cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Parallel coordinates: a tool for visualizing multi-dimensional geometry

A methodology for visualizing analytic and synthetic geometry in RN is presented. It is based on a system of parallel coordinates which induces a non-projective mapping between N-Dimensional and 2-Dimensional sets. Hypersurfaces are represented by their planar images which have some geometrical properties analogous to the properties of the hypersurface that they represent. A point ← → line duality when N = 2 generalizes to lines and hyperplanes enabling the representation of polyhedra in RN. The representation of a class of convex and non-convex hypersurfaces is discussed together with an algorithm for constructing and displaying any interior point. The display shows some local properties of the hypersurface and provides information on the point's proximity to the boundary. Applications to Air Traffic Control, Robotics, Computer Vision, Computational Geometry, Statistics, Instrumentation and other areas are discussed.
Evolutionarily conserved and divergent expression of members of the FGF receptor family among vertebrate embryos, as revealed by FGFR expression patterns in Xenopus

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) mediate many cell-cell signaling events during early development. While the actions of FGFs have been well-studied, the roles played by specific members of the FGF receptor (FGFR) family are poorly understood. To characterize the roles played by individual FGFRs we compared the regulation and expression of the three Xenopus FGFRs described to date (XFGFR-1, XFGFR-2, and XFGFR-4). First, we describe the expression of Xenopus FGFR-4; XFGFR-4 is present as a maternal mRNA and is found in the embryo through at least the tadpole stage. XFGFR-4 and XFGFR-1 mRNAs are present at comparable levels, arguing that both mediate FGF signaling during early development. Second, the expression of XFGFR-4 in animal caps differs from the expression of XFGFR-1 and XFGFR-2, suggesting that the FGFRs are independently regulated in ectoderm. Third, using whole-mount in situ hybridization, we show that XFGFR-1, XFGFR-2, and XFGFR-4 are expressed in dramatically different patterns, arguing that specific FGF signaling events are mediated by different members of the FGFR family. Among these, FGF signaling during the induction of neural crest cells is likely to be mediated by XFGFR-4. Comparison of our results with previously reported FGFR expression patterns reveals that FGFR-1 expression is highly conserved among vertebrate embryos, and FGFR-2 expression shows many features that are conserved and some that are divergent. In contrast, the expression pattern of FGFR-4 is highly divergent among vertebrate embryos.
End-of-life and palliative care in the emergency department: a call for research, education, policy and improved practice in this frontier area.

Garrett K. Chan is Assistant Clinical Professor and Director, Critical Care/Trauma Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, School of Nursing, San Francisco, Calif. For correspondence, write: Garrett K. Chan, APRN, BC-PCM, PhD, CEN, University of California, San Francisco, School of Nursing, 2 Koret Way, Box 0610, San Francisco, CA 94143-0610; E-mail: garrett.chan@nursing.ucsf.edu. J Emerg Nurs 2006;32:101-3. 0099-1767/$32.00 Copyright n 2006 by the Emergency Nurses Association. doi: 10.1016/j.jen.2005.10.006
On the Application of Open-Path Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy To Measure Aerosols: Observations of Water Droplets

This paper proposes the application of Open-Path Fourier Transform Infra-Red (OP−FTIR) spectroscopy to measure aerosols. A preliminary experiment conducted in a standard shower chamber generated a condensed water aerosol cloud. The OP−FTIR beam acquired spectra through the cloud of water droplets. We matched calculated extinction spectra to measured extinction in the spectral range between 500 and 5000 wavenumbers by using Mie theory for spherical particles. The results indicate that size distribution parameters may be retrieved from OP−FTIR spectra acquired over a 1 km optical path with reasonable detection limits on the order of 10 μg·m-3 for aerosols with optical properties equivalent to water.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Transport Properties of New Mixed Ionic−Electronic Conducting V2O5−Polymer Electrolyte Xerogel Nanocomposites

The polymer electrolyte, [(CH2O)(CH2CH2O)8.7]nLiCF3SO3 ((a-PEO)nLiOTf), and V2O5 were combined by sol−gel chemistry to form layered xerogel nanocomposites. These materials exhibit electronic conductivity via the V2O5 component and ionic conductivity through the (a-PEO)nLiOTf. The total conductivity is highly anisotropic with a perpendicular conductivity 6 orders of magnitude less than the parallel component.
Effects of low carbohydrate diets high in red meats or poultry, fish and shellfish on plasma lipids and weight loss

Background Low carbohydrate diets (LCDs) have been demonstrated to be effective tools for promoting weight loss and an improved plasma lipid profile. Such diets are often associated with increased meat consumption, either poultry, fish, and shellfish (PFS), which are generally high in polyunsaturated fat (PUFA) or red meats (RM), generally high in saturated fat (SFA). The fatty acid profile and content of a diet may influence the plasma lipid profile of humans. This study examined whether the type of meat consumed could influence the outcome of an LCD.
The recognition and identification of symmetric switching functions

IN the design of switching circuits based on relay-contact networks, it is known that if the function which describes the network is of the symmetric type it leads to a network which is much more economical of switching elements than the best series-parallel circuit. C. E. Shannon1 first described this type of function and its associated relay contact network in 1938. His definition of the symmetric function was general, but most of the generality of concept has been lost in subsequent treatment of the subject. For example, S. H. Washburn2 defines the symmetric relay-contact network as ?one in which the conditions for closing a particular input-to-output path are given & in terms of the number of relays operated and un-operated.? This particular type of network is derived from a restricted class of symmetric functions ? a class of functions which may be realized by means of iterative networks.3 There is a much larger class of symmetric functions contained within Shannon's definition, and these can be realized only by means of non-iterative networks.
Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition in synovium. Relationship to collagen fibers and chondrometaplasia.

