cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DSP-based solutions for AC motor drives

The advent of programmable digital signal processors (DSPs) is creating a revolution in monitoring, control, and testing of motor drives. Their special architecture and high performance make it possible to implement a wide variety of nontrivial control and measurement algorithms at high sampling rates and reasonable cost. AC motor drives are typically a complex combination of linear, nonlinear, and switching elements. High-frequency converters add another dimension of complexity because of their fast dynamics. Real time systems, therefore, demand the use of high speed data-acquisition and control. DSPs meet the processing requirements imposed by such systems. In this letter, we study the features that make DSPs highly effective computational engines. We explore some applications requiring the high performance of DSPs. The issues involved in adopting a system architecture, selecting a DSP, and developing software for an application are discussed. The methodology described presents broad guidelines that can be intelligently applied to develop DSP-based solutions to meet specific requirements.
Bridges and Barriers: Factors Influencing a Culture of Assessment in Academic Libraries

In an environment in which libraries need to demonstrate value, illustrating how the library contributes to student learning is critical. Gathering and analyzing data to tell the library’s story as well as identify areas for improvement require commitment, time, effort, and resources—all components of a culture of assessment. This paper presents the results of a survey designed to understand what factors facilitate the development of a culture of assessment of student learning in academic libraries and what factors may hinder it. Unlike previous research in this area, which has focused on case studies and surveys with nonrepresentative samples, the authors conducted a systematic survey of academic libraries at four-year institutions in the United States and achieved a 42 percent response rate. The results suggest certain factors are highly associated with a culture of assessment and provide guidance to administrators and front-line librarians working to build such a culture.
Why reading was slower from CRT displays than from paper

Experiments, including our own (Gould et al., 1982; 1984; 1986), have shown that people read more slowly from CRT displays than from paper. Here we summarize results from a few of our fifteen experiments that have led us to conclude that the explanation centers on the image quality of the CRT characters. Reading speeds equivalent to those on paper were found when the CRT displays contained character fonts that resembled those on paper (rather than dot matrix fonts, for example), had a polarity of dark characters on a light background, were anti-aliased (e.g., contained grey level), and were shown on displays with relatively high resolution (e.g., 1000 x 800). Each of these variables probably contributes something to the improvement, but the trade-offs have not been determined. Other general explanations for the reading speed difference that can be excluded include some inherent defect in CRT technology itself or personal variables such as age, experience, or familiarity at reading from CRT displays.
Task and technology interaction (TTI): a theory of technological support for group tasks

The Group Support Systems' (GSS) research literature, filled with disjointed empirical investigations, yearns for a theory to guide researchers and practitioners in their efforts to prescribe support technologies for a given group task. A theory of Task and Technology Interaction (TTI) is proposed as a viable approach for guiding the research, and offering practical guidelines for MIS/GSS practitioners. The TTI is based upon a reinterpretation of contemporary conceptualizations of group support technologies and a new representation of group tasks. Central to the proposed conceptualizations are the functional requirements of a task. A strategy for applying the assertions of TTI is outlined and directions for future research are suggested.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE THRESHOLD OF METHYL AND ETHYL OLEATE EMULSIONS IN RAISINS AND RAISIN PASTE

Raisins prepared by dipping in methyl or ethyl oleate emulsions and dried in a tunnel dehydrator at 65.5°C for 12 hr had significantly lower off-flavor thresholds than those in which oleate was added after drying. This indicates that time-temperature combinations of this magnitude caused oxidative changes or interactions between constituents in the emulsions and raisins yielding a mixture of increased off-flavor potency. Whole raisins had an apparent lower oleate threshold than the same raisins ground into paste prior to tasting because of the nonuniform distribution of oleates in whole raisins. Consequently, conditions improving the uniform distribution of oleates in whole raisins would reduce off-flavor detection in oleate-treated fruit. Emulsifiers used in commercial oleate preparations can be the most significant source of off-flavor contribution to the dried raisins.
The early identification of poor treatment outcome in a women's weight loss program

Research examining factors associated with program attrition or failure to lose weight during active treatment has yielded mixed findings. The goal of the current investigation was to confirm and extend prior research on the predictors and correlates of attrition and failure to lose weight during treatment. This investigation examined whether baseline characteristics, early weight loss, attendance, weight-related quality of life, confidence and difficulties with eating and exercise, and diet-related thoughts and feelings during the final week of treatment were associated with percentage change in body weight. Forty-four, obese, sedentary, postmenopausal women were recruited to participate in a 24-session weight loss intervention. Poor treatment outcome (i.e., percentage change in body weight) was significantly associated with several baseline characteristics including higher body mass index (BMI), greater fat and lower carbohydrate consumption, poor body image, and greater expectations for program success. Poor treatment outcome was also significantly associated with poor program attendance, unsatisfactory early weight loss, unsatisfactory improvements in weight-related quality of life, and lower self-control and self-confidence. By the end of active treatment, women with poor treatment outcome evidenced significantly higher levels of guilt and feelings of failure. The need for early identification and intervention with participants at risk for treatment failure is discussed.
Thermal analysis of β-lactoglobulin complexes with pectins or carrageenan for production of stable biopolymer particles.

