cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Use of Glucosamine and Chondroitin in Persons With Osteoarthritis

Glucosamine and chondroitin are members of a group of dietary supplements often termed "complementary agents," "disease-modifying agents," or "disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs" (DMOADs). They are among the best-selling dietary supplements in the United States. DMOADs are thought to act by affecting cytokine-mediated pathways regulating inflammation, cartilage degradation, and immune responses. Given the results of recent studies, investigators have begun to question whether the popular combination of glucosamine and chondroitin alleviates disease progression or pain in people with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. Reasons proposed for the lack of benefit include incorrect dosing, suboptimal compound manufacture, and a lack of complete understanding of when and how to apply the compounds. In addition, adjuvant medications also could augment the therapeutic potential of these agents. Although these agents are considered safe, some uncommon and minor adverse effects have been reported, including epigastric pain or tenderness (3.5%), heartburn (2.7%), diarrhea (2.5%), and nausea (1%). In conclusion, although some questions have arisen about whether DMOADs are as effective as has been claimed, a trial should be considered in in selected patients with sustained refractory cases of osteoarthritis.
Bioalkylation of benz[a]anthracene, 7-methylbenz[a]anthracene, and 12-methylbenz[a]anthracene in rat lung cytosol preparations

Abstract Benz[ a ]anthracene (BA) and the monomethyl meso -anthracenic or L-region derivatives 7-methylbenz[ a ]anthracene (7-methylBA) and 12-methylbenz[ a ]anthracene (12-methylBA) underwent a bioalkylation substitution reaction in rat lung ctyosol preparations, fortified with S- adenosyl - l - methionine to form the more potent carcinogen 7,12-dirnethylbenz[ a ]anthracene. The methyl groups of the highly reactive L-region methylated metabolites also underwent enzymatic hydroxylation in rat lung cytosol preparations to yield the corresponding hydroxymethyl derivatives, 7-hydroxymethylbenz[ a ]anthracene, 7-hydroxymethyl-12-methylbenz[ a ]anthracene, and 7,12-dihydroxymethylbenz[ a ]anthracene. The biooxidation reaction took place enzymatically, and exclusively, or nearly so, at the reactive methyl groups attached to the meso positions or L-region of the hydrocarbon. Bioalkylation and biooxidation reactions did not occur when the hydrocarbons were incubated with a boiled cytosol preparation, indicating the need for enzymatic activation of the L-region methyl groups. Also, the bioalkylation reaction did not occur in the absence of S- adenosyl - l - methionine . Furthermore, the S -adenosyl-spl-methionine-dependent reaction was inhibited by S- adenosyl - l - homocysteine , suggesting that the reaction is catalyzed by a cytosolic S- adenosyl - l - methionine-dependent methyltransferase.
The Neo-Papilla: a new modification of porcine ex vivo simulators for ERCP training (with videos)

Background Computer simulators, live pigs, and ex vivo porcine simulators are used for training in ERCP. The location of the porcine biliary orifice in the proximal duodenum is dissimilar to human anatomy, making the endoscopy experience less realistic. In addition, in native porcine anatomy, the pancreatic duct enters the duodenum distal to the biliary orifice, limiting the teaching of pancreatic techniques and selective duct cannulation. Objective To overcome these limitations, we aimed to construct a Neo-Papilla that could be incorporated into an ex vivo model. Design We attached chicken heart tissue to the porcine duodenum, with integrated porcine arteries that resembled an artificial common bile duct and a pancreatic duct. Setting The simulator was presented and evaluated at 2 major GI endoscopy conferences. Main Outcome Measurements The feasibility and the realism of this prototype was tested by 9 recognized ERCP experts who rated this model in comparison to other teaching models for ERCP by recollection of prior experience. Results The Neo-Papilla was more prominent and more distally located than the native porcine papilla. The experts rated this modification superior to existing models in its usefulness as an educational tool. Limitations Pilot study. Conclusions We demonstrated the technical feasibility of a real-tissue Neo-Papilla modification of porcine ex vivo simulators, more closely approximating the natural anatomy. This new model should facilitate ERCP training. Formal validation studies are warranted.
Thermal Behavior of Zein‐based Biodegradable Films

In previous work, zein was plasticized with oleic acid to obtain flexible films. However, it was observed that film properties were affected by the preparation method employed. Our objective was to investigate the effect of processing methods on thermal behavior of zein films by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Films containing 41% oleic acid were prepared by casting ethanol solutions of its components on flat surfaces or by extrusion of zein resins prepared by cold water precipitation of ethanol solutions of zein and oleic acid. Extrusion was carried out in single-screw or twin-screw extruders. Zein films were finished by hot rolling or heated in a Carver press. DSC thermograms showed large oleic acid melting peaks for cast films, smaller peaks for resin films, and no apparent peaks for heat-treated samples. It was suggested that the resin formation process enhanced zein-oleic acid interactions and promoted plasticization. All samples showed glass transitions at low temperatures.
A Genome-wide Association Study of Autism Using the Simons Simplex Collection: Does Reducing Phenotypic Heterogeneity in Autism Increase Genetic Homogeneity?

