cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lower-limb goniometry using stitched sensors: effects of manufacturing and wear variables

Smart fabrics allow for convenient wearable sensing solutions to monitor body movements during our daily life. However, garment-integrated sensing presents challenges for accurate sensing, due many variables including those presented by variability in garment and sensor dimensions due to cut-and-sew manufacturing processes, and those introduced by re-positioning of integrated sensors when the garment is donned and doffed. Here, we measure the effect of variability in garment positioning due to donning and doffing, garment dimension due to manufacturing tolerances, and sensor dimension due to manufacturing defects on the accuracy of a stitched goniometer used to measure flexion of the knee and hip. Results show that variability in garment positioning and garment dimension have a minimal effect on sensor accuracy, but sensor dimensions have a more significant influence on accuracy.
A four segment composition model for non-electrolyte aqueous mixtures

Abstract A model for analysing excess properties of mixtures of water and polar organic liquids, which embodies the assumption that the total composition ranges of such mixtures possess four distinct segments, is described and the results given for analyses of various properties of the ACN—water and THF—water systems. Some tentative conclusions are drawn from the results about patterns of molecular aggregation within these mixtures.
Electrostatic binding of proteins to membranes. Theoretical predictions and experimental results with charybdotoxin and phospholipid vesicles

We previously applied the Poisson-Boltzmann equation to atomic models of phospholipid bilayers and basic peptides to calculate their electrostatic interactions from first principles (Ben-Tal, N., B. Honig, R. M. Peitzsch, G. Denisov, and S. McLaughlan. 1996. Binding of small basic peptides to membranes containing acidic lipids. Theoretical models and experimental results. Biophys. J. 71:561–575). Specifically, we calculated the molar partition coefficient, K (the reciprocal of the lipid concentration at which 1/2 the peptide is bound), of simple basic peptides (e.g., pentalysine) with phospholipid vesicles. The theoretical predictions agreed well with experimental measurements of the binding, but the agreement could have been fortuitous because the structure(s) of these flexible peptides is not known. Here we use the same theoretical approach to calculate the membrane binding of two small proteins of known structure: charybdotoxin (CTx) and iberiotoxin (IbTx); we also measure the binding of these proteins to phospholipid vesicles. The theoretical model describes accurately the dependence of K on the ionic strength and mol % acidic lipid in the membrane for both CTx (net charge +4) and IbTx (net charge +2). For example, the theory correctly predicts that the value of K for the binding of CTx to a membrane containing 33% acidic lipid should decrease by a factor of 10(5) when the salt concentration increases from 10 to 200 mM. We discuss the limitations of the theoretical approach and also consider a simple extension of the theory that incorporates nonpolar interactions.
Broad-band parametric deamplification of quantum noise in an optical fiber.

Broad-band squeezed states of light are generated by forward nondegenerate four-wave mixing in a single-mode optical fiber cooled below 4.2 K. The minimum total noise level was (12.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.5)% below the standard quantum limit.
Genetic linkage methods for quantitative traits.

We discuss methods for detecting genetic linkage for quantitative data. The usual LOD score method uses a pseudolikelihood formulation and has optimal power provided all parameters are correctly specified, but can lead to erroneous estimates of the location for the locus influencing a trait under misspecification of parameters describing the variance of the trait. Alternative methods, in which attention focuses upon modelling covariation among relatives as a function of genetic marker, similarity lead to unbiased estimates of the location and major gene heritability of the trait influencing locus. The Haseman-Elston approach uses a regression method to perform linkage analysis and its properties have been widely studied. This method is generally less powerful than variance components procedures, but the maximum likelihood-based variance components procedures require normality of the trait to ensure robustness of the genetic linkage tests (i.e. a correct false positive rate). When samples are non-randomly selected an ascertainment correction is generally required in order to obtain unbiased parameter estimates when applying variance components methods. For quantitative traits, ascertainment corrections usually condition either on the proband exceeding a threshold, or on the trait value of the proband. We summarize simulations that show that both approaches lead to similar efficiencies for estimating genetic effects. Finally, we discuss methods for analysing diseases that include time-to-onset information. A variety of methods are available for the linkage analysis of quantitative traits. Here, we have reviewed the most commonly used methods.
Selected chemical contaminants in surface sediments of Commencement Bay and the tacoma Waterways, Washington, USA