Abstract Biopolymer nanoparticles can be formed by thermal treatment of electrostatic complexes of globular proteins and anionic polysaccharides. The purpose of this study was to provide insights into the physicochemical origin of biopolymer particle formation using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and temperature-scanning turbidity measurements. DSC measurements indicated that high methoxyl pectin (HMP), low methoxyl pectin (LMP) and carrageenan (C) had little impact on the thermal denaturation temperature of β-lactoglobulin ( T m ∼ 78 °C) at pH 4.75, where electrostatic complexes are formed. Temperature scanning turbidity measurements indicated that extensive biopolymer aggregation occurred above T m for β-lactoglobulin-pectin systems, but not for β-lactoglobulin-carrageenan systems. This difference was attributed to the greater strength of the attractive electrostatic interactions between the protein and carrageenan molecules, compared to the protein and pectin molecules. The biopolymer particles formed by heating β-lactoglobulin-pectin complexes were relatively stable to association/dissociation from pH 3 to 7 for HMP and from pH 4 to 7 for LMP, whereas the β-lactoglobulin-C complexes were highly unstable to pH changes. The β-lactoglobulin-pectin nanoparticles ( d = 200–300 nm) may therefore be useful as natural delivery systems or fat replacers in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and other industries.
More Than Milk and Cookies: Reconsidering the College Play Day

This paper considers how examining events such as college play days can provide additional insights into the experiences of women involved in college sport. This article interrogates the dominant discourses that scholars have previously assigned to the play day and seeks to build a new framework for understanding why play days were adopted and how they evolved between 1926 and 1971. I also examine how the play day served as a site where notions of respectable female physicality were reproduced and reworked by various groups to advance specific professional and cultural concerns. This article draws from twentieth-century professional literature, magazines, textbooks, and college newspapers, in addition to the correspondence, minutes, and memoirs from various students, faculty, and administrative entities.
Renal Function Defect in Mutant Southdown Sheep with Congenital Hyperbilirubinemia

SummaryMutant Southdown (SD) sheep with inherited hyperbilirubinemia due to a hepatic anion transport deficiency had significantly reduced glomerular filtration (clearance of inulin) and effective renal plasma flow (clearance of p-aminohippuric acid) as compared to normal SD sheep. Mutant SD sheep excreted five times more sodium per day than normal SD sheep on the same free choice diet. The daily urine volume of the mutants was four times as great as that of the normals.
Control of the Activity of Highly Purified Cardiac Actomyosin by Ca2+, Na+ and K+

The responses of cardiac actomyosin to changes in the concentrations of Ca2+, Na+ and K+ were examined to evaluate the role that direct actions of these cations could play in the regulation of myocardial contractility. The sensitivity of the Mg2+-activated adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity of reconstituted cardiac actomyosin to changing Ca2+ concentration was similar to that for skeletal actomyosin although both cardiac myosin and actomyosin were less active than the corresponding skeletal proteins at all Ca2+ concentrations. Activation of both myosins by either the cardiac or skeletal actintropomyosin complex was virtually absent when free Ca2+ concentration was below 10-7 M. Full activation was seen at Ca2+ concentrations greater than 10-5 M. These findings support the view that variations in intracellular Ca2+ concentration play a role in regulating myocardial contractility. Replacement of KCl by NaCl stimulated both the ATPase activity and superprecipitation of cardiac actomyosin. The positive inotropic effects associated with replacement of intracellular K+ by Na+, e.g. the positive staircase accompanying increased heart rate, may therefore be due, in part at least, to a direct action of Na+ upon the contractile proteins.
Smokers’ Treatment Expectancies Predict Smoking Cessation Success

Introduction: Smokers’ treatment expectancies may influence their choice of a particular medication as well as their medication experience. Aims: This study examined the role of smokers’ treatment expectancies to their smoking cessation outcomes in a completed, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of naltrexone for smoking cessation, controlling for perceptions of treatment assignment. Methods: Treatment-seeking cigarette smokers (N = 315) were randomized to receive either naltrexone (50 mg) or placebo in combination with nicotine patch and behavioural counselling. Expectancies for naltrexone as a smoking cessation aid were assessed at baseline and four weeks after the quit date. Results: More positive baseline medication expectancies predicted higher quit rates at one month in the naltrexone group (OR = 1.45, p = 0.04) but were associated with lower quit rates in the placebo group (OR = 0.66, p = 0.03). Maintaining and/or increasing positive medication expectancies in the first month of treatment was associated with better pill adherence during this interval in the naltrexone group (ps < 0.05). Positive baseline medication expectancies were also associated with the perception of having received naltrexone over placebo among all participants. Conclusions: Positive medication expectancies in smokers may contribute to better treatment response. Assessing treatment expectancies and attempting to maintain or improve them may be important for the delivery, evaluation, and targeting of smoking cessation treatments.
A Process Model of Affect Misattribution