Abstract Background Phenotypic heterogeneity in autism has long been conjectured to be a major hindrance to the discovery of genetic risk factors, leading to numerous attempts to stratify children based on phenotype to increase power of discovery studies. This approach, however, is based on the hypothesis that phenotypic heterogeneity closely maps to genetic variation, which has not been tested. Our study examines the impact of subphenotyping of a well-characterized autism spectrum disorder (ASD) sample on genetic homogeneity and the ability to discover common genetic variants conferring liability to ASD. Methods Genome-wide genotypic data of 2576 families from the Simons Simplex Collection were analyzed in the overall sample and phenotypic subgroups defined on the basis of diagnosis, IQ, and symptom profiles. We conducted a family-based association study, as well as estimating heritability and evaluating allele scores for each phenotypic subgroup. Results Association analyses revealed no genome-wide significant association signal. Subphenotyping did not increase power substantially. Moreover, allele scores built from the most associated single nucleotide polymorphisms, based on the odds ratio in the full sample, predicted case status in subsets of the sample equally well and heritability estimates were very similar for all subgroups. Conclusions In genome-wide association analysis of the Simons Simplex Collection sample, reducing phenotypic heterogeneity had at most a modest impact on genetic homogeneity. Our results are based on a relatively small sample, one with greater homogeneity than the entire population; if they apply more broadly, they imply that analysis of subphenotypes is not a productive path forward for discovering genetic risk variants in ASD.
The Effect of Situated Access on People with Disabilities: An Examination of Sheltering and Temporary Housing after the 2011 Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

The 11 March 2011 Tohoku-oki earthquake and tsunami that devastated coastal communities in three Japanese prefectures resulted in tremendous loss of life, loss of property, and community disruption...
Age-related macular degeneration revisited--piecing the puzzle: the LXIX Edward Jackson memorial lecture.

Purpose To present the current understanding of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) pathogenesis, based on clinical evidence, epidemiologic data, histopathologic examination, and genetic data; to provide an update on current and emerging therapies; and to propose an integrated model of the pathogenesis of AMD. Design Review of published clinical and experimental studies. Methods Analysis and synthesis of clinical and experimental data. Results We are closer to a complete understanding of the pathogenesis of AMD, having progressed from clinical observations to epidemiologic observations and clinical pathologic correlation. More recently, modern genetic and genomic studies have facilitated the exploration of molecular pathways. It seems that AMD is a complex disease that results from the interaction of genetic susceptibility with aging and environmental factors. Disease progression also seems to be driven by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Conclusions Therapies based on pathophysiologic features have changed the paradigm for treating neovascular AMD. With improved understanding of the underlying genetic susceptibility, we can identify targets to halt early disease and to prevent progression and vision loss.
Analysis of the linear under-agarose leukocyte chemotaxis assay

Random and chemotactic movement of leukocytes appear to be key processes in the host inflammatory response. Abnormalities in leukocyte motility and chemosensory behavior have been implicated in a large number of pathological conditions, but there is no adequate quantitative understanding of these properties. In this paper we present an approach for determination of phenomenological cell motility and chemotaxis parameters, by analysis of a common leukocyte migration assay. Using data from a set of cell migration experiments reported in the literature, we show how to determine the value of the random motility coefficient and its dependence upon concentration of a tripeptide chemotactic attractant, as well as the value of the chemotaxis coefficient, assumed here to be independent of attractant concentration. These parameters can be used to improve quantitative understanding of the relationship between leukocyte motility and chemosensory behavior and effective functioning of the host inflammatory response.
The reliability and validity of clinical grading in dental education.

Two dental procedures, use of a dental drill and finishing a prepared cavity with sharp hand tools, were performed by all 56 first-year dental students and graded by 3 experienced faculty according to standard criteria. Intraexaminer reliabilities ranged from 94 to 100%. Interexaminer differences in grading were nonsignificant. Despite students' concern, scoring was accurate and consistent within and between examiners.
Spectral phase effects on nonlinear resonant photochemistry of 1,3-cyclohexadiene in solution

We have investigated the ring opening of 1,3-cyclohexadiene to form 1,3,5-cis-hexatriene (Z-HT) using optical pulse shaping to enhance multiphoton excitation. A closed-loop learning algorithm was used to search for an optimal spectral phase function, with the effectiveness or fitness of each optical pulse assessed using the UV absorption spectrum. The learning algorithm was able to identify pulses that increased the formation of Z-HT by as much as a factor of 2 and to identify pulse shapes that decreased solvent fragmentation while leaving the formation of Z-HT essentially unaffected. The highest yields of Z-HT did not occur for the highest peak intensity laser pulses. Rather, negative quadratic phase was identified as an important control parameter in the formation of Z-HT.
Note: The sum of the squares of degrees: Sharp asymptotics

Let f(n,m) be the maximum of the sum of the squares of degrees of a graph with n vertices and m edges. Summarizing earlier research, we present a concise, asymptotically sharp upper bound on f(n,m), better than the bound of de Caen for almost all n and m.
Nesting of Complex 2-D Parts Within Irregular Boundaries

