cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novel spatial tracking for FSO communications through turbulent atmosphere

Performance of quad-APD spatial tracking loop (STL) in the presence of scintillation is investigated for freespace optical (FSO) channels impaired by optical turbulence. The atmospheric turbulence is assumed to follow the weak turbulence model, described by Rytov approximation, which in turn suggests log-normal statistics for the received optical signal intensity. It is assumed that the pointing error in large part is due to atmospheric wander and that the correlation time of the beam wander is comparable to the correlation time of the amplitude variations due to amplitude scintillation. Computationally-efficient extensions of a recently proposed spatial tracking model are investigated, resulting in two alternative implementation. The proposed algorithms enable one to adjust the gain of the tracking loop, resulting in an adaptive bandwidth adjustment scenario in the presence of correlated fading. The performance of the proposed tracking loops along with that of the standard tracking loop are assessed and compared via simulation in terms of the mean square tracking error (MSTE). Simulation results reveal the effectiveness of the computationally-efficient algorithms proposed here in reducing the MSTE as compared with the standard tracking loop, while offering a realizable solution as compared to the tracking loop suggested by the previous study on the subject.
IEEE 7 th BIBE Invited Tutorial Lecture: Intrinsically Disordered Proteins in Human Diseases

Intrinsically disordered proteins lack stable tertiary and/or secondary structure under physiological conditions in vitro. They are highly abundant in nature, with ~25-30% of eukaryotic proteins being mostly disordered, and with >50% of eukaryotic proteins and > 70% of signaling proteins having long disordered regions. Functional repertoire of intrinsically disordered proteins is very broad and complements functions of ordered proteins. Often, intrinsically disordered proteins are involved in regulation, signaling and control pathways, where binding to multiple partners and high-speciflcity/low-afflnity interactions play a crucial role. We have found that out of the 711 Swiss-Prot functional keywords associated with at least 20 proteins, 262 were strongly positively correlated with long intrinsically disordered regions, and 302 were strongly negatively correlated. It is suggested that functions of intrinsically disordered proteins may arise from the specific disorder form, from inter-conversion of disordered forms, or from transitions between disordered and ordered conformations. The choice between these conformations is determined by the peculiarities of the protein environment, and many intrinsically disordered proteins possess an exceptional ability to fold in a template-dependent manner. Intrinsically disordered proteins are key players in protein-protein interaction networks being highly abundant among hubs. Furthermore, regions of mRNA which undergo alternative splicing code for disordered proteins much more often than they code for structured proteins. This association of alternative splicing and intrinsic disorder helps proteins to avoid folding difficulties and provides a novel mechanism for developing tissue-specific protein interaction networks. Numerous intrinsically disordered proteins are associated with such human diseases as cancer, cardiovascular disease, amyloidoses, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes and others. Our bioinformatics analysis revealed that many human diseases are strongly correlated with proteins predicted to be disordered. Contrary to this, we did not find disease associated proteins to be strongly correlated with absence of disorder. Overall, there is an intriguing interconnection between intrinsic disorder, cell signaling and human diseases, which suggests that protein conformational diseases may result not only from protein misfolding, but also from misidentification and missignaling. Intrinsically disordered proteins, such as alpha-synuclein, tau protein, p53, BRCA1 and many other disease-associated hub proteins represent attractive targets for drugs modulating protein-protein interactions. Therefore, novel strategies for drug discovery are based on intrinsically disordered proteins.
Early experience of off-pump coronary artery bypass using Octopus Tissue Stabilizer.

Objective: The Octopus Tissue Stabilizer stabilizes segments of the beating heart using a series of suction cups that do not damage myocardial tissue or compromise hemodynamics. This allows the heart to be positioned with the arterial target on a stable platform. In this study we present our early experience of off-pump coronary artery bypass using the Octopus Tissue Stabilizer.Methods: Between October 1997 and June 1998, 50 patients underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass using the Octopus Tissue Stabilizer (7.5% of all coronary artery bypass cases; average age: 67.0 ± 12.2). Preoperative ejection fraction was 15–70% (43.0 ± 14.0%). Median sternotomy was used for all operations.Results: The average number of grafts per patient was 2.5 ± 0.9. The average operating time was 191 ± 47 minutes. No patients returned to the operating room for postoperative bleeding or tamponade. Average intraoperative blood loss was 297 ± 190 ml. No patient experienced perioperative myocardial infarction. There were five hospital deaths and one late death. All patients were free of angina at discharge. No patients returned with angina or required clinical restudy.Conclusions: Off-pump coronary artery bypass offers the surgeon another tool to apply for appropriate patients. The Octopus Tissue Stabilizer allows the surgeon access to all parts of coronary circulation, extending the range of off-pump coronary artery bypass procedures, when the anatomy is appropriate.
Boundary conditions for electron-LO-phonon interaction in polar semiconductor quantum wires

Abstract The Frohlich Hamiltonian describing the interaction of longitudinal-optical (LO) phonons and charge carriers in a quantum wire have been derived previously by imposing boundary conditions on the electrostatic potential of the phonon field. In this study, the Frohlich Hamiltonian for a quantum wire is derived by taking into account appropriate mechanical boundary conditions and the resulting Hamiltonian is used to calculate the total scattering rate for electron-LO-phonon scattering.
Metallic 1T phase source/drain electrodes for field effect transistors from chemical vapor deposited MoS2

