cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of acute anoxia on renal transport processes.

Acute disruption of the renal blood supply has been shown by several workers to alter renal cortical metabolic functions and some transport processes. The present study was designed to examine acute ischemic effects on transport functions for both organic and inorganic substances. Acute clamping of the renal artery, renal vein, and ureter for 45 min produces a reversible disruption of tissue electrolyte and water balance. Longer occlusion appeared to produce irreversible effects. α‐Aminoisobutyrate (AIB) and lactate‐stlmulated p‐aminohippurate (PAH) transport were altered selectively by the 45‐min occlusion. A longer occlusion period also depressed base‐line PAH and tetraethylammonium (TEA) transport. Some of the depression of the organic compound transport functions are reversible. Renal cortical oxygen consumption measured in vitro was affected minimally.
Ion beam micromachining of integrated optics components.

Thin film integrated optics components such as light guides, modulators, directional couplers, and polarizers demand high quality edge smoothness and high resolution pattern formation in dimensions down to submicrometer size. Fabrication techniques combining holographic and scanning electron beam lithography with ion beam micromachining have produced planar phase gratings with intervals as small as 2800 A, guiding channel couplers in GaAs, and also wire- grid polarizers for 10.6-µm radiation.
Stepwise refinement revisited

In this paper, rigorous application of stepwise refinement is explored. The steps of definition, decomposition, and completion are described, where completion is a newly introduced step. This combination of steps extends the use of stepwise refinement to larger systems. The notions of range, active objects, and backlog interface are introduced. Verification of incomplete programs via interactive testing is described. The paradigm is demonstrated in an example. The relationship between the paradigm and the current programming languages is considered. It is argued that the WHILE-DO loop is a harmful construct from this point of view.
Effect of sensor and actuator errors on static shape control for large space structures

An analytical study was performed to predict and assess the effect of actuator and sensor errors on the performance of a shape control procedure for flexible space structures using applied temperatures. Approximate formulas were derived for the expected value and variance of the rms distortion ratio (ratio of rms distortions with and without corrections) based on the assumption of zero-mean normally distributed random errors in measured distortions and actuator output temperatures. Studies were carried out for a 55-meter radiometer antenna reflector distorted from its ideal parabolic shape by nonuniform orbital heating. The first study consisted of varying the sensor and actuator errors for the case of 12 actuators and computing the distortion ratio. In the second study, sensor and actuator errors were prescribed and the effect of increasing the number of actuators was evaluated.
Choice of operation in familial adenomatous polyposis.

Three surgical options are discussed for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis: proctocolectomy with ileostomy, colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis, and colectomy with rectal mucosectomy and ileoanal pouch with a temporary ileostomy.
Mother moose: Generating extra dimensions from simple groups at large N

We show that there exists a correspondence between four dimensional gauge theories with simple groups and higher dimensional gauge theories at large N. As an example, we show that a four dimensional $\mathcal{N}=2$ supersymmetric $\mathrm{SU}(N)$ gauge theory, on the Higgs branch, has the same correlators as a five dimensional $\mathrm{SU}(N)$ gauge theory in the limit of large N provided the couplings are appropriately rescaled. We show that our results can be applied to the AdS-CFT correspondence to derive correlators of five or more dimensional gauge theories from solutions of five dimensional supergravity in the large 't Hooft coupling limit.
SIRT3, a Mitochondrial Sirtuin Deacetylase, Regulates Mitochondrial Function and Thermogenesis in Brown Adipocytes

SIRT3 is one of the seven mammalian sirtuin homologs of the yeast Sir2 gene, which mediates the effect of caloric restriction on life span extension in yeast and Caenorhabditis elegans. Because adipose tissue is essential in energy homeostasis and also plays a role in life span determination, we decided to investigate the function of sirtuin members in fat. We report here that murine SIRT3 is expressed in brown adipose tissue and is localized on the mitochondria inner membrane. Caloric restriction activates SIRT3 expression in both white and brown adipose. Additionally, cold exposure up-regulates SIRT3 expression in brown fat, whereas elevated climate temperature reduces the expression. Enforced expression of SIRT3 in the HIB1B brown adipocytes enhances the expression of the uncoupling protein PGC-1α, UCP1, and a series of mitochondria-related genes. Both ADP-ribosyltransferase and deacetylase activities of SIRT3 are required for this action. Furthermore, the SIRT3 deacetylase mutant exhibits a dominant negative effect by inhibiting UCP1 expression. This inhibitive effect can be abolished by the coexpression of PGC-1α, indicating a major role of PGC-1α in the SIRT3 action. In addition, SIRT3 stimulates CREB phosphorylation, which reportedly activates PGC-1α promoter directly. Functionally, sustained expression of SIRT3 decreases membrane potential and reactive oxygen species production while increasing cellular respiration. Finally, SIRT3, along with genes related to mitochondrial function, is down-regulated in the brown adipose tissue of several genetically obese mice. In summary, our results demonstrate that SIRT3 activates mitochondria functions and plays an important role in adaptive thermogenesis in brown adipose.
Joint Modeling of Longitudinal and Cure-survival Data

This article presents semiparametric joint models to analyze longitudinal measurements and survival data with a cure fraction. We consider a broad class of transformations for the cure-survival model, which includes the popular proportional hazards structure and the proportional odds structure as special cases. We propose to estimate all the parameters using the nonparametric maximum likelihood estimators (NPMLE). We provide the simple and efficient EM algorithms to implement the proposed inference procedure. Asymptotic properties of the estimators are shown to be asymptotically normal and semiparametrically efficient. Finally, we demonstrate the good performance of the method through extensive simulation studies and a real-data application.
Treatment options in the management of necrotising fasciitis caused by Group A Streptococcus.

