orbit and is consumed in propulsion, is modeled as well as attitude control maneuvers and realistic battery degradation. To explore the design space of this capability, the sensitivity of solutions to spacecraft mass, fuel quantity, initial orbit, solar power collection, and battery size is demonstrated. Optima...
Revealing Clues from Textile Particulate through Microscopy, Infrared Spectroscopy, and X-ray Microanalysis

AbstractTextiles found in prehistoric sites in eastern North America often are brittle fragments. Many appear brown or black in color due to degradation and staining; most display no evidence of color or pattern. These degraded fragments readily shed particulate matter. Although typically discarded, study of the particulate provides a wealth of information. Based on work with comparative materials, optical microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray microanalysis have been shown to be useful in classifying fibers, providing evidence for dye and pigment coloration, characterizing the type of degradation incurred, and providing evidence for mineralization. From the study of textile particulate, inferences can be made concerning plant and animal use for fiber production; technology of fiber-processing and coloration; characteristics of the burial context; resource use and exchange; time and effort costs in collecting and processing raw materials; and the potential social structure of the community in which ...
Exploring Neighborhood Effects on Health and Life Satisfaction: Disentangling Neighborhood Racial Density and Neighborhood Income

This study examines the independent and synergistic influences of neighborhood racial density and neighborhood income on several indicators of health status and life satisfaction in a sample of 311 adult African Americans living in New York City. This is made possible by the two-stage sampling procedure that was used in the collection of the data, ensuring that respondents’ neighborhoods vary on both racial density and income. Findings from a series of OLS regression models that adjust standard errors to account for the non-independence of observations demonstrate that neighborhood income moderates the relationship between racial density and health and life satisfaction. When neighborhood income is low, high neighborhood racial density is detrimental for health and life satisfaction. However, when neighborhood income is high, neighborhood racial density is protective for health and life satisfaction. These results indicate that the role of neighborhood income needs to be considered when examining the relationship between neighborhood racial density, health, and life satisfaction. Moreover, these findings may provide insight for understanding the past conflicting results.
Approximation of point controls of second-order evolution equations of Sobolev type☆

Abstract Limit behavior of the optimal-point control associated with a Sobolev equation as inertial or viscous effect is allowed to vanish is studied. These results are also related to the approximation of a wave equation.
Nuclear Data Sheets for A = 224*

Abstract Nuclear structure information for all nuclei with mass number A = 224 is summarized. Evaluated data and the adopted levels and spin and parity assignments are given. Data for 224 Rn and 224 Fr β -decays and 224 Fr decay schemes are from unpublished work by V. P. Afanasev, et al. (1973) , and should be considered preliminary. 224 Ac e -decay data and decay scheme are from unpublished work by M. W. Hill (1958) , who used Nal crystal to detect photons. A complete, more reliable decay work would be desirable, and would be useful to determine the 224 Ac ground-state spin. α -parents are shown on the drawings above their daughters. α -decay data are given as much as possible on the drawings. Unless otherwise indicated, γ -transitions (photon+ce) intensities are shown. For data with uncertainties and references, see A = 228 compilation in this issue. Neutron- and proton-separation energies, and Q-values for decays shown on the drawings have been taken from 1974 mass adjustment by A. H. Wapstra, K. Bos, ad N. B. Gove.
Beidler's taste equation: A correction

Beidler derived an equation relating the magnitude of neural response to a gustatory stimulus with the concentration of that stimulus. In the derivation, he assumed the amount of stimulating substance removed from the solution by the receptors was small enough not to change the stimulus concentration appreciably. An equation without this assumption is derived, and is evaluated in the light of existing data. The hypothesis for a dissociation reaction in taste inception under some circumstances is given support.
Protection of Human Islets from the Effects of Interleukin-1β by Adenoviral Gene Transfer of an IκB Repressor

Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that inhibits beta cell function and promotes Fas-triggered apoptosis. IL-1beta is thought to act early in the initiation of the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells in type I diabetes. IL-1beta promotes beta cell impairment, in part, by activating NF-kappaB transcription factor-dependent signaling pathways. We have examined whether beta cells could be protected from the effects of IL-1beta by overexpressing an inhibitor of NF-kappaB activity, IkappaB, by adenoviral gene transfer to intact human islets in culture. Infection of islets with an adenoviral vector encoding a non-phosphorylatable, non-degradable variant of IkappaBalpha resulted in normal insulin responses to glucose in the presence of IL-1beta. Furthermore, nitric oxide production was prevented and, more importantly, Fas-triggered apoptosis was inhibited following IkappaBalpha gene transfer. These results suggest that blocking the NF-kappaB pathway might prevent cytokine-induced beta cell impairment as a means of facilitating islet transplantation.
Effects of diltiazem, metoprolol, enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide on frequency of ventricular premature complexes