Abstract Eight metals, 21 organic priority pollutants, and 11 other contaminants and contaminant-related sediment characteristics were measured in surface sediments (upper 2 cm) at 21 locations in Commencement Bay and the Tacoma Waterways, Washington. Summary statistics were calculated and statistical approaches (analysis of variance, multiple comparisons tests, cluster analysis and principal component analysis) were applied to subsets of the data to classify sediment contamination. Overall sediment contamination was highest in the Sitcum, City and Hylebos Waterways, intermediate in Commencement Bay, at the entrances to the Tacoma Waterways and in the outer reaches of the Blair and Hylebos Waterways, and lowest at the Blair Waterway turning basin, the mouth of the Puyallup River and at a reference site near Browns Point. High concentrations of some contaminants appeared to be related to proximity to sources of contaminants. Depositional vectors, and chemical adsorption processes may also influence the spatial distribution of sediment contamination in the study area. Results of simple and partial correlation analyses indicate that arsenic, iron and manganese may be more closely associated with the clay fraction, while cadmium, copper and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons may be more closely associated with the total organic carbon content of sediments. We were unable to discriminate statistically between the affinity of chromium, lead, zinc and phthalates with the % clay or the total organic carbon content of sediments.
A collisionless multiple access protocol for a wavelength division multiplexed star-coupled configuration: architecture and performance analysis

A collisionless wavelength-division multiple-access (WDMA) protocol for a passive star-coupled photonic network is introduced and shown to possess significant performance and flexibility advantages. A performance modeling technique based on a semi-Markov analytic model, which eliminates many of the unrealistic assumptions of past approaches, is introduced. The performance of the protocol is analyzed using this model and discrete-event simulation. Control channel access arbitration is achieved through time-division multiplexing (TDM), enabling all active nodes to transmit once every control cycle. The long synchronization delays typical of TDM systems are significantly reduced, because the control cycle length is proportional to the control packet size rather than the data packet size. The protocol eliminates packet collision and variable-sized data packets are supported without utilization degradation. >
Detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in Simulated and True Clinical Throat Swab Specimens by Nanorod Array-Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

The prokaryote Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a major cause of respiratory disease in humans, accounting for 20% of all community-acquired pneumonia and the leading cause of pneumonia in older children and young adults. The limitations of existing options for mycoplasma diagnosis highlight a critical need for a new detection platform with high sensitivity, specificity, and expediency. Here we evaluated silver nanorod arrays (NA) as a biosensing platform for detection and differentiation of M. pneumoniae in culture and in spiked and true clinical throat swab samples by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Three M. pneumoniae strains were reproducibly differentiated by NA-SERS with 95%–100% specificity and 94–100% sensitivity, and with a lower detection limit exceeding standard PCR. Analysis of throat swab samples spiked with M. pneumoniae yielded detection in a complex, clinically relevant background with >90% accuracy and high sensitivity. In addition, NA-SERS correctly classified with >97% accuracy, ten true clinical throat swab samples previously established by real-time PCR and culture to be positive or negative for M. pneumoniae. Our findings suggest that the unique biochemical specificity of Raman spectroscopy, combined with reproducible spectral enhancement by silver NA, holds great promise as a superior platform for rapid and sensitive detection and identification of M. pneumoniae, with potential for point-of-care application.
Geomagnetic field tuned frequency multiplication in Metglas/Pb(Zr, Ti)O3 heterostructure

Abstract We present a frequency multiplication in Metglas/Pb(Zr,Ti)O 3 (PZT) magnetoelectric (ME) composites which can be tuned by geomagnetic field. Such effect was observed under small dc magnetic biases, and can be operated over a broad frequency range. Moreover, the geomagnetic field can serve as the “ON–OFF” switch for control of the frequency multiplication in ME composites. Thus, a guidance device could be developed to lock onto the direction with largest component of Earth’s field.
A PHOTOSYSTEM I‐PHENOSAFRANINE SOLAR CELL

— We have previously developed a solar cell using the photochemistry of Photosystem I particles and flavin mononucleotide (Gross et al, 1978). We have now shown that phenosafranine (3,7-diamine-5 phenyl phenazine) is an acceptor of Photosystem I. We have used this compound to generate a photovoltage. The total power obtained was the sum of two photoreactions: the Photosystem I mediated photoreduction of phenosafranine and the direct photochemical reduction of phenosafranine by reducing agents such as EDTA or Tricine. An open circuit potential of 670 mV and a short circuit current of 1.6 mA (current density = 20 μA/cm2) were obtained. The front face power conversion efficiency of the cell was about 0.2% at 110 Wm−2 light intensity.
Green coloration of superficial cervical lymph nodes in dogs tattooed in the ear.

