cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fourier–Mellin registration of line-delineated tabular document images

Image registration (or alignment) is a useful preprocessing tool for assisting in manual data extraction from handwritten forms, as well as for preparing documents for batch OCR of specific page regions. A new technique is presented for fast registration of lined tabular document images in the presence of a global affine transformation, using the Discrete Fourier--Mellin Transform (DFMT). Each component of the affine transform is handled separately, which dramatically reduces the total parameter space of the problem. This method is robust and deals with all components of the affine transform in a uniform way by working in the frequency domain. The DFMT is extended to handle shear, which can approximate a small amount of perspective distortion. In order to limit registration to foreground pixels only, and to eliminate Fourier edge effects, a novel, locally adaptive foreground-background segmentation algorithm is introduced, based on the median filter, which eliminates the need for Blackman windowing as usually required by DFMT image registration. A novel information-theoretic optimization of the median filter is presented. An original method is demonstrated for automatically obtaining blank document templates from a set of registered document images.
Approaches to improve the properties of wood fiber reinforced cementitious composites

Abstract In an attempt to improve the workability, stability, and physical and mechanical properties of wood fiber-reinforced cementitious composites (WFRCs), alkali-activated blended cements have been explored for their compatibility with various wood fibers such as hardwood fiber, recycled newspaper fiber and recycled kraft paper fiber. Methods including high shear mixing, modifying the cement matrix with silica fume, and molding pressure were evaluated as means for further strengthening the wood fiber-reinforced cement composites. Flexural strengths up to 40 MPa. along with enhanced toughness have been achieved.
In vitro assessment of 3 dentifrices containing fluoride in preventing demineralization of overdenture abutments and root surfaces.

Statement of problem Caries development under overdentures has been a continuing problem and requires the daily use of fluoride to prevent demineralization. Purpose The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the effectiveness of dentifrices containing tricalcium phosphate or calcium phosphosilicate in combination with fluoride to prevent the demineralization of overdenture abutments and root surfaces. Material and methods A total of 56 caries-free extracted teeth were prepared as overdenture abutments. The teeth were painted with acid-resistant varnish, leaving one 1×4-mm window on occlusal and root surfaces. The teeth were randomly divided into 4 groups: a control group treated with distilled/deionized water only, a group treated with ClinPro 5000, a group treated with ReNew, and a group treated with Prevident 5000 gel. Each tooth was subjected to a demineralizing/remineralizing cycling protocol for 12 days with the appropriate treatment products. The teeth were sectioned longitudinally through both windows. Photomicrographs were made of 3 representative sections from each tooth. A representative section was defined as one that included both windows and was cut from the part of the tooth that had the flattest surface to reduce the edge effect. The depths of the lesions were measured on representative sections from each group. A 1-way MANOVA and a 1-way ANOVA with the post hoc Tukey-Kramer test were used to evaluate the treatment effects on the criterion variables (α=.05). Results The total lesion depths of the control teeth on the occlusal surface were not statistically significantly deeper than for the 3 dentifrices ( P =.7705). However, all 3 dentifrices had narrower cavitation depths than the control (mean cavitation band depth, 43.59 [ReNew] versus 37.99 [Prevident 5000 gel] versus 36.70 [ClinPro 5000] versus 246.86 [control]) ( P P P P Conclusions The addition of tricalcium phosphate or calcium phosphosilicate to fluoride-containing dentifrices (5000 ppm) does not significantly improve their ability to prevent demineralization of the cut dentin surface of overdenture abutments. However, on root surfaces, ReNew, which contains calcium phosphosilicate, was found to improve remineralization of the lesions compared with Prevident 5000 gel or ClinPro 5000.
Investigation of dynamics of a magnetically induced compression gas puff

Dynamic parameters of a magnetically induced compression gas puff have been measured. It is shown that the injected gas in this type of gas puff is partially ionized by an internal source. The major source of ionization is shown to be the UV light emitted from inside the gas puff through the nozzle slit opening. This idea is supported by the ionic current and light output measurements at different conditions. The gas jet speed is estimated to be 1.0*10/sup 5/ cm/s, and the maximum ion density could be as high as 2.2*10/sup 14/ cm/sup -3/. >
Demo: ShadowMaps, the urban phone tracking system

Due to frequent non-line-of-sight (NLOS) signal reception, geopositioning using Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), such as GPS, is unreliable in urban environments, with errors on the order of tens of meters. This poses a major problem for mobile services that benefit from accurate urban localization, such as navigation, geofencing, and hyperlocal advertising applications. Mobile network operators also seek improvements in localization, as government regulators increase handset location accuracy requirements of enhanced 991 service (e911). In our demonstration, we will present the most recent prototype of our urban location improvement technology, called ShadowMaps, which will be shown to accurately track a mobile device in an urban environment, with up to an order of magnitude reduction in GNSS positioning error.
Multicore programming for measurement: A tutorial