Two dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs) offer promise as opto-electronic materials due to their direct band gap and reasonably good mobility values. However, most metals form high resistance contacts on semiconducting TMDs such as MoS2. The large contact resistance limits the performance of devices. Unlike bulk materials, low contact resistance cannot be stably achieved in 2D materials by doping. Here we build on our previous work in which we demonstrated that it is possible to achieve low contact resistance electrodes by phase transformation. We show that similar to the previously demonstrated mechanically exfoliated samples, it is possible to decrease the contact resistance and enhance the FET performance by locally inducing and patterning the metallic 1T phase of MoS2 on chemically vapor deposited material. The device properties are substantially improved with 1T phase source/drain electrodes.
Objective function tradeoff curves in a rural economic development, activity analysis planning model

A common dilemma in economic development planning is that the achievement of one objective often constrains the achievement of another, resulting in a range of options or tradeoffs among alternatives. This paper examines pairs of economic objectives for a multicounty planning region (e.g., maximize balance-of-trade surplus, maximize local employment) and derives tradeoff curves which might prove useful to planners. Several objectives examined might be considered as “capital-oriented” (e.g., maximize trade surplus). These objectives yield regional economic outcomes more similar to each other than to outcomes from “labor-oriented” objectives (e.g., maximize local employment). The range of the tradeoff curve is much greater for pairs of objectives between than within these two groups. The range and curvature of the tradeoff curves tend to increase as the level of the curve shifts outward due to a relaxation of the constraints for exports and incommuting labor. This suggests that conflicts may increase as regions become more open to trade and commuting; the need for compromise among differing local interests increases accordingly.
Interference competition and invasion: spatial structure, novel weapons and resistance zones.

Abstract Certain invasive plants may rely on interference mechanisms (e.g., allelopathy) to gain competitive superiority over native species. But expending resources on interference presumably exacts a cost in another life-history trait, so that the significance of interference competition for invasion ecology remains uncertain. We model ecological invasion when combined effects of preemptive and interference competition govern interactions at the neighborhood scale. We consider three cases. Under “novel weapons,” only the initially rare invader exercises interference. For “resistance zones” only the resident species interferes, and finally we take both species as interference competitors. Interference increases the other species' mortality, opening space for colonization. However, a species exercising greater interference has reduced propagation, which can hinder its colonization of open sites. Interference never enhances a rare invader's growth in the homogeneously mixing approximation to our model. But interference can significantly increase an invader's competitiveness, and its growth when rare, if interactions are structured spatially. That is, interference can increase an invader's success when colonization of open sites depends on local, rather than global, species densities. In contrast, interference enhances the common, resident species' resistance to invasion independently of spatial structure, unless the propagation-cost is too great. The particular combination of propagation and interference producing the strongest biotic resistance in a resident species depends on the shape of the tradeoff between the two traits. Increases in background mortality (i.e., mortality not due to interference) always reduce the effectiveness of interference competition.
Field potential and single unit analyses of the avian dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and criteria for identifying vagal cardiac cells of origin

Abstract Field potentials evoked by mid-cervical vagal stimulation were systematically mapped in the dorsal motor and solitary nuclei of the pigeon. Since responses varied predictably with microelectrode position, they could be used for localization in the dorsal medulla. By varying stimulus intensity and monitoring the vagal compound action potential, contributions of the different compound action potential waves were then established. Activation of the B1-wave, which includes cardioinhibitory fiber activity, has its most prominent effect in the intermediate rostrocaudal zone of the dorsal motor nucleus in the region of subnucleus b. This is where the cells of origin of the vagal cardiac fibers have previously been anatomically localized. Single unit experiments then established that (a) vagal motoneurons with axonal conduction velocities in the cardioinhibitory fiber range (8.0–14.5 m/sec) are primarily localized to the intermediate rostrocaudal zone of the dorsal motor nucleus in the region of subnucleus b, and (b) motoneurons in this zone that conduct at 8.0–14.5 m/sec distribute their axons in the cardiac branches. Furthermore, no error is introduced by identifying such neurons with mid-cervical rather than mid-thoracic vagal stimulation. Thus, the following criteria establish a neuron as giving rise to a vagal cardioinhibitory fiber: (a) localizing it to the intermediate rostrocaudal zone of the dorsal motor nucleus on the basis of the field potential evoked by mid-cervical vagal stimulation; (b) antidromically activating it with mid-cervical vagal stimulation; and (c) demonstrating that its axon conducts at 8.0–14.5 m/sec.
Customized atomic force microscopy probe by focused-ion-beam-assisted tip transfer

