cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Persistence-sensitive simplification functions on 2-manifolds

We continue the study of topological persistence [5] by investigating the problem of simplifying a function f in a way that removes topological noise as determined by its persistence diagram [2]. To state our results, we call a function g an e-simplification of another function f if ¦¦f−g¦¦∞≤e, and the persistence diagrams of g are the same as those of f except all points within L1-distance at most e from the diagonal have been removed. We prove that for functions f on a 2-manifold such e-simplification exists, and we give an algorithm to construct them in the piecewise linear case.
Comparison of student's t-test and the Dorfman-Berbaum-Metz (DBM) method for the statistical comparison of competing diagnostic modalities

Both student's t-test for paired data and the Dorfman- Berbaum-Metz (DBM) method report a P value in comparing ROC curves of competing diagnostic modalities. We empirically compared the P values from the t-test and the DBM method using data of two observer studies involving the lung-nodule detection (15 readers 240 cases) and breast-lesion classification (10 readers 104 cases). We made 596,637 comparisons based on data drawn from different combinations and subsets of the readers and cases. The average difference in the P values was 0.11 and 0.058 in the lung nodule study (of two separate analyses) and 0.0061 in the breast lesion study. The lung nodule study showed, in the analysis that demonstrated statistical significance with the original full dataset, both P 0.05 in 83% of the comparisons. The t-test alone reported P 0.05 in 99% of the comparisons. The t-test alone reported P 0.05 in 91% of the comparisons. The t-test alone reported P<0.05 in 5%, and the DBM method alone reported P<0.05 in 4% of the comparisons. These results indicate that the t-test and the DBM method generally report similar P values, but their conclusions regarding statistical significance often differ and the DBM method should be used because it accounts for both reader and case variances.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Stress analysis in plane orthotropic material by the boundary element method

Abstract The boundary element method is a more suitable technique than the finite element method for problems having large stress gradients. One such problem is the stresses around mechanical Fasteners. To solve a problem by the boundary element method requires a solution of an integral equation. The integrand of the integral equation is a product of a known Green's function and an unknown function. Unlike isotropic material, the plane orthotropic material can have three forms of Green's function depending upon the relationship of the four material constants. To solve the integral equations numerically, the unknown function is approximated by a piecewise continuous linear function. The boundary is approximated by a sum of straight line segments. The result of the two approximations is integrals over straight line segments, the integrand of which is a product of linear polynomials and one of the three Green's functions. These integrals arc evaluated analytically. By exploiting the common features in the three forms of Green's function a very efficient algorithm can be designed. Numerical results arc presented for a circular hole in an infinite medium and in a coupon. The results show good correlation with analytical results for all kinds of orthotropic materials.
Expected I-cache miss rates via the gap model

To evaluate the performance of a memory system, computer architects must determine the miss rate m of a cache C when running program P. Typically, the measured miss rate depends on the specific address mapping M of P set arbitrarily by the compiler and linker. In this paper, we remove the effect of the address-mapping on the miss rate by analyzing a symbolic trace T of basic blocks. By assuming each basic block has an equal probability of ending up anywhere in the address map, we determine the expected miss rate averaged over all possible address mappings.Our resulting gap model gives the expected miss rate for instruction caches of varying cache size, line size, and set associativity. Our model is simple but robust, and turns out to be the familiar LRU stack model with a statistical viewpoint. Our model allows a trace of arbitrary length to be compactly summarized in a few thousand bytes of information. Our model also predicts how an intervening trace, such as an operating system call or a task switch, will affect the miss rate. Comparisons to measured miss rates from SPEC 92 instruction traces show that our model typically has relative differences of less than 20% for a variety of cache parameters.
Paper 3: The Design History of Ford of England'S 1000 cm3 −1500 cm3 Engine Family

This paper covers the design history of an engine family which originally spanned a capacity range of 1000–1390 cm3 but has lately been extended to 1500 cm3.The requirements which governed the basic engine design are dealt with from two angles—the vehicle requirements, which determined the cylinder capacity and arrangement and led to the adoption of a water-cooled four-stroke design; and the production requirements, which dictated the need for a ‘family’ concept to give the maximum range of engine capacity from a single tooling set up. Performance, package and durability targets were established and it was essential to meet these while maintaining minimum cost and weight.The layout of the basic engine provides for changes of capacity by variation of the stroke only; the advantage of this method over varying the bore or both bore and stroke is discussed from both product and manufacturing viewpoints. The engines are considerably ‘oversquare’ (large bores, short strokes) and the effect of this and the impor...
ACTIVE SITE STRUCTURES AND CATALYTIC MECHANISM OF RHODOBACTER SPHAEROIDES DIMETHYL SULFOXIDE REDUCTASE AS REVEALED BY RESONANCE RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY

Resonance Raman spectra and excitation profiles (413−676 nm) are reported for four distinct forms of Rhodobacter sphaeroides dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) reductase: as prepared Mo(VI), dithionite-reduced Mo(IV), dimethyl sulfide reduced Mo(IV), and glycerol-inhibited Mo(V). All of the vibrational modes in the 200−1700 cm-1 region of the Mo(VI) and Mo(IV) forms are assigned to vibrations involving atoms in the first or second coordination sphere of the bis-molybdopterin-coordinated Mo active site, the dithiolene chelate rings, or nonresonantly enhanced protein modes. On the basis of 18O/16O isotope shifts, the Mo(VI) form is shown to be mono-oxo with ν(MoO) at 862 cm-1, and the DMS-reduced Mo(IV) form is shown to involve bound DMSO with ν(Mo−O) at 497 cm-1 and ν(SO) at 862 cm-1. Bands at 536 and 513 cm-1 are tentatively assigned to ν(Mo−O(Ser)) stretching modes of coordinated serinate in the Mo(VI) and Mo(IV) forms, respectively. The vibrational modes of two distinct types of dithiolene chelate rings are ide...
Optimum power and time allocation for cooperative relaying protocol

Cooperative communication has emerged as a new wireless network communication concept, in which parameter optimization such as power budget and time allocation plays an important role in cooperative relaying protocol designs. While most existing works on cooperative relaying protocol designs considered equal-time allocation scenario, i.e. equal time duration is assigned to each source and each relay, in this work we intend to design and optimize cooperative communication protocols by exploring all possible variations in time and power domains. We jointly optimize the power and time allocations for the cooperative relaying protocol such that the outage probability of the protocol is minimized. Specifically, for any given time allocation, we are able to determine the corresponding optimum power allocation analytically with a closed-form expression. We also show that in order to minimize the outage probability of the protocol, one should always allocate more energy and time to the source than the relay. Extensive numerical and simulation studies illustrate our theoretical developments.
922-55 Transesophageal Echocardiography in Assessing Pulmonary Venous Anastomosis and Flow After Single Lung Transplantation

Single lung transplantation (SLT) is a viable treatment option in end-stage pulmonary disease. The post-operative period following SLT may be complicated by hemodynamic and gas exchange abnormalities which may be related to vascular complications of the left atrial/pulmonary venous anastomosis. After successful SLT, the pulmonary flow into the transplanted lung is higher, creating a blood flow differential between the transplanted and the non-transplanted lungs. Biplane transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) can visualize the anatomic characteristics of the pulmonary venous anastomosis and measure the pulmonary venous flow selectively from each lung. By applying the formula: Q = A· FVI, where Q is flow, A is cross-sectional pulmonary vein area, and FVI is flow velocity integral, the pulmonary venous flow can be estimated and the flow differential between the two lungs calculated. In a blinded fashion, we calculated the TEE-derived right and left pulmonary vein flow in 26 patients, 15 pts pre-SLT and 11 pts post-SLT. We compared the TEE data with the percentage pulmonary flow derived by nuclear medicine perfusion scans (Technectium 99). Both techniques were expressed as percent blood flow to each lung. The correlation between both techniques was excellent r = 0.87, SEE = 7.94, p l 0.001. Figure illustrates results for differential lung flow. In all 11 post-op pts, the pulmonary venous/left atrial anastomosis was clearly visualized. In 1 patient a large thrombus was seen in the right pulmonary veins. Download : Download high-res image (55KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusion TEE is an excellent alternative to estimate differential lung perfusion in SLT. In addition, visualization of the pulmonary veins can help exclude complications at the pulmonary vein anastomosis
Innovative Allies Spatial and Creative Abilities

Spatial and creative abilities are important for innovations in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, but talents are rarely developed from these abilities by schools, including...
Evaluation of Steering Algorithm Optimality for Single-Gimbal Control Moment Gyroscopes