Manufacturers insist that the microprocessors of the future will have exponentially increasing numbers of cores for as long as Moore's Law lasts. Those of us who write programs to make and analyze measurements, like all who create soft ware as part of their work, will have to write parallel code in order to reap any benefit from new generations of processors. In the past, the primary way to program in parallel on shared memory computers was to work with threads directly. Doing so is time consuming, error prone, and best left to experts in thread programming. Over the last three years or so, several toolkits or libraries have appeared that provide generic parallel algorithms. These algorithms are implemented with threads but hide the details of threading. The programmer can use these generic parallel algorithms to parallelize code without getting involved with the pitfalls of threading. Using such toolkits or libraries is currently the best way to reap im proved measurement analysis speed on multicore processors and to future-proof that code for the upcoming generations of microprocessors with doubling and re-doubling numbers of cores.
ADVANCES REGARDING POWERED PROSTHESIS FOR TRANSTIBIAL AMPUTATION

The necessity for developing advanced prostheses are apparent in light of projections that the forecast for the number of people enduring amputation will double by the year 2050. The transtibial powered prosthesis that enables positive mechanical work about the ankle during the powered plantar flexion aspect of stance phase constitutes a paradigm shift in available transtibial prostheses. The objective of the review is to advocate the state of the art regarding the transtibial powered prosthesis. The historic origins of the prosthesis and motivations for amputation are clarified. The phases of gait and the compensatory mechanisms and asymmetries inherent with passive transtibial prostheses are described. The three general classes of transtibial prosthesis (passive, energy storage and return and powered prostheses) are defined. Subsystems that are integral to the powered prosthesis are explained, such as the series elastic actuator and control architecture. Gait analysis systems and their role for the test and evaluation of energy storage and return and powered prostheses are demonstrated. Future advanced concepts; such as the integration of titin into novel muscle models that account for force enhancement and force depression including their implications for cutting edge bio-inspired actuators are elucidated. The review accounts for the evolution of the prosthetic device with regards to the scope of transtibial amputation and assesses the current state-of-the-art.
Design of a Compliant and Force Sensing Hand for a Humanoid Robot

Abstract : Robot manipulation tasks in unknown and unstructured environments can often be better addressed with hands that are capable of force-sensing and passive compliance. We describe the design of a compact four degree-of-freedom (DOF) hand that exhibits these properties. This hand is being developed for a new humanoid robot platform. Our hand contains four modular Force Sensing Compliant (FSC) actuators acting on three fingers. One actuator controls the spread between two fingers. Three actuators independently control the top knuckle of each finger. The lower knuckles of the finger are passively coupled to the top knuckle. We place a pair of torsion springs between the motor housing and the hand chassis. By measuring the deflection of these springs, we can determine the acting force of the actuator. The springs also provide compliance in the finger and protect the motor gearbox from high impact shocks. Our novel actuators, combined with embedded control electrics, allow for a compact and dexterous hand design that is well suited to humanoid manipulation research.
Transport Phenomena in Zonal Centrifuge Rotors. XIII. Gradient Properties of Metrizamide

Abstract The gradient properties of Metrizamide in three buffer solutions (0.005 M phosphate buffer at pH 6.2, 0.5 M acetate buffer at pH 4.6, and 1.0 M borate buffer at pH 8.2) were measured. Concentration-dependent diffusivities were measured by a microinterferometric method over a solute concentration range from 0.1054 to 0.4862 g/mL. Empirical formulas for the diffusivity and activity coefficient of Metrizamide in three buffer solutions are presented as a function of solute concentration. A generalization factor was obtained for the use of Metrizamide in different buffers at different pH values.
Final thanks from the former Editor

After three years as Eos Editor for Solar-Planetary Relationships, I have developed along list of people to thank. First and foremost, I thank the Eos Managing Editors, first Barbara Richman, who taught me the ins and outs of the business, and second, Janet Crampton, who despite health problems has done a fantastic job of coming up to speed. They were both especially good at meeting deadlines when “it has to be in this week!” even if it meant typing in or setting a news item by hand. I also give a big thank-you to my authors, whose items have made Eos interesting to read and timely.
Reduced decompositions of permutations in terms of star transpositions, generalized Catalan numbers and k -ARY trees

Abstract In this paper we compute the number of reduced decompositions of certain permutations σ ∈ S n as a product of transpositions (1, 2), (1, 3), …, (1, n ). We present several combinatorial correspondences between these decompositions and combinatorial objects such as Catalan paths and k -ary trees.
Exploring the Use of Control Rhetoric in CEO Letters: Perceptions of Financial Statement Users

This research explores the use of control rhetoric in CEO letters between the pre and post Sarbanes Oxley periods and examines financial statement users’ perception of internal controls and company performance from the CEO letter. We compare the amount of control rhetoric included in CEO letters contained in the annual report in pre- and post-SOX periods and conduct an experiment to determine if the amount of control rhetoric would influence financial statement users’ perception of internal controls and opinion of the company. The results indicate that control rhetoric indeed increased after the passage of SOX for organizations overall were most salient in large size companies. In addition, our results indicate that users are affected by the use of control rhetoric in the CEO letter but their assessment of internal controls did not influence their perception of the company performance. This study confirms the organizational emphasis on internal controls and corporate governance after the passage of SOX. It shows that CEOs attempt to project the company’s effectiveness of internal controls through the letter to the shareholders more since SOX. Further, the results demonstrate that perceptions of readers of financial statements are affected by the use of control rhetoric in the CEO letter. We recognize utilizing undergraduate students as financial statement users may limit the external validity and generalizability of the study.
Chrysoptin is a potent glycoprotein IIb/IIIa fibrinogen receptor antagonist present in salivary gland extracts of the deerfly.