An algorithm is outlined for the nesting of complex parts onto resources with irregular boundaries. The algorithm adapts Albano and Sapuppo’s technique for nesting irregular profiles on rectangular resources using a novel placement procedure. Several techniques for improving computational efficiency are also described, including complex profile simplification using a modified convex hull strategy. The enhanced algorithm is applied to the nesting of irregular parts on both rectangular resources and within irregular shaped part voids as applied to the offshore platform and ship building industry.
Prognosis in SLE: Comparison of Markov model to life table analysis

A Markov model of prognosis was evaluated by comparing the duration of disease activity states and life expectancy with Kaplan-Meier survival curves for 98 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus with 1080 patient-years of observation. A four state (remission, active, flare and death) homogeneous Markov chain was constructed to determine the transition probabilities between disease states, the probability of disease states over the subsequent 25 years, time in each disease state, and life expectancy. Approximately 85% of the clinical course of patients was in the active disease state; no patient made a transition directly between remission and flare; virtually all deaths occurred from the flare disease state. The proportion of the patient population in each disease state over time provided a convenient graphic summary of the natural history of SLE that supplemented the Kaplan-Meier survival curves. A Markov model analysis yields a clinically useful description of outcome for multistate diseases that supplements survival curves.
Administration of GMI ganglioside restores the dopamine content in striatum after chronic treatment with MPTP

The dopamine (DA) content of the mouse striatum thirty days after treatment with MPTP is significantly reduced. GM1 ganglioside administration during the thirty day period results in a partial restoration of the striatal DA content.
NUCLEATION, GROWTH, AND AGGREGATION OF GOLD ON POLYIMIDE SURFACES

The growth of ultrathin gold films on polyimide (PI) surfaces and the stability of the films upon thermal annealing have been studied using a combination of various techniques. With scanning electron microscopy (SEM) we observe that, at room temperature, the Au film initially grows by nucleation of compact Au islands. With increasing metal coverage, the clusters partially agglomerate to produce a wormlike structure. Finally, percolation, hole-filling, and continuous thin-film growth are observed. To evaluate the thermal stability of the Au/PI system, annealing at various temperatures was performed on films that displayed the wormlike structure. SEM results indicate strong temperature-dependent changes in film morphology. Finally, from our SEM data we determine contact angles, allowing us to estimate interfacial and adhesion energies.
The signaling symphony: T cell receptor tunes cytokine-mediated T cell differentiation

T cell development, differentiation, and maintenance are orchestrated by 2 key signaling axes: the antigen-specific TCR and cytokine-mediated signals. The TCR signals the recognition of self- and foreign antigens to control T cell homeostasis for immune tolerance and immunity, which is regulated by a variety of cytokines to determine T cell subset homeostasis and differentiation. TCR signaling can synergize with or antagonize cytokine-mediated signaling to fine tune T cell fate; however, the latter is less investigated. Murine models with attenuated TCR signaling strength have revealed that TCR signaling can function as regulatory feedback machinery for T cell homeostasis and differentiation in differential cytokine milieus, such as IL-2-mediated Treg development; IL-7-mediated, naive CD8+ T cell homeostasis; and IL-4-induced innate memory CD8+ T cell development. In this review, we discuss the symphonic cross-talk between TCR and cytokine-mediated responses that differentially control T cell behavior, with a focus on the negative tuning by TCR activation on the cytokine effects.
Application Of Non-Silicon Schottky Barrier Charge-Coupled Devices (CCDs) For Star Trackers

The demonstration of high charge transfer efficiencies in Schottky barrier GaAs CCEs1 allows the exploration of this technology for optical imagers for star tracking applications. A device concept is described which utilizes this development and illustrates optimization of the device parameters for ionizing radiation environments, high operational temperature and long storage time requirements. Considerations are given to the noise components in relation to the star signal and attention is drawn to the necessity of minimizing the active device volume when designing for operation in a radiation environment. The shot noise multiplier associated with operating the device in a gamma environment has been calculated and is expected to be lower for GaAs based devices than for silicon. The requirements for imaging seventh magnitude stars will be discussed. The technology employs a heterojunction CCD approach consisting of a GaAs absorber layer, a GaAlAs channel layer, and a GaAlAs passivation layer, sealed to glass. The radiation hardness of this device will be discussed for neutron and gamma irradiation.
Human Cardiac Troponin Cross-Linking and the Functional Consequences