People often misattribute the causes of their thoughts and feelings. The authors propose a multinomial process model of affect misattributions, which separates three component processes. The first is an affective response to the true cause of affect. The second is an affective response to the apparent cause. The third process is when the apparent source is confused for the real source. The model is validated using the affect misattribution procedure (AMP), which uses misattributions as a means to implicitly measure attitudes. The model illuminates not only the AMP but also other phenomena in which researchers wish to model the processes underlying misattributions using subjective judgments.
MK-801 does not protect against hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in piglets.

The excitatory amino acid inhibitor MK-801 has been shown in many animals species to protect against hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. We sought to determine whether hypoxic-ischemic injury to the newborn pig's brain could be prevented by the use of MK-801.Hypoxic-ischemic injury to the brain was induced in forty 0-3-day-old piglets. They were randomized to receive either 3 mg/kg MK-801 (MK-801 group, n = 20) or vehicle (control group, n = 19) prior to insult. At time 0, the carotid arteries were ligated and the blood pressure was reduced by one third by hemorrhage. At 15 minutes, inspired oxygen was reduced from 50% to 6%. At 30 minutes, inspired oxygen was changed to 100%, carotid ligatures were released, and the withdrawn blood was reinfused. An additional 14 piglets received 3 mg/kg MK-801 but not hypoxic-ischemic injury (drug-only group), and a final group of 11 piglets were subjected to only a sham operation (sham group).Neurological examination scores at 24, 48, and 72 hours showed that MK-801 and dru...
Drift-resistant SNR scalable video coding

We address the problem of enhancement layer drift estimation for fine granular scalable video. An optimal per-pixel drift estimation algorithm is introduced. The encoder assumes that there is some truncation of the enhancement layer, which does not allow the enhancement layer reference to be properly reconstructed, and the encoder recursively estimates the associated drift and chooses coding modes accordingly. The approach yields performance gains of about 1 dB across low to medium rates. In addition, we investigate dual frame prediction, for both base and enhancement layer, with pulsed-quality allocation in the base layer
Use of satellite imagery in multidisciplinary projects

The most important problems of our century require collaborative work. Therefore, as educators, we must be producing individuals who understand how to communicate and work with professionals from other fields. In this paper, we outline our ongoing efforts in addressing this need, without compromising discipline specific qualities or goals. Specifically, we present a number of programming projects that fulfill curricular requirements as well as making students aware of the Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) context of their work.
Isn' t higher education employability?

This article seeks to avoid the conflation of employability and other, wider aims of education into one notion of higher education. Drawing initially on Aristotle and then on the existentialism, it attempts to distinguish between employability as one of the outcomes of higher education, and other aspects of personal and civic development. In doing so, the notion of competence is retained, but its link with vocationalism as a primary education aim is questioned.
Simulation of return ratio in fully differential feedback circuits

This paper describes SPICE simulation techniques that can be used to find the gain and phase margins of perfectly balanced, fully differential circuits. The basis of the techniques is the calculation of the return ratios of the differential- and common-mode feedback loops. The closed-loop d.c. operating point is preserved during the return-ratio simulations so that SPICE properly computes the linear small-signal models associated with all nonlinear devices. >
An Integrated Platform for Isolation, Processing, and Mass Spectrometry-based Proteomic Profiling of Rare Cells in Whole Blood

Isolation and molecular characterization of rare cells (e.g. circulating tumor and stem cells) within biological fluids and tissues has significant potential in clinical diagnostics and personalized medicine. The present work describes an integrated platform of sample procurement, preparation, and analysis for deep proteomic profiling of rare cells in blood. Microfluidic magnetophoretic isolation of target cells spiked into 1 ml of blood at the level of 1000–2000 cells/ml, followed by focused acoustics-assisted sample preparation has been coupled with one-dimensional PLOT-LC-MS methodology. The resulting zeptomole detection sensitivity enabled identification of ∼4000 proteins with injection of the equivalent of only 100–200 cells per analysis. The characterization of rare cells in limited volumes of physiological fluids is shown by the isolation and quantitative proteomic profiling of first MCF-7 cells spiked into whole blood as a model system and then two CD133+ endothelial progenitor and hematopoietic cells in whole blood from volunteers.
Design of mesoscale active cells for networked, compliant robotic structures