Abstract Salivary gland lysates of the deerfly (genusChrysops) contain chrysoptin, an inhibitor of ADP-induced platelet aggregation, which presumably assists the fly in obtaining a blood meal. Chrysoptin has now been isolated, and its cDNA has been cloned and expressed. Chrysoptin was purified to homogeneity using anion exchange and hydrophobic interaction chromatography and found to be a protein with a molecular mass of 65 kDa as determined by gel electrophoresis. N-terminal amino acid sequencing allowed for the synthesis of degenerate oligonucleotides that led to cloning, from salivary gland specific mRNA, of the cDNA encoding this platelet inhibitor. No RGD sites are present in the predicted sequence. A search of GenBankTM did not reveal significant sequence homology between chrysoptin and other proteins. The molecular mass predicted from the cDNA was 59 kDa. Predicted glycosylation and phosphorylation sites may account for this difference in molecular mass, as recombinant chrysoptin expressed in Sf21 cells had a molecular mass of 65 kDa, matching that of the natural protein. Chrysoptin functions by inhibiting the binding of fibrinogen to the fibrinogen/glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor on platelets with an IC50 of 95 pmol. These results reveal that insect salivary glands are a source of fibrinogen receptor antagonists.
Freedom Project: Nonviolent Communication and Mindfulness Training in Prison

Freedom Project trains prisoners in nonviolent communication and meditation. Two complementary studies of its effects are reported in this article. The first study is correlational; we found decreased recidivism rates among prisoners trained by Freedom Project compared with recidivism rates in Washington state. The second study compared trained prisoners with a matched-pair control group and found improvement in self-reported anger, self-compassion, and certain forms of mindfulness among the trained group. Ratings of role-plays simulating difficult interactions show increased social skills among the group trained by Freedom Project than in the matched controls.
Inclined-substrate deposition of biaxially textured magnesium oxide thin films for YBCO coated conductors

Highly textured MgO films were grown by the inclined-substrate deposition (ISD) technique at a high deposition rate. A columnar grain with a roofing-tile-shaped surface was observed in these MgO films. X-ray pole figure, and /and x-scan were used to characterize in-plane and out-of-plane textures. MgO films deposited when the incline angle a was 55 and 30 exhibited the best in-plane and out-of-plane texture, respectively. High-quality YBCO films were epitaxially grown on ISD-MgO-buffered Hastelloy C substrates by pulsed laser deposition. Tc ¼ 88 K, with sharp transition, and jc values of � 2 � 10 5 A/cm 2 at 77 K in zero field were observed on films 5 mm wide and 1 cm long. This work has demonstrated that biaxially textured ISD MgO buffer layers deposited on metal substrates are excellent candidates for fabrication of high-quality YBCO coated conductors. 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Are Lake Trout (Salvelinus namaycush) From Flathead Lake, Montana, USA “Safe” To Eat? An Integrated Mercury Risk Evaluation Study∗

This study focused on evaluating the appropriateness of the State of Montana consumption guidelines for Lake Trout (Salvelinus namaycush) from Flathead Lake, Montana, USA. This lake is jointly managed by the State and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Thousands of lake trout are harvested by the Tribes and donated to local food banks yearly. Samples from forty-eight lake trout were analyzed for mercury, selenium and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Models that seek to quantify the moderating or attenuating effects of both selenium and omega-3 (n-3) PUFAs on mercury toxicity were integrated with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) methods for setting consumption guidelines in an attempt to better determine “safe” consumption recommendations. Omega-3 PUFAs benefits (neurodevelopmental and cardiovascular) were balanced with mercury detriment to yield a potential net health risk/benefit. Consumption of lake trout, of any size, failed to show any predicted neurodevelopmental benefits. H...
Ontological Security in World Politics: State Identity and the Security Dilemma

This article proposes that in addition to physical security, states also seek ontological security, or security of the self. Ontological security is achieved by routinizing relationships with signi...
Parahaploposthia thiophilus sp.n. and the Use of Living Specimens in Identification of Acoel Turbellarians