Objective. Reasons for apparent primary deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystals in some synovial membranes have not been systematically examined. We undertook the present study to investigate for and compare possible cellular and matrix factors related to the presence of these crystals in synovium and cartilage. Methods. Ten synovial membrane specimens and 6 cartilage specimens were obtained at the time of joint surgery from 10 patients with CPPD crystal deposition disease, for light microscopic (LM) and electron microscopic (EM) studies. Results. In all synovial and cartilage specimens, we found many of the small CPPD crystals aligned on or in parallel to collagen fibers, as seen by EM. In 9 of the 10 crystal-containing synovia, we found foci of chondrometaplasia adjacent to CPPD, by LM. In 7 of the synovia, including the one without LM evidence of chondrometaplasia, we observed the presence of chondrocyte-like cells by EM. We did not note any predictable relationship between the crystals and matrix vesicles, either in synovium or in cartilage. Conclusion. Our EM findings provide evidence of the relationship of small CPPD-like crystals, presumably early forms, to collagen fibers both in synovium and in cartilage. By LM and EM, we also demonstrate evidence of a close association between chondrometaplasia and CPPD deposits in synovium. We suggest that chondrometaplasia might be responsible for synovial CPPD formation in predisposed patients. Both the collagen fibers and chondrocyte-like cells seem to be involved in the primary formation of CPPD deposits in the synovium as well as in the cartilage.
Essential Role of Cyclin-G–associated Kinase (Auxilin-2) in Developing and Mature Mice

Hsc70 with its cochaperone, either auxilin or GAK, not only uncoats clathrin-coated vesicles but also acts as a chaperone during clathrin-mediated endocytosis. However, because synaptojanin is also involved in uncoating, it is not clear whether GAK is an essential gene. To answer this question, GAK conditional knockout mice were generated and then mated to mice expressing Cre recombinase under the control of the nestin, albumin, or keratin-14 promoters, all of which turn on during embryonic development. Deletion of GAK from brain, liver, or skin dramatically altered the histology of these tissues, causing the mice to die shortly after birth. Furthermore, by expressing a tamoxifen-inducible promoter to express Cre recombinase we showed that deletion of GAK caused lethality in adult mice. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts in which the GAK was disrupted showed a lack of clathrin-coated pits and a complete block in clathrin-mediated endocytosis. We conclude that GAK deletion blocks development and causes lethality in adult animals by disrupting clathrin-mediated endocytosis.
Location-Based Mobile Storytelling

This article describes an investigation in location-based mobile storytelling entitled Tracking Agama. Using a combination of SMS messaging, voice calls, and web log entries, Tracking Agama leads its participants on a narrative-based exploration of Los Angeles, in pursuit of a fabled urban researcher, â€œAgama.â€ Participants use a bit of detective work to discover the keywords allowing access to Agamaâ€™s voice-activated and phone-accessible audio diary entries; send and receive SMS messages from Agama and his assistant; and receive calls from the virtual characters.
Effect of Hole Exit Shaping on Film Cooling Performance for Tripod Hole Injection Over a Flat Surface

The effect of hole exit shaping on both heat transfer coefficient and film cooling effectiveness of tripod injection holes is examined experimentally on a flat plate. Previously, it has been clearly proven that tripod hole configurations provide at least 50–60% more cooling effectiveness while using 50% less coolant than standard cylindrical and shaped hole exit geometries. Temperature data is collected using infrared thermography at different operating conditions to determine the benefit of shaping the hole exits for an already proven tripod hole configuration. The test rig consists of a rectangular test section with a main stream flow at 7.9 m/s and coolant flow injected through the bottom surface through the film cooling injection holes. A unique transient IR technique has been used to determine both the adiabatic film effectiveness and heat transfer coefficient from a single test. Two different exit shaping have been considered, one with a 5° flare and layback and one with a 10° flare and layback. Results show that exit shaping improves the performance of these tripod holes compared to the cylindrical hole exits. The 10° flare and layback exit performs slightly better than the 5° flare and layback exit.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Analysis of Wastewater and Water System Renewal Decision-Making Tools and Approaches

AbstractIn regards to the development of software for decision support for pipeline renewal, most of the attention to date has been paid to the development of asset management models, which help an owner decide on which portions of a system to prioritize for needed actions. There has not been much work in terms of providing guidance on whether to rehabilitate or replace the pipeline asset and choosing the most appropriate methods for that work. These decisions involve the evaluation of many criteria, which must be considered thoroughly to determine the optimal way of rehabilitating or replacing these systems efficiently and cost effectively. As part of the U.S. EPA Aging Water Infrastructure (AWI) Research Program, one key area of research, conducted in collaboration with wastewater and water utilities, was a study of the current approaches available for making rehabilitation versus replacement decisions. The purpose of this study was to (1) identify the current methodologies and decision support systems ...
Comparing sound measurements in the single-family room with open-unit design neonatal intensive care unit: the impact of equipment noise.