We present the design of simple, centimeter-scale modular actuation units (“Active Cells”) and passive compliant nodes that are electromechanically networked to create macroscopically deformable Modular Active Cell-based Structures (MACROs). Each Active Cell is a single degree-of-freedom linear actuator (a “muscle unit”), consisting of fiberglass end-pieces connecting two strands of Nitinol shape-memory alloy and a passive biasing spring. The Nitinol strands are coiled into a tight spring to increase deformations when activated through resistive heating. In-depth examination of the optimization of Nitinol coils with an antagonistic spring is presented, resulting in large repeatable axial cell strains of up to 25%. The design of these cellular muscle units to obtain maximal repeatable stroke is presented, allowing for the construction of larger networks of cells (MACRO modules, akin to a biological “tissue”) that can be customized to a target application. Finally, experimental demonstration of the construction and actuation of some simple MACRO modules is described.
Entrenched Enemies, Tactical Partners, or Steadfast Allies? Exploring the Fault Lines Between Teacher Unions and Community Organizing in the United States

ABSTRACTTeachers’ unions and community organizing emerged out of shared collective struggles for social justice in the United States in the twentieth century. Beyond broad general aspirations for a better society, however, their interests and tactics have not always been compatible. This interpretive essay revisits three recent case studies of interaction between teachers and community organizing groups to investigate the conditions that can lead to episodic tactical relationships, entrenched polarization, or solidarity. The cases indicate that while there are many potential causes of mistrust between teachers and community activists, concrete and practical strategies can be forged that can improve student learning, benefit teachers collectively, and increase community engagement in public schools.
Propagation of Interfacially Active Carbon Nanohybrids in Porous Media

Interfacially active carbon nanotube hybrids (nanohybrids) exhibit promising properties for potential applications in reservoir systems. They could be used as modifiers of transport properties as well as nanoscale vehicles for catalyst and contrast agents. In situ catalysis might be used to modify interfacial tension and wettability of the rock wall. The main requirements for any of these applications are the ability to form stable dispersions and to effectively propagate through the reservoir porous medium under the temperature and salinity conditions that are typical in commercial operations. In this work, suspensions of purified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (P-MWNTs) in deionized water and high-salinity brine have been prepared using two commercially available polymers, polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC-10). Stable dispersions were put in contact with crushed Berea sandstone, quantifying the amount of nanotubes lost from suspension to estimate the adsorption of these nanotube...
Abstract 1625: Role of EphB4 in esophageal cancer: Expression, amplification, and therapeutic inhibition

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL EphB4 is a member of the largest family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), classically associated with neural development and vascular patterning in embryonic life. The cellular responses to Eph receptor stimulation by their ephrin ligands are important in mediating a wide range of biological activities, including angiogenesis, cell segregation, cell attachment, shape, and motility. EphB4 has been showed to play an oncogenic role in a number of tumors, and we report the first investigation into its role in esophageal cancer, a disease whose survival has not improved and would benefit from the identification of new targets in its treatment. We have addressed this need by exploring the Eph/ephrin receptor tyrosine kinase pathway. We utilized tissues archived at the University of Chicago as well as commercially purchased TMAs to evaluate the expression of EphB4 by IHC. Approximately 93 squamous cell carcinoma, 100 adenocarcinoma and 25 adjacent normal control samples were utilized. In addition, four adenocarcinoma and nine squamous cell carcinma cell lines were used for in vitro studies. Statistical analysis of IHC data showed a consistently higher expression of EphB4 in both squamous and adenocarcinoma compared to adjacent normal tissue. A statistically significant correlation was established between EphB4 expression and higher grades of squamous cell carcinoma, suggesting that overexpression of EphB4 in squamous cell carcinoma is directly linked to clinically aggressive tumors. The EphB4 gene was found amplified in 8/16 squamous cell carcinoma (30% with a gene copy number ≥ 3, 30% with >8 copies and 10% with a copy number of 20. Of the adenocarcinomas, 3/7 samples were amplified (43% with a gene copy number of ≥4, and 14% >8 copies). Three of 9 squamous cell carcinoma cell lines had a gene copy number ≥4 and rest of them had no significant variation. Only one of four adenocarcinoma cell lines had an increased gene copy number. In vitro experiments with EphB4 specific siRNA inhibited the motility and proliferation of cultured cells and the inhibition of EphB4 specifically abrogated the phosphorylation of functional proteins associated with cell motility and proliferation, especially that of phospho-FAK and phospo-AKT, the expression of which were abrogated completely by the inhibition of EphB4. Our data imply that EphB4 plays a crucial role in esophageal cancer and should be further evaluated as a therapeutic target in this disease. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1625. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1625
Physical Attractiveness and Lebanese Children's School Performance:

This study investigated the relation of physical attractiveness to the academic performance of school children. Data were obtained from a private school in Zahle, Lebanon. The physical attractiveness of 190 elementary school children as rated by 3 different individuals correlated .48 with their grade point averages by Spearman's rank-order procedure.
High resolution microendoscopy for early detection of esophageal cancer in low-resource settings (Conference Presentation)

Esophageal squamous cell neoplasia (ESCN) is the sixth leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Most deaths due to ESCN occur in developing countries, with highest risk areas in northern China. Lugol’s chromoendoscopy (LCE) is the gold-standard for ESCN screening; while the sensitivity of LCE for ESCN is >95%, LCE suffers poor specificity (< 65%) due to false positive findings from inflammatory lesions. High resolution microendoscopy (HRME) uses a low-cost, fiber-optic fluorescence microscope to image morphology of the surface epithelium without need for biopsy. We developed a tablet-interfaced HRME with automated, real-time image analysis. In an in vivo study of 177 patients referred for endoscopy in China, use of the algorithm identified neoplasia with a sensitivity and specificity of 95% and 91% compared to the gold standard of histology.
Stress Research of Working Face of Engine Blade Shoulder

Aiming at the extrusion stress on the working face of fan blade shoulder,the finite element model work surface contact of fan blade shoulder is created,and the distribute and deformation of extrusion stress is analyzed in working condition. The working face of fan blade shoulder is measured based on the worked fan blade shoulder,which matches with finite element results. The distribute and deformation of extrusion stress of fan blade shoulder mainly depends on the initial tension and work load. The research of extrusion stress provides reference on design and manufacture of fan blade shoulder.
BK Channels in Epithelia

Large, Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BK) are comprised of the pore-forming α subunit (BK-α) and one of four β subunits (β1–4), which bestows functional diversity. BK channels are localized in the distal nephron of kidneys and a variety of extrarenal, fluid-secreting epithelia. In the kidneys, flow activates BK, which are located in two cell types of the distal nephron. The BK-α/β1 resides in the connecting tubule cells, and the BK-α/β4 is localized in intercalated cells, where they mediate K+ secretion in mice on a high K+, alkaline diet.
A novel analysis of consumption-based carbon footprints in China: Unpacking the effects of urban settlement and rural-to-urban migration

Abstract Urbanization in developing countries greatly contributes to growing carbon emissions. Although studies have documented the urbanization effect, the science of consumption-based footprint assessments has yet to unpack various effects during the process of urbanization. Based on household expenditure data, this study innovatively proposes a methodology to conceptually and statistically deconstruct the observed urbanization effects on carbon footprint into selection effects and migration effects, which consist of human settlement effects and purposeful changes of migration (such as income and residential location). Applying propensity score matching and regression on the 2010 China Family Panel Study, we find that the apparent carbon-footprint difference between rural residents and migrants is about 1.5 t CO2e per capita. The migration effects account for about 2/3 of the apparent difference and the remaining 1/3 is due to selection effects. Urban settlement effects and the purposeful changes account for 73% and 27% of the migration effects, respectively. Transport sector is the key driver of carbon-footprint growth: it accounts for 60% of the migration effects. We conclude that travel behavior of rural migrants, currently in scarcity in the lite rature, merits further investigation, and policies should emphasize transit-oriented land use and transportation to achieve low-carbon urbanization.
The association between sexual function and prostate cancer risk in US veterans.

Sexual dysfunction and prostate cancer are common among older men. Few studies explored the association between these two illnesses. We examined whether sexual function is associated with prostate cancer risk among older men. Among 448 men undergoing prostate biopsy at the Durham Veterans Affairs Hospital, sexual function was ascertained from the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite sexual assessment. We tested the link between sexual function and prostate cancer risk adjusting for multiple demographic and clinical characteristics using logistic regression. Multinomial logistic regression was used to test the associations with risk of low-grade (Gleason ≤6) and high-grade (Gleason ≥7 or ≥4 + 3) disease versus no cancer. Of 448 men, 209 (47%) had a positive biopsy; these men were less likely to be white (43% vs 55%, P = 0.013), had higher prostate-specific antigen (PSA) (6.0 vs 5.4 ng ml−1 , P < 0.001), but with lower mean sexual function score (47 vs 54, P = 0.007). There was no difference in age, BMI, pack years smoked, history of heart disease and/or diabetes. After adjusting for baseline differences, sexual function was linked with a decreased risk of overall prostate cancer risk (OR: 0.91 per 10-point change in sexual function, P = 0.004) and high-grade disease whether defined as Gleason ≥7 (OR: 0.86, P = 0.001) or ≥4 + 3 (OR: 0.85, P = 0.009). Sexual function was unrelated to low-grade prostate cancer (OR: 0.94, P = 0.13). Thus, among men undergoing prostate biopsy, higher sexual function was associated with a decreased risk of overall and high-grade prostate cancer. Confirmatory studies are needed.
Analysis of a Guideline-Derived Resident Educational Program on Inpatient Glycemic Control.