Parahaploposthia thiophilus is described as a new species of the acoel turbellarian family Haploposthiidae. Although P. thiophilus exhibits strong anatomical similarities to other members of the genus Parahaploposthia, notably in the male copulatory organ, the male gonads and the frontal organ, this new species differs from all other members of its genus by the possession of a bursa. We have broadened the generic diagnosis of Parahaploposthia to include this feature, a measure that we prefer to the erection of a new genus based on a character (the bursa) of uncertain validity in the present system of acoel taxonomy. This species description is based primarily on information gleaned from the observation of living specimens by phase contrast microscopy, in order to illustrate the utility of an often neglected method that reveals important information not available from fixed and sectioned specimens, and which also may provide for more rapid and simple identification of acoel turbellarians by nonspecialists.
Structural Insight into the Human Immunodeficiency Virus Vif SOCS Box and Its Role in Human E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Assembly

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) virion infectivity factor (Vif) causes the proteasome-mediated destruction of human antiviral protein APOBEC3G by tethering it to a cellular E3 ubiquitin ligase composed of ElonginB, ElonginC, Cullin5, and Rbx2. It has been proposed that HIV Vif hijacks the E3 ligase through two regions within its C-terminal domain: a BC box region that interacts with ElonginC and a novel zinc finger motif that interacts with Cullin5. We have determined the crystal structure of the HIV Vif BC box in complex with human ElonginB and ElonginC. This complex presents direct structural evidence of the recruitment of a human ubiquitin ligase by a viral BC box protein that mimics the conserved interactions of cellular ubiquitin ligases. We further mutated conserved hydrophobic residues in a region downstream of the Vif BC box. These mutations demonstrate that this region, the Vif Cullin box, composes a third E3-ligase recruiting site critical for interaction between Vif and Cullin5. Furthermore, our homology modeling reveals that the Vif Cullin box and zinc finger motif may be positioned adjacent to the N terminus of Cullin5 for interaction with loop regions in the first cullin repeat of Cullin5.
Phenotypic Characterization of Pore Mutants of the Vibrio cholerae Porin OmpU

General-diffusion porins form large β-barrel channels that control the permeability of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria to nutrients, some antibiotics, and external signals. Here, we have analyzed the effects of mutations in the OmpU porin of Vibrio cholerae at conserved residues that are known to affect pore properties in the Escherichia coli porins OmpF and OmpC. Various phenotypes were investigated, including sensitivity to β-lactam antibiotics, growth on large sugars, and sensitivity to and biofilm induction by sodium deoxycholate, a major bile component that acts as an external signal for multiple cellular responses of this intestinal pathogen. Overall, our results indicate that specific residues play different roles in controlling the passage of various compounds. Mutations of barrel wall arginine residues that protrude in the pore affect pore size and growth in the presence of large sugars or sodium deoxycholate. Sensitivity to large cephalosporins is mostly affected by D116, located on the L3 loop, whose homolog in E. coli, OmpF, is a known binding determinant for these drugs. L3 loop residues also affect biofilm induction. The results are interpreted in terms of a homology model based on the structures of E. coli porins.
Donor brain death inhibits tolerance induction in miniature swine lung transplantation

ONCLUSIONS: Tacrolimus monotherapy was effective in preenting rejection of facial composite allografts, but was associated ith donor-derived PTLD development. Conversion to rapamycin as not effective in preventing CTA rejection. Fibular composite llografts had minimal vascularized bone marrow, and while tacrolius monotherapy did not prevent loss of skin, no PTLD tumors eveloped. This is suggestive of association between amount of vasularized allogeneic bone marrow and PTLD development.
Intrameningioma Metastasis of Breast Carcinoma

Tumor-to-tumor metastasis of breast carcinoma to meningioma is a rare phenomenon. It is likely underdiagnosed given the relatively high prevalence and comorbidity of these two primary tumor types, the lack of standardized methodologies for its diagnosis, and the tendency to obfuscate this lesion with simple meningioma or cerebral metastasis of breast carcinoma. Careful histopathologic study of the resected meningioma is the cornerstone of diagnosis of these lesions, although certain conventional radiological features along with specialized modalities may clue the diagnosis. Vigilance for this lesion is appropriate in selected patients with known breast cancer or meningioma, as the two are often coexistent in the same patient, permitting tumor-to-tumor metastasis. Detection of this rare disease process may alter the treatment plan and prognosis. Here, we report a case of breast carcinoma-to-meningioma metastasis in a patient who developed subacute neurological decline while undergoing long-term treatment of her primary, late-stage breast cancer.
Dietary fat intake and proinflammatory cytokine levels in patients with heart failure.

Abstract Background Dietary fat intake affects proinflammatory cytokine levels of healthy adults. Whether dietary fats have similar effects in patients with heart failure (HF) is unknown. The purposes of this study were to determine (1) effect of dietary fat on interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and soluble receptors sTNF-R1 and sTNF-R2 levels in patients with HF and (2) subsequent impact of these levels on event-free survival. Methods and Results Forty-two patients provided 4-day food diaries and blood for cytokines. Event-free survival curves were calculated by Kaplan-Meier method and groups compared using log-rank test. IL-6 was not related to fat intake. TNF-α levels were elevated in patients with diets higher versus lower in saturated (6.9 ± 5 versus 4.2 ± 2 pg/mL) and trans fats (6.8 ± 4.5 versus 4.5 ± 2.8 pg/mL). Patients consuming diets higher in polyunsaturated fats had lower sTNF-R1 (2391 ± 1010 versus 3373 ± 2098 pg/mL) and sTNF-R2 (3803 ± 1187 versus 5974 ± 3275 pg/mL) levels. Higher omega-3 intake produced similar results: sTNF-R1 (2323 ± 1304 versus 3307 ± 1973) and sTNF-R2 (4117 ± 2646 versus 5409 ± 2801). Event-free survival was decreased in patients with higher TNF-α and sTNF-R1 levels. Conclusion Dietary fat intake may affect proinflammatory cytokine levels in patients with HF. Research to determine whether changing composition of dietary fat can alter proinflammatory cytokine activity of HF patients is warranted.
Movements and survival of black-footed ferrets associated with an experimental translocation in South Dakota