Comparing sound measurements in the single-family room with open-unit design neonatal intensive care unit: the impact of equipment noise
Modeling time in medical decision-support programs.

To derive meaningful conclusions in a changing medical setting, medical decision-support systems must represent and reason about the temporal nature of the clinical environments they attempt to model. Because all difficult medical problems have significant temporal features, designers of medical decision support systems must recognize the unique problems caused by representing and reasoning with temporal concepts. This report has three goals. 1) to describe a set of fundamental issues in creating and reasoning with computer models of a changing clinical environment, 2) to present a taxonomy for characterizing the temporal characteristics of computer models of temporal reasoning, and 3) to use this taxonomy to compare the models of time used in some implemented medical decision-support programs. From this examination, it is argued that computational models of time based on a single uniform representational or inferential method are limited by the expressive power of that method. Multiple modeling formalism...
Solventless isomerisation reactions: A crystallographic and thermomicroscopic investigation of some six coordinate RuCl2L2L′2 complexes

The thermal, unidirectional ttt to cct ligand isomerisation of six coordinate ruthenium complexes, RuCl2(RNC)2(PPh3)2 (R = But, 2,6-Xyl, PhCH2 ) and RuCl2(CO)2(PMePh2)2, was investigated in the solid state by powder X-ray diffraction and thermomicroscopy techniques. Temperature studies (under a microscope) on single crystals of ttt-RuCl2(RNC)2(PPh3)2 and ttt-RuCl2(CO)2(PMePh2)2, revealed the reaction took place heterogeneously, via a nuclear formation and growth process commencing at the crystal surface and/or at defects within the crystal. The reaction proceeded without retention of crystallinity. A powder diffraction study was used to follow the isomerisation reaction of ttt-RuCl2(ButNC)2(PPh3)2 and the reaction was found to follow first-order kinetics with Ea = 219 (±26) kJ mol−1.
Management and Four Stakeholder Politics: Corporate Reengineering as a Crossroads Case

The concept of corporate reengineering provides a rich opportunity to consider certain political implications of using the stakeholder concept. By showing the ethical incoherence of corporate reengineering, as the concept is advocated by Michael Hammer and James Champy, I make the point that the stakeholder concept can be interpreted as a means for advocating just human communities. A new conception of Business & Society as Community Studies is one consequence of this argument.
Signalling Events Mediating the Activation of Protein Kinase C by Interleukin-2 in Cytotoxic T Cells

Interleukin-2 (IL-2) plays a vital role in the generation and regulation of the immune response, including important aspects of T cell survival. IL-2-mediated survival of T cells appears to be dependent on the activation of a pool of membrane-associated protein kinase C (PKC) that occurs in the absence of detectable translocation of the enzyme from the cytosol to membranes. In this report we investigate the mechanism(s) responsible for this PKC activation after IL-2 stimulation in the cytotoxic T cell line, CTLL-2. Tyrosine kinase activity, activated after IL-2 stimulation, was found not to be linked to the activation of PKC by the cytokine. On the other hand, a pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive G protein did appear coupled to PKC activation since PTX effectively blocked IL-2 stimulated PKC activity. Diacylglycerols (DAG), but not inositol 1,3,5-triphosphate (IP3) and intracellular Ca2+, increased after IL-2 stimulation suggesting that DAGs were generated via the phosphatidylcholine-phospholipase C (PC-PLC) or phosphatidylcholine-phospholipase D (PC-PLD) pathways. The increase in DAG by IL-2 was probably necessary for activation of membrane-resident PKC since exogenously applied DAG stimulated this PKC pool in both intact cells and in isolated membranes. IL-2 also increased arachidonic acid (AA) production in CTLL-2 cells, probably via phospholipase A2 (PLA2) since the PLA2 inhibitors oleoyloxyethyl phosphocholine and AACOCF3 (AACF) effectively blocked IL-2 stimulated PKC activation. Exogenous AA also increased PKC activity in intact cells and isolated membranes, suggesting that AA produced by IL-2 receptor stimulation was probably linked to PKC activation. These results suggest that the activation of membrane-resident PKC by IL-2 involves multiple second messengers, including G proteins, DAG and AA.
Phase Contrast Endomicroscopy

A microscope add-on is described that measures phase and amplitude in a single shot. The technique is quantitative, light efficient, and works with incoherent illumination. We apply this technique to dynamic biological imaging. Article not available.
Party factions and coalition government: portfolio allocation in Italian Christian Democracy ☆