OBJECTIVES To determine the effects of a guideline-derived resident educational program on inpatient glycemic control and length of hospital stay (LOS). METHODS We compared the following variables before and after resident education: percentage of patients on basal-plus-bolus regimens, mean fingerstick glucose (FSG), LOS, and rates of hypoglycemia (FSG<70 mg/dL) and severe hypoglycemia (FSG<40 mg/dL). A two-tailed t test was used for all continuous data and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS After education, more patients (23% vs 8%; P=0.024) were placed on basal-plus-bolus regimens. We observed a decrease in mean FSG (158.7 mg/dL vs 165.1 mg/dL; P=0.028) and LOS (5.03 days vs 6.98 days; P=0.042). Rates of hypoglycemia (4.6% vs 1.5%; P<0.001) and severe hypoglycemia (0.71% vs 0.24%; P=0.089) increased. CONCLUSIONS Our resident educational program significantly increased the number of patients receiving guideline-based inpatient insulin therapy and was associated with a reduction in mean FSG and LOS. Rates of hypoglycemia showed a statistically significant increase, whereas rates of severe hypoglycemia did not. Larger multicenter studies with adjustment for potential confounders are needed to further assess the impact of educational interventions on inpatient glycemic control.
Stroma-Induced Increase In ABCG2 Expression Is Involved In Resistance to Chemotherapy In Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Abstract 972 Successful treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is frequently hindered by development of resistance to conventional chemotherapy resulting in disease relapse and high mortality. High expression of anti-apoptotic and/or drug transporter proteins induced by oncogenic signaling pathways has been implicated in the development of chemoresistance in cancer. However, the cellular mechanisms responsible for drug resistance and treatment failure in DLBCL are poorly understood and their elucidation could lead to development of new therapeutic approaches. Activated Hedgehog (HH) signaling was identified in our laboratory to contribute to DLBCL cell survival and proliferation. We also found that inhibiting HH signaling resulted in decrease of BCL-2 protein and mRNA levels in ABC DLBCL cells but not in GC DLBCL cells, and that the resistance to apoptosis to HH inhibition observed in GC DLBCL cells can be overcome using the BCL2 inhibitor YC137. (Leukemia 2010;24:1025). We also found that the drug transporter protein ABCG2 is a potential prognostic factor in DLBCL given that its expression (as detected by immunohistochemistry) inversely correlated with overall survival and failure-free survival (Mod Pathol 2009;22:1312). Here, we investigate potential mechanistic connections between HH signaling and chemoresistance in DLBCL. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), site directed mutagenesis and luciferase reporter based assays, we confirmed the presence of a GLI-1 transcription factor-binding site in the ABCG2 gene promoter and we established ABCG2 gene as a direct downstream target of HH signaling. We also characterized the baseline expression and functionality of ABCG2 in DLBCL cell lines and explored the role of stroma in modulating its expression levels as well as the expression of other drug transporters (MDR1 and ABCC1) and the levels of the anti-apoptotic proteins, BCL-2, BCL2A1 and BCL-xL. Co-culturing DLBCL cell lines (BJAB and DOHH2) with human bone marrow stromal cells (HS5) resulted in decreased chemosensitivity to doxorubicin and methotrexate that was associated to marked increased expression levels of the drug transporters ABCG2, MDR1 and ABCC1 as well as of the expression levels of BCL2, BCL2A1 and BCL-xL. Our results also showed that pharmacologic inhibition of the activity of ABCG2, using fumitremorgin C and glefanine, significantly increased the chemosensitivity of BJAB and DOHH2 cells in the presence of stromal cells. However, this effect was not seen in the absence of stromal cells. Collectively, our data confirm that the stromal cells plays a role in inducing chemoresistance in DLBCL and that this effect is in part mediated by inducing high expression of drug protein transporters and antiapoptotic proteins. Inhibition of HH signaling as well as inhibition of drug transporters abrogates the stroma-induced chemoresistance suggesting that targeting these molecules may have a therapeutic value for the treatment of DLBCL. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Symptomatische kongenitale Koronarfistel vom linken Hauptstamm zum linken Vorhof — ein Case Report