We present a technique for transferring separately fabricated tips onto tipless atomic force microscopy (AFM) cantilevers, performed using focused ion beam-assisted nanomanipulation. This method addresses the need in scanning probe microscopy for certain tip geometries that cannot be achieved by conventional lithography. For example, in probing complex layered materials or tall biological cells using AFM, a tall tip with a high-aspect-ratio is required to avoid artifacts caused by collisions of the tip's sides with the material being probed. We show experimentally that tall (18 μm) cantilever tips fabricated by this approach reduce squeeze-film damping, which fits predictions from hydrodynamic theory, and results in an increased quality factor (Q) of the fundamental flexural mode. We demonstrate that a customized tip's well-defined geometry, tall tip height, and aspect ratio enable improved measurement of elastic moduli by allowing access to low-laying portions of tall cells (T lymphocytes). This technique can be generally used to attach tips to any micromechanical device when conventional lithography of tips cannot be accomplished.
Generalized gradient-expansion approximation for the exchange energy

In this work we have studied the generalized gradient-expansion approximation (GGA) for the exchange energy proposed by Perdew to each order up to O(${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\nabla}}}^{3}$) for the expansion of the Fermi-hole charge as applied to atoms. We have discovered that the Fermi hole to O(${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\nabla}}}^{3}$) leads to exchange energies less accurate than those of the expansion to O(${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\nabla}}}^{2}$) when compared with the results of Hartree-Fock theory. The results to O(${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\nabla}}}^{2}$), however, are more accurate than those of O(\ensuremath{\nabla}) as expected, but the latter are superior to those of O(${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\nabla}}}^{3}$) for the heavier atoms considered. In addition, the exchange energies in the GGA to O(\ensuremath{\nabla}) and O(${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\nabla}}}^{3}$) are both more accurate than those of the gradient-expansion approximation to O(${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\nabla}}}^{2}$). By an analysis of the structure of the approximate Fermi holes to each order, we explain all these results. We also explain why the GGA to each order cannot lead to the correct asymptotic structure of the effective potential.
Do Korean Fraction Names Promote Part-Whole Reasoning?

We investigated the effects of transparent fraction names on children's reasoning about fractions. U.S. and Korean first and second graders were tested using verbal and nonverbal measures. On a verbal task, Korean students were worse at interpreting their own conventional fraction names than interpreting modified terms with a more familiar word for parts. This indicates that Korean fraction names may not be as transparent as previously claimed (e.g., Miura et al., 1999). On nonverbal tasks, such as matching equivalent pictures of fractions and solving mixed-number problems using objects, students from both nations performed above chance and about equally well. However, U.S. students were more likely than Korean students to misinterpret a sharing task in terms of whole numbers, leading to significantly below-chance performance in the former group.
Discovery and structure-activity relationship of 3-aminopyrid-2-ones as potent and selective interleukin-2 inducible T-cell kinase (Itk) inhibitors

Interleukin-2 inducible T-cell kinase (Itk) plays a role in T-cell functions, and its inhibition potentially represents an attractive intervention point to treat autoimmune and allergic diseases. Herein we describe the discovery of a series of potent and selective novel inhibitors of Itk. These inhibitors were identified by structure-based design, starting from a fragment generated de novo, the 3-aminopyrid-2-one motif. Functionalization of the 3-amino group enabled rapid enhancement of the inhibitory activity against Itk, while introduction of a substituted heteroaromatic ring in position 5 of the pyridone fragment was key to achieving optimal selectivity over related kinases. A careful analysis of the hydration patterns in the kinase active site was necessary to fully explain the observed selectivity profile. The best molecule prepared in this optimization campaign, 7v, inhibits Itk with a Ki of 7 nM and has a good selectivity profile across kinases.
Attitude Control System Design for Return of the Kistler K1 Orbital Vehicle

An attitude control system design is presented that provides the maneuver capability and aerodynamic angle maintenancenecessary fortheatmosphericreentryand return tolaunchsiteofanunmannedreusablelaunch vehicle. The primary functions are categorized into those that perform bank maneuvers about the air-relative velocity vector and those that are responsible for the tracking and control of the vehicle aerodynamic trim conditions. The control system is supported by an onboard aerodynamic estimation function. The estimator uses measurements of vehicle states from navigation in combination with analytic models in a gain-scheduled e lter environment to provide control with current trim angle information. The control system uses this information to minimize actual vehicle deviations from the trim. Also, control is provided with bank commands from a guidance function. As this paperis concerned only with the control and estimation functions, the guidance strategies are discussed only to the extent that is necessary to justify/clarify control or estimator designs. The algorithms developed here are applied to the Kistler K1 Orbital Vehicle and tested in the Kistler Integrated Vehicle Simulation at Draper Laboratory. Resultsindicatethattheapproachto entry/returncontrolisbothfuelefe cientandeffectivefroma landingaccuracy perspective.
Integrated vision-based robotic arm interface for operators with upper limb mobility impairments