Summary One, or occasionally both, of the left superficial cervical lymph nodes of Beagle dogs ranging in age from two months to seven years, showed jade green to malachite green coloration. Histopathological studies revealed that this coloration was due to phagocytozed ink originating from the left ear which had been tattooed with a proprietary ink of undiclosed nature before weaning at four to six weeks of age. The ink persisted for at least seven years, indicating its possible influence on the phagocytes in the draining lymph node. Zusammenfassung Grune Verfarbung der oberflachlichen Halslymphknoten bei Hunden mit Ohr-Tatowierung Einer oder gelegentlich auch zwei der oberflachlichen Halslymphknoten zeigte(n) bei 2 Monate bis 7 Jahre alten Beaglehunden eine jade- bis malachitgrune Verfarbung. Nach histopathologischen Untersuchungen geht diese Verfarbung auf die Phagozytose von Tinte zuruck, die bei den Hunden zur Tatowierung des linken Ohres vor dem Absetzen im Alter von vier bis sechs Wochen verwendet wurde. Die Tinte persistierte in den betreffenden Lymphknoten fur mindestens sieben Jahre, so das eine Beeinflussung der Phagozyten in den Lymphknoten in Betracht kommt.
Independence in graphs with maximum degree four

Let C be the class of triangle-free graphs with maximum degree four. A lower bound for the number of edges in a graph of C is derived in terms of its order p and independence β. Also a characterization of certain minimum independence graphs in C is provided. Let r(k) be the smallest integer such that every graph in C with at least r(k) vertices has independence at least k. The values of r(k) for all k may be derived from our main theorem and 413 obtained as the best possible lower bound for the independence ratio βp of graphs in C.
Update on breast cancer surgery approaches.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review seeks to review the latest developments in breast cancer surgery. RECENT FINDINGS The manuscript will cover the latest developments in breast conservation therapy such as oncoplastic surgery, partial, and accelerated breast irradiation as well as nipple and areola sparing mastectomies, breast reconstruction, and recent developments in axillary staging. SUMMARY At the conclusion of this article the reader will have a comprehensive overview of the latest developments and principles of breast cancer surgical management.
Critical needs for multi-disciplinary approach to teaching electric energy systems

This paper concerns the overall challenge and opportunities of introducing students to problems underlying the ongoing electric energy systems evolution. It is critical to teach both breadth and depth, but the overcrowded curricula does not allow for the huge number of courses. This calls for introducing principles of modeling, analyzing and designing future electric energy systems using concepts familiar to students from more general disciplines; of course, background in these disciplines is necessary. We give simple examples illustrating how such more general concepts at the same time help pose problems in the emerging smart grids.
Attenuation and coupling of far infrared surface plasmos

Abstract Far infrared surface plasmon propagation has been studied on Ge coated Au and Pb surfaces. Attenuation coefficients in reasonable agreement with Drude theory are found. Anomalously large surface plasmon attenuation coefficients for bare metal surfaces reported by earlier investigators are reinterpreted in terms of bulk wave packet spreading near the surface.
The Effect of Short Duration Transportation on Serum Cortisol Response in Alpacas (Llama pacos)

This research project evaluated the changes in serum cortisol in six male and six female alpacas in response to transportation of short duration. All alpacas were subjected to trailer transportation for 30min. Serum samples were obtained prior to transportation, immediately after transportation, and after a 4-h recovery period. Heart rate was recorded at each time interval and observations of individual behavioural characteristics were recorded. Data were analysed using analysis of variance. Heart rate was not significantly changed by transportation stress. Serum cortisol concentration was significantly higher after transportation, but had returned to baseline concentration after the 4-h recovery period. Behavioural characteristics were not associated with changes in serum cortisol concentration.
Auger lineshape determination of the hybridization of ethylene adsorbed on Ni(100)

Abstract The C(KVV) X-ray excited Auger (XAES) spectrum for ethylene adsorbed on Ni(100) has been obtained and decon voluted to provide the undistorted lineshape. Direct comparison of this lineshape with the C(KVV) spectrum of gas-phase ethylene determines unambiguously that little rehybridization occurs upon adsorption of ethylene on Ni(100) at 100 K.
Molecular basis of arrhythmias.

The characterization of single gene disorders has provided important insights into the molecular pathogenesis of cardiac arrhythmias. Primary electricalal diseases including long-QT syndrome, short-QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia have been associated with mutations in a variety of ion channel subunit genes that promote arrhythmogenesis. Pathological remodeling of ionic currents and network properties of the heart critical for normal electrical propagation plays a critical role in the initiation and maintenance of acquired arrhythmias. This review focuses on the molecular and cellular basis of electrical activity in the heart under normal and pathophysiological conditions to provide insights into the fundamental mechanisms of inherited and acquired cardiac arrhythmias. Improved understanding of the basic biology of cardiac arrhythmias holds the promise of identifying new molecular targets for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias.
Transposon insertion site profiling chip (TIP-chip)