Black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes) apparently were extirpated from all native habitats by 1987, and their repatriation requires a combination of captive breeding, reintroductions, and translocations among sites. Improvements in survival rates of released ferrets have resulted from experience in quasi-natural environments during their rearing. Reestablishment of a self-sustaining wild population by 1999 provided the 1st opportunity to initiate new populations by translocating wild-born individuals. Using radiotelemetry, we compared behaviors and survival of 18 translocated wild-born ferrets and 18 pen-experienced captive-born ferrets after their release into a prairie dog colony not occupied previously by ferrets. Translocated wild-born ferrets moved significantly less and had significantly higher short-term survival rates than their captive-born counterparts. Using mark–recapture methods, we also assessed potential impacts to the established donor population of removing 37% of its estimated annual production of kits. Annual survival rates for 30 ferret kits remaining at the donor subcomplex were higher than rates for 54 ferret kits at the control subcomplex (unmanipulated) for males (+82%) and females (+32%). Minimum survival of translocated kits did not differ significantly from survival of those at the control subcomplex. Direct translocation of young, wild-born ferrets from site to site appears to be an efficient method to establish new populations.
Electroporation in biology: methods, applications, and instrumentation.

Il apparait que l'electroporation (qui permet de realiser des trous dans des membranes cellulaires grâce a un choc electrique de haut voltage) est une methode simple et efficace pour introduire des gene dans des cellules animales, vegetales, des organismes unicellulaires et des microorganismes. Cette methode permet egalement un traitement des maladies genetiques chez l'homme
A Model of Auditing Under Bright-Line Accounting Standards

This paper models the demand by auditors for bright-line financial reporting standards, and compares auditors' preferences for bright-line standards with managers' and regulators' preferences. Bright-line standards are unambiguous, requiring no judgment in their application. Standards that are not "bright-line" are soft reporting standards. The model allows auditors to vary in their financial reporting expertise. All auditors have a basic role to verify the accuracy of the financial statements. "Expert" auditors also fill an interpretation role. Under soft standards, expert auditors use their financial reporting expertise to help generate a report that investors can understand. Results show that auditors of different levels of expertise can differ in their preferences over financial reporting standards, and that these preferences depend on whether auditor expertise is observable to investors. If expertise is observable, expert auditors prefer soft standards, and auditors without such expertise prefer bright-line standards. If investors cannot observe auditor expertise, all auditors prefer bright-line standards, and the average level of auditor expertise increases under bright-line standards. The paper also models auditors' preferences for the amount of detail required in the financial statements. We formally distinguish this attribute of financial reporting standards from our measure of bright-line standards, and we compare auditors' preferences for bright-line standards with their preferences along this second attribute.
Indenopyride derivative RTI-4587-073(l): a candidate for male contraception in stallions.

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine whether an indenopyridine derivative RTI-4587-073(l) was a good candidate for male contraception in horses. We hypothesized that a single administration of RTI-4587-073(l) causes significant suppression of testicular function in stallions without affecting sexual behavior. Three Miniature horse stallions received a single dose of 12.5 mg/kg RTI-4587-073(l) orally (group “treated”), whereas three other Miniature horse stallions received placebo only (group “control”). Semen was collected and evaluated from all stallions twice a week for three baseline weeks and 13 post-treatment weeks. Sexual behavior was video-recorded and analyzed. Testicular dimensions were measured using ultrasonography, and blood samples were drawn for endocrine evaluation once before treatment and once a week during the post-treatment period. Single administration of RTI-4587-073(l) caused severe oligoasthenozoospermia (low sperm number and low motility), shedding large numbers of immature germ cells in semen, and increased FSH concentrations in treated stallions. These effects were fully reversible within ∼71 days. However, libido and copulatory behavior remained unchanged throughout the entire experiment. We concluded that RTI-4587-073(l) was a promising candidate for male contraceptive in domestic stallions. Further research should be performed to test this compound for fertility control in wildlife and humans.
Functional Impairment and Changes in Depression Subtypes for Women in STAR*D: A Latent Transition Analysis