Invasive Group A Streptococcus (GAS) disease is a serious condition that has multiple manifestations. A particularly severe form of invasive GAS disease is necrotising fasciitis (NF). The case-fata...
Analyzing clusters of web application user sessions

User sessions provide valuable insight into the dynamic behavior of web applications. They also play a key role in user-session-based testing, which gathers user sessions in the field and replays selected sessions to test an evolving application. To decrease the testing and analysis effort, testers reduce the set of collected user sessions by either clustering user sessions by their shared URL attributes or by program coverage requirements-based reduction techniques. Clustering URL attributes can be considerably less expensive; however, the tradeoff may be that clustering is not representative of dynamic behavior similarities. This paper describes our analysis of user session data to reveal correlations between sessions clustered on the sessions' attributes and the relative dynamic behavior of the program for those sessions. The results of our analysis also motivate other clustering and test suite reduction techniques. Our results can also be used to learn more about how clusters of web application use cases are related in terms of the underlying user session attributes, program coverage, and fault detection.
Random and non-random bonding in covalent alloys

Abstract An expression for the configurational entropy due to the different types of bonds is derived by an extension of the solution for a one-dimensional Ising lattice. It is valid in an approximation which ignores ring configurations containing all like atoms. Expressions are derived which describe the equilibrium bond concentrations in situations ranging between the extremes of completely non-random bonding (CBN) and completely random bonding (CRB). It is found that previously used expressions for CRB are incorrect in cases when one of the alloy constituents has three or more bonds. The theory is also used to find the effect of non-random bonding on the equilibrium concentration of bond defects, and previous errors are corrected.
On the interpretation of the electron anomalous magnetic moment

Guided by a Compton-sized model, we demonstrate that: (a) the magnetic self-energy of the electron, as estimated initially by Rasetti and Fermi, can be directly related to both the sign and the magnitude of the electron anomalous magnetic moment; and (b) the classical expression for the magnetic self-energy of the electron exhibits the same characteristic logarithmic divergence that occurs in QED. This electron model quantitatively reproduces the spin, magnetic moment, and gyromagnetic ratio of the electron, correct to first order inα = e2 /ℏc. It also relates the quantum-mechanical spin projection angle to the vanishing of the electric quadrupole moment, and it is capable of reproducing point-like scattering behavior.
In situ Fluoride Uptake from Fluoride Dentifrices by Carious Enamel

A series of studies was performed to measure fluoride deposition in incipient caries-like lesions in enamel specimens contained in functional partial dentures in panelists who used fluoride dentifrices for periods ranging from two to nine weeks. The studies demonstrated the ability of the model to replicate the fluoride-uptake results obtained with a series of three dentifrices in two different panels of subjects. All fluoride dentifrices resulted in significant fluoride deposition, although significantly greater deposition was observed with a NaF-SiO 2 dentifrice.
The influence of ion-milling damage to magnetic properties of Co 80 Pt 20 patterned perpendicular media

In this study, different accelerating voltages were applied in the ion-milling process to fabricate CoPt nanopillar arrays in order to investigate the influence of ion damage to magnetic properties. Nanopillar arrays fabricated at a higher accelerating voltage give a lower value of coercivity and ion damage does not broaden the switching field distribution (SFD). The ‘edge damage’ model was employed in micromagnetic simulations to investigate the reversal mechanism and SFD. The results shows that the edge damage can change the switching mode from coherent rotation to nucleation followed by rapid domain wall motion, and the broad SFD mainly comes from the intrinsic anisotropy distribution, rather than size distribution. In addition, the angle dependence of the switching field measurement shows that nanopillars with damaged edges have Stoner–Wohlfarth behaviour, which indicates that fitting the Stoner–Wohlfarth curve does not necessarily mean coherent rotation. It is the comparison between the field for domain wall motion and the nucleation field that determines the location of angle dependence curves.
Respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function in welders of mild steel: A cross‐sectional study