Mobile elements are important components of our genomes, with diverse and significant effects on phenotype. Not only can transposons inactivate genes by direct disruption and shuffle the genome through recombination, they can also alter gene expression subtly or powerfully. Currently active transposons are highly polymorphic in host populations, including, among hundreds of others, L1 and Alu elements in humans and Ty1 elements in yeast. For this reason, we wished to develop a simple genome-wide method for identifying all transposons in any given sample. We have designed a transposon insertion site profiling chip (TIP-chip), a microarray intended for use as a high-throughput technique for mapping transposon insertions. By selectively amplifying transposon flanking regions and hybridizing them to the array, we can locate all transposons present in a sample. We have tested the TIP-chip extensively to map Ty1 retrotransposon insertions in yeast and have achieved excellent results in two laboratory strains as well as in evolved Ty1 high-copy strains. We are able to identify all of the theoretically detectable transposons in the FY2 lab strain, with essentially no false positives. In addition, we mapped many new transposon copies in the high-copy Ty1 strain and determined its Ty1 insertion pattern.
Links in a Professional Development Chain: Preservice and Inservice Education for Effective Programs of School, Family, and Community Partnerships

This paper summarizes lessons learned from studies of preservice education and inservice programs of family and community involvement. The research and interventions suggest that a chain of professional development events is needed to prepare educators to conduct and sustain effective programs of school, family, and community partnerships. This starts with college courses and continues with inservice education, ongoing technical assistance and support, and external networking. There are required links, missing and weak links, interconnected links, and ways to strengthen the professional development chain. The discussion yields a blueprint for a professional development system that should produce more and better programs of school, family, and community partnerships. This work was supported by grants from NICHD and the U. S. Department of Education (IES). The opinions expressed are the author’s and do not necessarily represent the positions of the funding agencies. An earlier version of this paper was pres...
Measurement of Small Lesions Near Metallic Implants with Mega- Voltage Cone Beam CT

Metallic objects severely limit diagnostic CT imaging because of their high X-ray attenuation in the diagnostic energy range. In contrast, radiation therapy linear accelerators now offer CT imaging with X-ray energies in the megavolt range, where the attenuation coefficients of metals are significantly lower. We hypothesized that Mega electron-Voltage Cone-Beam CT (MVCT) implemented on a radiation therapy linear accelerator can detect and quantify small features in the vicinity of metallic implants with accuracy comparable to clinical Kilo electron-Voltage CT (KVCT) for imaging. Our test application was detection of osteolytic lesions formed near the metallic stem of a hip prosthesis, a condition of severe concern in hip replacement surgery. Both MVCT and KVCT were used to image a phantom containing simulated osteolytic bone lesions centered around a Chrome-Cobalt hip prosthesis stem with hemispherical lesions with sizes and densities ranging from 0.5 to 4 mm radius and 0 to 500 mg•cm -3 , respectively. Images for both modalities were visually graded to establish lower limits of lesion visibility as a function of their size. Lesion volumes and mean density were determined and compared to reference values. Volume determination errors were reduced from 34%, on KVCT, to 20% for all lesions on MVCT, and density determination errors were reduced from 71% on KVCT to 10% on MVCT. Localization and quantification of lesions was improved with MVCT imaging. MVCT offers a viable alternative to clinical CT in cases where accurate 3D imaging of small features near metallic hardware is critical. These results need to be extended to other metallic objects of different composition and geometry.
Nicotinic Receptor Activity Alters Synaptic Plasticity

Studies using specific agonists, antagonists, and lesions have shown that nicotinic cholinergic systems participate in attention, learning, and memory[1,2]. The nicotinic manipulations usually have the greatest influence on difficult tasks or on cognitively impaired subjects[2]. For example, Alzheimer's disease is characterized by a loss of cholinergic projections and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the cortex and hippocampus[3]. Nicotine skin patches can improve learning rates and attention in Alzheimer's patients[4].
Effectiveness of a comprehensive, five-year family support program for low-income children and their families: findings from the comprehensive child development program

A randomized experiment was conducted to test the effects of the Comprehensive Child Development Program (CCDP), a two-generation program that employed case management and home visiting to ensure multi-risk, low-income children and their parents a range of education, health, and social services to meet the complex needs of disadvantaged families. The evaluation of 21 CCDP projects, which followed 4,410 families for five years, found no statistically significant impact on CCDP families when they were compared with control families in either child outcomes (cognitive and socio-emotional development, and health) on parent outcomes (parenting, family economic self-sufficiency, or maternal life course). Since the intervention failed to change parenting behavior or family economic status, the two hypothesized pathways to affecting the well-being of the children, not unexpectedly there were no significant impacts of CCDP on children. The study suggests that the combination of case management and parenting education, delivered through home visits, is not an effective means of improving developmental outcomes for low-income children.
Role of ion beam assisted deposition in the synthesis and fracture of metal-ceramic multilayers