An integrated, computer vision-based system was developed to operate a commercial wheelchair-mounted robotic manipulator (WMRM). In this paper, a gesture recognition interface system developed specifically for individuals with upper-level spinal cord injuries (SCIs) was combined with object tracking and face recognition systems to be an efficient, hands-free WMRM controller. In this test system, two Kinect cameras were used synergistically to perform a variety of simple object retrieval tasks. One camera was used to interpret the hand gestures to send as commands to control the WMRM and locate the operator's face for object positioning. The other sensor was used to automatically recognize different daily living objects for test subjects to select. The gesture recognition interface incorporated hand detection, tracking and recognition algorithms to obtain a high recognition accuracy of 97.5% for an eight-gesture lexicon. An object recognition module employing Speeded Up Robust Features (SURF) algorithm was performed and recognition results were sent as a command for “coarse positioning” of the robotic arm near the selected daily living object. Automatic face detection was also provided as a shortcut for the subjects to position the objects to the face by using a WMRM. Completion time tasks were conducted to compare manual (gestures only) and semi-manual (gestures, automatic face detection and object recognition) WMRM control modes. The use of automatic face and object detection significantly increased the completion times for retrieving a variety of daily living objects.
Language environments of autistic and normal children matched for language age: A preliminary investigation

The language patterns of the mothers and fathers of four autistic boys were compared with those of the parents of four normal boys matched for language age with the autistic children. Language patterns were assessed during two 20-minute free-play sessions videotaped in the subjects' homes. The tapes were reliably coded using an 11-category coding system. Only one difference between the language patterns of the parents of the autistic and normal children emerged: The parents of the normal children engaged in a greater proportion of adult-directed language than did the parents of the autistic children. Comparison of the language patterns of mothers and fathers revealed similarities and differences. Both the frequency and percentage of occurrence scores for direct requests for language were significantly greater for mothers than for fathers. However, although the frequency of reinforcement for language did not differ across the sexes, fathers had a greater percentage occurrence score than mothers. There were no other significant differences between the mothers and the fathers.
Automated algorithms for multiscale morphometry of neuronal dendrites

We describe the synthesis of automated neuron branching morphology and spine detection algorithms to provide multiscale three-dimensional morphological analysis of neurons. The resulting software is applied to the analysis of a high-resolution (0.098 µm × 0.098 µm × 0.081 µm) image of an entire pyramidal neuron from layer III of the superior temporal cortex in rhesus macaque monkey. The approach provides a highly automated, complete morphological analysis of the entire neuron; each dendritic branch segment is characterized by several parameters, including branch order, length, and radius as a function of distance along the branch, as well as by the locations, lengths, shape classification (e.g., mushroom, stubby, thin), and density distribution of spines on the branch. Results for this automated analysis are compared to published results obtained by other computer-assisted manual means.
Regulatory function of cytomegalovirus-specific CD4+CD27−CD28− T cells

CMV infection is characterized by high of frequencies of CD27-CD28- T cells. Here we demonstrate that CMV-specific CD4+CD27-CD28- cells are regulatory T cells (TR). CD4+CD27-CD28- cells sorted from CMV-stimulated PBMC of CMV-seropositive donors inhibited de novo CMV-specific proliferation of autologous PBMC in a dose-dependent fashion. Compared with the entire CMV-stimulated CD4+ T-cell population, higher proportions of CD4+CD27-CD28- TR expressed FoxP3, TGFbeta, granzyme B, perforin, GITR and PD-1, lower proportions expressed CD127 and PD1-L and similar proportions expressed CD25, CTLA4, Fas-L and GITR-L. CMV-CD4+CD27-CD28- TR expanded in response to IL-2, but not to CMV antigenic restimulation. The anti-proliferative effect of CMV-CD4+CD27-CD28- TR significantly decreased after granzyme B or TGFbeta inhibition. The CMV-CD4+CD27-CD28- TR of HIV-infected and uninfected donors had similar phenotypes and anti-proliferative potency, but HIV-infected individuals had higher proportions of CMV-CD4+CD27-CD28- TR. The CMV-CD4+CD27-CD28- TR may contribute to the downregulation of CMV-specific and nonspecific immune responses of CMV-infected individuals.
Glycerol kinase and dihydroxyacetone kinase in rat brain.