Ventricular arrhythmias occur frequently in patients with hypertensive left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and have been associated with increased incidence of sudden death. In this study, the effect of various antihypertensive medications on ventricular arrhythmias was evaluated in 31 hypertensive patients with moderate to severe LV hypertrophy. Patients were assessed at baseline (after 3 weeks of placebo treatment) and after treatment with each of 4 monotherapies: diltiazem 120 or 240 mg/day, metoprolol 100 or 200 mg/day, enalapril 10 or 20 mg/day and hydrochlorothiazide 50 or 100 mg/day. Each drug therapy was administered for 4 weeks. The sequence of each treatment was determined at random. Echocardiographic measurements and electrocardiograms were obtained only at baseline. Biochemical measurements and 48-hour Holter monitoring were obtained at baseline and at the end of each treatment. All treatments resulted in a significant but similar decrease in blood pressure. In the group as a whole diltiazem decreased ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) by 65% (p or = 5 VPCs/hour at baseline, diltiazem and metoprolol decreased VPCs by 66% (p < 0.05). It is concluded that in hypertensive patients with moderate to severe LV hypertrophy, both diltiazem and metoprolol significantly reduce VPCs.
Histopathology of Pinus taeda needles infected by Ploioderma lethale

L'histopathologie de la relation hote-parasite chez des aiguilles de Pinus taeda infectees par l'ascomycete Ploioderma lethale et la morphologie des fructifications du parasite ont ete etudiees. Les stromas amphigenes et elliptiques du teleomorphe et de l'anamorphe ne se developpaient que dans les portions mortes des aiguilles infectees. La position des stromas des deux morphes etait subepidermique, et les stromas etaient recouverts par un clypeus noir brillant a terne. Les stromas du teleomorphe etaient frequemment coalescents. Les tissus anormaux de l'hote etaient d'abord confines a l'exterieur de l'endoderme dans les portions d'aiguilles qui presentaient des symptomes, et un effondrement du mesophylle se manifestait. Un net retrecissement etait observe a la limite entre les tissus verts et les tissus morts. Des hyphes inter- et intracellulaires colonisaient les zones du mesophylle aux cellules effondrees, les tissus de l'endoderme, de transfusion et vasculaires, ainsi que les canaux resiniferes. Des hyphes intercellulaires et une interface etaient presentes dans les cellules vivantes du mesophylle vert qui sous-tendaient la portion morte terminale des aiguilles infectees.
Nonlinear model order reduction based on local reduced-order bases

SUMMARY A new approach for the dimensional reduction via projection of nonlinear computational models based on the concept of local reduced-order bases is presented. It is particularly suited for problems characterized by different physical regimes, parameter variations, or moving features such as discontinuities and fronts. Instead of approximating the solution of interest in a fixed lower-dimensional subspace of global basis vectors, the proposed model order reduction method approximates this solution in a lower-dimensional subspace generated by most appropriate local basis vectors. To this effect, the solution space is partitioned into subregions, and a local reduced-order basis is constructed and assigned to each subregion offline. During the incremental solution online of the reduced problem, a local basis is chosen according to the subregion of the solution space where the current high-dimensional solution lies. This is achievable in real time because the computational complexity of the selection algorithm scales with the dimension of the lower-dimensional solution space. Because it is also applicable to the process of hyper reduction, the proposed method for nonlinear model order reduction is computationally efficient. Its potential for achieving large speedups while maintaining good accuracy is demonstrated for two nonlinear computational fluid and fluid-structure-electric interaction problems. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A quality improvement intervention to reduce indwelling tunneled pleural catheter infection rates

Rationale: The indwelling tunneled pleural catheter has altered the management of patients with dyspnea related to malignant pleural effusions. However, indwelling tunneled pleural catheter placement does not remain free from risk. The most commonly reported risk is infection.Objectives: The aim of this paper is to describe our continuous quality improvement program for infection rate recognition, the process changes implemented for improvement, and subsequent outcomes.Methods: All patients undergoing indwelling tunneled pleural catheter placement at The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions between May 2009 and April 2014 were identified. The primary outcome was the incidence of infection within the preintervention and intervention cohorts. Intervention was identified as use of preoperative antibiotics, full sterile draping, and limiting placement to a single defined location.Measurements and Main Results: A total of 225 indwelling tunneled pleural catheter placements were performed in 201 patients during t...
Two-Phase Modeling and Flooding Prediction of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells

A newly developed theory of liquid water transport in hydrophobic gas diffusion layers is applied to simulate flooding in polymer electrolyte fuel cells ~PEFCs! and its effects on performance. The numerical model accounts for simultaneous two-phase flow and transport of species and electrochemical kinetics, utilizing the well-established multiphase mixture formulation to efficiently model the two-phase transport processes. The two-phase model is developed in a single domain, yielding a single set of governing equations valid in all components of a PEFC. The model is used to explore the two-phase flow physics in the cathode gas diffusion layer. Multidimensional simulations reveal that flooding of the porous cathode reduces the rate of oxygen transport to the cathode catalyst layer and causes a substantial increase in cathode polarization. Furthermore, the humidification level and flow rate of reactant streams are key parameters controlling PEFC performance and two-phase flow and transport characteristics. It is also found that minimization of performance limitations such as membrane dry-out and electrode flooding depends not only on material characteristics but also on the optimization of these operating parameters.
ANALYSIS OF A SIMULATION MODEL OF NORTHERN CORN ROOTWORM, DIABROTICA BARBERI SMITH AND LAWRENCE (COLEOPTERA: CHRYSOMELIDAE), DYNAMICS IN FIELD CORN, WITH IMPLICATIONS FOR POPULATION MANAGEMENT

Analyses were performed on a simulation model describing the population dynamics of adult Diabrotica barberi Smith and Lawrence in field corn. Overall goals were to gain a better understanding of the dynamics of this insect/plant system and explore possibilities for improved population management. Parametric sensitivity analyses revealed that model behavior was moderately sensitive to changes in the timing of female emergence, rates of immature female dispersal at peak flower, fecundity, and rates of reproductive development. Model behavior was highly sensitive to changes in age-specific oviposition rates, and to factors determining the seasonal timing and duration of the flowering period of corn. Alteration of planting dates, variations in seasonal temperature patterns, and year-to-year variation in beetle dispersal patterns greatly affected the simulated relationship between adult abundance, oviposition, and crop phenology, and the synchronization of beetle populations with flowering corn. Factorial analyses indicated that manipulation of planting dates, variety, and the duration of the flowering period represent equivalent alternatives for reducing site-specific oviposition. Factorial analyses further suggested that the timing of emergence and dispersal, relative to flowering, are the major factors contributing to the presence of beetles during the flowering period, but their relative contributions depend on the seasonal time of flowering. The timing of emergence is more important in early-flowering fields but dispersal becomes more important for fields flowering later in the season. Simulation was used to examine the relationship between adult abundance, oviposition, and crop phenology and to formalize hypothetical improvements in current action thresholds for making recommendations for corn rootworm control based on adult sampling. Overall, analyses have allowed important insights into the behavior of this insect/plant system.
Effect of diuretic therapy on hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) has been identified as a major independent risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity in patients with essential hypertension. It is also established that antihypertensive drug therapy is associated with regression of LVH in many patients. However, it is unclear whether all antihypertensive agents are equally effective in regressing LVH and whether this process is drug-specific or primarily related to blood pressure control. There is no universal agreement on the influence of diuretics on LVH in hypertension. Several major trials have shown consistent reversal of electrocardiographic manifestations of LVH during diuretic-based therapy. The results of studies employing echocardiographic measurements have been more variable; however, most echocardiographic studies have been flawed by lack of controls or blinding, short duration of follow-up, small sample size, inclusion of patients without LVH, and lack of consideration of previous or concomitant therapy. This review provides a critical examination of the available data on both sides of the question.
Virtual reality simulation of regional anesthesia for training of residents

For patients with intractable pain, successful management can increase their quality of life. In the case of unlocalized abdominal pain resulting from non-resectable abdominal cancer; the administration of an anesthetic agent to the celiac plexus is often prescribed by physicians. The celiac plexus block is regarded as an effective, and safe procedure in the hands of a skilled clinician, with a relatively low rate of complications. However, sensitive surrounding structures and the lack of suitable "hands-on" experience present obstacles to successful training of the procedure. Moreover radiological guidance is often used by less confident, inexperienced physicians, increasing procedure time and exposing the patient to ionizing radiation. In conjunction with Mayo's Pain Clinic and Department of Anesthesiology, the Mayo Biomedical Imaging Resource has developed a virtual reality anesthesiology training simulation designed to provide effective visualization and natural haptic feedback. Visualization of the anatomy involved in the celiac plexus block is a crucial aspect in training for proper performance of the block. Actual experience performing the block is also a primary factor related to safety and efficacy of the procedure. To address these two aspects of training, we have developed a virtual environment that presents patient specific anatomic visualization to the resident via an intuitive interface, and provides natural haptic feedback using forces calculated from patient CT scans. This work reports on the architecture of the simulator detailing the process of creation of patient specific anatomic modeling, and development of haptic force feedback models from empiric biomechanical data collected during performance of the celiac plexus block. Significant interest in the simulator as a training system was expressed in a survey conducted after the presentation of the system to approximately 100 practising anesthesiologists. Sixty-four percent indicated that the system would greatly enhance resident training, and forty two percent indicated they would use the simulator to rehearse before performing the procedure on patients with difficult or unusual anatomy.
Destruction and restoration of the insulin effector system of isolated fat cells.

