cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Shape Constrained Tensor Decompositions

We propose a new low-rank tensor factorization where one mode is coded as a sparse linear combination of elements from an over-complete library. Our method, Shape Constrained Tensor Decomposition (SCTD) is based upon the CANDECOMP/PARAFAC (CP) decomposition which produces r-rank approximations of data tensors via outer products of vectors in each dimension of the data. The SCTD model can leverage prior knowledge about the shape of factors along a given mode, for example in tensor data where one mode represents time. By constraining the vector in the temporal dimension to known analytic forms which are selected from a large set of candidate functions, more readily interpretable decompositions are achieved and analytic time dependencies discovered. The SCTD method circumvents traditional flattening techniques where an N-way array is reshaped into a matrix in order to perform a singular value decomposition. A clear advantage of the SCTD algorithm is its ability to extract transient and intermittent phenomena which is often difficult for SVD-based methods. We motivate the SCTD method using several intuitively appealing results before applying it on a real-world data set to illustrate the efficiency of the algorithm in extracting interpretable spatio-temporal modes. With the rise of data-driven discovery methods, the decomposition proposed provides a viable technique for analyzing multitudes of data in a more comprehensible fashion.
Weekend readmissions associated with mortality following pancreatic resection for cancer

Abstract Background The weekend effect is associated with an increased risk of adverse events, with complex patient populations especially susceptible to its impact. The objective of this study was to determine if outcomes for patients readmitted following pancreas resection differed on the weekend compared to weekdays. Methods The Healthcare Cost and Utilization State Inpatient Database for Florida was used to identify patients undergoing pancreas resection for cancer who were readmitted within 30 days of discharge following surgery. Measured outcomes (for readmission encounters) included inpatient morbidity and mortality. Results Patients with weekend readmissions had an increased odds of inpatient mortality (aOR 2.7, 95% C.I.: 1.1–6.6) compared to those with weekday readmissions despite having similar index lengths of stay (15.9 vs. 15.5 days, P = .73), incidence of postoperative inpatient complications (22.4% vs. 22.3%, P = .98), reasons for readmission, and baseline comorbidity. Discussion Weekend readmissions following pancreatic resection are associated with increased risk of mortality. This is not explained by measured patient factors or clinical characteristics of the index hospital stay. Developing strategies to overcome the weekend effect can result in improved care for patients readmitted on the weekend.
Unmasking communism: Ayi Kwei Armah, black Marxism, and the cultural turn, 1967-1984

Can the repudiation of Eurocentric Marxism and embrace of Afrocentrism in Ayi Kwei Armah’s essays explain his shift from writing realist to historical novels? Contextualizing Armah’s work in relati...
Allergie: Relative Vehicular Localization with Commodity RFID System

In this paper, we present, Allergie, an off-the-shelf passive RFID based relative vehicular localization system. Allergie can differentiate four possible directions (i.e., from front to rear at left, from rear to front at left, from front to rear at right and from rear to front at right), where the nearby vehicles can approach. Allergie can tell the four possible directions by analyzing the spatial-temporal dynamics in the phase profiles extracted from the commodity passive RFID tags attached on the vehicles, when the nearby vehicle approaches. To do so, we extract the reflections from the nearby vehicle by cancelling out the reflections from the tags and the other objects. Allergie neither requires the dedicated infrastructure nor special hardware attached on the nearby vehicles to achieve relative localization. We do extensive experiments to evaluate the performance of Allergie in the real world under different weather conditions. The results show that Allergie can differentiate four possible directions, when the nearby vehicle approaches.
Tracheal and main bronchial diverticula simulating pneumomediastinum following a motor vehicle collision.

Abstract Tracheal and bronchial diverticula are outpouchings arising from the trachea or bronchus. We present a case of a 35-year-old female who presented to the emergency department following a motor vehicle accident and was found to have multiple round, air-filled structures within the mediastinum on computed tomography of the thorax, concerning for pneumomediastinum. The patient had a negative fluoroscopic esophagography and subsequent imaging indicated tracheal and bronchial diverticula. While they are often asymptomatic and incidentally found, tracheal and bronchial diverticula may be misdiagnosed as pneumomediastinum, especially in the setting of blunt or penetrating trauma to the thorax.
Inter-IBR Oscillation Modes

This research addresses the following question: For a weak grid with multiple-IBRs, what are the nature of oscillation modes The analysis of a system consisting of two identical IBRs offers a glimpse of the picture. It shows that the system has a weak-grid mode and an inter-IBR mode. For the weak-grid mode, two IBRs work as an aggregated one to interact with the grid. This mode is sensitive to IBR exporting power level and grid strength. For the inter-IBR mode, two IBRs oscillate against each other. This mode is less sensitive to grid strength and power level.
Plant Copper Metalloenzymes As Prospects for New Metabolism Involving Aromatic Compounds

The provisional abstract of this article is not available; this page will be updated when the full version-of-record is published.
Is the combination of bilateral pulmonary nodules and mosaic attenuation on chest CT specific for DIPNECH