Pulmonary function measurements, respiratory symptoms, smoking history, and occupational history were obtained from 91 male welders of mild steel, with mean welding exposure of 108 months, and 80 male factory controls. Nonsmoking welders compared to nonsmoking controls reported higher frequencies of respiratory symptoms and the differences were statistically significant for two symptoms: phlegm, and episodes of cough and phlegm. In comparisons of smoking welders and smoking controls, no significant differences were found in the prevalence of respiratory symptoms. Nonsmoking welders and smoking welders, compared to respective controls, did not have significantly decreased mean values of forced vital capacity or forced expired volume in 1 sec. Mean mid-expiratory flow rates and forced expiratory flow rates at 75% of forced vital capacity were lower, but not significantly different, for welders, compared to controls. These decrements in peripheral flow rates could be trivial or they could represent the initial stages of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Long-term follow-up, provided by a large prospective study, is needed to make this distinction.
Effect of Hydrogenated Water on Fatigue Crack Growth for Austenitic Stainless Steel in Simulated BWR Water Environment

Fatigue crack growth rates (FCGR) of sensitized austenitic stainless steel (SS) were measured in simulated BWR water at 288 °C using compact tension specimens under different cyclic loading modes, including saw-tooth, trapezoidal and constant loading pattern. This study tested sensitized SS in normal water chemistry (NWC) and hydrogen water chemistry (HWC) respectively, and attempted to clarify the effect of low electrochemical corrosion potential on the FCGR of sensitized stainless steel. Significant environment effects on FCGR of sensitized stainless steel were observed in both water chemistries when compared with air fatigue curve. The pronounced suppression effect of HWC on crack growth in statically sustained load was not observed in cyclic loading condition. ASME curve doesn’t seem to be conservative and could not bound all the FCGR data tested in this study. In contrast, all of the measured FCGR data were bound by the JSME disposition curve. PLEDGE model proposed by General Electric reasonably predicted the FCGR of sensitized SS in NWC, but underestimated the FCGR in HWC. ANL’s superposition model successfully estimated the FCGR measured in both water chemistries. The fractography exhibited transgranular fracture mode during the crack initiation and growth stage. No differences in the appearance of fracture surface were observed in HWC and NWC. Only in very high DO environments, the sensitized 304 SS exhibited the mixed mode of intergranular and transgranular during growth stage.© 2004 ASME
Coping in Isolation The Experiences of Black Women in White Communities

This exploratory study used a critical hermeneutic, which combined Black feminist epistemology and Gadamerian hermeneutics, to understand the experiences of Black middle-class women who relocated t...
Design and implementation of a human ECoG simulator for testing brain-machine interfaces

This paper presents the design and implementation of a signal simulator that emulates event-related human electrocorticographic (ECoG) signals. This real-time simulator renders a representative model of human ECoG encompassing prominent physiological modulation in the time domain (e.g., event-related potentials, or ERPs) and the frequency domain (e.g., alpha/mu, beta, and high gamma band). The simulated signals were generated in a MATLAB SIMULINK framework and output through a National Instruments PCI card for recording by a standard research-grade ECoG amplifier system. Trial-averaged event-related spectrograms computed offline from simulated signals exhibit characteristics similar to those of experimental human ECoG recordings. The presented simulator can serve as a useful tool for testing real-time brain-machine interface (BMI) applications. It can also serve as a potential framework for future implementation of neuronal models for generation of extracellular field potentials.
Selective hydrolysis of epoxidized soybean oil by commercially available lipases : Effects of epoxy group on the enzymatic hydrolysis

Abstract Eight lipases were studied in hydrolysis reactions toward the goal of selectively removing saturated fatty acids from epoxidized soybean oil. Commercially available epoxidized soybean oil has about 18% saturated fatty acids, which manifest themselves as branches when used in polymers. The removal of these fatty acids creates a potentially valuable degree of freedom in the processing of soybean oil for polymer applications. Hydrolysis was achieved with seven of the eight enzymes with the epoxy functionality increasing reaction rates and changing selectivities. Lipases from Penicillium roquefortii, Mucor javanicus, Rhizomucor miehei and Pseudomonas sp. showed selectivity toward diepoxy acyl moieties. Aspergillus niger lipase selectively hydrolyzed saturated fatty acids in soybean oil but the lipase was not selective with epoxidized soybean oil. Penicillium camembertii lipase was found to be an inactive enzyme for triglyceride substrates. The selectivity of Candida rugosa toward saturated fatty acids increased in epoxidized soybean oil. Burkholderia cepacia lipase had selectivity toward both palmitic acid and stearic acid but not the epoxy acyl moieties. A hypothesis is proposed that explains unexpected trends in the selectivities of the lipases.
Rapid filling cystometry for predicting poor symptomatic results after transurethral prostatic surgery

Twenty-seven patients with symptomatic bladder outlet obstruction secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were evaluated preoperatively by standard urodynamic investigation and by rapid filling cystometry (RFC). Rapid filling cystometry was performed by injecting a maximum of 120 ml saline into the empty bladder through a catheter at a constant flow rate over 4 seconds. Twenty-three patients were reexamined 3 months after transurethral prostatic surgery. Three patients had not improved symptomatically. None of these three had uninhibited detrusor contractions (UDC) by RFC, but medium filling cystometry revealed UDC in 2 of the patients, both pre- and postoperatively. Rapid filling cystometry, as used in this study, correlated poorly with medium filling cystometry and failed to identify the patients that will not benefit from prostatic surgery due to persistent postoperative UDC.
The preparation, conductivity, viscosity and mechanical properties of polymer electrolytes and new hybrid ionic rubber electrolytes