Abstract Incubation of fat cells with trypsin (1 mg per ml) for 1 min at 37° in the presence of serum albumin (20 mg per ml) caused a marked stimulation of glucose transport (an insulinlike effect). When the incubation was continued for 15 min, however, the insulin-like effect disappeared and insulin itself (added after neutralization of the enzyme with soybean trypsin inhibitor) failed to stimulate glucose transport and inhibit lipolysis in the cells. Cells rendered unresponsive to insulin still maintained normal levels of ATP, lactate dehydrogenase, and malate dehydrogenase, and retained the capacity to oxidize glucose rapidly. The glucose transport system of treated cells maintained the normal sensitivity to specific inhibitors and to variations of the external glucose concentration. The lipolytic system of the cell remained highly responsive to epinephrine and adrenocorticotropic hormone, but the responsiveness of the system to glucagon was abolished entirely. When trypsin-treated cells were kept at 37° for more than 30 min after inactivation of the enzyme, the insulin responsiveness returned progressively, reaching 60 to 80% of the control in 60 min. This recovery was inhibited by 0.1 mm puromycin or 0.01 mm cycloheximide. Recovered activity could be abolished again by a second trypsin treatment. In contrast, the responsiveness to glucagon was not restored in 2 hours. These results indicate that trypsin modifies rather selectively the effector systems for insulin and glucagon without affecting other metabolic systems of the cell, including the effector systems for epinephrine and adrenocorticotropic hormone. It is suggested that an essential part of the insulin-effector system is a rapidly renewable peptide element located on the surface of the cell, and that an initial action of trypsin on the system mimics the effect of insulin while subsequent proteolytic modification of the system renders the cells unresponsive to the hormone.
The future of military virtue: Autonomous systems and the moral deskilling of the military

Autonomous systems, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), anti-munitions systems, armed robots, cyber attack and cyber defense systems, are projected to become the centerpiece of 21st century military and counter-terrorism operations. This trend has challenged legal experts, policymakers and military ethicists to make sense of these developments within existing normative frameworks of international law and just war theory. This paper highlights a different yet equally profound ethical challenge: understanding how this trend may lead to a moral deskilling of the military profession, potentially destabilizing traditional norms of military virtue and their power to motivate ethical restraint in the conduct of war. Employing the normative framework of virtue ethics, I argue that professional ideals of military virtue such as courage, integrity, honor and compassion help to distinguish legitimate uses of military force from amoral, criminal or mercenary violence, while also preserving the conception of moral community needed to secure a meaningful peace in war's aftermath. The cultivation of these virtues in a human being, however, presupposes repeated practice and development of skills of moral analysis, deliberation and action, especially in the ethical use of force. As in the historical deskilling of other professions, human practices critical to cultivating these skills can be made redundant by autonomous or semi-autonomous machines, with a resulting devaluation and/or loss of these skills and the virtues they facilitate. This paper explores the circumstances under which automated methods of warfare, including automated weapons and cyber systems, could lead to a dangerous `moral deskilling' of the military profession. I point out that this deskilling remains a significant risk even with a commitment to `human on the loop' protocols. I conclude by summarizing the potentially deleterious consequences of such an outcome, and reflecting on possible strategies for its prevention.
Limiting what we can eat: a bridge too far?