Previous structural studies suggested that the cardiac unique N-terminal extension of troponin I interacts with the basic regions near the inhibitory peptide (Howarth et al. (2007) J Mol Biol 373, 706-722). To determine possible interactions, we cross-linked single Cys mutant TnI at either position 5 or 19 in the troponin complex with the hetero-bifunctional cross-linker benzophenone-4-maleimide. Data from SDS-PAGE and reversed phase HPLC indicated intra-molecular and inter-molecular cross-linking with troponin C and T. Digested peptides separated by reverse phase capillary HPLC were analyzed by Edman sequencing and MALDI-TOF to determine the cross-linked peptides. Moreover, using tandem mass spectrometry, specific sites of interaction were determined intra-molecularly at Met-154 and Met-155 of TnI and inter-molecularly at Met-47 and Met-80 of the TnC. In addition, we measured calcium dependent ATPase rate of reconstituted thin filament-myosin-S1 preparation regulated by either non-labeled or cross-linked troponin. The ATPase rate indicated calcium regulation was lost when the position 5 TnI mutant was cross-linked in the absence of calcium, but was only blunted with position 19 cross-linking. The specific inter-molecular cross-linked sites did not differ between TnI and TnC. However, the intra-molecular cross-linked sites in the two mutants interacted with different sides of the TnI switch peptide, which may allosterically modulate the affinity of calcium to TnC. These data provide novel evidence that the thin filament function may be modified by the N-terminus of TnI interacting intra-molecularly, and inter-molecularly.
Rearrangements of Ammonium Nitrate Cluster Ions with High Internal Energy

Sputtering of condensed-phase ammonium nitrate yields an extensive distribution of negative cluster ions of the form [(NH 4 NO 3 ) n NO 3 ] - , n ≥ 3. Collision-induced dissociation of mass-selected cluster ions suggests that the first two members of the series, n = 1 and n = 2, are missing because the ions rearrange to lose one or more ammonia molecules. Gradient-corrected density-functional calculations show that NH 4 NO 3 is strongly hydrogen bonded and that [(NH 4 NO 3 )NO 3 ) - has no hydrogen bonds, consistent with this ion rearranging to lose NH 3 to form the strongly hydrogen-bonded ion [H(NO 3 ) 2 ] - .
Coronin-1A Stabilizes F-Actin by Bridging Adjacent Actin Protomers and Stapling Opposite Strands of the Actin Filament

Coronins are F-actin-binding proteins that are involved, in concert with Arp2/3, Aip1, and ADF/cofilin, in rearrangements of the actin cytoskeleton. An understanding of coronin function has been hampered by the absence of any structural data on its interaction with actin. Using electron microscopy and three-dimensional reconstruction, we show that coronin-1A binds to three protomers in F-actin simultaneously: it bridges subdomain 1 and subdomain 2 of two adjacent actin subunits along the same long-pitch strand, and it staples subdomain 1 and subdomain 4 of two actin protomers on different strands. Such a mode of binding explains how coronin can stabilize actin filaments in vitro. In addition, we show which residues of F-actin may participate in the interaction with coronin-1A. Human nebulin and Xin, as well as Salmonella invasion protein A, use a similar mechanism to stabilize actin filaments. We suggest that the stapling of subdomain 1 and subdomain 4 of two actin protomers on different strands is a common mechanism for F-actin stabilization utilized by many actin-binding proteins that have no homology.
Vitamin K and Energy Transduction: A Base Strength Amplification Mechanism

Energy transfer provides an arrow in the metabolism of living systems. Direct energetic coupling of chemical transformations, such that the free energy generated in one reaction is channeled to another, is the essence of energy transfer, whereas the purpose is the production of high-energy chemical intermediates. Vitamin K provides a particularly instructive example of energy transfer. A key principle at work in the vitamin K system can be termed "base strength amplification." In the base strength amplification sequence, the free energy of oxygenation of vitamin K hydroquinone (vitamin KH2) is used to transform a weak base to a strong base in order to effect proton removal from selected glutamate (Glu) residues in the blood-clotting proteins.
Construction of all non-reducible descriptors

We present a computational procedure based on a decision-tree model for the identification and construction of all non-reducible descriptors in a supervised pattern recognition problem in which pattern descriptions consist of Boolean features. We illustrate the use of the procedure through its application to the standard problem of recognizing Arabic numerals. We also present an analysis of the computational complexity of the procedure.
A Numerical Study of Wall Shear Stress of Viscous Flows in Curved Atherosclerotic Tubes