Abstract The preparation and characterization of new ionic rubber electrolytes based on the ternary LiClO 4 LiNO 3 LiOAc and the high molecular weight PEO (m wt 8 × 10 6 ) is reported. The conductivity, viscosity and shear modulus have been measured. The decrease in conductivity due to incorporation of 9% PEO (m wt 8 × 10 6 ) in the salt mixture is small (factor of 5), but the increases in viscosity is enormous ( eg factor of ~5000 with only 5% PEO). 10% PEO (m wt 8 × 10 6 ) can give rise to a rubbery plateau above T g which extends to about 130 °C transition to liquid defined by the onset temperature of the varnishing of the shear modulus. These characteristics combined with the high Li cation transport number make this kind of material very promising. Results are compared with those of the conventional salts-in-polymer electrolytes and the crossover to the polymer-in-salts region is identified by a maximum in the rubbery modulus.
Accuracy evaluation of the primary frequency standard NIST-7

We develop a comprehensive approach to the evaluation of the uncertainty of a primary frequency standard. Indirect, model-dependent means are employed for the evaluation of all known biases. This approach leads to a lower combined standard uncertainty (CSU) and leaves frequency measurements under altered conditions as a powerful search technique for unknown biases. We report the results of this evaluation technique applied to NIST-7, one of the United States' primary frequency standards. The best CSU value we have reported to the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) is 5 × 10−15, while a vigorous application of this evaluation process would suggest that a limiting Type B uncertainty of 3.5 × 10−15 is possible. We discuss this difference and the implications of reporting optimistic values. We also discuss the history of reported evaluations of NIST-7 including those made before the full implementation of the techniques presented here.
Novel C1q assay reveals a clinically relevant subset of human leukocyte antigen antibodies independent of immunoglobulin G strength on single antigen beads.

Abstract It has been known for 40 years that cytotoxic human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies are associated with graft rejection. However, the complement-dependent cytotoxicity assay (CDC) used to define these clinically deleterious antibodies suffers from a lack of sensitivity and specificity. Recently, methods exploiting immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody binding to HLA single antigen beads (SAB) have overcome sensitivity and specificity drawbacks but introduced a new dilemma: which of the much broader set of antibodies defined by these methods are clinically relevant. To address this, we developed a complement-fixing C1q assay on the HLA SAB that combines sensitivity, specificity, and functional potential into one assay. We compared the CDC, IgG, and C1q assays on 96 sera having 2,118 defined antibodies and determined that CDC detects only 19% of complement-fixing antibodies detected by C1q, whereas C1q detects only 47% of antibodies detected by IgG. In the same patient, there is no predictability by IgG mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) as to which of the antibodies will bind C1q because fixation is independent of MFI values. In 3 clinical studies, C1q + antibodies appear to be more highly correlated than those detected by IgG alone for antibody-mediated rejection in hearts as well as for kidney transplant glomerulopathy and graft failure.
Characterizing optical surfaces using the area structure function

The area structure function (ASF) spatially characterizes surfaces of any arbitrary aperture over all frequencies, while retaining information on the isotropic nature of the surface. Calculation and interpretations of ASFs are shown
Combining advanced NMR techniques with ultrahigh resolution mass spectrometry: A new strategy for molecular scale characterization of macromolecular components of soil and sedimentary organic matter

Molecular level characterization of complex biopolymers in nature is a key element to understanding the composition of natural organic matter (NOM) and fossil organic matter formation, such as kerogen and coal. Characterization of such geopolymers is difficult due to their heterogeneity and insolubility in common aqueous or organic solvents. Here, a strategy for extracting a representative sample is presented using the combined techniques of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR-MS) for chemical analysis and characterization of NOM. A variety of NOM samples (wood, kerogen, bitumen, whole sediments) are shown as examples for implementing the strategy, which include solvent extractions using pyridine. For most samples, the extracts are confirmed to be chemically representative of the insoluble solid, by comparing the liquids NMR spectrum of the extract to that of the whole, unfractionated NOM utilizing high resolution magic angle spinning (HRMAS) NMR. To assist in unambiguous peak assignment, a technique for post acquisition spectral denoising, using wavelet transformation (WT), is also employed on the 1D and 2D NMR spectra. The findings from the NMR data lay a foundation for the subsequent electrospray ionization FTICR-MS analysis of the pyridine extracts, since this instrument has the limitation of only analyzing liquid samples. The FTICR-MS analyses can, therefore, be used to molecularly represent the structural components of the NOM. Various compositional insights have been obtained on these samples, indicating the efficacy of the analytical techniques used.
Random vibration and the single degree-of-freedom vibratory system: a symbolic quantification of isolation and packaging performance