Abstract Multilayer metal-ceramic films have the potential to serve as strong, tough and environmentally resistant films and coatings for a wide variety of applications. They derive their properties from the multilayer structure (architecture), the microstructure and, hence, mechanical properties of the individual layers and the stress state of the film. However, in order to realize the potential of microlaminates, these features (architecture, microstructure and stress) must be controlled. Ion beam assisted deposition (IBAD) holds the promise to provide this control. In an effort to understand how IBAD can control mechanical properties of films, single trilayer and five-bilayer metal-ceramic, Al-Al 2 O 3 films were fabricated on ductile metal substrates using IBAD over a range of thicknesses and normalized energies. Results of bending and tension experiments revealed that the stress state is critical in determining the fracture strain (ductility) of the film. A residual compressive stress is beneficial and can be formed in the oxide phase by bombardment of the film with Ar during deposition. The behavior of film stress correlates well with Ar gas incorporation and the film consists of a high density of small cavities. Gas incorporation into the cavities or the surrounding matrix may be responsible for the observed residual compressive stress. The density of surface cracks at high strains is a function of the film architecture, film strength and the interfacial shear strength. Use of a multilayer structure reduces the crack density over a monolithic oxide film by increasing the strain needed to form through-thickness cracks and by increasing the intrinsic strength of the brittle layers by decreasing their thickness. Ion bombardment of the metal layers resulted in radiation damage and grain size refinement, both of which result in a stronger film and a lower crack density. It was shown that architecture, microstructure and stress are the key ingredients in microlaminate properties and are uniquely controllable by IBAD.
The thermochemical evidence for hyperconjugation

Abstract Thermochemical evidence pertinent to the question of hyperconjugation is reviewed with the following conclusions. The data indicate that alkyl substitution at an unsaturated linkage results in stabilization of appreciable magnitude which is essentially independent of the nature of the alkyl group and which cannot, in the general case, be accounted for in terms of steric effects. Beyond these facts the calorimetric results do not provide significant information on the nature of the stabilization process and hence cannot distinguish among various interpretations that have been advanced in explanation of this phenomenon.
Intact skeletal muscle mitochondrial enzyme activity but diminished exercise capacity in advanced heart failure patients on optimal medical and device therapy

Background A skeletal myopathy, perhaps attributable to neuro-endocrine excitation or disuse, has been described in heart failure (HF) patients, and is thought to contribute to their exercise limitation. Our purpose was to assess biochemical and morphometric characteristics of skeletal muscles of HF patients on optimal HF therapy. A secondary purpose was to explore the effects of clonidine, which interrupts the neuro-endocrine excitation, on these same muscle characteristics.
Targeted delivery of cancer-specific multimodal contrast agents for intraoperative detection of tumor boundaries and therapeutic margins

Background: Accurate assessment of tumor boundaries and intraoperative detection of therapeutic margins are important oncologic principles for minimal recurrence rates and improved long-term outcomes. However, many existing cancer imaging tools are based on preoperative image acquisition and do not provide real-time intraoperative information that supports critical decision-making in the operating room. Method: Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) microbubbles (MBs) and nanobubbles (NBs) were synthesized by a modified double emulsion method. The MB and NB surfaces were conjugated with CC49 antibody to target TAG-72 antigen, a human glycoprotein complex expressed in many epithelial-derived cancers. Multiple imaging agents were encapsulated in MBs and NBs for multimodal imaging. Both one-step and multi-step cancer targeting strategies were explored. Active MBs/NBs were also fabricated for therapeutic margin assessment in cancer ablation therapies. Results: The multimodal contrast agents and the cancer-targeting strategies were tested on tissue simulating phantoms, LS174 colon cancer cell cultures, and cancer xenograft nude mice. Concurrent multimodal imaging was demonstrated using fluorescence and ultrasound imaging modalities. Technical feasibility of using active MBs and portable imaging tools such as ultrasound for intraoperative therapeutic margin assessment was demonstrated in a biological tissue model. Conclusion: The cancer-specific multimodal contrast agents described in this paper have the potential for intraoperative detection of tumor boundaries and therapeutic margins.
Seamless content delivery in the future mobile internet - [Message from the Editor-in-Chief]

Dear Readers, Welcome back from your summer vacation! I hope you had a productive and enjoyable summer!
Methylation is involved in the Ustilago maydis mating response.

Methionine auxotrophs of Ustilago maydis were deficient in mating; unlike wild-type cells, they neither induced nor produced normal mating filaments in the presence of compatible cells. The deficiency was most severe when cells were located some distance apart, but when in direct contact with compatible cells methionine auxotrophs mated and infected plants fairly normally. The mating deficiency was genetically linked to the methionine auxotrophy, segregating with it through in planta crosses. Wild-type cells exposed to the methyltransferase inhibitors ethionine and homocysteine thiolactone were similarly impaired in mating. Exogenous methionine, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), synthetic mating pheromone, or cAMP all compensated for the mating impairment of the auxotrophs to some extent. Although SAM-dependent methylation could influence activities of various molecules in diverse pathways, these observations indicate that the most likely cause of the mating deficiency in met(-) cells is failure to methylate a component of the U. maydis pheromone signal transduction pathway.
Nuclear magnetic resonance and circular dichroism study of metastin (Kisspeptin-54) structure in solution