Innovative mayors across America are seeking to shape personal decisions about diet and physical activity, taking a page from tobacco control. But attempts to limit personal choices of what to eat have drawn the ire of vocal critics and sometimes the rebuke of judges, with former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg's limit on soda portions becoming a key flash point. The public broadly accepts state power to control infectious diseases, but often draws a line at limiting dietary choices. I want to dispel some of the well-worn arguments in the obesity wars.
Identification of a Matrix-binding Domain in MAGP1 and MAGP2 and Intracellular Localization of Alternative Splice Forms *

MAGP1 is a small molecular mass protein associated with microfibrils in the extracellular matrix (ECM). To identify the molecular basis of its interaction with other microfibrillar proteins, deletion constructs of MAGP1 were expressed in a mammalian cell system that served as a model for microfibril assembly. This study identified a 54-amino acid sequence in the carboxyl-terminal region of the protein that defines a matrix-binding domain that is sufficient to target MAGP1 to the ECM. Site-directed mutagenesis demonstrated that binding activity is dependent on the presence of 7 cysteine residues in this sequence. MAGP2 contains a sequence similar to the matrix-binding domain of MAGP1, but could not associate with the ECM because of a single amino acid change. Two naturally occurring MAGP1 splice variants, MAGP1B (human-specific) and MAGP1D (found in mice), localized intracellularly when expressed as chimeric proteins with green fluorescent protein in rat lung fibroblasts. This suggests a second action site for MAGP1.
BIOLOGY OF CHROMATIN DYNAMICS

During the development of a multicellular organism, cell differentiation involves activation and repression of transcription programs that must be stably maintained during subsequent cell divisions. Chromatin remodeling plays a crucial role in regulating chromatin states that conserve transcription programs and provide a mechanism for chromatin states to be maintained as cells proliferate, a process referred to as epigenetic inheritance. A large number of factors and protein complexes are now known to be involved in regulating the dynamic states of chromatin structure. Their biological functions and molecular mechanisms are beginning to be revealed.
Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Overview of Clinical Applications

Technologic advances in cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and cardiovascular computed tomography angiography (CCTA) allow these modalities to comprehensively visualize cardiovascular structures and function. The decision to perform CMR vs. CCTA requires knowledge of the individual strengths and limitations of these imaging techniques, the specific details of a patient’s medical history, and the clinical questions which need to be answered. In many clinical scenarios, echocardiography is performed as an initial study to assess cardiovascular substrates, with CMR or CCTA performed when further cardiovascular characterization is necessary and a noninvasive approach is preferable. Given the rapid evolution of these technologies, appropriateness criteria have been developed for specific cardiovascular indications [1].
Mechanisms of Hierarchical Reinforcement Learning in Corticostriatal Circuits 1: Computational Analysis

Growing evidence suggests that the prefrontal cortex (PFC) is organized hierarchically, with more anterior regions having increasingly abstract representations. How does this organization support hierarchical cognitive control and the rapid discovery of abstract action rules? We present computational models at different levels of description. A neural circuit model simulates interacting corticostriatal circuits organized hierarchically. In each circuit, the basal ganglia gate frontal actions, with some striatal units gating the inputs to PFC and others gating the outputs to influence response selection. Learning at all of these levels is accomplished via dopaminergic reward prediction error signals in each corticostriatal circuit. This functionality allows the system to exhibit conditional if‐then hypothesis testing and to learn rapidly in environments with hierarchical structure. We also develop a hybrid Bayesian-reinforcement learning mixture of experts (MoE) model, which can estimate the most likely hypothesis state of individual participants based on their observed sequence of choices and rewards. This model yields accurate probabilistic estimates about which hypotheses are attended by manipulating attentional states in the generative neural model and recovering them with the MoE model. This 2-pronged modeling approach leads to multiple quantitative predictions that are tested with functional magnetic resonance imaging in the companion paper.
Rotational atherectomy in atherosclerotic rabbit iliac arteries.

PTCA is not technically possible in many patients with symptoms of coronary artery disease. In addition, atheroma is not physically removed by PTCA, and restenosis of the treated vessel is common. We have tested a new, rotating, abrasive-tipped angioplasty device in vivo in 13 atherosclerotic rabbit iliac vessels. Atherosclerosis was generated in rabbit iliac vessels by a 2% cholesterol diet combined with balloon endothelial injury for 10 weeks. The diseased vessels were then treated with the rotational atherectomy device. Before treatment, contrast angiograms demonstrated that initial percent diameter stenosis was 81% ± 9%. After atherectomy, there was significant improvement, with residual 38% ± 22% narrowing (p < 0.001). One perforation resulted from distal guidewire manipulation, and one vessel was occluded by the device. Histologic examination demonstrated loss of portions of the diseased intima in all cases. Particles were produced for analysis in vitro by operating the atherectomy device in atherosclerotic rabbit aortas perfused with saline solution. Ninety-eight percent of the particles produced by the device were <10 μm in diameter. We conclude that this new rotational device can remove atheromatous material from diseased arteries in rabbits. Such a device may complement other angioplasty techniques and lead to wider application of catheter-based therapeutic interventions.