Abstract In this paper I elaborate a recently advanced argument about government formation, and assess it by studying the factions of the Italian Christian Democratic Party (DC). I contend that the costs of making and breaking coalitions depend on political institutions and on the configuration of actors in policy space. Comparisons across parties in Italy and other countries support this argument. So also do comparisons across party factions. The Christian Democratic factions that incurred the lowest office costs to build coalitions were those at or near the left–right median in Italy's core party. When electoral rules were rewritten in the DC, internal party competition over portfolio allocation changed as well. The paper's conclusion outlines how the argument would guide further research on party factions.
Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial of Robotic versus Open Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer: Perioperative and Pathologic Results

Abstract Background In recent years, surgeons have begun to report case series of minimally invasive approaches to radical cystectomy, including robotic-assisted techniques demonstrating the surgical feasibility of this procedure with the potential of lower blood loss and more rapid return of bowel function and hospital discharge. Despite these experiences and observations, at this point high levels of clinical evidence with regard to the benefits of robotic cystectomy are absent, and the current experiences represent case series with limited comparisons to historical controls at best. Objective We report our results on a prospective randomized trial of open versus robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy with regard to perioperative outcomes, complications, and short-term narcotic usage. Design, setting, and participants A prospective randomized single-center noninferiority study comparing open versus robotic approaches to cystectomy in patients who are candidates for radical cystectomy for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. Of the 41 patients who underwent surgery, 21 were randomized to the robotic approach and 20 to the open technique. Intervention Radical cystectomy, bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy, and urinary diversion by either an open approach or by a robotic-assisted laparoscopic technique. Measurements The primary end point was lymph node (LN) yield with a noninferiority margin of four LNs. Secondary end points included demographic characteristics, perioperative outcomes, pathologic results, and short-term narcotic use. Results and limitations On univariate analysis, no significant differences were found between the two groups with regard to age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, anticoagulation regimen of aspirin, clinical stage, or diversion type. Significant differences were noted in operating room time, estimated blood loss, time to flatus, time to bowel movement, and use of inpatient morphine sulfate equivalents. There was no significant difference in regard to overall complication rate or hospital stay. On surgical pathology, in the robotic group 14 patients had pT2 disease or higher; 3 patients had pT3/T4 disease; and 4 patients had node-positive disease. In the open group, eight patients had pT2 disease or higher; five patients had pT3/T4 disease; and seven patients had node-positive disease. The mean number of LNs removed was 19 in the robotic group versus18 in the open group. Potential study limitations include the limited clinical and oncologic follow-up and the relatively small and single-institution nature of the study. Conclusions We present the results of a prospective randomized controlled noninferiority study with a primary end point of LN yield, demonstrating the robotic approach to be noninferior to the open approach. The robotic approach also compares favorably with the open approach in several perioperative parameters.
A New Dimension in the Vasculoprotective Function of HDL: Progenitor-Mediated Endothelium Repair

Although the vascular endothelium is a potent antithrombotic, antioxidant, and antiinflammatory barrier, prolonged and repeated exposure to the oxidative stress and chronic inflammation which are intimately associated with cardiovascular risk factors such as hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, hypertension, low shear stress, and smoking ultimately blunts these protective mechanisms. Under these conditions, the endothelium not only becomes dysfunctional, but equally may undergo apoptosis resulting in cellular detachment from the underlying intimal layer. Endothelial dysfunction is a key precocious event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and critically contributes to plaque initiation and progression. Denudation of endothelium is associated with increase in proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, enhanced recruitment of monocytes, lipid deposition, and inflammation leading to neointima formation and increased risk of thrombosis. Indeed, thrombi can be formed on denuded endothelial plaque surfaces as well as on apoptotic endothelial cells.1 See page 1144 Mechanisms implicated in endothelial dysfunction include attenuated nitric oxide generation and bioavailability, oxidative stress, upregulation of adhesion molecule expression, generation of chemokines such as macrophage chemoattractant protein-1, and production of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1; all of these factors contribute directly or indirectly to the inflammatory response and equally to the development of a prothrombic state. In addition, numerous studies support the concept that impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation reflects major alteration in endothelial function. Indeed, endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO), synthesized by NO synthase (eNOS) from its precursor L-arginine, is a major mediator of endothelium-dependent vasodilation and is critically involved in the regulation of other protective properties of the healthy endothelium.2 Atherosclerosis risk is inversely related to circulating levels of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). In fact, low HDL-C levels are predictive of elevated cardiovascular risk independently of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations. In addition, patients with low HDL-C levels frequently display early-onset atherosclerosis. Based on these observations, prevention trials have …
Delay-Differentiated Gossiping in Delay Tolerant Networks

Delay Tolerant Networks are increasingly being envisioned for a wide range of applications. Many of these applications need support for quality of service (QoS) differentiation from the network. This paper proposes a method for providing probabilistic delay assurances in DTNs. In particular, the paper presents a method called Delay- Differentiated Gossiping to assure a certain probability of meeting the packets' delay requirements while using as little network resources as possible. The idea is to adapt a set of forwarding probabilities and time-to-live parameters to control the usage of network resources based on how the delay requirements are being met. Empirical results evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed method are also included. The results show that there are simple ways of assuring the delay requirements while making effective use of the network resources.
Coral reef habitat response to climate change scenarios.