Background Diffuse idiopathic pulmonary neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia (DIPNECH) is characterized by multifocal proliferation of pulmonary neuroendocrine cells. On chest CT, DIPNECH exhibits bilateral pulmonary nodules and mosaic attenuation in most patients. We sought to: (1) assess the specificity of this pattern (i.e., bilateral pulmonary nodules together with mosaic attenuation) for DIPNECH; (2) describe its differential diagnosis; and (3) identify the clinico-radiologic features that may help prioritize DIPNECH over other diagnostic considerations. Methods We searched the Mayo Clinic records from 2015 to 2019 for patients with bilateral pulmonary nodules and mosaic attenuation on CT who had a diagnostic lung biopsy. A thoracic radiologist reviewed all CT scans. Chi-square test was used for categorical variables, and odds ratios were utilized to measure the association between certain variables and DIPNECH. Results Fifty-one patients met our inclusion criteria; 40 (78%) were females and 34 (67%) were never-smokers. Median age was 65 (interquartile range 55-73) years. Lung biopsy was surgical in 21 patients (41%), transbronchial in 17 (33%), and transthoracic in 12 (24%); explanted lungs were examined in 1 (2%). Metastatic/multifocal cancer was the most common diagnosis, and was found in 17 (33%) cases. Bronchiolitis was diagnosed in 12 patients (24%), interstitial lung disease in 10 (20%), and DIPNECH in 5 (10%). Previous diagnosis of an obstructive lung disease (odds ratio 15.8; P = 0.002), and peribronchial nodular distribution on CT (odds ratio 14.4; P = 0.006) were significantly correlated with DIPNECH. Although statistical significance was not reached, DIPNECH nodules were more likely to display solid attenuations (80% vs. 67%, P = 0.45), and were more numerous; > 10 nodules were seen in 80% of DIPNECH cases vs. 52% in others (P = 0.23). Because DIPNECH primarily affects women, we analyzed the women-only cohort and found similar results. Conclusions Various disorders can manifest the CT pattern of bilateral pulmonary nodules together with mosaic attenuation, and this combination is nonspecific for DIPNECH, which was found in only 10% of our cohort. Previous diagnosis of an obstructive lung disease, and peribronchial distribution of the nodules on CT increased the likelihood of DIPNECH vs. other diagnoses.
A computational method to predict and study underwater noise due to pile driving

A hybrid modeling approach that uses the parabolic equation (PE) with an empirical source model is presented to study and predict the underwater noise due to pile driving in shallow, inhomogeneous environments over long propagation ranges. The empirical source model uses a phased point source array to simulate the time-dependent pile source. The pile source is coupled with a broadband application of a PE wave propagation model that includes range dependent geoacoustic properties and bathymetry. Simulation results are shown to be in good agreement with several acoustic observations of pile driving in the Columbia River between Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA. The model is further applied to predict sound levels in the Columbia River and study the effects of variable bathymetry and sediment configurations on underwater sound levels.
Physical stability of l-ascorbic acid amorphous solid dispersions in different polymers: A study of polymer crystallization inhibitor properties

Abstract The effects of different polymer types on inhibiting the crystallization of ascorbic acid (VitC) from amorphous solid dispersions at various temperatures and relative humidities (RHs) were studied. Polymer properties (ability to form hydrogen bonds with VitC, hygroscopicity, and glass transition temperature (Tg)) were correlated to their crystallization inhibitor performance. Solid dispersions of VitC with different pectins, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and polyacrylic acid (PAA) were formed from lyophilized solutions. Crystallinity, VitC–polymer interactions, hygroscopicity, and Tg were determined using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), moisture sorption isotherm, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) methods, respectively. XRPD amorphous VitC could not be formed by lyophilization in the absence of a polymer, nor in PAA dispersions, but could be formed in pectin and PVP dispersions. The VitC-pectin and PVP dispersions remained amorphous when stored at low RHs, but some crystallization occurred within one week at high RHs. Evidence of hydrogen bonding between VitC and both pectins and PVP, but not PAA, was found in FTIR spectra, and correlated better with physical stability than the Tg. The hygroscopicity of the polymer also influenced the stability of the amorphous VitC solid dispersions. A ranking of the polymer crystallization inhibitor properties was: PVP > pectin with lower degree of esterification (DE) > pectin with higher DE > > PAA.
The crystal structures of purines, pyrimidines and their intermolecular complexes.