Abstract Objective: To characterize the association between functional impairment and major depression subtypes at baseline and to characterize changes in subtypes by functional impairment level in women receiving citalopram in level 1 of the Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression trial. Method: Women who completed baseline and week 12 study visits were included. Items from the self-reported Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology were used to define the latent depression subtypes. The Work and Social Adjustment Scale was used to classify baseline functional impairment. A latent transition analysis model provided estimates of the prevalence of subtype membership and transition probabilities by functional impairment level. Results: Of the 755 women included, 69% had major functional impairment at baseline. Regardless of functional impairment level, the subtypes were differentiated by depression severity, appetite changes, psychomotor disturbances, and insomnia. Sixty-seven percent of w...
Mitochondrial complex i defect and increased fatty acid oxidation enhance protein lysine acetylation in the diabetic heart

Aims Cardiomyopathy is a major complication of diabetes. Our study was aimed to identify the sites of mitochondrial dysfunction and delineate its consequences on mitochondrial metabolism in a model of type 1 diabetes. Methods and results Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection to male Lewis rats. We found a decrease in mitochondrial biogenesis pathway and electron transport chain complex assembly that targets Complex I. Oxidation of Complex II and long-chain fatty acid substrates support the electron leak and superoxide production. Mitochondrial defects do not limit fatty acid oxidation as the heart's preferred energy source indicating that the diabetic heart has a significant reserve in Complex I- and II-supported ATP production. Both mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation and Complex I defect are responsible for increased protein lysine acetylation despite an unchanged amount of the NAD+-dependent mitochondrial deacetylase sirt3. We quantitatively analysed mitochondrial lysine acetylation post-translational modifications and identified that the extent of lysine acetylation on 54 sites in 22 mitochondrial proteins is higher in diabetes compared with the same sites in the control. The increased lysine acetylation of the mitochondrial trifunctional protein subunit α may be responsible for the increased fatty acid oxidation in the diabetic heart. Conclusion We identified the specific defective sites in the electron transport chain responsible for the decreased mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation in the diabetic heart. Mitochondrial protein lysine acetylation is the common consequence of both increased fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial Complex I defect, and may be responsible for the metabolic inflexibility of the diabetic heart.
New constraints on the limits of the Barents-Kara ice sheet during the Last Glacial Maximum based on borehole stratigraphy from the Pechora Sea

A new, 14 C-verified borehole stratigraphy provides the first age-controlled reconstruction of the late Quaternary glacial history of the Pechora Sea (southeasternmost Barents Sea). A complete glaciation of the Pechora Sea is confirmed for middle Weichselian time, prior to ca. 35‐ 40 ka. Composition of glacial erratics indicates that ice was moving from or across southernmost Novaya Zemlya and Vaygach Island. After a brief interstadial period with normal marine conditions, the Pechora Sea was affected by a drop in sea level and a drier climate. Subsequently, the late Weichselian Barents-Kara ice sheet occupied the northwestern part of the Pechora Sea, but did not reach the coast of the Pechora lowland, as previously believed. These data provide a new constraint on the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) ice-sheet limits in the Eurasian Arctic. The inferred direction of the Last Glacial Maximum ice movement in the Pechora Sea was from the northeast, but with a stronger northern component than the penultimate glaciation. The ice sheet retreated early, ca. 13 ka, after which the shallow Pechora Sea was subjected to strong erosion during the postglacial sea-level rise.
Indeterminacy and identifiability of blind identification

Blind identification of source signals is studied from both theoretical and algorithmic aspects. A mathematical structure is formulated from which the acceptable indeterminacy is represented by an equivalence relation. The concept of identifiability is then defined. Two identifiable cases are shown along with blind identification algorithms. The performance of FOBI (fourth-order blind identification), EFOBI (extended FOBI), and AMUSE algorithms is evaluated by some heuristic arguments and simulation results. It is shown that EFOBI outperforms the FOBI algorithm, and the AMUSE algorithm performs better than EFOBI in the case of nonwhite source signals. AMUSE is applied to a speech extraction problem and shown to have promising results. >
A network expert system management system for multiple domains