Coral reef ecosystems are threatened by both climate change and direct anthropogenic stress. Climate change will alter the physico-chemical environment that reefs currently occupy, leaving only limited regions that are conducive to reef habitation. Identifying these regions early may aid conservation efforts and inform decisions to transplant particular coral species or groups. Here a species distribution model (Maxent) is used to describe habitat suitable for coral reef growth. Two climate change scenarios (RCP4.5, RCP8.5) from the National Center for Atmospheric Research’s Community Earth System Model were used with Maxent to determine environmental suitability for corals (order Scleractinia). Environmental input variables best at representing the limits of suitable reef growth regions were isolated using a principal component analysis. Climate-driven changes in suitable habitat depend strongly on the unique region of reefs used to train Maxent. Increased global habitat loss was predicted in both climate projections through the 21st century. A maximum habitat loss of 43% by 2100 was predicted in RCP4.5 and 82% in RCP8.5. When the model is trained solely with environmental data from the Caribbean/Atlantic, 83% of global habitat was lost by 2100 for RCP4.5 and 88% was lost for RCP8.5. Similarly, global runs trained only with Pacific Ocean reefs estimated that 60% of suitable habitat would be lost by 2100 in RCP4.5 and 90% in RCP8.5. When Maxent was trained solely with Indian Ocean reefs, suitable habitat worldwide increased by 38% in RCP4.5 by 2100 and 28% in RCP8.5 by 2050. Global habitat loss by 2100 was just 10% for RCP8.5. This projection suggests that shallow tropical sites in the Indian Ocean basin experience conditions today that are most similar to future projections of worldwide conditions. Indian Ocean reefs may thus be ideal candidate regions from which to select the best strands of coral for potential re-seeding efforts.
Late Onset of Disease in Congenital Toxoplasmosis

Congenital toxoplasmosis should be considered as the pos sible cause of hydrocephalus, mental retardation, seizures or retinochoroiditis in infants and young children, even though these children appeared normal at the time of birth.
System-level exhaustive link simulation needed for PCB Co-design

Traditionally, the large number of high-speed serial links in large, massively-parallel, highly-interconnected computer systems have been analyzed in terms of signal integrity by selecting a small subset of representative links. Co-design decisions on PCB geometries and connectors are often made from this subset of the links. Is that approach adequate? We show the benefit of simulation of all the links in a system. In addition, we demonstrate how exhaustive simulations are possible through a process of automation.
Stromal Liver Kinase B1 [STK11] Signaling Loss Induces Oviductal Adenomas and Endometrial Cancer by Activating Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1

Germline mutations of the Liver Kinase b1 (LKB1/STK11) tumor suppressor gene have been linked to Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome (PJS), an autosomal-dominant, cancer-prone disorder in which patients develop neoplasms in several organs, including the oviduct, ovary, and cervix. We have conditionally deleted Lkb1 in Mullerian duct mesenchyme-derived cells of the female reproductive tract and observed expansion of the stromal compartment and hyperplasia and/or neoplasia of adjacent epithelial cells throughout the reproductive tract with paratubal cysts and adenomyomas in oviducts and, eventually, endometrial cancer. Examination of the proliferation marker phospho-histone H3 and mammalian Target Of Rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway members revealed increased proliferation and mTORC1 activation in stromal cells of both the oviduct and uterus. Treatment with rapamycin, an inhibitor of mTORC1 activity, decreased tumor burden in adult Lkb1 mutant mice. Deletion of the genes for Tuberous Sclerosis 1 (Tsc1) or Tsc2, regulators of mTORC1 that are downstream of LKB1 signaling, in the oviductal and uterine stroma phenocopies some of the defects observed in Lkb1 mutant mice, confirming that dysregulated mTORC1 activation in the Lkb1-deleted stroma contributes to the phenotype. Loss of PTEN, an upstream regulator of mTORC1 signaling, along with Lkb1 deletion significantly increased tumor burden in uteri and induced tumorigenesis in the cervix and vagina. These studies show that LKB1/TSC1/TSC2/mTORC1 signaling in mesenchymal cells is important for the maintenance of epithelial integrity and suppression of carcinogenesis in adjacent epithelial cells. Because similar changes in the stromal population are also observed in human oviductal/ovarian adenoma and endometrial adenocarcinoma patients, we predict that dysregulated mTORC1 activity by upstream mechanisms similar to those described in these model systems contributes to the pathogenesis of these human diseases.
Progastrin Stimulates Colonic Cell Proliferation via CCK2R- and β-Arrestin–Dependent Suppression of BMP2