Publisher Summary This chapter is concerned with the structures and interactions of purines and pyrimidines in the crystalline state. However, because of their close similarity to the pyrimidines, it also discusses the crystal structure of the barbiturates. The chapter reviews the structure arid conformation of the sugar and the phosphate components of nucleosides, nucleotides, and nucleic acids, and their steric relationship to the purines and pyrimidines. It discusses relevance of single-crystal analysis of purine–pyrimidine interactions to the fiber analysis of polynucleotides. The chapter provides an overview on X-ray diffraction method. It presents a complete tabulation of the molecular geometry of the reliable structures for which there is three-dimensional diffraction information. It draws the conclusion that the structures of the individual purine and pyrimidine bases retain a fair amount of constancy in a variety of different crystal lattices. The chapter also focuses on the H-bonds that are formed between the purines and pyrimidines. In contrast to the narrow range of covalent bond lengths that are found within the molecules, there is considerable variation in both the length of H-bonds and their angles, a point that is emphasized in this presentation. As there is an appreciable range in the geometry of H-bonded interactions, it is likely that a greater variety of stable structures can be formed. An important variable in this connection is the variation in H-bond lengths, as the length of this bond characterizes the energy of H-bonding interactions in part. It reviews that purine and pyrimidine crystalIography underlines the diversity of the H-bonding potentiality of the nucleic acid bases; it is likely that this diversity has been utilized fully by nature in the evolution of the information-transferring system.
The role of p53 in pigmentation, tanning and melanoma

p53 has a central role in skin pigmentation and may impact on melanoma at all stages, however, as it's mutation frequency in melanoma is low, it's role has been somewhat under-appreciated. During normal skin function, p53 in the keratinocyte is a transducer of the skin tanning signal and an essential component of what is effectively a keratinocyte-melanocyte signaling cycle that regulates skin pigmentation. It is clear that this cycle functions optimally in skin of dark pigmentation. When melanin biosynthesis is genetically disrupted in skin of white complexion, we propose that this cycle operates as a promoter of melanocyte proliferation. The cell autonomous function of p53 in melanocytes is not well described, however, the balance of the evidence suggests that p53 is an effective tumor suppressor and the myriad of mechanisms by which the p53 pathway may be dysregulated in tumors attests to it importance as a tumor suppressor. In this review, we outline the known mechanisms that impair p53 itself and its immediate regulators or target genes during melanomagenesis. Due to the importance of this pathway, it is clear that p53 disruptions may relate directly to a patient's prognosis. This pathway will continue to be a focus of investigation, particularly with respect to targeted experimental chemotherapeutics.
Proteolytic cleavage of subunits of the nucleocapsid of the paramyxovirus simian virus 5.

Abstract The protein subunits of the nucleocapsid of the parainfluenza virus simian virus 5 isolated from infected cells after dispersion with trypsin, chymotrypsin, or ficin are cleaved proteolytically. The molecular weights of the subunits which result from cleavage depend on the enzyme used, but are around 43,000, compared to the native subunit of 61,000. In most instances cleavage of the subunit appears to be due to the protease used to disperse the cell, and follows cell disruption. Nucleocapsids composed of native, uncleaved subunits can frequently be obtained from infected cells dispersed without a proteolytic enzyme; however, cleavage occasionally occurs even under those conditions, indicating that cellular proteases can at times cleave this protein. Nucleocapsids containing uncleaved subunits can be isolated from cells persistently infected with simian virus 5, indicating that persistent infection is not invariably associated with intracellular cleavage of this protein. Nucleocapsids composed of native subunits are hydrophobic, whereas those composed of the cleaved subunit can be dispersed in aqueous solution. It is suggested that the portion of the molecule removed by cleavage may be responsible for a specific interaction during virus assembly between the nucleocapsid and those areas of plasma membrane which contain the non-glycosylated viral membrane protein, which is also hydrophobic. An amino acid analysis of native and cleaved subunits has been done. The portion of the subunit removed by cleavage does not have a high proportion of hydrophobic residues, suggesting that those present are arranged together to form a hydrophobic domain. The N termini of both the native and cleaved subunits are blocked. This suggests that the portion of the molecule which is externally disposed and removed by cleavage contains the C terminus, and the cleaved subunit which reacts with the viral RNA contains the N terminus.
Closed-loop electromyography controller for augmented hand exoskeleton gripping

This interdisciplinary team focused on the development of an active exoskeleton for augmented hand gripping. An exoskeleton linger was modeled in computer-aided design software and printed with a three-dimensional printer. Forearm flexor and extensor muscle surface electromyography signals were used as input to a microcomputer controller. Flexion and extension of the exoskeleton was accomplished by an electromechanical servo and wire system. The system was controlled by a custom-written control algorithm that included position and pressure feedback. The exoskeleton successfully flexes and extends on a test apparatus with less than 150 ms delay.
A general outer bound for MISO broadcast channel with heterogeneous CSIT

We study the impact of heterogeneity of channel-state-information available at the transmitters (CSIT) on the capacity of broadcast channels with a multiple-antenna transmitter and k single-antenna receivers (MISO BC). In particular, we consider the k-user MISO BC, where the CSIT with respect to each receiver can be either instantaneous/perfect (P), delayed (D), or not available (N); and we study the impact of this heterogeneity of CSIT on the degrees-of-freedom (DoF) of such network. We develop a general outer bound on the DoF region of k-user MISO BC for all possible heterogeneous CSIT configurations, assuming linear encoding strategies at the transmitter. The outer bound leads to an approximate linear sum-DoF characterization to within 0.5 for a broad range of CSIT configurations. It also leads to an exact characterization of linear sum-DoF for some specific CSIT configurations. Our proof of the outer bound relies on the development of a novel lemma, called Interference Decomposition Bound, which lower bounds the interference dimension at a receiver which supplies delayed CSIT based on the average dimension of constituents of that interference, thereby decomposing it into its components.
The self in the Cartesian brain