With twenty years of research, active and semi-active systems have been shown to have certain performance advantages over passive suspensions in certain operating regimes. Chalasani and Redfield and Karnopp have shown that, depending on the performance index and weightings, active control improves performance from little to moderately. There are situations where passive control is quite satisfactory and the complexities and cost of more active means may not be warranted. To further the understanding of the tradeoffs involved and the performance potentials of active suspensions, this paper symbolically quantifies the isolation and stroke performance for a one degree-of-freedom vibratory system subject to a stochastic disturbance input acting through the suspension. The system of this paper models that of tracked vehicles and a class of isolation systems quite well. It also gives insight into low and high frequency performance for two degree-of-freedom systems such as a typical suspension model for automobiles, aircraft, and rail vehicles. Because of the nature of the single degree-of-freedom model, issues of handling cannot be readily addressed in this work. The 1 DOF model does not adequately predict dynamic tire forces. The main contributions of this work are the closed form symbolic solutions developed for optimal suspension responsemore » and the demonstration of the marked similarity between the frequency and mean square response of the 1 degree-of-freedom model of this paper and the more involved 2 degree-of-freedom model incorporating a so-called unsprung mass.''« less
Hastening death by selective disclosure of treatment options--beneficence or "euthanasia by deception"?

In this paper I make a radical claim regarding selective non-disclosure of treatment options that have some hope of prolonging a patient's life. I suggest that selective non-disclosure under such circumstances is tantamount to what might be called “euthanasia by deception.” I offer a case to test the validity of my claim and to demonstrate how the failure to offer or, at least, to discuss renal dialysis in this case (and, by inference, any other form of treatment which has some hope of prolonging a patient's life) qualifies as paternalism in its most egregious form. I discuss the actions of the health care team and try to find some plausible reasons why they acted as they did. I conclude that there must be greater emphasis placed on teaching clinicians how better to incorporate frank, open and on-going discussion about the central elements of the therapeutic relationship with patients long before they lose decisional capacity.
Effect of digestive health care services integration on resource use and outcomes in patients with digestive disorders

Abstract Background & Aims: Academic medical centers are under pressure to contain resources. The University of Virginia Digestive Health Service Center (DHSC) is a fully integrated inpatient service combining gastroenterology, hepatology, surgery, pathology, radiology, and nutritional services. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether integration of digestive health services can contain resource use among gastrointestinal (GI) inpatient admissions. Methods: This is a cohort study of 2934 inpatient cases admitted to a referral academic medical center between January 1, 1998, and June 30, 2000, with a primary diagnosis of an esophageal disorder, appendicitis, abdominal hernia, intestinal obstruction, diverticulitis, biliary tract disease, liver disease, a pancreatic disorder, or GI hemorrhage. Cases were grouped by admitting service (DHSC vs. other nonintegrated inpatient services). Total cost, length of stay, and 30-day readmission rate were adjusted for differences in baseline patient characteristics and compared. Results: DHSC admission was associated with significant cost savings ( P = 0.0363) and reduced length of stay ( P P = 0.0077), GI hemorrhage ( P = 0.0031), and diverticulitis ( P = 0.0497); reductions in length of stay were seen for patients with liver disease ( P = 0.0314), GI hemorrhage ( P = 0.0212), diverticulitis ( P = 0.0017), esophageal disorders ( P = 0.0006), and abdominal hernia ( P = 0.0458). DHSC patients with pancreatic disorders had increased total cost ( P = 0.0247), but no difference in length of stay ( P = 0.7504) and a lower 30-day readmission rate ( P = 0.0478). Conclusions: Integration of digestive health services reduces resource use for patients with digestive diseases and may improve outcomes for patients with pancreatic disorders. A multidisciplinary service center may represent a more efficient model for health care delivery for these patients.
Total and individual triplet birth weights as a function of gestational age

Abstract Objective: Our purpose was to determine the relationship between gestational age and both the total and individual triplet birth weights. Study Design: A 1988-2000 prospective cohort of 3238 live-born triplets in the United States was evaluated. The mean individual (heaviest, middle, and lightest) and total triplet birth weights were correlated with gestational age in nulliparous and multiparous patients. Results: The mean total triplet birth weights significantly correlated with gestational age for both nulliparous women and multiparous women, but the respective regression lines were significantly different ( P =.0018). The respective regression lines for individual triplets showed a significant linear correlation ( R 2 = 0.996-0.998). Interparity and intraparity differences of the individual triplets' regression lines were also significantly different. Conclusions: The relationships support a model of two distinct growth periods for triplets: an age- and growth-promoting period until 33 weeks and an age-promoting growth-restricting period thereafter. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:1372-5.)
Modification of Nonlinear Equality Constraints in Nonlinear Problems

This paper presents a technique for solving nonlinear programming problems with nonconvex feasible regions. The procedure expands the feasible region by replacing nonlinear equality constraints by appropriate inequality constraints. The expansion is used to solve two structural optimization problems using the sequential unconstrained-minimization technique of Fiacco and McCormick. The solutions are compared with solutions obtained by classical mathematical methods.
FTY720 impairs CD8 T-cell function independently of the sphingosine-1-phosphate pathway.