The enzymatic phosphorylation of glycerol and dihydroxyacetone by ATP to ,sn-glycerol-3- phosphate and dihydroxyacetone phosphate respectively in various subcellular fractions of rat hrain was studied. A sensitive radiochemical assay was used where the labelled phosphorylated products were separated from the radioactive substrates by high voltage paper electrophoresis and the radioacti- vity in these compounds determined, Using this assay the glycerol kinase (EC 2.7.1.30) activity was found to be associated with the mitochondrial fraction of the brain. Under optimum conditions 2.45nmol of glycerol was phosphorylated/min per rng of protein. The K, for glycerol was 70~~ at pH 7. This mitochondrial enzyme, like other glycerol kinases from different sources, also phosphory- lated dihydroxyacetone. Under optimum conditions 1.7 nmol of dihydroxyacetone phosphate was formed/min per mg of mitochondrial protein. The K, for dihydroxyacetone was 0.6 mM. Glycerol kinase activity was also present in the cytoplasm of brain. However, the spccific activity of this enzyme in cytosol is about 15% of the mitochondrial glycerol kinase. Compared to glycerol, dihydroxyacetone was phosphorylated by ATP in cytoplasm at a much higher rate. The pH optimum for this soluble dihydroxyacetone kinase was much lower (pH 6.5) than that of the soluble or mitochon- drial glycerol kinase (pH 100). Using ammonium sulfate, brain cytoplasm was fractionated to yield a fraction in which the dihydroxyacetone kinase was enriched 2-3 fold with no glycerol kinase activity. Under optimum conditions 1.0 nmol of dihydroxyacetone was phosphorylated/min per mg protein. The K, for dihydroxyacetone was 60~~. This cytosol fraction was also found to phosphorylate u-gly- ccraldehyde and L-glyceraldehyde at a rate of 3&400/, to that of the dihydroxyacetone phosphorylation. The properties and the possible metabolic role of these enzymes in brain are discussed. GLYCEROL kinase (ATP: glycerol-3-phosphotransfer- ase EC 2.7.1.30) catalyzes the phosphorylation of gly- cerol by AI'P to sn-glycerol-3-phosphate (G-3-P). This enzyme was discovered by KALCKAR (1939) in kidney. The properties of the enzyme were first de- scribed in detail by BUBLITZ & KENNEDY (1954); WIE- LAND & SUYTER (1957). Using an enzymatic assay, WIELAND & SUYTER (1957) concluded that this kinase activity is present only in liver and kidney but not in other mammalian organs. However, later workers using more sensitive assays showed the presence of this enzyme in a wide variety of tissues (for a review see THORNER & PAULUS, 1973). To datc glycerol kinase has not been described in the brain, although there is indirect evidence to suggest its presence in that organ. A number of workers showed that when radioactive glycerol was injected intracranially into rats it was incorporated into the brain glycerolipids (HOKIN & HOKIN, 1958; LAPETINA ef aL, 1969; BENJA- MINS & MCKHANN, 1973; OBRIEN & GEISON. 1974). This suggests that glycerol is phosphorylated in brain to G-3-P and subsequently acylated and converted to different lipids (KENNEDY, 1962). ~~~ ~ ~~
Age-dependent variations in the response of several species of Diptera to insecticidal chemicals

Abstract The toxicity of carbaryl to three species of fleshflies Sarcophaga bullata Parker, S. crassipalpis Macquart, and S. argyrostoma (Robineau-Desvoidy) varied considerably with age and sex. In contrast, the susceptibility of a blowfly, Phormia regina (Meigen) to carbaryl decreased with age and that of two muscid flies, Musca autumnalis DeGeer and Stomoxys calcitrans (L.), remained relatively constant. The synergistic activity of piperonyl butoxide varied inversely with the innate toxicity of carbaryl to each species suggesting that the observed age- and sex-dependent variations in carbaryl toxicity result mainly from differences in detoxifying capability. This was supported by in vitro measurements of oxidative microsomal metabolism. It was further established that differences in the rates of penetration and excretion of carbaryl and in the susceptibility of the head cholinesterase to carbaryl inhibition were of little importance in determining the susceptibility of the flies to this insecticide.
Thermostatted molecular dynamics: How to avoid the Toda demon hidden in Nosé-Hoover dynamics.

The Nos\'e-Hoover thermostat, which is often used in the hope of modifying molecular dynamics trajectories in order to achieve canonical-ensemble averages, has hidden in it a Toda ``demon,'' which can give rise to unwanted, noncanonical undulations in the instantaneous kinetic temperature. We show how these long-lived oscillations arise from insufficient coupling of the thermostat to the atoms, and give straightforward, practical procedures for avoiding this weak-coupling pathology in isothermal molecular dynamics simulations.
Relationships and responsibilities

L'A. defend une approche non-reductionniste des responsabilites speciales qui nous incombent en vertu des relations speciales que nous entretenons avec certaines personnes. Soulevant l'objection de la distribution des responsabilites, d'une part, et l'objection volontariste qui consiste a entrer en relation avec quelqu'un en fonction des benefices qui peuvent en etre tires, d'autre part, l'A. montre que les principes non-reductionnistes qu'il definit ont l'avantage (parmi d'autres) d'expliquer pourquoi les gens considerent comme des valeurs leurs relations a autrui
Conversion of a single-facility pediatric antimicrobial stewardship program to multi-facility application with computerized provider order entry and clinical decision support

Objective: Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) help meet quality and safety goals with regard to antimicrobial use. Prior to CPOE implementation, the ASP at our pediatric tertiary hospital developed a paper-based order set containing recommendations for optimization of dosing. In adapting our ASP for CPOE, we aimed to preserve consistency in our ASP recommendations and expand ASP expertise to other hospitals in our health system. Methods: Nine hospitals in our health system adopted pediatric CPOE and share a common domain (Cerner Millenium™). ASP clinicians developed sixty individual electronic order sets (vendor reference PowerPlans™) to be used independently or as part of larger electronic order sets. Analysis of incidents reported during CPOE implementation and medication variances reports was used to determine the effectiveness of the ASP adaptation. Results: 769 unique PowerPlans™ were used 15,889 times in the first 30 days after CPOE implementation. Of these, 43 were PowerPlans™ included in the ASP design and were used a total of 1149 times (7.2% of all orders). During CPOE implementation, 437 incidents were documented, 1.1% of which were associated with ASP content or workflow. Additionally, analysis of medication variance following CPOE implementation showed that ASP errors accounted for 2.9% of total medication variances. Discussion: ASP content and workflow accounted for proportionally fewer incidents than expected as compared to equally complex and frequently used CPOE content. Conclusions: Well-defined ASP recommendations and modular design strengthened successful CPOE implementation, as well as the adoption of specialized pediatric ASP expertise with other facilities.
Phylogenetic studies of ribosomal RNA variation in higher moths and butterflies (Lepidoptera: Ditrysia).

