From prescriptive programming of solid-state devices to orchestrated self-organisation of informed matter

Achieving real-time response to complex, ambiguous, high-bandwidth data is impractical with conventional programming. Only the narrow class of compressible input-output maps can be specified with feasibly sized programs. Present computing concepts enforce formalisms that are arbitrary from the perspective of the physics underlying their implementation. Efficient physical realizations are embarrassed by the need to implement the rigidly specified instructions requisite for programmable systems. The conventional paradigm of erecting strong constraints and potential barriers that narrowly prescribe structure and precisely control system state needs to be complemented with a new approach that relinquishes detailed control and reckons with autonomous building blocks. Brittle prescriptive control will need to be replaced with resilient self-organisation to approach the robustness and efficiency afforded by natural systems. Structure-function self-consistency will be key to the spontaneous generation of functional architectures that can harness novel molecular and nano materials in an effective way for increased computational power

Altered Global Gene Expression in First Trimester Placentas of Women Destined to Develop Preeclampsia

Trzinko, Mrs. I. / 1601 11th Ave

New aspects in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia, the de novo occurrence of hypertension and proteinuria after the 20th week of gestation, continues to exert an inordinate toll on mothers and children alike. Recent clinical trials, new physiologic insights, and novel observations on pathogenesis have altered the thinking about preeclampsia. The mechanisms surrounding relaxin and its effects on the circulation and on matrix metalloproteinases have been elucidated. The growth factor's receptor, fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, has been shown to exist in a soluble form that is able to inactivate vascular endothelial-derived growth factor and human placental growth factor. Compelling evidence has been brought forth suggesting that fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 is a circulating factor that can cause preeclampsia. Preeclamptic women have high circulating levels of asymmetric dimethyl arginine that could account for the generalized endothelial dysfunction observed in preeclampsia. Preeclamptic women also produce novel autoantibodies that may serve to activate angiotensin receptors. These new observations raise the possibility that the treatment of preeclamptic women will soon be improved