Atherosclerosis is a disease of large- and medium-size arteries, which involves complex interactions between the artery wall and the blood flow. Both clinical observations and experimental results showed that the fluid shear stress acting on the artery wall plays a significant role in the physical processes which lead to atherosclerosis [1,2]. Therefore, a sound understanding of the effect of the wall shear stress on atherosclerosis is of practical importance to early detection, prevention and treatment of the disease. A considerable number of studies have been performed to investigate the flow phenomena in human carotid artery bifurcations or curved tubes during the past decades [3–8]. Numerical studies have supported the experimental results on the correlation between blood flow parameters and atherosclerosis [6–8]. The objective of this work is to understand the effect of the wall shear stress on atherosclerosis. The mathematical description of pulsatile blood flows is modeled by applying the time-dependent, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations for Newtonian fluids. The equations of motion and the incompressibility condition are ρut + ρ(u·∇)u = −∇p + μ Δu, in Ω, (1)∇·u = 0, in Ω (2) where ρ is the density of the fluid, μ is the viscosity of the fluid, u = (u1 , u2 , u3 ) is the flow velocity, p is the internal pressure, Ω is a curved tube with wall boundary Γ (see Figure 1). At the inflow boundary, fully developed velocity profiles corresponding to the common carotid velocity pulse waveform are prescribed u2 = 0, u3 = 0, u1 = U(1 + Asin(2πt/tp)), (3) where A is the amplitude of oscillation, tp is the period of oscillation; U is a fully developed velocity profile at the symmetry entrance plane. At the outflow boundary, surface traction force is prescribed as Tij nj ni = 0, (4)ui ti = 0 (5) where Tij = −p δij + μ (∂ ui / ∂ xj + ∂ uj / ∂ xi) (6) is the stress tensor, n = (n1 , n2 , n3 ) is the out normal vector of the outlet boundary. On the wall boundary Γ, we assume that no slipping takes place between the fluid and the wall, no penetration of the fluid through the artery wall occurs: u | r = nHt, (7) where n = (n1 , n2 , n3 ) is the out normal vector of the wall boundary Γ. H is the function representing the location of the wall boundary. At initial time t = 0, H is input as shown in Figure 1. During the computation, H is updated by a geometry update condition based on the localized blood flow information. The initial condition is prescribed as u|t=0 = u0, p|t=0 = p0, where u 0 , p0 can be obtained by solving a Stokes problem: −μ Δu0 + ∇p0 = 0,∇·u0 = 0, with boundary conditions (3)–(7) but zero in the right hand side of (7).Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Fabricating Vertical Sidewalls in GaAs ∕ AlGaAs Heterostructure Using Light-Induced Wet Etching

We investigate the effects of light-induced wet etching (LIWE) on sidewall profile and etch rate for n- and p-type GaAs bulk, epitaxial AlGaAs layers and two different types of laser heterostructure using three different etch masks and three light-emitting diodes as light sources. The experiments show that the LIWE parameters (light-source wavelength, mask conductivity, sample layer structure) control the sidewall angle and etch rate. The technique successfully produced vertical sidewalls and "on-demand" etch-stop layers in laser heterostructure using sulfuric acid (H 2 SO 4 ): hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ): DI water (H 2 O) etch system.
An aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase:elongation factor complex for substrate channeling in archaeal translation

Translation requires the specific attachment of amino acids to tRNAs by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) and the subsequent delivery of aminoacyl-tRNAs to the ribosome by elongation factor 1 alpha (EF-1a). Interactions between EF-1a and various aaRSs have been described in eukaryotes, but the role of these complexes remains unclear. To investigate possible interactions between EF-1a and other cellular components, a yeast two-hybrid screen was performed for the archaeon Methanothermobacter thermautotrophicus. EF-1a was found to form a stable complex with leucyl-tRNA synthetase (LeuRS; KD=0.7kM). Complex formation had little effect on EF-1a activity, but increased the kcat for Leu-tRNA Leu synthesis »8-fold. In addition, EF-1a co-purified with the archaeal multi-synthetase complex (MSC) comprised of LeuRS, LysRS and ProRS, suggesting the existence of a larger aaRS:EF-1a complex in archaea. These interactions between EF-1a and the archaeal MSC contribute to translational fidelity both by enhancing the aminoacylation efficiencies of the three aaRSs in the complex and by coupling two stages of translation: aminoacylation of cognate tRNAs and their subsequent channeling to the ribosome.
Evidence-based analysis of prophylactic treatment of asymptomatic retinal breaks and lattice degeneration.

Abstract Purpose To assess the quality of information in the literature regarding the benefits of prophylactic treatment of asymptomatic retinal tears and lattice degeneration. Clinical relevance Asymptomatic retinal breaks occur in approximately 7% of patients over age 40, and lattice degeneration is present in approximately 8% of the general population. Because retinal breaks cause retinal detachment and lattice degeneration is associated with approximately 30% of retinal detachments, prophylactic treatment of these lesions has sometimes been recommended. Literature reviewed A panel of vitreoretinal experts performed a literature review of all publications regarding prevention of retinal detachment that have been published in English. These articles were then used to prepare recommendations for patient care in an American Academy of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Pattern (PPP). Each recommendation was rated according to: (1) its importance in the care process and (2) the strength of evidence supporting the given recommendation. Results Most recommendations were rated as A (most important to patient care). Only a single publication was graded as I (providing strong evidence in support of a recommendation), and this was not a prospective trial. Of the few publications rated as II (substantial evidence), most were studies documenting a lack of treatment benefit. Because of an absence of level I and level II studies in the literature, level III (consensus of expert opinion) was the basis for most recommendations in the PPP. Conclusions The current literature regarding prevention of retinal detachment does not provide sufficient information to support strongly prophylactic treatment of lesions other than symptomatic flap tears. Prospective randomized trials of prophylactic therapy are indicated. Eyes highly predisposed to retinal detachment should be considered for such studies.
Choosing an Approximation to the Equation of Radiative Transfer