The following considers the role of our increased understanding of the neurobiological function of the brain in relation to classical Cartesian representations versus embodied self theories. The movement toward a multifaceted, narrative account of the self is discussed.
Abnormal pulse pressure and microalbuminuria in Haitian Americans with type 2 diabetes (1029.6)

This cross sectional study examined the relationship between pulse pressure and microalbuminuria (MA) in Haitian Americans with type 2 diabetes. Subjects (n=133) were recruited from multiple sources from South Florida. Blood pressure was measured twice and averaged to calculate pulse pressure. Pulse pressure was calculated by systolic blood pressure minus diastolic blood pressure. Glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) levels were measured from fasting blood samples with the Roche Tina-Quant method. MA was determined in urine samples by a semiquantitative assay (ImmunoDip). Statistical analysis included t-test, chi-square and logistic regression, controlling for age, gender, BMI, A1C and hypertension medications. MA was present in 35% of Haitian Americans with type 2 diabetes. A significantly higher percentage of Haitian Americans with MA had abnormal pulse pressure (>60 mmHg) as compared to those without MA (P=0.005). Logistic regression analysis showed that after controlling for covariates, subjects with abnorma...
Delay factors for mainframe computers

In many modern machines, the package has become a major component of the delays that determine the system's performance. The factors leading to this observation are discussed. Included in the discussion are all the path delay components, which encompass chip delay, propagation delay, loading delay, noise-induced delay, clock skews, and tolerances. Techniques for reducing these components in future mainframe designs are introduced. In addition, an argument that states the continuing need for bipolar-based mainframe technologies is given. >
Deferred Action, Immigration, and Social Work: What Should Social Workers Know?

Undocumented young immigrants face numerous challenges and restrictions in terms of education and career-related aspirations. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program provides an opportunity for these young people to legally live and work in the United States at least temporarily. In this article, the author describes DACA requirements as well the responsibilities of social workers in providing assistance to eligible applicants and advocating for comprehensive immigration reform.
Atherosclerosis Complicating Chronic Hypertension

The accelerating effect of hypertension on atherogenesis in the aorta and iliofemoral and coronary arteries is presented here as a graded function of elevated intraarterial pressure. Predilection of the abdominal aorta and iliofemoral arteries for atherosclerosis can be explained on the basis of pressure augmentation by reflected pressure pulse waves and the increase in hydrostatic pressure that is produced by standing. Wave reflection is intensified by vasoconstriction, which is a characteristic not only of hypertension but also occurs with upright posture. Standing also raises the hydrostatic pressure of blood in vessels below heart level. Coronary atherosclerosis seems likely to relate to the fact that the coronary vessels are located in an area of high pressure in the arterial system and that their intramyocardial branches are normally completely occluded during systole — a condition which could be accompanied by subtle differences in the pressure-volume characteristics of the epicardial vessels. Evid...
Microbiological safety of chilled foods: current issues

Abstract Desoite their high organoleptic quality, chilled foods are particularly susceptible to mirobial safety problems. They contain few or no antimicrobial additives to prevent the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and are, therefore, especially susceptible to the effects of inadequate refrigeration. The extended shelf life offered by refrigerated storage increases the chance for psychrotrophic pathogens to grow and proliferate, often without causing obvious sensory defects in the food. Furthermore, there are growing numbers of consumers whose health is compromised and who thus have increased sensitivity to pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, high standards of sanitation and quality assurance are essential in the manufacture of chilled foods; in addition, both food processors and consumers need to be aware of the proper handling of chilled foods.
Playable character: extending digital games into the real world

This paper describes a series of research probe games developed to investigate how real-world activity could be incorporated into digital game systems. These culminated in the design of our final game, Forest, which was conceived for the San Francisco non-profit Friends of the Urban Forest (FUF), who have been planting and caring for the city's street trees for 30 years. By incorporating real-world actions and behaviors into digital games, we can create experiences that both enhance our understanding of the world around us and provide incentive structures towards our personal, community, or societal goals.
The commensurate-incommensurate transition of krypton on graphite: A study via computer simulation

Abstract The commensurate-incommensurate transition of a system of 20,736 krypton atoms on a graphite surface is studied by molecular dynamics computer simulations. The weakly incommensurate phase consisting of commensurate regions separated by a network of incommensurate domain walls is investigated at various temperatures and coverages. At low temperatures a honeycomb structure is observed. For increasing temperatures, the domain walls are found to fluctuate more and more out of the symmetry directions. They broaden considerably and show increasing surface roughness.
A Characterization of Infinite Cyclic Groups.