In an increasingly competitive global business environment, the fast pace of technological change, widely dispersed expertise and strong competition demands proactive decision-making by today’s corporations. Global information management has become increasingly important, as businesses strive to leverage their information resources for competitive advantage. Innovative expert systems that enhance and speed up the decision-making process are one avenue for improving an organization’s competitive position. However, most expert systems are designed as stand-alone products and, as such, they do not reflect actual decision-making within an organization. This paper discusses a design that extends the concept of a hierarchical expert system management system into a network of expert systems from multiple domains. This model is designed to bring the best source of knowledge to the decision-making process. Further, it is intended to use these resources to quickly make adjustments to the rapidly changing business e...
Continuous Rapid Quantification of Stroke Volume Using Magnetohydrodynamic Voltages in 3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Background— To develop a technique to noninvasively estimate stroke volume in real time during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–guided procedures, based on induced magnetohydrodynamic voltages (VMHD) that occur in ECG recordings during MRI exams, leaving the MRI scanner free to perform other imaging tasks. Because of the relationship between blood flow (BF) and VMHD, we hypothesized that a method to obtain stroke volume could be derived from extracted VMHD vectors in the vectorcardiogram (VCG) frame of reference (VMHDVCG). Methods and Results— To estimate a subject-specific BF–VMHD model, VMHDVCG was acquired during a 20-s breath-hold and calibrated versus aortic BF measured using phase-contrast magnetic resonance in 10 subjects (n=10) and 1 subject diagnosed with premature ventricular contractions. Beat-to-beat validation of VMHDVCG-derived BF was performed using real-time phase-contrast imaging in 7 healthy subjects (n=7) during 15-minute cardiac exercise stress tests and 30 minutes after stress relaxation in 3T MRIs. Subject-specific equations were derived to correlate VMHDVCG with BF at rest and validated using real-time phase-contrast. An average error of 7.22% and 3.69% in stroke volume estimation, respectively, was found during peak stress and after complete relaxation. Measured beat-to-beat BF time history derived from real-time phase-contrast and VMHD was highly correlated using a Spearman rank correlation coefficient during stress tests (0.89) and after stress relaxation (0.86). Conclusions— Accurate beat-to-beat stroke volume and BF were estimated using VMHDVCG extracted from intra-MRI 12-lead ECGs, providing a means to enhance patient monitoring during MR imaging and MR-guided interventions.
3D pulsed laser triggered high speed microfluidic fluorescence activated cell sorter

We report a high speed microfluidic fluorescence activated cell sorter (μFACS) capable of sorting at a throughput of 3000 beads/sec and 560 cells/sec with >90% sample purity and 90% cell viability after sorting. The sorting mechanism is realized by exciting dynamic vapor bubbles with focused laser pulses in a microfluidic PDMS channel. The explosive bubble expansion generates fast fluid flows which are directed into a neighboring sample channel to switch the particle of interest into the collection channel. This ultrafast laser triggered switching mechanism has the potential to advance the sorting speed of the state-of-the-art μFACS.
Paraspinal neurofibromas and hypertrophic neuropathy in Noonan syndrome with multiple lentigines

Background Noonan syndrome with multiple lentigines (NSML), formerly known as LEOPARD syndrome, is an autosomal-dominant disorder characterised by lentigines, EKG abnormalities, ocular hypertelorism, pulmonic stenosis, abnormal genitalia, growth retardation and deafness. There is significant clinical overlap between NSML and other disorders that result from dysregulated rat sarcoma/mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway (RASopathies). Except for neurofibromatosis type 1, other RASopathies are not known to be typically associated with neurogenic tumours. Methods and results We evaluated patients from three families with pigmentary skin lesions, progressive neuropathy, enlarged nerves, massive burden of paraspinal tumours (neurofibroma was confirmed in one patient) and a clinical diagnosis of NSML. All patients had a mutation in the protein tyrosine phosphatase catalytic domain of the PTPN11 gene; two unrelated patients had the p.Thr468Met mutation, while the family consisting of two affected individuals harboured the p.Thr279Cys mutation. Molecular analysis performed on hypertrophic nerve tissue did not disclose a second somatic hit in NF1, PTPN11, NF2 or SMARCB1 genes. Conclusions Neurogenic tumours and hypertrophic neuropathy are unusual complications of NSML and may be an under-recognised manifestation that would warrant surveillance. Our observation may also have implications for other disorders caused by RAS-pathway dysregulation.
Complete Genome Sequences of Caldicellulosiruptor sp. Strain Rt8.B8, Caldicellulosiruptor sp. Strain Wai35.B1, and "Thermoanaerobacter cellulolyticus"

ABSTRACT The genus Caldicellulosiruptor contains extremely thermophilic, cellulolytic bacteria capable of lignocellulose deconstruction. Currently, complete genome sequences for eleven Caldicellulosiruptor species are available. Here, we report genome sequences for three additional Caldicellulosiruptor species: Rt8.B8 DSM 8990 (New Zealand), Wai35.B1 DSM 8977 (New Zealand), and “Thermoanaerobacter cellulolyticus” strain NA10 DSM 8991 (Japan).
Idiopathic Arthritis Mutilans

Arthritis mutilans is considered the most severe form of the 5 original clinical patterns of psoriatic arthritis described by Wright and Moll1, but it also has been observed in rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, multicentric reticulohistiocytosis, and cutaneous T cell lymphoma2,3,4,5,6,7. We describe a patient with more than 25 years of peripheral inflammatory joint symptoms and findings consistent with arthritis mutilans but without personal …
Carbohydrate-based label-free detection of Escherichia coli ORN 178 using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

A label-free biosensor for Escherichia coli (E. coli) ORN 178 based on faradaic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was developed. α-Mannoside or β-galactoside was immobilized on a gold disk electrode using a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) via a spacer terminated in a thiol functionality. Impedance measurements (Nyquist plot) showed shifts due to the binding of E. coli ORN 178, which is specific for α-mannoside. No significant change in impedance was observed for E. coli ORN 208, which does not bind to α-mannoside. With increasing concentrations of E. coli ORN 178, electron-transfer resistance (Ret) increases before the sensor is saturated. After the Nyquist plot of E. coli/mixed SAM/gold electrode was modeled, a linear relationship between normalized Ret and the logarithmic value of E. coli concentrations was found in a range of bacterial concentration from 102 to 103 CFU/mL. The combination of robust carbohydrate ligands with EIS provides a label-free, sensitive, specific, user-friendly, robust...
Research on Credit Risk Evaluation of Agricultural Product's Logistics Finance