Sich in den linken Vorhof entleerende Koronarfisteln (CAF) sind selten. Die uberwiegende Mehrheit drainiert in das rechte Herz oder in die Pulmonalarterien. In der Literatur sind weltweit weniger als 10 Falle von Koronarfisteln vom linken Hauptstamm zum linken Vorhof beschrieben. Wir werden uber einen symptomatischen Neugeborenen berichten, bei dem ein ektatischer linker Hauptstamm uber eine Fistel in den linken Vorhof mundete.
Anti-DNA Antibodies

Abstract Anti-dsDNA antibodies are a hallmark of lupus erythematosus, yet their origin remains debated and the mechanisms by which they contribute to disease continue to be investigated. Although some studies demonstrated that they are elicited in an antigen-driven response from a nonautoreactive precursor, other studies have shown they can also arise from mature autoreactive B cells that become activated by an inflammatory environment. Both direct and indirect mechanisms by which anti-dsDNA antibodies deposit in the kidney and initiate nephritis have been proposed. More recent evidence elucidates mechanisms by which a subset of antibodies cross-reacting with the N-methyl- d -aspartate receptor on neurons may contribute to neuropsychiatric manifestations in lupus. In addition, the internalization of immune complexes of anti-dsDNA antibodies has been demonstrated to activate inflammatory pathways in myeloid cells, thus initiating a feedback loop between innate and adaptive immunity. Overall, this review summarizes insights into the complexity of anti-dsDNA antibodies and the mechanisms by which they exert harm.
Shrinking pigeon, brooding dove: the Holy Spirit in recent works by Sarah Coakley and N. T. Wright

This article contrasts recent works by Sarah Coakley and N. T. Wright as they pertain to Paul's treatment of the Holy Spirit. In particular, Coakley reveals the inadequacy of Wright's claim that the early fathers were impeded in developing a high view of the Spirit because of an allegiance to ‘Greek philosophy’. Likewise, Wright's more comprehensive treatment of Paul helps to reveal potential problems with Coakley's apophatic tendency to describe the human encounter with God as ‘a love affair with a blank’. In the end, however, both thinkers are united in acknowledging the leading activity of the Spirit, both in prayer and in enabling the Christian to declare that ‘Jesus is Lord’ (1 Cor 12:3). In these ways, both authors converge in an attempt to restore the Holy Spirit to a rightful place in Christian theology and devotion.
Complement Based Logic Design (CBLD) for Area and Power Efficiency of Arithmetic Building Blocks

High-performance low power arithmetic circuit with least area, is essential for advanced processes. This paper proposes a new view of logic design with the name of Complement Based Logic Design (CBLD) has been presented for modeling and optimization of some arithmetic building blocks which have used a kind of conditional operation in their input stage, output stage or both. These conditional operations mostly are in the arithmetic building blocks and they could be: conditional add/sub by a constant number, or conditional complement and also MUX modules for the final output selection at the output stages. Also, CBLD can cover multi stages conditional blocks and pack them all together as one block with some input control signals. All these optimization states with the use of CBLD leads to decreasing the number of logic gates, as a result it also improves the area, power efficiency, and the speed. In this work CBLD functionality verified by applying it on conventional BCD adder/subtractor, an optimized module of BCD adder/subtractor and an optimized conditional module used in a parallel decimal multiplier. Comparison of CBLD design with its counterpart shows significant area and power efficiency with the speed improvement.
Language and voice

These resources cannot be neglected much longer without lasting negative effects. While we have introduced here the idea of a “resource-­language” to talk about cultural and linguistic maintenance,...
Evaluation of Plating Media for Recovery of Heated Clostridium perfringens Spores.

Four selective and eight non-selective plating media were evaluated for their ability to enumerate six strains of heat-activated and heat-injured spores of Clostridium perfringens . Trypticase-sulfite-neomycin (TSN) agar and sulfite-polymyxin-sulfadiazine (SPS) agar gave higher counts of heat-activated spores than non-selective media. In the case of heat-injured spores, wide variation in recovery was obtained depending on strain and medium. Higher counts of heat-injured spores were obtained by incubating plates at 37°C than at 45°C, although, except for one strain, no significant difference between the two temperatures was observed using heat-activated spores.
Thrombosis in the setting of cancer

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common cause of adverse outcomes in patients with cancer. The risk of VTE varies with cancer type, stage and grade, cancer therapy, and supportive care, as well as patient characteristics including age, ethnicity, and inherited and acquired comorbid conditions. VTE prophylaxis should be provided to all hospitalized cancer patients and high-risk outpatients. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) remains the first-line therapy for VTE in patients with active cancer. Anticoagulation should be continued as long as there is evidence of active disease or patients are receiving cancer treatment. The efficacy of direct oral anticoagulants in the treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis remains incompletely defined. Central venous catheter (CVC)-associated VTE should be treated with anticoagulation alone, unless the CVC is no longer required. Recent studies indicate that anticoagulation may be appropriate for patients with persistent thrombocytopenia or solid tumor brain metastases. Management of recurrent VTE includes the identification of the cause(s) of the recurrence and solutions targeted at addressing the potential precipitants.
Solving and simulating unbalanced growth models using linearization about the current state