Fingolimod (FTY720) is a multiple sclerosis (MS) therapeutic that upon phosphorylation causes the internalization of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors (S1PR) and traps CCR7+ T-cells in lymph nodes but relatively spares CCR7-effector T-cells. Nonetheless, FTY720-treated patients are more susceptible to viral infections, indicating a CD8 T-cell defect. Thus, the effects of FTY720 on CD8 T-cells were investigated. To this end, we utilized experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and a murine influenza model. CD8 T-cell trafficking, IFNγ and Granzyme B (GrB) production were assessed by flow cytometry. CD8 T-cell cytotoxic function was assessed in vitro by an LDH release assay. FTY720 not only ameliorated EAE by sequestering T-cells, but also reduced IFNγ and Granzyme B (GrB) in splenic CD8 T-cells. Murine influenza infection was exacerbated and mortality was increased, as FTY720 inhibited CD8 T-cell GrB production and lung infiltration. Remarkably, only the unphosphorylated compound was able to reduce IFNγ and GrB levels in CD8 T-cells and inhibits their cytotoxic function in vitro. The phosphorylated moiety had no effect in vitro, indicating that CD8 T-cell suppression by FTY720 is independent of S1PR modulation. The addition of arachidonic acid rescued CD8 T-cell function, suggesting that this effect may be mediated via inhibition of cytosolic phospholipase A2. Herein, we demonstrate that FTY720 suppresses CD8 T-cells independently of its trafficking effects and S1PR modulation. This provides a novel explanation not only for the increased rate of viral infections in FTY720-treated patients, but also for its efficacy in MS, as CD8 T-cells have emerged as crucial mediators of MS pathogenesis.
Piezoelectric energy harvesting under high pre-stressed cyclic vibrations

Cymbal transducers have been found as a promising structure for piezoelectric energy harvesting under high force (∼ 100 N) at cyclic conditions (∼ 100–200 Hz). The thicker steel cap enhances the endurance of the ceramic to sustain higher ac loads along with stress amplification. This study reports the performance of the cymbal transducer under ac force of 70 N with a pre-stress load of 67 N at 100 Hz frequency. At this frequency and force level, 52 mW power was generated from a cymbal measured across a 400 kΩ resistor. The ceramic diameter was fixed at 29 mm and various thicknesses were experimented to optimize the performance. The results showed that the PZT ceramic of 1 mm thickness provided the highest power output with 0.4 mm endcap. In order to accommodate such high dynamic pressure the transducer and cap materials were modified and it was found that the higher piezoelectric voltage constant ceramic provided the higher output power. Electrical output power as a function of applied ac stress magnitude was also computed using FEM analysis and the results were found to be functionally coherent with experiment. This study clearly demonstrated the feasibility of using piezoelectric transducers for harvesting energy from high magnitude vibration sources such as automobile.
Order batching in walk-and-pick order picking systems

This paper investigates the order-batching problem both as a theoretical problem, including its special variants, and as a practical problem, with possible heuristic solution procedures. It shows that certain special cases or variants of the order batching problem are solvable, while other cases of the problem are NP-hard. It also develops a new Mixed-Integer Programming (MIP) model to obtain near-exact solutions to the problem. The MIP provides good lower and upper bounds to the problem, which prove useful in the investigation of the heuristic solution procedures. The paper identifies and modifies slightly the order batching heuristic, which shows the strongest results in the numerical experiments. Although good solutions are obtained with this particular heuristic, the results indicate that it is computationally intensive. Furthermore, solutions obtained through the MIP model suggest there is still room to obtain even better solutions to the problem via heuristic procedures, although the challenge is to...
Collision-Induced Release, Ion Mobility Separation, and Amino Acid Sequence Analysis of Subunits from Mass-Selected Noncovalent Protein Complexes

In recent years, mass spectrometry has become a valuable tool for detecting and characterizing protein–protein interactions and for measuring the masses and subunit stoichiometries of noncovalent protein complexes. The gas-phase dissociation of noncovalent protein assemblies via tandem mass spectrometry can be useful in confirming subunit masses and stoichiometries; however, dissociation experiments that are able to yield subunit sequence information must usually be conducted separately. Here, we furnish proof of concept for a method that allows subunit sequence information to be directly obtained from a protein aggregate in a single gas-phase analysis. The experiments were carried out using a quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer equipped with a traveling-wave ion mobility separator. This instrument configuration allows for a noncovalent protein assembly to be quadrupole selected, then subjected to two successive rounds of collision-induced dissociation with an intervening stage of ion mobility separation. This approach was applied to four model proteins as their corresponding homodimers: glucagon, ubiquitin, cytochrome c, and β-lactoglobulin. In each case, b- and y-type fragment ions were obtained upon further collisional activation of the collisionally-released subunits, resulting in up to 50% sequence coverage. Owing to the incorporation of an ion mobility separation, these results also suggest the intriguing possibility of measuring complex mass, complex collisional cross section, subunit masses, subunit collisional cross sections, and sequence information for the subunits in a single gas-phase experiment. Overall, these findings represent a significant contribution towards the realization of protein interactomic analyses, which begin with native complexes and directly yield subunit identities.
Learning from lectures: Effects of knowledge maps and cooperative review strategies