A shortage of funds of agricultural products logistics problem becomes the bottleneck of agricultural products logistics development,in order to promote the rapid development of the agricultural product's logistics finance. To assess agricultural products logistics financial credit risk,this paper studies the agricultural production and processing enterprises to participate in the necessity of logistics financial business and credit risk evaluation factors,then on the basis of factor analysis,established the evaluation index system of agricultural product's logistics financial credit risk,constructed the agricultural product's logistics financial credit risk evaluation model by using analytic hierarchy process and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method of comprehensive evaluation method,finally based on the actual case of the company has carried on the empirical analysis,the model for the implementation of agricultural products logistics financial business has a certain reference value. The study provided a certain reference value in the operation of agricultural product's logistics finance.
The inherence heuristic: a key theoretical addition to understanding social stereotyping and prejudice

Prior work has detailed the constructivist processes that lead individuals to categorize others along particular dimensions (e.g., gender) and generate the content (e.g., stereotypes) and affect (e.g., prejudices) associated with social groups. The inherence heuristic is a novel mechanism that appears to shape the content and rigidity of children's social stereotypes and prejudices.
Fundamentals of Optical Wireless Communications

Optical wireless communications (OWC) involves transmission and reception of signals where the carrier frequency lies in the optical domain. In radio frequency (RF)‐based communication systems, the carriers have wavelengths from kilometer to millimeter range; whereas in optical communications, the carriers have wavelengths in the micrometers and nanometer range. This chapter delves into these aspects of OWC and discusses these features in more detail. It talks about optical wireless channel characteristics along with source types and receiver configurations. The chapter shows that multipath fading, a property in RF communications channels, is absent for optical wireless channels. Multipath reflections, on the other hand, are present and the result is intersymbol interference (ISI) in high‐speed communications. The chapter distinguishes between two main source types, namely, lasers and light‐emitting‐diodes (LEDs), and discusses their common features and differences. Photo‐detectors and their related parameters are also discussed.
Propagation of Surface and Plate Waves

Although bulk P- and S-waves are the types of waves most commonly used in NDE testing, there are other types of waves that can exist in elastic solids that are useful as well. In this Chapter, we will consider briefly the properties of surface (Rayleigh) waves and plate (SH and Lamb) waves that make them attractive for special NDE inspection applications.
Ordering Stains That Aren’t Indicated

The pathologist rarely interacts with patients face-to-face, but he or she nonetheless maintains a crucial relationship with the patient (i.e., the patient-pathologist relationship). A more tangible relationship, the pathologist-clinician relationship, is typically augmented by the patient-pathologist relationship, but at times the two distinct relationships are at odds, creating ethical dilemmas for the pathologist. This case study and discussion highlight some of these potential ethical questions and underscore the need for pathologists and clinicians to have cooperative, collaborative, and professional relationships. Pathologists should feel empowered to guide the clinician's use of appropriate clinical testing to ensure proper management of the patient and responsible use of health care resources.
Patients with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) or High-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (HR-MDS) Treated with Targeted Therapy May Benefit from Prophylactic Measures Against Infections.

Targeted therapy (TT) has emerged as an alternative for patients (pts) 60 years or older with hematologic malignancies. It has been suggested that these approaches produce fewer and less severe side effects than conventional chemotherapy (CC) and could potentially decrease mortality. In the current study, pts with AML or HR-MDS treated with TT and CC were compared with regard to infectious complications and induction mortality. Supportive care measures for pts on CC were given according to our departmental guidelines (protective environment (PE) was offered and antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral prophylaxis were given from D1 to ANC ≥ 500). Pts on TT were given supportive care measures according to protocol requirements. HR-MDS pts: 29 pts were treated with TT and 13 with CC. Pts on TT were significantly older than those on CC (median age: 66(r: 46–85) and 59(r: 17–73) respectively, p=0.02). All 42 pts (TT and CC) had Zubrod performance status (PS) ≤ 2. 16/29 (90%) pts on TT received Decitabine; 2 pts received 5-AZA containing regimens and 1 pt received rosiglitazone + targetrin. Nine pts (69%) on CC had high-dose ara-C (HDAC) containing regimens; 1 pt received cloretazine + hydrea and 3 pts had low-dose ara-C (LDAC) + clofarabine. AML pts: 43 pts were treated with TT and 282 received CC. Pts on TT were significantly older than those on CC (median age: 75(r: 39–86) and 62(r: 17–84) respectively, p
Self-management program participation and social support in Parkinson's disease: Mixed methods evaluation.

Aims: To explore the potential influence of the Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) on social support in Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods: This was a quasi-experimental mixed ...