Abstract The selection of exemplars has been shown both theoretically and empirically to affect tree topology, but the importance of the number and nature of taxa used to represent higher taxonomic lineages in molecular studies is rarely stressed. In our rRNA study of higher moths and butterflies (Lepidoptera: Ditrysia), the selection of different exemplars and outgroups caused major tree rearrangements. We also examined the effectiveness with which conserved rRNA regions track the diversification of Lepidoptera. Homoplasy is as prevalent at the few variable sites of conserved regions (18E, 18J, 28F) as at the many variable sites of a more rapidly evolving region (2813). Finally, 2813 sequence variation differs qualitatively among lepidopteran superfamilies of presumed comparable age, the Papilionoidea (true butterflies) and Noctuoidea (cutworm moths and relatives).
The Use of Quickening in One Coordinate of a Two-Dimensional Tracking System

In a previous study, it was found that tracking error in one coordinate of a two-dimensional tracking system was affected by the dynamics used in the other coordinate. In particular, tracking performance progressively deteriorated as the dynamics in the two coordinates became more dissimilar. The present study seeks to extend these findings by determining how the introduction of quickening into one coordinate of a second-order, two-coordinate tracking system would affect the performance in the unquickened coordinate. In the light of the previous study, it might be expected that quickening one coordinate would degrade the performance of the other. On the other hand, the simplification of the tracker's task induced by quickening might effect an improvement in performance.
On the neutralization of bacterial spores in post-detonation flows

In multiple operational scenarios, explosive charges are used to neutralize confined or unconfined stores of bacterial spores. The spore destruction is achieved by post-detonation combustion and mixing of hot detonation product gases with the ambient flow and spore clouds. In this work, blast wave interaction with bacterial spore clouds and the effect of post-detonation combustion on spore neutralization are investigated using numerical simulations. Spherical explosive charges (radius, $$R_\mathrm{C}$$ = 5.9 cm) comprising of nitromethane are modeled in the vicinity of a spore cloud, and the spore kill in the post-detonation flow is quantified. The effect of the mass of the spores and the initial distance, $$d^0$$ , of the spore cloud from the explosive charge on the percentage of spores neutralized is investigated. When the spores are initially placed within a distance of 3.0 $$R_\mathrm{C}$$ , within 0.1 ms after detonation of the charge, all the spores are neutralized by the blast wave and the hot detonation product gases. In contrast, almost all the spores survived the explosion when $$d^0$$ is greater than 8.0 $$R_\mathrm{C}$$ . The percentage of intact spores varied from 0 to 100 for 3.0 $$R_\mathrm{C}$$ $$<d^0<$$ 8.0 $$R_\mathrm{C}$$ with spore neutralization dependent on time spent by the spores in the post-detonation mixing/combustion zone.
Early corticosteroid use in acute exacerbations of chronic airflow obstruction.

To determine the benefit of early steroid use in acute exacerbations of chronic airflow obstruction in the ED, 113 patients with an average age of 66 years, acute or chronic dyspnea, an FEV1 of 40% improvements in PEFR by 6 hours and 17 achieved similar results in FEV1, whereas of those not receiving steroids, 13 and 8, respectively, achieved improvements. Within 24 hours of observation in the ED, 16 patients receiving steroids were discharged and none relapsed within 2 weeks. Of those not receiving steroids, only 10 were discharged and 3 returned with exacerbations. Although early response to steroids in chronic airflow obstruction is variable, the overall medical and cost benefits justify their early use in acute exacerbations.
Effect of Gravity on Robot-Assisted Motor Training After Chronic Stroke: A Randomized Trial

Abstract Conroy SS, Whitall J, Dipietro L, Jones-Lush LM, Zhan M, Finley MA, Wittenberg GF, Krebs HI, Bever CT. Effect of gravity on robot-assisted motor training after chronic stroke: a randomized trial. Objectives To determine the efficacy of 2 distinct 6-week robot-assisted reaching programs compared with an intensive conventional arm exercise program (ICAE) for chronic, stroke-related upper-extremity (UE) impairment. To examine whether the addition of robot-assisted training out of the horizontal plane leads to improved outcomes. Design Randomized controlled trial, single-blinded, with 12-week follow-up. Setting Research setting in a large medical center. Participants Adults (N=62) with chronic, stroke-related arm weakness stratified by impairment severity using baseline UE motor assessments. Interventions Sixty minutes, 3 times a week for 6 weeks of robot-assisted planar reaching (gravity compensated), combined planar with vertical robot-assisted reaching, or intensive conventional arm exercise program. Main Outcome Measure UE Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) mean change from baseline to final training. Results All groups showed modest gains in the FMA from baseline to final with no significant between group differences. Most change occurred in the planar robot group (mean change ± SD, 2.94±0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.40–4.47). Participants with greater motor impairment (n=41) demonstrated a larger difference in response (mean change ± SD, 2.29±0.72; 95% CI, 0.85–3.72) for planar robot-assisted exercise compared with the intensive conventional arm exercise program (mean change ± SD, 0.43±0.72; 95% CI, –1.00 to 1.86). Conclusions Chronic UE deficits because of stroke are responsive to intensive motor task training. However, training outside the horizontal plane in a gravity present environment using a combination of vertical with planar robots was not superior to training with the planar robot alone.
Hyperfine interactions and electron distribution in Fe(II)Fe (I) and Fe (I)Fe (I) models for the active site of the [FeFe] hydrogenases: Mössbauer spectroscopy studies of low-spin Fe(I.).