(2001). A Characterization of Infinite Cyclic Groups. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 74, No. 1, pp. 61-65.
Aplasia cutis congenita : a rare cause of elevated α-fetoprotein levels

We present a catastrophic case of aplasia cutis congenita from a pregnancy complicated by elevated maternal serum and amniotic fluid alpha-fetoprotein levels and a positive acetylcholinesterase. Delivery occurred at 27 weeks 1 day after premature rupture of membranes with chorioamnionitis. The neonate lacked > 90% of its skin and died.
Contemporary sedimentary processes in the Monterey Canyon-fan system

Abstract A study of the Monterey Canyon and fan was conducted to investigate contemporary sedimentary activity using a camera sled, Alvin dives and Sea-Beam bathymetry. Physical characteristics and plan view morphology of the walls, terraces, thalweg floor and levees of the Monterey Canyon and fan, as well as the gullied and non-gullied regions of the adjacent continental slope have been studied. The canyon floor and fan valley thalweg channel from 2900 to 3500 m exhibited properties indicative of moderate to low energy conditions (weak currents, smoothed sea-bed, deposits of disintegrated kelp, bioturbated mud substrate, fecal pellets, absence of scour). Chemosynthetic communities consisting of clams and a pogonophoran, were found in the fan valley from 3000 to 3600 m. Local areas of rockfalls and slumps from the canyon and fan valley walls were not fresh (sedimented, abundantly colonized by benthic biota). Terraces and levee crests were mud-draped and bedrock exposures on canyon walls were encrusted by benthic organisms. Freshest disturbances were found in gullies on the adjacent continental slope where bedrock was scoured clean of sediment and loose debris. A major submarine slide detached from escarpments on the lower slope, and extends across the fan. The slide surface was mud-draped, hummocky, and contained bedforms with wavelengths up to 150 m and up to 10 m relief. The survey was conducted shortly before the Loma Prieta earthquake (October 17, 1989) that caused substantial ground motion in on-shore regions of Monterey Bay. Any substantial sub-sea disturbances generated by the ensuing earthquake should be discernable from the pre-earthquake state by comparison with the deep-sea photographs and observations.
Consequences of Parasitic Mite Infestation on Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus)

Ectoparasite infestation has been implicated in increased physiological costs and reduced fitness of several animals. The semiaquatic habit of muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) restricts its ectoparasites to small mites. We assessed variation in muskrat reproductive effort and fat content in response to relative abundance of parasitic mites. There were no significant correlations between total number of placental scars, number of litters, or percent body fat and the relative abundance of ectoparasitic mites. Our results suggest that these measures of muskrat reproduction and physiology are generally unaffected by arachnid ectoparasites.
Treatment strategies for bone disease

Multiple myeloma is characterized by extensive bone destruction with little or no new bone formation. A multiplicity of factors including receptor activator NF-κB (RANKL), macrophage inflammatory protein-1α, interleukin-3 and interleukin-6 can induce osteoclast formation in myeloma and drive the bone destructive process. Furthermore, factors are also produced either in the microenvironment or by myeloma cells themselves, which inhibit osteoblast differentiation and new bone formation. The combination of increased osteoclast formation with little or no bone repair in response to the previous bone destruction explains the severity of the bone disease in myeloma. Studies of the pathophysiology of myeloma bone disease have identified several novel therapeutic targets. These include antibodies to RANKL, chemokine receptor antagonists, which block the effects of chemokines on osteoclast differentiation and proteasome antagonists, which can affect both RANKL production and osteoprotegerin levels as well as inhibit osteoclast and enhance osteoblast differentiation. In addition, many of the new biologic agents being used for the treatment of patients with myeloma also further inhibit the bone destructive process. New therapies that can target both the tumor as well as the severe bone disease should be on the horizon to treat this devastating complication of myeloma.
Micro-optics fabrication by mask-based and mask-less mixed lithography process towards 3D optical circuits

We utilized a hybrid lithography technique in the fabrication of a 45 degree micro mirror coupler to be used for a 3D optical circuit. The hybrid process combines traditional mask-based lithography techniques with mask-less methods. The result is a CMOS compatible process that can be used for fabrication of integrated micro-optics.
Turnover of inositol and phosphorus containing lipids in Saccharomyces cerevisiae; extracellular accumulation of glycerophosphorylinositol derived from phosphatidylinositol.

Abstract A turnover experiment was performed with yeast cells uniformly labeled with both 32P and [2-3H]inositol showing that the major inositol-containing compound phosphatidylinositol lost both labels at the same rate with a half life of about two generations. In contrast, 32P accumulated in phosphatidylcholine, presumably derived from lipid and nonlipid precursors. The major yeast phosphosphingolipid, ceramide(inositol)2(phosphate)2mannose accumulated both 3H and 32P at a rate suggesting that phosphatidylinositol served as the phosphoinositol precursor and that the bond between phosphorus and inositol is not broken during this conversion. During logarithmic growth, on complex or defined media, yeast release an inositol-containing compound, which we identified as glycerophosphorylinositol (GPI). The amount released was proportional to cell density and equivalent to 1 4 the cellular phosphatidylinositol. Compared to GPI, much smaller amounts of glycerophosphorylcholine (GPC) and glycerophosphorylethanolamine (GPE) accumulated in the medium. GPI, GPE and GPC were not reutilized by the cells. Extracellular GPI acquired both 3H and 32P labels at the same rate during the turnover experiment, indicating that it too is a product of phosphatidylinositol turnover, presumably via direct deacylation. With yeast grown in the presence of [2-3H]inositol, 88% of the 3H was acid insoluble and could be recovered as lipid; 99% of the lipid-extractable 3H was still in inositol. The total 3H found in the compounds analyzed was constant during the turnover suggesting that all quantitatively important pools of inositol were measured.
Alternative Conceptions in Animal Classification Focusing on Amphibians and Reptiles: A Cross-Age Study