KISS1 was first discovered as a metastasis suppressor, but also plays crucial roles in the onset of puberty. The KISS1 gene encodes a secreted protein of 145 amino acids that exhibits no sequence similarity with any known proteins. KISS1 protein is proteolytically processed to generate a number of so-called kisspeptins (KP), the most well characterized is known as KP-54 or metastin. KP-54 is carboxy-terminally amidated and binds to and activates the KISS1 receptor (KISS1R). The current studies were undertaken in order to determine structure of KP-54 using nuclear magnetic resonance and circular dichroism. KP-54 is mostly disordered both in water and in trifluoroethanol/water mixed solvent, with no structural motifs. In sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles, KP-54 remains mostly disordered except for a small increase in helical propensity (from 3.7% in water to 9.9% in micelles). Despite this apparent lack of structure, KP-54 is biologically active. The intrinsic disorder of KP-54 may confer advantages in its ability to recognize and bind a wide range of target proteins.
Fetal Sex Related Dysregulation in Testosterone Production and Their Receptor Expression in the Human Placenta with Preeclampsia

Fetal sex-related dysregulation in testosterone production and their receptor expression in the human placenta with preeclampsia
Functional adaptations of the bronchial circulation.

More and more evidence accumulates that the bronchial circulation provides important adaptive functions besides serving as “vasa nutritia” of the lungs. The present review summarizes our present understanding of the role of the bronchial circulation during alterations of pulmonary gas exchange and acute occlusion of the pulmonary vascular bed, in respiratory heat exchange and hyperreactive airway disease and during hydrostatic and permeability pulmonary edema.
An analysis on the inference guiding strategies—The benefits and costs

Abstract In many applications of knowledge-based systems, initial facts and data are not sufficient to reach a pertinent result and more facts are needed to proceed the logic inference. What additional information is to be selected and how to select the information comprise the inference guiding problem. The analyses and experiments in this paper suggest that: (1) inference guiding has a substantial influence on effectiveness and efficiency of entire inference process in many knowledge-based systems; (2) inference guiding strategies on random bases, as used in many knowledge-based systems on the market, are not effective; and (3) the heuristic which was developed by Wang and Vande Vate may improve inference guiding significantly at an acceptable cost.
PROLIFIC USE OF MISLEADING ABBREVIATIONS BY HOSPICE HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

Background The use of abbreviations is widespread amongst healthcare professionals, despite studies showing they can be misleading and lead to medical errors. For example, SCC is used for both spinal cord compression and squamous cell carcinoma. Junior hospice staff often come from a generalist background and may interpret abbreviations as having different meanings from those intended. Method In order to evaluate the use of abbreviations at one hospice, a list of abbreviations were approved as being in standard use. The multidisciplinary notes from ten admissions were audited for non-approved abbreviations. Using the results of the initial audit, the approved list of abbreviations was revised and a limited duration hospice education programme was undertaken. A year later a further audit of abbreviation use in the notes was undertaken. Results The initial audit found that 108 different, non-approved abbreviations were used on 735 occasions. Several abbreviations had more than one meaning, and the intended use and meaning varied significantly between individuals and disciplines. Disappointingly the re-audit showed only a 14% reduction in the use of non-approved abbreviations. This appeared to be particularly associated with junior doctors in short term posts. Conclusion The use of potentially unsafe and misleading abbreviations is a prevalent and entrenched practice in hospice staff. Due to high junior doctor turnover, hospices need to develop rolling educations programmes to reach temporary as well as permanent staff.
Photodegradation of polyimides. II. Thermal property changes of polyimides based on a hexafluorinated dianhydride

Polyimides based on a hexafluorinated dianhydride decrease in thermal and thermal-oxidative stability upon photolysis with an unfiltered medium pressure mercury lamp source in air. Additionally, the glass transition of photolyzed polyimides containing the hexafluorinated moiety is lowered with increasing photolysis time. By contrast, pyromellitic-dianhydride-based polymers are relatively thermally stable even after prolonged photolysis under similar conditions.
The Use of the Multivariate Johnson Distributions to Model Trunk Muscle Coactivation

The accurate description of trunk muscle coactivation, and more specifically antagonist muscle activity, has recently been the focus of a great deal of research in the spine biomechanics literature. The research presented in this paper is an empirical approach to the problem. Electromyographic (EMG) data were collected from 28 subjects as they performed simulated lifting tasks. These EMG data were collected from the right and left pairs of the erector spinae, latissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis, external obliques and internal obliques as subjects performed a variety of trunk extension exertions. Nine repetitions of each combination of independent variables were performed by each subject. Included in these exertions were asymmetric postures and dynamic (isokinetic and constant acceleration) exertions. The data collected during these trials were used to develop marginal distributions of trunk muscle activity as well as a 10 × 10 correlation matrix that described how the muscles cooperated in the development ...
Problem-size Reduction In Thermal Models