Mossbauer studies of [{μ-S(CH2C(CH3)2CH2S}(μ-CO)FeIIFeI(PMe3)2(CO)3]PF6 (1OX), a model complex for the oxidized state of the [FeFe] hydrogenases, and the parent FeIFeI derivative are reported. The paramagnetic 1OX is part of a series featuring a dimethylpropanedithiolate bridge, introducing steric hindrance with profound impact on the electronic structure of the diiron complex. Well-resolved spectra of 1OX allow determination of the magnetic hyperfine couplings for the low-spin distal FeI (\( {\text{Fe}}^{\text{I}} _{\text{ D}} \)) site, Ax,y,z = [−24 (6), −12 (2), 20 (2)] MHz, and the detection of significant internal fields (approximately 2.3 T) at the low-spin ferrous site, confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Mossbauer spectra of 1OX show nonequivalent sites and no evidence of delocalization up to 200 K. Insight from the experimental hyperfine tensors of the FeI site is used in correlation with DFT to reveal the spatial distribution of metal orbitals. The Fe–Fe bond in [Fe2{μ-S(CH2C(CH3)2CH2S}(PMe3)2(CO)4] (1) involving two \( d_{{z^{2} }} \)-type orbitals is crucial in keeping the structure intact in the presence of strain. On oxidation, the distal iron site is not restricted by the Fe–Fe bond, and thus the more stable isomer results from inversion of the square pyramid, rotating the \( d_{{z^{2} }} \) orbital of \( {\text{Fe}}^{\text{I}} _{\text{ D}} \). DFT calculations imply that the Mossbauer properties can be traced to this \( d_{{z^{2} }} \) orbital. The structure of the magnetic hyperfine coupling tensor, A, of the low-spin FeI in 1OX is discussed in the context of the known A tensors for the oxidized states of the [FeFe] hydrogenases.
A capture‐assisted random access scheme for multi‐beam LEO satellite packet data networks

A CDMA-based satellite switch is proposed for use in multi-beam satellites carrying random-access packet-switched data. Applications include the emerging new low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite networks which support global wireless networking. Capture phenomenon is used to advantage in increasing the random access throughput, and the on-board switch is at once simple and specially designed to handle full loads with minimal complexity. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Trials in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer

Adjuvant therapy in non-small cell lung cancer has become a controversial topic during this present decade. Postoperative thoracic irradiation has the potential to decrease local recurrence and lessen the probability of postobstructive pneumonia or atelectasis. However, as a single modality, in several randomized studies, it has failed to have a favorable impact on survival. Most postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy studies, likewise, have not improved survival compared with operation alone. Recently, there has been a resurgence of interest in preoperative (neoadjuvant) chemotherapy in clinical stage IIIA disease, based on two very positive, albeit small, phase III studies. Improved chemotherapy in stage IV disease using newer and more effective agents, such as vinorelbine (Navelbine), paclitaxel (Taxol), or gemcitabine (Gemzar), is now available. It is hoped that the modest gains in stage IV disease can translate to more significant improvement in earlier stage disease.
Study of Helical Structure for High Performance about "Helical Compression Mechanism"

Helical compression mechanism is the newly developed one that can compress gas by using helical components. This mechanism was designed in 1987, and the helical compressors were manufactured for refrigerators first in the world in 2000. This mechanism consists of three main parts, helical blade, roller, and cylinder. The roller with helical blade on its surface is positioned in the cylinder, and several compression chambers are formed being surrounded by those three parts. As the helical shape has uneven pitch, the volume of each chamber becomes smaller along the rotation, and the gas is transferred and compressed continuously. Uneven pitch shape is very important to realize high performance of helical compressor. This study has the object to see the best shape of helical structure to maximize the performance, and make sure how to decide the helical shape for each compressor specification as its capacity, compression ratio, and so on.
Measurement of nuclear DNA contents of Mexican isolates of Phytophthora infestans

The nuclear DNA contents of 145 isolates of Phytophthora infestans from the central highlands of Mexico (the centre of origin of this oomycete), northwestern Mexico, and northeastern Mexico were measured by quantifying the fluorescence from nuclei stained with 4,6-diamidino-2-phenyl-indole (DAPI). Isolates were collected over several different years. Isolates that had been repeatedly subcultured tended to have higher DNA contents than had isolates from storage. Therefore, the DNA contents were measured on isolates soon after isolation from the field or soon after retrieval from storage (under oil at 18 °C or cryogenically). In all three locations, P. infestans isolates mainly contained low quantities of DNA (consistent with presumed diploidy). However, a few isolates with larger quantities of DNA were also detected — primarily in populations from northern Mexico. There appeared to be no strong association between level of DNA content and mating type or year of collection.
Recent heavy-flavor results at STAR