Abstract We examine the accuracy of the PL, approximation to the equation of radiative transfer in the presence of scattering/absorbing clouds of various optical thicknesses. We find that very accurate net fluxes can be obtained with the P1, (two-stream) and P3 (four-stream) approximations, although higher orders are sometimes needed. A comparison is made with earlier work which indicated that very high-order approximations are needed to produce this accuracy in the presence of optically thick clouds. We show that the variations found in the earlier work were caused by round-off errors in the computations. As a guide to the investigator who does not have a method for computing multiple-scattering solutions to the transfer equation, we provide tables giving the number of terms of the spherical harmonies expansion needed to obtain various levels of accuracy for several scattering phase functions. Since the models include clouds of various optical thicknesses, ranging from zero to 106, these tables should be...
An event based supervisor for avoiding deadlock in semiconductor manufacturing systems

Modern semiconductor fabrication is carried out in highly automated and flexible manufacturing systems. In these systems, due to shared equipment usage and concurrent processing of multiple jobs of different types, deadlock can occur. The occurrence of deadlock can stall the automatic operation of the system, thus reduce productivity. In this paper, we extend our previous deadlock avoidance supervisor for regular systems to general systems which may have the so-called key resources and exhibit impending deadlocks - a type of deadlock more difficult to detect. New concepts such as, critical circuit, weight of the operating string and impending deadlock are introduced to help to establish the new supervisor. Major features of this supervisor includes: i) capability of avoiding both immediate deadlocks and impending deadlocks that are arbitrary steps away from an immediate one, whereas only second level deadlocks have been studied in the literature; ii) real time executability (fast online computation) provided that the set of deadlock strings is calculated offline. Simulation results show that the average permissiveness of our supervisor is very high. Examples are provided to illustrate our method.
Emerging wireless technologies for developing countries

Abstract The network readiness of a country indicates the ability of its principal stakeholders—government, citizens, businesses—to leverage the potential of information and communication technology (ICT). As broadband becomes more widely diffused in developing countries, there is great potential to increase the number of people who are connected. Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) and Worldwide interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) are not only revolutionizing broadband communications in the developed world but they also offer to developing countries the opportunity to bridge the digital divide that may exist in their communities. As emerging markets look for opportunities to “leap-frog”, they can quickly adapt to next-generation wireless technologies like Wi-Fi and WiMAX, thereby gaining advantages over other traditional wired infrastructures. Policymakers should seek suitable strategies to promote vital broadband technologies that offer beneficial alternatives to traditional cable and DSL. We propose a strategic wireless framework to address challenges in three different economic sectors of a developing country: Tier I or metro economy, which is well-urbanized and integrated with the global economy; Tier II or sub-urban economy, which has niche economic or development activities compared to Tier I; and Tier III or the rural economy, characterized by informal economic activity and poverty.
The hierarchical consequences of reinvention: evidence from the American bureaucracy

Purpose – Political reorganizations like that of the national performance review in the USA fundamentally alter hierarchical relations within public agencies. This paper includes a set of formal exercises to examine two logical consequences of reinvention: the increased likelihood of coordination failures, and the reduction in political leaders' hierarchical status in the organization.Design/methodology/approach – These effects are discussed in the context of a substantial change in the public organization of health services: the alteration of the US Department of Health and Human Services' structure.Findings – The paper argues that reinvention fundamentally alters the power and status of political appointees, the standing of top leadership, and the likelihood of conflict resolution within the organization.Originality/value – This is the first paper to use historically important methods of understanding conflict resolution in organizations to the most important reform effort in American public administrat...
Conical Surfaces and Crescent Singularities in Crumpled Sheets

We analyze the geometry and elasticity of the crescentlike singularity on a crumpled elastic sheet. We give a physical realization of this in terms of a free-boundary contact problem. An analytical solution is given for the universal shape of a developable cone that characterizes the singularity far from the tip, and some of its predictions are qualitatively verified experimentally. We also give a scaling relation for the core size, defined as the region close to the tip of the cone where the sheet is not developable.
Spinal Cord Contusion Causes Acute Plasma Membrane Damage

Abstract Spinal cord injury (SCI) launches a complex cascade of events that leads to progressive damage and loss of function. Compromise of plasma membrane integrity due to the mechanical impact is...
Techniques for Multiple Internal Mammary Artery Bypass Grafts

Abstract Long-term patency of the internal mammary artery graft surpasses that of all other bypass conduits. The use of multiple internal mammary artery grafts should improve the long-term results following coronary artery bypass grafting. Technical factors used in mobilizing, preparing, and anastomosing the internal mammary artery are discussed in this article. Fifty-three patients received sequential attached left internal mammary artery grafts from April, 1982, to August, 1983. In 6 of these patients, the right internal mammary artery was anastomosed to a circumflex marginal branch. There were no operative deaths or instances of low cardiac output. One patient suffered anastomotic narrowing that possibly could have been prevented by excision of excess tissue from the internal mammary artery pedicle. Multiple internal mammary artery grafting should have a profound influence on the results of coronary artery bypass grafting.
Exact formula for the spreading width of jet flow velocity under the assumption of a radial adjusting coefficient