As computing power increases there is a natural tendency to use it to tackle larger problems in greater detail. The perfect description of a semiconductor device may provide an exact measure of the power dissipation. But when it is realised that the chip is on a header, encapsulated in a package which is attached to one of many circuit boards within a cabinet, etc., then it is time to stand back and look at the forest and ignore the stomata on the leaves on the trees. This paper provides a tour of the problem, highlights some recent developments and suggests areas which might be usefully investigated in the future. (4 pages)
The control issue in biofeedback training

Well-delineated models and procedural descriptions are noticeably missing from the clinical biofeedback literature dealing with the training of physiological self-control. As a consequence, optimal protocols for the assessment and training of self-control of physiological functions have not eventuated. The present article reviews evidence suggesting that researchers have (a) confused self-control training, assessment, and measurement of tonic response levels, (b) neglected to determine the degree of acquired physiological self-control, and (c) failed to report the relationship between level of acquired physiological control and clinical outcome. The article also proposes an assessment and training paradigm that may be useful in reducing these methodological problems in future biofeedback research.
For Whom Does Alcoholics Anonymous Work

A brief summary of the literature to evaluate for whom Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) is or is not likely to be effective is provided. A description of A.A. is presented. Next, support and criticisms of A.A., details of who A.A. seems to help and does not seem to help, and alternatives to A.A. are discussed. Finally, recommendations regarding matching clients to supportive treatments are made.
Emotion Regulation in Adulthood: Timing Is Everything

Emotions seem to come and go as they please. However, we actually hold considerable sway over our emotions: We influence which emotions we have and how we experience and express these emotions. The process model of emotion regulation described here suggests that how we regulate our emotions matters. Regulatory strategies that act early in the emotion-generative process should have quite different outcomes than strategies that act later. This review focuses on two widely used strategies for down-regulating emotion. The first, reappraisal, comes early in the emotion-generative process. It consists of changing how we think about a situation in order to decrease its emotional impact. The second, suppression, comes later in the emotion-generative process. It involves inhibiting the outward signs of emotion. Theory and research suggest that reappraisal is more effective than suppression. Reappraisal decreases the experience and behavioral expression of emotion, and has no impact on memory. By contrast, suppress...
Observations of hypervelocity boundary-layer instability

A novel optical method is used to measure the high-frequency (up to 3 MHz) density fluctuations that precede transition to turbulence within a laminar boundary layer in a hypervelocity flow. This optical method, focused laser differential interferometry, enables measurements of short-wavelength, high-frequency disturbances that are impossible with conventional instrumentation such as pressure transducers or hot wires. In this work, the T5 reflected-shock tunnel is used to generate flows in air, nitrogen and carbon dioxide with speeds between 3.5 and 5 km s^(−1) (Mach numbers between 4 and 6) over a 5° half-angle cone at zero angle of attack. Simultaneous measurements are made at two locations approximately midway along a generator of the 1-m-long cone. With increasing Reynolds number (unit values were between 2 and 5×10^6 m^(−1)), density fluctuations are observed to grow in amplitude and transition from a single narrow band of frequencies consistent with the Mack or second mode of boundary-layer instability to bursts of large-amplitude and spectrally broad disturbances that appear to be precursors of turbulent spots. Disturbances that are sufficiently small in initial amplitude have a wavepacket-like signature and are observed to grow in amplitude between the upstream and downstream measurement locations. A cross-correlation analysis indicates propagation of wavepackets at speeds close to the edge velocity. The free stream flow created by the shock tunnel and the resulting boundary layer on the cone are computed, accounting for chemical and vibrational non-equilibrium processes. Using this base flow, local linear and parabolized stability (PSE) analyses are carried out and compared with the experimental results. Reasonable agreement is found between measured and predicted most unstable frequencies, with the greatest differences being approximately 15 %. The scaling of the observed frequency with the inverse of boundary-layer thickness and directly with the flow velocity are consistent with the characteristics of Mack’s second mode, as well as results of previous researchers on hypersonic boundary layers.
Measuring Economic Discrimination of Hispanic-Owned Architecture and Engineering Firms in South Florida:

Using data developed for theU.S. District Court, this study compared the performance of Hispanic-owned firms and two groupings of non-Hispanic-owned firms in three South Florida markets: architecture (n= 176), structural engineering (n= 144), and civil engineering (n = 200). Within each market, firms’earnings are expressed as functions of longevity, production capacity, location, and whether the firm is owned by a woman. Separate earnings functions are developed for each ethnic classification, and a decomposition technique is applied to test for discrimination. The results show that the three markets do not convert firms’ characteristics into economic outcomes in the same manner for Hispanic and for non-Hispanic owners. The projected earnings of firms owned by Hispanics constitute a fraction of what non-Hispanic-owned firms with identical characteristics are expected to earn. Within each ethnic classification, the earnings of womenowned firms are lower than the earnings of firms with identical characteris...
EFFECT OF EXCHANGEABLE BASES ON DRYING OF CLAY BODIES