This study examined students’ alternative conceptions of reptiles and amphibians and the extent to which these conceptions remain intact through the elementary (grades 4 and 6), junior, and senior high school years. We administered multiple-choice and free-response instruments to a total of 513 students and interviewed at least 20 students at each educational level to get an in-depth view of their original conceptions. Then, we developed and administered a two-tier multiple choice diagnostic instrumentto assess various levels of students’ understanding of amphibians and reptiles(N=1267). The results showed that most students were able to classify snakes as reptiles, whereas fewer than 30% of the students across different ages classified sea turtles as reptiles; the remaining 70% classified sea turtles as amphibians. More students were able to correctly classify frogs as amphibians than toads. In most instances, students correctly classified “prototypical” representatives of the two animal classes more readily than less exemplary representatives, a finding that supports previous research (Trowbridge, J.E. andMintzes, J.J. (1988). Alternative conceptions in animal classification: A cross-age study. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 25(7), 547–571). Interestingly, the alternative views of sea turtles as amphibians remained intact throughout the school years. Interview data indicated that students classified sea turtles as amphibians largely because sea turtles are able to live in terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Semantically, “amphi” means living on land and in water. When asked to distinguish between reptiles and amphibians and to classify several species into those two groups, a wide range of alternative conceptions emerged and the origin of those alternative conceptions are discussed. Similar results were obtained when we applied a two-tier multiple-choice diagnostic instrument to assess students’ understanding of amphibians and reptiles.
Bivalirudin Versus Heparin Plus Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a pro-thrombotic state with enhanced thrombin generation and platelet reactivity. For most patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), bivalirudin demonstrates efficacy comparable with that of heparin and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPIs). Yet, because of their pro-thrombotic condition, we hypothesized that patients with DM may benefit from more aggressive dual antithrombin and antiplatelet therapy. The aim of this paper was to provide a systematic review comparing outcomes of PCI with bivalirudin versus heparin plus GPI in patients with DM using meta-analytical techniques. Eligible studies needed to have reported a subgroup analysis of outcomes among diabetic patients. Six trials comprising 5924 diabetic patients were eligible. At 30 days, bivalirudin was associated with a reduction in net adverse cardiac events [relative risk (RR) 0.81, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.70–0.93, p = 0.002] and major bleeds (RR 0.68, 95 % CI 0.49–0.95; p = 0.02), with no difference in composite ischemia (RR 0.92, 95 % CI 0.74–1.14; p = 0.43) or mortality (RR 0.71, 95 % CI 0.45–1.13; p = 0.15). At 1 year, bivalirudin was associated with a significant reduction in all-cause mortality (RR 0.73, 95 % CI 0.54–1.00, p = 0.05) despite similar composite ischemia (RR 1.02, 95 % CI 0.56–1.21, p = 0.811). In conclusion, thrombin inhibition with bivalirudin alone was associated with reduced 30-day major bleeding and 1-year all-cause mortality compared with heparin plus GPI in diabetic patients undergoing PCI.
Dyadic taxonomy of delinquent youth: Exploring risks and outcomes associated with maternal-youth reporting discrepancies of delinquent behavior.

Using latent class analysis (LCA), this study identified a dyadic taxonomy of delinquent youth categorized by varying types of maternal-youth reporting discrepancies (i.e., youth maternal) within a sample of 764 14-year-old high-risk youth. Four distinctive subgroups of youth were identified, two of which reported more than a minimal degree of informant discrepancy across all domains of delinquent behavior. One subgroup exhibited higher maternal-reported delinquency in comparison with youth reports, and one subgroup exhibited higher youth-reported delinquency in comparison with maternal reports. Additionally, risk factors (e.g., peer delinquency, caregiver monitoring) and delinquency-related difficulties (e.g., police contact) were associated with youth placement in the LCA-identified subgroups. Study findings suggest that youth with higher levels of self-reported delinquency compared with maternal reports may be at greater risk for delinquency-related difficulties due to problems rela...
Passive transfer of IgG anti-GM1 antibodies impairs peripheral nerve repair.