Abstract This paper presents an adjustment to commonly used linear approximation methods for dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) models. Policy functions approximated around the steady state will be inaccurate away from the steady state. In some cases the model may not have a well-defined steady state, or the nature of the steady state may be at odds with its off-steady-state dynamics. We show how to simulate a DSGE model with no well-defined steady state by approximating about the current state. Our method minimizes the error associated with a finite-order Taylor-series expansion of the model’s characterizing equations. This method is easily implemented and has the advantage of mimicking highly non-linear behavior. It also requires choosing N out of 2 N possible roots from a matrix quadratic equations and the choice of this root not obvious away from the steady state. However, simulations show that using the same criteria as when linearizing about the steady state yield reasonable, well-fitting results.
Influence of Pokémon Go on Physical Activity: Study and Implications

Background: Physical activity helps people maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk for several chronic diseases. Although this knowledge is widely recognized, adults and children in many countries around the world do not get recommended amounts of physical activity. Although many interventions are found to be ineffective at increasing physical activity or reaching inactive populations, there have been anecdotal reports of increased physical activity due to novel mobile games that embed game play in the physical world. The most recent and salient example of such a game is Pokemon Go, which has reportedly reached tens of millions of users in the United States and worldwide. Objective: The objective of this study was to quantify the impact of Pokemon Go on physical activity. Methods: We study the effect of Pokemon Go on physical activity through a combination of signals from large-scale corpora of wearable sensor data and search engine logs for 32,000 Microsoft Band users over a period of 3 months. Pokemon Go players are identified through search engine queries and physical activity is measured through accelerometers. Results: We find that Pokemon Go leads to significant increases in physical activity over a period of 30 days, with particularly engaged users (ie, those making multiple search queries for details about game usage) increasing their activity by 1473 steps a day on average, a more than 25% increase compared with their prior activity level (P<.001). In the short time span of the study, we estimate that Pokemon Go has added a total of 144 billion steps to US physical activity. Furthermore, Pokemon Go has been able to increase physical activity across men and women of all ages, weight status, and prior activity levels showing this form of game leads to increases in physical activity with significant implications for public health. In particular, we find that Pokemon Go is able to reach low activity populations, whereas all 4 leading mobile health apps studied in this work largely draw from an already very active population. Conclusions: Mobile apps combining game play with physical activity lead to substantial short-term activity increases and, in contrast to many existing interventions and mobile health apps, have the potential to reach activity-poor populations. Future studies are needed to investigate potential long-term effects of these applications. [J Med Internet Res 2016;18(12):e315]
Imaging nanosecond ablation of copper at low ambient pressure

The ablation of copper at low pressure by nanosecond pulses is imaged in a shadowgraph experiment. The ambient pressure affects the expansion dynamics as evidenced by the shock wave and damage spot.
The Current State of Teleophthalmology in the United States

Telemedicine services facilitate the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of the remote patient. Telemedicine has rapidly flourished in the United States and has improved access to care, outcomes, and patient satisfaction. However, the use of telemedicine in ophthalmology is currently in its infancy and has yet to gain wide acceptance. Current models of telemedicine in ophthalmology are largely performed via "store and forward" methods, but remote monitoring and interactive modalities exist. Although studies have examined the effects of telemedicine, few reports have characterized its current status. We perform a descriptive analysis of the current state of teleophthalmology in the United States. We describe the use of teleophthalmology in the hospital and outpatient settings. We also review the applications to retinopathy of prematurity, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma, as well as anticipated barriers and hurdles for the future adoption of teleophthalmology. With ongoing advances in teleophthalmology, these models may provide earlier detection and more reliable monitoring of vision-threatening diseases.
Mouth and Esophagus

This chapter begins with an overview of the structure of the gastrointestinal system from mouth to anus, naming the major structural features. It then discusses chewing, naming the major muscles and their actions involved in chewing. It next discusses the function of saliva. The mechanism of secretion of saliva is discussed along with its control by parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves. Central connections regulating salivary secretion are mentioned. Swallowing is then discussed, from the mechanical events involved in this complicated program to its nervous control. The esophageal phase of swallowing is covered, including both primary peristalsis resulting from the swallowing program and secondary peristalsis resulting from distension of the esophagus. The function of the upper and lower esophageal sphincters is explored.
Lessons from first campus carbon-pricing scheme

Putting a value on emissions can lower energy use, write Kenneth Gillingham, Stefano Carattini and Daniel Esty.