Studies were made at 100°F. and 50% relative humidity, 150°F. and 50% humidity, and 175°F. and 15% humidity to determine the effect of exchangeable bases present on the surface of the clay particles on drying rates. Drying may be considered to take place in two stages which are characterized by different rates. The first is rapid and is accompanied by shrinkage of the body, whereas the second is considerably slower and the shrinkage is slight. The drying rates of the base-saturated bodies studied were nearly the same in the first stage, but in the second pronounced differences resulted. Sodium clays dried much more slowly than the other bodies investigated. At 175°F. and 15% humidity, H clay dried the most rapidly. A rational explanation of the phenomena, based on the colloidal nature of the clay particle and on the unfired absorption of the bodies, is given.
Role of TCR zeta chain in T cell development and selection

Signals mediated by the T cell receptor (TCR) are required for thymocyte maturation and selection. To examine the role of TCR zeta chain signals in development, TCR expression was restored in zeta-deficient mice with transgenic zeta chains that partially or completely lacked sequences required for signal transduction. The zeta chain played a role in thymic development by promoting TCR surface expression, but zeta-mediated signals were not essential because TCRs that contained signaling-deficient zeta chains promoted T cell maturation and transduced signals associated with thymic selection.
Community-Based Parenteral Anti-Infective Therapy (CoPAT) Pharmacokinetic and Monitoring Issues

Community-based parenteral anti-infective therapy (CoPAT) has, over the past 20 years, increased rapidly in many parts of the world including North America, Europe, South America and Australia. CoPAT is a multidisciplinary activity demanding close cooperation between nurses, pharmacists and physicians, as well as with the patient. The selection of an anti-infective drug for use outside the hospital setting must take into account not only the therapeutic effectiveness, cost effectiveness and safety of the drug, but also pharmacological factors such as the dosage schedule and the stability of the drug. Dosage schedules vary with pharmacokinetic factors (e.g. the use of drugs with long half-lives are favoured by CoPAT programmes) and pharmacodynamic features (e.g. once daily gentamicin therapy is attractive and practical because of concentration-dependent bactericidal killing and prolonged post-antibiotic effect). With selected drugs, the renal and, to a lesser degree, liver function of the patient will influence the dosage schedule. The mode of intravenous (i.v.) drugs administration will vary with volume considerations (limiting the use of syringe-infusion therapy for some drugs), stability issues (prevents drugs that are stable at room temperature for less than 24 hours from being used in multidose computerised delivery systems), as well as patient factors (ability to self administer an i.v. drug). Monitoring serum anti-microbial concentrations is undertaken to assure effectiveness and avoid toxicity, and is indicated for drugs with a narrow therapeutic window, such as the aminoglycosides. With the advent of the single daily dose administration of aminoglycosides, checking serum concentrations at the mid-point, i.e. 6 to 14 hours following administration of the first dose, is one approach. Because the toxic effects of vancomycin have been overstated, serum concentrations should only be obtained for defined indications primarily to assure therapeutic effectiveness.
Numerical Investigation of Orographic Cloud and Vortex Dynamics on Ice Giant Planets

Farther out and smaller than Jupiter and Saturn, Neptune and Uranus form a pair of planets known as the ice giants. These ice giants share similar atmospheric conditions and chemistry, including strikingly bright methane cloud features. These features are typically the most visible phenomena in these atmospheres as observed from earth. Some of these clouds are orographic in nature, tracking the motions of large vortex features known as Dark Spots. In 1989, the Voyager II encounter with Neptune revealed such a pairing, with first Great Dark Spot (GDS-89), arguably the most dynamic large vortex feature in the outer solar system, matched with an orographic bright companion cloud. Later Hubble Space Telescope observations revealed two other Dark Spots on Neptune in the northern hemisphere, dubbed NGDS-32 and NGDS-15, the former of which appeared to have an orographic feature. All of the Neptune Dark Spots are transient, lasting months to a few years, and the most recent HST observations evidenced no GDS activity. In contrast, Uranus showed no vortex features during the Voyager II encounter in 1986, but in the summer of 2006 what is likely the first observed GDS on Uranus was spotted. There is some evidence that a bright, possibly orographic cloud feature tracked this vortex at certain times. This paper numerically investigates the source of these orographic features and their influence on the vortex dynamics through simulations with a general circulation model called EPIC. Understanding these features will provide increased insight into the planetary atmosphere environment on the ice giants, enabling comparative meteorology and enhancing our ability to design future missions to this planet.