Background & Aims Progastrin stimulates colonic mucosal proliferation and carcinogenesis through the cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R)—partly by increasing the number of colonic progenitor cells. However, little is known about the mechanisms by which progastrin stimulates colonic cell proliferation. We investigated the role of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) in progastrin induction of colonic cell proliferation via CCK2R. Methods We performed microarray analysis to compare changes in gene expression in the colonic mucosa of mice that express a human progastrin transgene, gastrin knockout mice, and C57BL/6 mice (controls); the effects of progastrin were also determined on in vitro colonic crypt cultures from cholecystokinin 2 receptor knockout and wild-type mice. Human colorectal and gastric cancer cells that expressed CCK2R were incubated with progastrin or Bmp2; levels of β-arrestin 1 and 2 were knocked down using small interfering RNAs. Cells were analyzed for progastrin binding, proliferation, changes in gene expression, and symmetric cell division. Results The BMP pathway was down-regulated in the colons of human progastrin mice compared with controls. Progastrin suppressed transcription of Bmp2 through a pathway that required CCK2R and was mediated by β-arrestin 1 and 2. In mouse colonic epithelial cells, down-regulation of Bmp2 led to decreased phosphorylation of Smads1/5/8 and suppression of inhibitor of DNA binding 4. In human gastric and colorectal cancer cell lines, CCK2R was necessary and sufficient for progastrin binding and induction of proliferation; these effects were blocked when cells were incubated with recombinant Bmp2. Incubation with progastrin increased the number of CD44 + , bromodeoxyuridine+, and NUMB + cells, indicating an increase in symmetric divisions of putative cancer stem cells. Conclusions Progastrin stimulates proliferation in colons of mice and cultured human cells via CCK2R- and β-arrestin 1 and 2−dependent suppression of Bmp2 signaling. This process promotes symmetric cell division.
Single mode lasing in a gain-guided index anti-guided diode end pumped fiber

Single mode oscillation in a 200 mum core diameter gain guided index anti-guided fiber laser is demonstrated. Single mode oscillation is maintained for pumping of up to four times laser threshold, limited by available pump power.
Evaluating Buccal and Cloacal Swabs for Ease of Collection and Use in Genetic Analyses of Marine Turtles

Abstract Buccal and cloacal swabs have been used for genetic sampling for a variety of reptiles but not for marine turtles to date. We evaluated whether this method offers a simple and quick way to sample cells from live marine turtles in the wild when it is not feasible to obtain blood or skin. Good-quality DNA was obtained for genetic analyses from both buccal and cloacal swabs. Although we recommend blood and skin sampling whenever possible to collect the highest quality DNA, buccal and cloacal swabs do represent a useful alternative for genetic sampling when these preferred methods are not feasible.
Evaluation of Co-channel and Adjacent Channel Interference for Multiple Bluetooth Piconets with Dual Channel Transmission

The paper proposed a frequency diversity technique for Bluetooth, namely dual channel transmission (DCT), to reduce the packet error rate (PER) due to inter-piconet interference when multiple Bluetooth piconets coexist. With DCT, the same packet is transmitted on two distinct frequency hopped channels simultaneously, and the power used in each channel is half of what would be used in single channel transmission (SCT). A packet is successfully received if at least one channel survives. There is a tradeoff between the increased reliability due to the diversity offered by DCT, and the potentially increased interference due to the use of extra channel. The authors evaluate the performance of DCT when co-channel and adjacent channel interference, as well as wireless propagation characteristics are considered. It is shown that with DCT, the PER is significantly lower than that of SCT when a small number of piconets coexist. Numerical simulations validate the analysis and demonstrate the effectiveness of DCT.
The effect of surface stress on the configurational equilibrium of voids and cracks

Abstract The title problem is studied for a linear surface energy density with two surface stress coefficients. In terms of a Young’s modulus E and an applied traction T, the perturbation of a smooth (equilibrium or nonequilibrium) configuration affected by a surface stress Σo is proportional to ΣoT/E, which is small but depends on the sign of T. It is shown that, through the existence of an interaction energy between the applied traction and the surface stress, a Griffith crack can actually be strengthened (weakened) by a crack-parallel tension (compression) via surface stress, an intuitively reasonable conclusion that does not follow from linear elasticity. In general, surface stress can effectively reduce an applied stress-intensity factor to a lower effective stress-intensity factor.
X-ray diffraction evidence for a critical end point for cerium I and cerium II☆

Abstract A beryllium pressure vessel has been used to investigate the two face-centered phases of cerium at various temperatures and pressures along the phase boundary. X-ray diffraction records of the strong 111 peak of both phases show that the two peaks coalesce with increasing temperature and pressure along the boundary. The P - t region for the critical end point of the boundary is obtained by extrapolation of the change in d -spacing with distance along the boundary, and is found to be 350–400°C and 20–22 kb. The X-ray data also show that the compressibility and thermal expansion of the high-pressure (II) phase are greater than those of the low-pressure (I) phase. Rate studies indicate that under pressure phase I persists into the phase II stability field with lowering temperature. Considerable overstepping of pressure into this field is also possible before complete transformation of I–II will take place.
Tetrahedron report : Concerning the biosynthesis of vitamin B12