We present the recent results on non-photonic electron (NPE) yields from RHIC run8 p+p collisions. The e/π ratio as a function of p T in run8 with a factor of 10 reduction of the inner detector material at STAR is found to be consistent with those results from run3 taking into account the NPE from charm leptonic decay and the difference of photonic electron yield from photon conversion in detector material. The J/Ψ spectra in p+p and Cu+Cu collisions at √s NN = 200 GeV with high sampled luminosity are presented; we found that the J/Ψ spectrum at high p T follows x T scaling, but the scaling is violated at low p T . J/ψ-hadron correlations in p+p collisions are studied to understand the J/Ψ production mechanism at high p T . We observed an absence of charged hadrons accompanying J/Ψ on the near side, in contrast to the strong correlation peak in the dihadron correlations. This constrains the B-meson contribution and jet fragmentation to inclusive J/Ψ to be ≤17%. Yields in minimum-bias Cu+Cu collisions are consistent with those in p+p collisions scaled by the underlying binary nucleon-nucleon collisions in the measured p T range. Other measurements and future projects related to heavy flavors are discussed.
Functional implications of Drosophila insulin-like peptides in metabolism, aging, and dietary restriction

Abstract The neuroendocrine architecture and insulin/insulin-like signaling (IIS) events in Drosophila are remarkably conserved. As IIS pathway governs growth and development, metabolism, reproduction, stress response and longevity; temporal, spatial and nutrient regulation of dilps encoding Drosophila insulin-like peptides (DILPs) provides potential mechanisms in modulating IIS. Of eight DILPs (DILP1-8) identified, recent studies have furthered our understanding of physiological roles of DILP2, DILP3, DILP5 and DILP6 in metabolism, aging and responses to dietary restriction, which will be the focus of this review. While the DILP producing IPCs of the brain secrete DILP2, 3 and 5, fat body produces DILP6, identification of factors that influence dilp expression and DILP secretion has provided insight into the intricate regulatory mechanisms underlying transcriptional regulation of those genes and the activity of each peptide. Studies involving loss-of-function dilp mutations have defined the roles of DILP2 and DILP6 in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism respectively. While DILP3 has been implicated to modulate lipid metabolism, a metabolic role for DILP5 is yet to be determined. Loss of dilp2 or adult fat body specific expression of dilp6 has been shown to extend lifespan, establishing their roles in longevity regulation. The exact role of DILP3 in aging awaits further clarification. While DILP5 has been shown associated with dietary restriction (DR) mediated lifespan extension, contradictory evidence that precludes a direct involvement of DILP5 in DR exists. This review highlights recent findings on the importance of conserved DILPs in metabolic homeostasis, DR and aging, providing strong evidence for the use of DILPs in modeling metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hyperinsulinemia in the fly that could further our understanding of the underlying processes and identify therapeutic strategies to treat them.
Behavioral vigilance following infusions of 192 IgG-saporin into the basal forebrain : Selectivity of the behavioral impairment and relation to cortical AChE-positive fiber density

Rats were trained in a previously validated behavioral vigilance task that required them to detect visual signals of variable length and to discriminate signal from nonsignal events. Baseline performance was characterized by a signal length-dependent ability to score hits, a decline in hits over time, and a correct rejection rate of approximately 70%. After the rats reached criterion performance in this task, the immunotoxin 192 IgG-saporin or its vehicle was infused into the area of the nucleus basalis/substantia innominata of the basal forebrain. Postoperative performance in lesioned rats was characterized by a decrease in their ability to detect signals while their ability to correctly reject nonsignals remained unaffected. The effect of the lesion did not recover in the course of over 180 sessions of postlesion testing. The overall performance of the rats correlated with acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-positive fiber density in all cortical areas measured except the cingulate and pyriform cortex. These findings help to elucidate the nature of the attentional impairments resulting from the loss of cortical cholinergic inputs.
Comparative Study on Different Carbon Nanotube Materials in Terms of Transparent Conductive Coatings

We compared conductive transparent carbon nanotube coatings on glass substrates made of differently produced single-wall (SWNT), double-wall, and multiwall carbon nanotubes. The airbrushing approach and the vacuum filtration method were utilized for the fabrication of carbon nanotube films. The optoelectronic performance of the carbon nanotube film was found to strongly depend on many effects including the ratio of metallic-to-semiconducting tubes, dispersion, length, diameter, chirality, wall number, structural defects, and the properties of substrates. The electronic transportability and optical properties of the SWNT network can be significantly altered by chemical doping with thionyl chloride. Hall effect measurements revealed that all of these thin carbon nanotube films are of p-type probably due to the acid reflux-based purification and atmospheric impurities. The competition between variable-range hoping and fluctuation-assisted tunneling in the functionized carbon nanotube system could lead to a crossover behavior in the temperature dependence of the network resistance.