The effects of knowledge maps versus list-style lecture aids and cooperative versus individual review strategies were investigated. Eighty-five undergraduates viewed either knowledge maps or lists while hearing a lecture on descriptive statistics, then reviewed the information alone or with a partner, using either maps or lists as review aids. Dependent measures were free recall and scores on a multiple-choice test including factual versus application-level items. Other measures included self-reports of prior knowledge and confidence, and repeated-measures ratings of comprehension and predicted test performance. Recall performance was influenced significantly by the interaction of format with confidence; that is, less confident students were helped by having maps while more confident students did better with lists. An analysis of notetaking behaviours revealed that map-users annotated their handouts significantly less than list users. Also, the metacognitions of map-users with regard to their comprehension and predicted performance were less accurate than list-users, as shown by correlations between self-ratings and test scores. Map-users with low confidence had the least accurate metacognitions.
Teaching data structure design patterns

In this paper we present an approach for teaching the Freshman-Sophomore introduction to data structures course (CS2) in a way that provides an introduction to object-oriented software engineering patterns in addition to the theory of data structures. We survey in this paper several design patterns and describe how they can be naturally integrated in the CS2 curriculum.
Micro-computed tomography evaluation of human fat grafts in nude mice.

Background: Although autologous fat grafting has revolutionized the field of soft tissue reconstruction and augmentation, long-term maintenance of fat grafts is unpredictable. Recent studies have reported survival rates of fat grafts to vary anywhere between 10% and 80% over time. The present study evaluated the long-term viability of human fat grafts in a murine model using a novel imaging technique allowing for in vivo volumetric analysis. Methods: Human fat grafts were prepared from lipoaspirate samples using the Coleman technique. Fat was injected subcutaneously into the scalp of 10 adult Crl:NU-Foxn1nu CD-1 male mice. Micro-computed tomography (CT) was performed immediately following injection and then weekly thereafter. Fat volume was rendered by reconstructing a three-dimensional (3D) surface through cubic-spline interpolation. Specimens were also harvested at various time points and sections were prepared and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), for macrophages using CD68 and for the cannabin...
Catalytic behaviors of enzymes attached to nanoparticles: the effect of particle mobility

Nanoparticles provide an ideal remedy to the usually contradictory issues encountered in the optimization of immobilized enzymes: minimum diffusional limitation, maximum surface area per unit mass, and high effective enzyme loading. In addition to the promising performance features, the unique solution behaviors of the nanoparticles also point to a transitional region between the heterogeneous (with immobilized enzymes) and homogeneous (with soluble free enzymes) catalysis. The particle mobility, which is related to particle size and solution viscosity through Stokes-Einstein equation, may impact the reaction kinetics according to the collision theory. The mobility-activity relationship was examined through experimental studies and theoretical modeling in the present work. Polystyrene particles with diameters ranging from 110-1000 nm were prepared. A model enzyme, alpha-chymotrypsin, was covalently attached to the nanoparticles up to 6.6 wt%. The collision theory model was found feasible in correlating the catalytic activities of particles to particle size and solution viscosity. Changes in the size of particles and the viscosity of reaction media, which all affect the mobility of the enzyme catalyst, evidently altered the intrinsic activity of the particle-attached enzyme. Compared to K(M), k(cat) appeared to be less sensitive to particle size and viscosity.
Often called for but rarely chosen: alliance research that directly studies process

Every so often, alliance scholars make cogent arguments for why the alliance field needs more process research. Rather than plea this case yet again, this paper explores why the field of alliance research continues to be overwhelmingly cross-sectional and structural in nature. Looking at research published since the mid-1990s, it appears that reflexive ‘calls for future process research’ crop up frequently. Even in cross-sectional, structural research, authors evoke stories about processes, even if these processes depend on assumptions about actors and behaviors that lie outside of what is observable with their data and methods. What impedes the development of process research are norms and taken-for-granted routines within the mainstream scholarly community. I discuss implications of this reflexivity and how it might be challenged to rejuvenate and advance alliance research.
Advanced Segmented Silicon Space Telescope (ASSiST)