Anti-GM1 antibodies are present in some patients with autoimmune neurological disorders. These antibodies are most frequently associated with acute immune neuropathy called Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). Some clinical studies associate the presence of these antibodies with poor recovery in GBS. The patients with incomplete recovery have failure of nerve repair, particularly axon regeneration. Our previous work indicates that monoclonal antibodies can inhibit axon regeneration by engaging cell surface gangliosides (Lehmann et al., 2007). We asked whether passive transfer of human anti-GM1 antibodies from patients with GBS modulate axon regeneration in an animal model. Human anti-GM1 antibodies were compared with other GM1 ligands, cholera toxin B subunit and a monoclonal anti-GM1 antibody. Our results show that patient derived anti-GM1 antibodies and cholera toxin β subunit impair axon regeneration/repair after PNS injury in mice. Comparative studies indicated that the antibody/ligand-mediated inhibition of axon regeneration is dependent on antibody/ligand characteristics such as affinity-avidity and fine specificity. These data indicate that circulating immune effectors such as human autoantibodies, which are exogenous to the nervous system, can modulate axon regeneration/nerve repair in autoimmune neurological disorders such as GBS.
Corporate universities vs higher education institutions

Corporate universities are not new, but have experienced tremendous growth during the last ten years. Predictions are that corporate universities will outnumber traditional colleges and universities within the next ten years. Reasons for the rapid growth are profiled in this article along with implications and challenges for both corporations and traditional universities. As an illustrative case, a partnering example between a corporate university and a traditional university is profiled. Costs and issues to consider in planning a corporate university are included. Changes underway at traditional universities and future implications conclude the article.
Generalized phase-conjugation system using partially-coherent light

A method of imaging through inhomogeneities using phase conjugation performed with partially-coherent light is described. The method is essentially the union of two complementary techniques, phase conjugation and superresolution by incoherent to coherent conversion. These two techniques are complementary, having both similarities and differences; the former requires coherent light, the latter incoherent. Both involve interferometric mixing of two light beams in a nonlinear medium. Both can be applied to image formation through inhomogeneities. Their theoretical capabilities and limitations are compared, and the possibility of a partially-coherent system embodying both techniques together is considered. >
Investigation of piezoelectric bimorph bender transducers to generate and receive shear waves

This paper further demonstrates the ability of piezoceramic bimorph bender elements to preferentially generate and receive near-surface shear waves for in situ sediment characterization measurements, in terrestrial as well as marine clay soils. The bimorph elements are housed in probe transducers that can manually be inserted into the sediment and are based on the work of Shirley [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 63 (5), 1643-1645 (1978)] and of Richardson et. al. [Geo. - Marine Ltrs., 196-203 (1997)]. The transducers can discretely generate and receive horizontally polarized shear waves, within their bimorph directivity patterns. The use of multiple probes allows one to measure the shear wave velocity and attenuation parameters in the sediment of interest. Measured shear wave data on a hard clay terrestrial soil, as well as on soft marine sediments, are presented. These parameters along with density and compressional wave velocity define the elastic moduli (Poisson's ratio, shear modulus, and bulk modulus) of the sediment, which are of interest in various areas of geophysics, underwater acoustics, and geotechnical engineering. Discussion will focus on use of the probes in both terrestrial and marine sediment environments. [Work supported by the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, and by ARL:UT Austin]
The N-terminal epidermal growth factor-like domain in factor IX and factor X represents an important recognition motif for binding to tissue factor.

Abstract Factors VII, IX, and X play key roles in blood coagulation. Each protein contains an N-terminal γ-carboxyglutamic acid domain, followed by EGF1 and EGF2 domains, and the C-terminal serine protease domain. Protein C has similar domain structure and functions as an anticoagulant. During physiologic clotting, the factor VIIa-tissue factor (FVIIa·TF) complex activates both factor IX (FIX) and factor X (FX). FVIIa represents the enzyme, and TF represents the membrane-bound cofactor for this reaction. The substrates FIX and FX may utilize multiple domains in binding to the FVIIa·TF complex. To investigate the role of the EGF1 domain in this context, we expressed wild type FIX (FIXWT), FIXQ50P, FIXPCEGF1 (EGF1 domain replaced with that of protein C), FIXΔEGF1 (EGF1 domain deleted), FXWT, and FXPCEGF1. Complexes of FVIIa with TF as well as with soluble TF (sTF) lacking the transmembrane region were prepared, and activations of WT and mutant proteins were monitored by SDS-PAGE and by enzyme assays. FVIIa·TF or FVIIa·sTF activated each mutant significantly more slowly than the FIXWT or FXWT. Importantly, in ligand blot assays, FIXWTand FXWT bound to sTF, whereas mutants did not; however, all mutants and WT proteins bound to FVIIa. Further experiments revealed that the affinity of the mutants for sTF was reduced 3–10-fold and that the synthetic EGF1 domain (of FIX) inhibited FIX binding to sTF with K i of ∼60 μm. Notably, each FIXa or FXa mutant activated FVII and bound to antithrombin, normally indicating correct folding of each protein. In additional experiments, FIXa with or without FVIIIa activated FXWT and FXPCEGF1 normally, which is interpreted to mean that the EGF1 domain of FX does not play a significant role in its interaction with FVIIIa. Cumulatively, our data reveal that substrates FIX and FX in addition to interacting with FVIIa (enzyme) interact with TF (cofactor) using, in part, the EGF1 domain.
Radiative Lifetime of the A 1 Π State of CO