Abstract The use of 13C-Fourier transform nuclear magnetic resonance (FT-NMR) has led to the observation that while 8 molecules of [2-13C]-ALA are incorporated into vitamin B12 in P. shermanii, [5-13C]-ALA labels only seven of the carbon atoms of cyanocobalamin; i.e. one of the amino methyl groups of ALA is “lost” in the process. It has also been confirmed that seven of the methyl groups of vitamin B12 are derived from [13CH3]-enriched methionine and further that the chirality of the gem-dimethyl grouping at C12 labeled with [13CH3]-methionine is R. A soluble enzyme mixture from the 37,000 g or 100,000 g supernatant of disrupted cells of P. shermanii converts both 14C-labeled ALA and 14C-uro'gen III to cobyrinic acid, the simplest corrinoid material on the pathway to vitamin B12 and the coenzyme, in presence of NADPH, Co2+, Mg2+, S-adenosylmethionine and glutathione. Multiply-labeled uro'gens (13C, 14C and 3H) have been used to show that incorporation takes place without randomization. A sequence for corrin synthesis from uro'gen III, involving as the first step decarboxylation of the ring-C acetic acid side chain, is proposed.
Using fuzzy logic based evidence for Bulgarian winery market competitiveness

A fuzzy set based evidence set methodology is developed in this paper to address a wine management decision about whether or not to undertake a product introduction, and if so, in what cost range. The basis for this decision is competitiveness of the marketplace and cost based on the perception of related selling price and profitability. The paper presents an application utilizing simulated results and expert opinions acquired through collaboration with Bulgarian institutions of higher education.
The Little Brown Woman: Gender Discrimination in American Medicine

Drawing on 121 in-depth interviews with first- and second-generation women and men physicians of Indian origin in the U.S. Southwest, I examine the incidence and nature of gender-based discrimination in American medicine. I focus on two aspects: (1) gender discrimination by employers and colleagues against women physicians of Indian origin and (2) the interaction of gender discrimination with race in the professional lives of first- and second-generation physicians. U.S. healthcare has become increasingly dependent on immigrants, in particular women physicians, from the developing world. I document the significant impact gender and race can have in molding the professional trajectories of Indian women physicians. The experiences of these physicians help clarify the interaction of skilled migrant workers with racial/ethnic and gender relations in U.S. workplaces.
Phosphine-Catalyzed Synthesis of 6-Substituted 2-Pyrones: Manifestation of E/Z-Isomerism in the Zwitterionic Intermediate

We report a one-step phosphine-catalyzed annulation between aldehydes and ethyl allenoate to form 6-substituted 2-pyrones. The mechanistic rationale for this reaction requires explicit discussion of the E/Z-isomerism of the zwitterionic intermediate formed by the addition of a phosphine to the allenoate. Sterically demanding trialkylphosphines facilitate the shift of equilibrium toward the E-isomeric zwitterion and lead to the formation of 6-substituted 2-pyrones. Various aromatic as well as aliphatic aldehydes undergo the transformation in moderate to excellent yield.
Race and food store availability in an inner-city neighbourhood.

Background A growing body of research has shown that disparities in resources, including food stores, exist at the neighbourhood level and the greatest disparities are seen in minority neighbourhoods, the same neighbourhoods at increased risk of obesity and diabetes. Less is known about whether differences in availability of resources by African American or Latino race/ethnicity exist within a single minority community. Objective The present study examined whether census blocks either 75% African American (AA) or 75% Latino (L) are associated with food store availability, as compared with racially mixed (RM) census blocks, in East Harlem, New York. Design/methods A cross-sectional study utilising a walking survey of East Harlem was performed. Food stores were classified into: supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, specialty stores, full-service restaurants and fast-food stores. Results One hundred and sixty-five East Harlem census blocks were examined; 17 were AA, 34 were L and 114 were RM. Of AA census blocks, 100% had neither supermarkets nor grocery stores. AA census blocks were less likely to have convenience stores (prevalence ratio (PR) = 0.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07-0.86) compared with RM census blocks. In contrast, predominantly L census blocks were more likely to have convenience stores (PR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.20-2.70), specialty food stores (PR = 3.74, 95% CI 2.06-7.15), full-service restaurants (PR = 1.87, 95% CI 1.04-3.38) and fast-food restaurants (PR = 2.14, 95% CI 1.33-3.44) compared with RM census blocks. Conclusions We found that inequities in food store availability exist by race/ethnicity in East Harlem, New York. This has implications for racial/ethnic differences in dietary quality, obesity and obesity-related disorders.
Delayed release film coating applications on oral solid dosage forms of proton pump inhibitors: case studies

Background: Formulation of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) into oral solid dosage forms is challenging because the drug molecules are acid-labile. The aim of this study is to evaluate different formulation strategies (monolithic and multiparticulates) for three PPI drugs, that is, rabeprazole sodium, lansoprazole, and esomeprazole magnesium, using delayed release film coating applications. Method: The core tablets of rabeprazole sodium were prepared using organic wet granulation method. Multiparticulates of lansoprazole and esomeprazole magnesium were prepared through drug layering of sugar spheres, using powder layering and suspension layering methods, respectively. Tablets and drug-layered multiparticulates were seal-coated, followed by delayed release film coating application, using Acryl-EZE®, aqueous acrylic enteric system. Multiparticulates were then filled into capsules. The final dosage forms were evaluated for physical properties, as well as in vitro dissolution testing in both compendial acid phas...
Search for Biomarkers of Intracranial Aneurysms: A Systematic Review