We propose thin silicon wafers as the building blocks of highly segmented space telescope primary mirrors. Using embedded MEMS actuators operating at high bandwidth control, this technology can achieve diffraction-limited image quality in the 3-300 micron wavelength range. The use of silicon wafers as cryogenic mirror segments is carried forward considering a point design of a future FAIR-class NASA ORIGINS mission. We recognize four major economic factors that justify a massive paradigm shift in the fabrication of ultralightweight space telescopes: The precise process control and repeatability of silicon wafer manufacturing dramatically reduces the huge labor investment in mirror figuring experienced with Hubble Space Telescope. Once developed, the incremental cost of additional space telescopes based upon proven silicon manufacturing techniques can be very small. We estimate the marginal cost of a 30m mirror when deploying a constellation can be as low as $36 million (Year 2002 dollars). Federal R&D funding in the area of microelectromechanical devices and advanced 3-D silicon processing is certain to have far greater economic return than similar investments in other technologies, such as optical membrane technology. The $300B per year silicon processing industry will continue to drive increased MEMS functionality, higher product yields, and lower cost. These advances will continue for decades. The intention here is to present the case for the economic advantage of silicon as a highly functional optical substrate that can be fabricated using unparalleled industry experience with precision process control. We maintain that many architectures superior to the ASSiST concept presented here are possible, and hope that this effort prompts future thinking of the silicon wafer telescope paradigm
Second-Generation Antiepileptic Drugs' Impact on Balance: A Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE To systematically review available evidence regarding whether second-generation antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) contribute to the risk of balance disorders. METHODS We systematically evaluated data from randomized controlled trials that compared adjunctive therapy with a second-generation AED (gabapentin, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, pregabalin, tiagabine, topiramate, or zonisamide) vs placebo for partial epilepsy and that reported dose-specific rates of ataxia or imbalance for each group. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool ratios (risk ratio [RR]) and associated 95% confidence intervals to determine whether there was evidence of an overall AED class effect or a dose-response effect and whether there were differences between individual AEDs. RESULTS Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria, representing 4279 individuals randomized to a second-generation AED and 1830 patients to placebo. Pooled analyses of all AEDs demonstrated that they increase imbalance risk at any dose (RR, 2.73; 95% confidence interval, 2.07-3.61) and at lowest dose (RR, 1.76; 95% confidence interval, 1.26-2.46). The highest dose analysis showed heterogeneity; evaluation of individual AEDs revealed that oxcarbamazepine and topiramate increased imbalance risk at all doses, whereas gabapentin and levetiracetam did not increase imbalance risk at any dose. A dose-response effect was observed for most AEDs. CONCLUSION Second-generation AEDs at standard dosages, except for gabapentin and levetiracetam, increase the imbalance risk, and evidence exists for a dose-response effect. The mechanisms, risk factors, and consequences of this risk for individual AEDs warrant further study.
An autoradiographic study of the time of origin and the pattern of granule cell migration in the dentate gyrus of the rat

The dentate gyrus of the rat contains about 600,000 granule cells. These small neurons are generated over a prolonged period from the 14th day of gestation until sime time after the second postnatal week. The majority of the cells pass through their last phase of DNA synthesis in the postnatal period, and during the peak period of cell generation, between the fifth and seventh days after birth, up to 50,000 granule cells are formed each day. Contrary to earlier reports, most of the cells pass through their last mitotic division either within the stratum granulosum itself, or within the hilar region of the developing gyrus. The precursor population of cells in the hilar region must therefore constitute a pool of true neuroblasts. The origin of this pool of cells has not been definitely established but it seems probable that its cells are derived from the neuroepithelium lining the lateral ventricle adjacent to the region from which the hippocampal pyramidal cells are generated. Examination of the final location of granule cells labeled at different stages reveals three distinct morphogenetic gradients in the gyrus. The cells in the dorsal blade tend to be formed earlier than those in the ventral blade; cells in the more caudal (or temporal) portions of the gyrus are generated earlier than those in more rostral (or septal) regions; and in all regions the more superficial neurons in the stratum granulosum are formed earlier than the deeper granule cells. The bearing of some of these findings on the development and organization of the connections of the dentate gyrus is discussed.
EMISSIONS AND POWER CHARACTERISTICS OF DIESEL ENGINES ON METHYL SOYATE AND DIESEL FUEL BLENDS

A Detroit 6V-92 TA coach diesel engine and a Cummins NTA-855-C diesel engine were operated on fuels produced by blending methyl soyate with No. 2 diesel fuel. Seven fuels, namely, neat diesel fuel; 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 50:50 and 25:75% (v/v) blends of diesel fuel:methyl soyate; and neat methyl soyate were prepared and tested for the performance of the Detroit engine using standard test code SAE J1349. Specific gravity, viscosity, and heating values of all seven fuels were determined. Power developed by the engine, brake specific fuel consumption, and emissions analyses including brake specific hydrocarbon, brake specific oxides of nitrogen, brake specific carbon monoxide and smoke were measured. The performance of the engine was found to be satisfactory without a significant reduction in power output on methyl soyate blends up to 30%. Based on these results, the Cummins engine was run on four fuel blends, namely, neat diesel fuel; and 90:10, 80:20 and 70:30% (v/v) blends of diesel:methyl soyate. The performance of the Cummins engine was found to be satisfactory without any significant reduction in power. Engine exhaust emissions, except NOx, were reduced for both engines as the concentration of the methyl soyate in the fuel increased.