The lifetime of the A1Π state of CO has been measured by using a pulsed invertron-excitation source and a delayed-coincidence measurement technique. The fourth positive system was examined to measure this lifetime. Eighteen bands, originating from the upper states υ′ = 0 to 5, were examined at pressures between 500 and 50 mtorr. No pressure dependence was noticed. The transition moment was found to vary and was expanded about the r centroid of the (0,0) transition. Oscillator strengths from this and other experiments are compared.
Guided Wave Propagation Study on Laminated Composites by Frequency-Wavenumber Technique

Toward the goal of delamination detection and quantification in laminated composites, this paper examines guided wave propagation and wave interaction with delamination damage in laminated carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites using frequency-wavenumber (f-kappa) analysis. Three-dimensional elastodynamic finite integration technique (EFIT) is used to acquire simulated time-space wavefields for a CFRP composite. The time-space wavefields show trapped waves in the delamination region. To unveil the wave propagation physics, the time-space wavefields are further analyzed by using two-dimensional (2D) Fourier transforms (FT). In the analysis results, new f-k components are observed when the incident guided waves interact with the delamination damage. These new f-kappa components in the simulations are experimentally verified through data obtained from scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (SLDV) tests. By filtering the new f-kappa components, delamination damage is detected and quantified.
Method of pattern positioning for automatic verification of seal imprint

In automatic computer verification of seal imprints accurate positioning of an examined seal imprint over a registered imprint is of great importance. This paper proposes a method which positions an examined seal imprint in relation to a parallel shift and rotation by using the centroid of its frame figure and the pixels on a circle of a certain radius from the centroid. Since this method achieves positioning by using local features of the examined seal imprint, rapid positioning is possible. In the presence of small defects in the imprint frame this method has the advantage that the centroid of the seal imprint is accurately obtained and is not affected by distortion of the imprint frame. In a positioning experiment based on this method 240 actual seal imprints were used. All imprints were positioned within a ±0.1-mm parallel shift error and more than 99% of the seal imprints were positioned within ±1.76° rotation angle errors. A verification experiment was conducted using a seal imprint verification system which incorporated the principles of this method. As a result, the verification error which was caused by the positioning error was found to be 0.83%. The experimental results show that the proposed positioning method is efficient for automatic verification of seal imprints.
Nonuniform image motion estimation in transformed-domain

Transformation of the image motion vector to a different domain exhibits impressive properties, such as resistance to noise and reduction in computational time and storage requirements. Using the steepest ascent algorithm in a transformed domain, we develop an iterative technique for frame-to-frame image motion estimation. The estimator seeks for the maximum likelihood (ML) estimate of the transformed-coefficients of the motion field. The scheme is implemented using discrete cosine, discrete sine, slant, Hadamard-Walsh, and Haar transforms. Since the motion field is generally slowly-varying, it is shown that by ignoring the higher number transformed-coefficients, substantial improvement in noise reduction is achieved. Simulation experiments are performed to indicate the validity of the analysis for real images in the presence of noise. Results of the simulations are presented.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Better-reply dynamics and global convergence to Nash equilibrium in aggregative games

We consider n-person games with quasi-concave payoffs that depend on a player's own action and the sum of all players' actions. We show that a discrete-time, stochastic process in which players move towards better replies - the better-reply dynamics - converges globally to a Nash equilibrium if actions are either strategic substitutes or strategic complements for all players around each Nash equilibrium that is asymptotically stable under a deterministic, adjusted best-reply dynamics. We present an example of a 2-person game with a unique equilibrium where the derivatives of the best-reply functions have different signs and the better-reply dynamics does not converge.
Anisotropic Density Fluctuations in a Nearly Incompressible Hydrodynamic Fluid

Nonlinear inertial range hydrodynamic turbulence simulations, describing a high-β interstellar plasma fluid, demonstrate spectral anisotropy in the density spectrum. The anisotropic fluctuations, developed mainly in the high-frequency component of the fluid, are driven primarily by low-frequency incompressible fluctuations. The anisotropy occurs predominantly in large-scale structures; in short-scale structures, isotropy occurs in fully developed compressible turbulence.
Quantitative Assessment by 1D-EXSY NMR of Stereoelectronic Control in Acid-Catalyzed Exchange between Stereoisomeric 2-Methoxy-1,3-dioxanes and Methanol

Rates of acid-catalyzed methoxy exchange between methanol and the three diastereomers of 2-methoxy-4,6-dimethyl-1,3-dioxane (6) were measured in benzene, and the rates for the two cis diastereomers were measured in methanol/chloroform. Rate constants were evaluated using a 1D-EXSY NMR pulse sequence and a weighted linear least squares analysis. Rates of methanol attack on the cationic intermediate (8) show 24-fold axial selectivity in benzene and 9-fold selectivity in methanol/chloroform. A ring-opening mechanism for equatorial exchange can be rejected, since rate constants kea and kae for direct axial/equatorial epimerization are zero. These results demonstrate that antiperiplanar lone pairs are more effective in this system than syn, although the effect is worth no more than 2 kcal/mol.