Introduction Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) remain a devastating clinical challenge, and the pathogenesis of IA formation and progression continues to be unclear. Biomarker analysis can help us understand IA development. The authors performed a systematic review of current literature on genetic and serum biomarkers for IAs in an attempt to identify diagnostic/prognostic factors for ruptured and unruptured aneurysms. Methods All relevant studies on PubMed that reported blood/cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers and genes that regulate biomarker levels for IAs were assessed for whether the biomarkers/genes studied correlated with IA formation and rupture. Results Thirty-three studies were reviewed. IAs are associated with an increase in levels of immunologic markers, particularly complement C3 and C9, immunoglobulins IgG and IgM, M1/M2 macrophages, monocytes, and B and T lymphocytes; increase in blood and CSF levels of adhesion molecules; selectins found on vascular endothelium, platelets, and leukocytes; doubled ratios of elastase-to–alpha-1-antitrypsin as controls; elevated levels of neurofilament heavy chain SM135 and S-100 post rupture; and locus 19q13 with many candidate genes. Conclusion Though the pathophysiology of the disease remains unclear, the current literature supports the role of inflammatory and cell adhesion molecules, enzymes and hormones that effect cerebral vasculature, and other cerebral proteins related to brain and vascular damage in both the formation and progression to rupture of IAs. Future investigations are needed to validate results from previous studies and identify new diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers of IAs.
Representation of mental health application access policy in a monotonic model

The access policy to patients' records in a mental health hospital has only a verbal specification, and many formal systems fail to represent all the aspects of this problem. This paper uses an extension of SPM, which can represent revocation and conditional tickets, to model part of this access policy. Even with our extension, SPM still remains a monotonic model, where rights can be removed only in very special cases, and this makes it impossible to represent all the aspects of the problem. Other than to serve as an example for the extensions previously proposed by the authors (1993), this paper also helps to separate aspects of this access control policy which are inherently monotonic from parts which are defined in a non-monotonic way, but can still be represented in a monotonic model. >
Social Security and Its Impact on Older Latinos

Older Latinos have distinct demographic and economic characteristics that are making their reliance on Social Security critical. Latinos are the fastest growing segment of the older adult population. They have lower than average educational levels and higher rates of poverty than other subgroups. In addition, they have small accumulated wealth and limited retirement income. Social Security is a particularly important source of income for older Latinos because it provides many older Latinos with their sole or primary sources of income in retirement. Without Social Security, more than half of older Latinos would live in poverty. This study finds four factors that make Social Security beneficial to older Latinos: (a) lower lifetime incomes, (b) longer life expectancies, (c) higher disability incidence, and (d) higher marriage rates. Because of these factors, older Latinos receive a higher average rate of return on their Social Security contributions. The study also provides policy implications for economic s...
No X-rays from the very nearby type Ia SN 2014J: Constraints on its environment

Deep X-ray observations of the post-explosion environment around the very nearby Type Ia SN 2014J (d{sub L} = 3.5 Mpc) reveal no X-ray emission down to a luminosity L{sub x} < 7 × 10{sup 36} erg s{sup –1} (0.3-10 keV) at δt ∼ 20 days after the explosion. We interpret this limit in the context of inverse Compton emission from upscattered optical photons by the supernova shock and constrain the pre-explosion mass-loss rate of the stellar progenitor system to be M-dot <10{sup −9} M{sub ⊙} yr{sup −1} (for wind velocity v{sub w} = 100 km s{sup –1}). Alternatively, the SN shock might be expanding into a uniform medium with density n{sub CSM} < 3 cm{sup –3}. These results rule out single-degenerate (SD) systems with steady mass loss until the terminal explosion and constrain the fraction of transferred material lost at the outer Lagrangian point to be ≤1%. The allowed progenitors are (1) white dwarf-white dwarf progenitors, (2) SD systems with unstable hydrogen burning experiencing recurrent nova eruptions with recurrence time t < 300 yr, and (3) stars where the mass loss ceases before the explosion.
Protective Role of Th2 Cells in Mouse Experimental Myasthenia Gravis

CD4+ cells comprise Th1 and Th2 cells that differ in their function and in the cytokines they secrete [1–3]. Thl cells mediate effector functions of the immune system: they secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines and can be cytotoxic. Also, they help the synthesis of IgG subclasses that bind complement, and therefore are most effective in causing cell and tissue damage. Th2 cells modulate immune responses by secreting anti-inflammatory cytokines, like IL-4 and IL-10, that down-regulate the function of antigen-presenting cells and Thl cells. Th2 cells are not cytotoxic and help synthesis of antibodies that do not bind complement, such as IgE, IgG4 in humans and its homologue in mice, IgG1.