Recently, Lee et al. (Arch Appl Mech 81:397–402, 2011) proposed a new and very interesting formula to describe the velocity profile of a submerged jet flow by introducing a radial adjusting coefficient depending on the jet flow direction. Under some simplifying assumptions (granting convergence), the authors were able to express the spreading width of the jet flow analytically in terms of infinite series. In this short note, we show that such simplifying assumptions can be relaxed and exact solutions for the spreading width of the jet flow can be obtained: Such results are computationally more efficient and are able to better demonstrate the qualitative features of the solutions.
Biopsy-proved acute tubulointerstitial nephritis and toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with vancomycin

A 70-year-old man receiving vancomycin for a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) abscess developed a drug-induced hypersensitivity reaction with rash, eosinophilia, and acute renal failure requiring dialysis. Renal biopsy revealed diffuse and marked interstitial and tubular infiltration by mononuclear cells and eosinophils; acute tubulointerstitial nephritis (TIN) was diagnosed. The rash progressed to erythema multiforme major after rechallenge with vancomycin in the setting of MRSA peritoneal catheter-related peritonitis and then to fatal toxic epidermal necrolysis in the setting of steroid taper and persistent serum vancomycin levels. This case further implicates vancomycin as a drug that infrequently can cause severe acute TIN and exfoliative dermatitis. When a renally excreted drug such as vancomycin is administered, serum drug levels should be serially monitored and high-dosage steroids be maintained or tapered slowly until serum drug levels become undetectable.
Becoming a Published Author

The purpose of this paper is to help authors succeed in preparing and submitting their manuscripts for publication. First, the characteristics that distinguish qualitative and quantitative research are reviewed. Then, suggestions for developing research skills are presented. This is followed by specific comments about manuscript preparation and submission.
Fusion & Information Acquisition

There are multiple types of information which can be extracted from sensor actions and which affect the fusion of sensor data. Some information can be anticipated in the form of predicting which information will maximally reduce our uncertainty about a random variable, and some of it is after-the-fact and can be used to change the quality of fusion by, for example, selecting different state estimator process models. The next level of improving fusion is by actively determining which information for a sensor system to obtain and therefore taking a proactive roll in the fusion process, rather than simply performing the best fusion of data that is provided.
Genetic and Biochemical Screening for Endocrine Disease: II. Ethical Issues

The ability to test for specific genes conferring susceptibility to a variety of diseases has profound ethical implications for the way in which we care for patients. Legislators and health care insurers are scrambling to address the aspects of genetic screening that they believe fall within their purview. Critical to the development of appropriate societal regulations regarding genetic screening is a fundamental understanding of the ethical issues involved. A review of those concerns and the areas in which they interface with legal and insurance issues is the topic of this paper.
THE IDEA OF NATURE IN DISNEY ANIMATION: FROM SNOW WHITE TO WALL-E. By David Whitley. Second Edition. Surrey: Ashgate, 2012. 167 pp. $39.95 cloth.

David Whitley nearly seamlessly intertwines the concept of nature seen throughout popular Disney films with notions of consumer sentiment, historical context, and broader cultural ideologies. Rathe...
Surgical consideration of the inguinal triangles

Abstract A three triangle conception of the inguinal region is presented with the purpose of clarifying some of the vague and easily forgotten anatomical facts of this region. Based upon this conception and facts an appeal is made for the surgeon to do a complete herniorraphy at the time of the first operation rather than a partial one. Also an anatomically correct step is given which if used will aid the surgeon materially in percurring sufficient cord length in orchidopexy to enable him to place the testes in the scrotum without undue tension. The author claims no originality in these two procedures as they have been described and used for some time but it is his belief that their value is not generally understood nor made use of.
Classroom Note: Note on the Optimal Intercept Time of Vessels to a Nonzero Range

There is an even simpler solution to the optimal intercept problem of vessels to a nonzero range.
The Effects of Dog Ownership on Judgments of Dog Bite Likelihood

Of the estimated one million reported dog bites that occur annually in the United States, approximately 80% are by the victim's own dog or a neighbor's dog, while only 10% to 20% are by strays. The purpose of the present research was to determine if dog ownership, peoples' attribution of dog ownership, or peoples' interpretations of a dog's visual signals (dominant/submissive) affect judgments of bite likelihood. One hundred and twenty-five college undergraduates divided into three groups were shown 8 different slides of the “same” dog displaying different combinations of feature (4 dominant and 4 submissive) and color (4 dark and 4 light). Subject groups were instructed to assume one of three possible relationships: The dog was a stray, a neighbor's dog, or their own dog. Subjects rated each of the slides (individually presented) on “How close should I come to this dog?” and “How likely is this dog to bite me?” and answered a series of questions to determine their dog bite history. Results showed signifi...
Genetic characterisation of the botulinum toxin complex of Clostridium botulinum strain NCTC 2916

Abstract An 8 kb segment of the Clostridium botulinum NCTC 2916 genome 5′ to the type A botulinum neurotoxin gene has been sequenced revealing five open reading frames. Four encode components (HA70, HA17, HA34 and NTNH/A) of the progenitor toxin complex. The product of the fifth, OrfX, possesses a putative C-terminal helix-turn-helix motif, exhibits homology with known regulatory proteins (including MsmR from Streptococcus mutans , UviA from C. perfringens and Orftxe1 located upstream of the C. difficile toxin B gene) and is also found within the vicinity of genes encoding tetanus toxin and types B, C, D and G botulinum toxins. Primer extension and Northern blotting analysis demonstrate that the genes are expressed as two divergent operons [HA34, HA17, HA70] and [NTNH/A, type A toxin gene], with the OrfX gene expressed singly. Immediately adjacent to the transcriptional start sites of the HA34 and NTNH/A genes are two highly conserved motifs (5′-ATTTTagGTTTACAAAA-3′ and 5′-ATGTTATATgTaA-3′), separated by 12 bp, that span the putative − 35 and −10 promoter regions. Homologous sequences occur in the equivalent position relative to the genes at type C botulinum toxin gene and the tetanus toxin gene loci. It is likely that these sequence motifs, together with OrfX, are involved in the co-ordinate expression of the genes encoding the various components of the botulinum toxin complex in groups I, III and IV C. botulinum strains and in that of the tetanus toxin gene.
A validity study of the Neural Efficiency Analyzer in relation to selected measures of intelligence.

This study attempted to determine the validity of the Ertl Neural Efficiency Analyzer as a measure of intellectual ability by using NEA-Alpha and Neural Efficiency scores to predict college grade p...
Effortful Control in “Hot” and “Cool” Tasks Differentially Predicts Children’s Behavior Problems and Academic Performance

Effortful control (EC), the capacity to deliberately suppress a dominant response and perform a subdominant response, rapidly developing in toddler and preschool age, has been shown to be a robust predictor of children’s adjustment. Not settled, however, is whether a view of EC as a heterogeneous rather than unidimensional construct may offer advantages in the context of predicting diverse developmental outcomes. This study focused on the potential distinction between “hot” EC function (delay-of-gratification tasks that called for suppressing an emotionally charged response) and more abstract “cool” EC functions (motor inhibition tasks, suppressing-initiating response or Go-No Go tasks, and effortful attention or Stroop-like tasks). Children (N = 100) were observed performing EC tasks at 38 and 52 months. Mothers, fathers, and teachers rated children’s behavior problems and academic performance at 67, 80, and 100 months, and children participated in a clinical interview at 100 months. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analyses with latent variables produced consistent findings across all informants: Children’s scores in “hot” EC tasks, presumably engaging emotion regulation skills, predicted behavior problems but not academic performance, whereas their scores in “cool” EC tasks, specifically those engaging effortful attention, predicted academic performance but not behavior problems. The models of EC as a heterogeneous construct offered some advantages over the unidimensional models. Methodological and clinical implications of the findings are discussed.
Treatment of essential blepharospasm with quetiapine.

A 69-year-old male with blepharospasm unresponsive to several medications who was successfully treated with quetiapine is described. His symptoms were largely alleviated by low doses, but he experienced sedation, which permitted him to take the medication at bedtime only.
Recursive definitions of partial functions and their computations

The object of this paper is to present a syntactic and semantic model for recursive definitions, and to study the relation between their computed functions and their fixpoints. The recursive definitions that we consider are syntactic generalizations of those introduced in [2] by Kleene and in [5] by McCarthy.Each recursive definition yields two classes of fixpoint partial functions (“fixpoints over D u {o}” and “fixpoints over D”), and a class of computed partial functions obtained by applying different computation rules to the recursive definition. In this work we first describe the relations between the computed functions and the fixpoints over D u {o} (Theorem 1), and between the computed functions and the fixpoints over D (Theorem 2). Our main interest is in the class of fixpoints (over D or D u {o}) which are also computed functions of the recursive definition.
A possible mechanism of renal cell death after ischemia/reperfusion

Linkermann et al. provide the first evidence for a possible biochemical mechanism of necrotic kidney cell death associated with renal ischemia/reperfusion-induced acute kidney injury. The mechanisms of several pathways resulting in programmed necrosis were recently elucidated and rely on receptor-interacting protein kinases 1 and 3. Using an inhibitor of one of these kinases, Linkermann et al. were able to ameliorate functional and morphologic kidney damage after ischemia/reperfusion.
Secure communication in frequency selective channels with fade-avoiding subchannel usage

The random nature of fading channels is an enabling factor for achieving secrecy against eavesdropping. By considering the channel frequency selectivity, we propose an adaptive transmission scheme in which the faded subchannels of the legitimate channel are not used for conveying information. Thus, capacity reduction in legitimate channel is minimized while causing a reduction of the eavesdropper channel capacity proportional to the unused subchannels. Besides improving communication secrecy with the intelligent subchannel usage, populating the unused subchannels with artificially-generated noise that further disturbs the eavesdropper's reception is proposed. Since each receiver has its own channel state information (CSI) but not other's, eavesdroppers cannot discard the distortion which is integrated into the transmitted signal as a function of the legitimate pair's CSI. Positive secrecy capacity and outage probabilities are provided as well as error performance example in a communication scenario. It is showed that while careful usage of the subchannels in frequency selective channels improves the secrecy, introducing the fade-filling noise creates an error floor for the malicious nodes.