Analytic optimization methods typically used to derive optimal steering algorithms for single-gimbal control moment gyros do not consider the structure of the Jacobian matrix mapping the gimbal rates onto the desired torque within their cost function. Many of the steering algorithms resulting from these optimization methods systematically take first and second derivatives, forming the Jacobian and Hessian matrices to obtain a solution. However, the optimality is usually a local result and cannot be mapped back to its resulting performance. It is shown that the majority of steering algorithms are optimal with respect to one specific cost function previously published and that the design of the weighting matrices within the cost is what distinguishes steering algorithms. The author analytically shows how the blended inverse, Moore-Penrose pseudoinverse, generalized inverse steering law, singularity robust inverse, generalized singularity robust inverse, singular direction avoidance, local-gradient methods, and the hybrid steering logic are derived from the same optimizations but their sense of optimality is lost because the structure of singularities is not considered in the optimization process. In addition, the author also points out that the design of the quadratic costs weighting matrix used for optimization and desired gimbal rate is of the highest importance in differentiation between steering law performance.
Ets-1 and Runx2 Regulate Transcription of a Metastatic Gene, Osteopontin, in Murine Colorectal Cancer Cells

Abstract Osteopontin (OPN) is a sialic acid-rich phosphoprotein secreted by a wide variety of cancers. We have shown previously that OPN is necessary for mediating hepatic metastasis in CT26 colorectal cancer cells. Although a variety of stimuli can induce OPN, the molecular mechanisms that regulate OPN gene transcription in colorectal cancer are unknown. We hypothesized that cis- and trans-regulatory elements determine OPN transcription in CT26 cells. OPN transcription was analyzed in CT26 cancer cells and compared with YAMC (young adult mouse colon) epithelial cells. Clonal deletion analysis of OPN promoter-luciferase constructs identified cis-regulatory regions. A specific promoter region, nucleotide (nt) –107 to –174, demonstrated a >8.0-fold increase in luciferase activity in CT26 compared with YAMC. Gel-shift assays sublocalized two cis-regulatory regions, nt –101 to –123 and nt –121 to –145, which specifically bind CT26 nuclear proteins. Competition with unlabeled mutant oligonucleotides revealed that the regions nt –115 to –118 and nt –129 to –134 were essential for protein binding. Subsequent supershift and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays confirmed the corresponding nuclear proteins to be Ets-1 and Runx2. Functional relevance was demonstrated through mutations in the Ets-1 and Runx2 consensus binding sites resulting in >60% decrease in OPN transcription. Ets-1 and Runx2 protein expression in CT26 was ablated using antisense oligonucleotides and resulted in a >7-fold decrease in OPN protein expression. Ets-1 and Runx2 are critical transcriptional regulators of OPN expression in CT26 colorectal cancer cells. Suppression of these transcription factors results in significant down-regulation of the OPN metastasis protein.
Discordant 14C-stratigraphies in upper Monterey Canyon: A signal of anthropogenic disturbance

Abstract Laminated fine-grained sediments drape the flanks and terraces on the sides of upper Monterey Canyon, where rapid sedimentation occurs in the relatively calm environment sandwiched between the wave-washed continental shelf and the sediment gravity-flow-scoured axial channel on the canyon floor. The isotopic composition of organic matter contained in these accumulating sediments shows that they are primarily of terrestrial origin and are apparently supplied by the Salinas and Pajaro Rivers that drain the adjacent agricultural valleys and discharge near the canyon head. The presence of alien pollen grains within these fine-grained sediments indicates that > 5 m of sediment was deposited within historical times (post-1700) on the canyon flanks. Two trends are seen in the 14 C content of the sedimentary organic carbon. The uppermost sediments on the canyon flanks contain pesticide residues indicating post-1945 deposition and have an average 14 C content that is 82 ± 3.2 percent modern carbon. This is similar to 14 C values for suspended sediments discharged from the Salinas River during floods. Disseminated bulk organic matter and carbonate sampled immediately below pesticide-bearing sediments on the flanks of Monterey Canyon are distinctly more 14 C-depleted. The proportion of 14 C in the disseminated bulk organic matter increases somewhat erratically with further depth in all nine cores with multiple measurements. These discordant 14 C-stratigraphies are developed within sediments that are pesticide-free (pre-1945), but still of historical age based on the occurrence of alien pollen grains. Two factors may contribute to the discordant 14 C-stratigraphies observed in upper Monterey Canyon: (1) the addition of bomb-produced 14 C in post-1945 sediments, and (2) changes in the proportion of older soil carbon that was washed off agricultural land. Land use practices associated with the early stages of modern development of the Salinas and Pajaro Valleys caused rapid loss of virgin soils and a subsequent increase in the proportion of older soil carbon exported as deeper soil horizons were exhumed. A sharp decrease in the amount of older carbon being flushed off the land has occurred since the construction of dams and impoundment structures on the Salinas and Pajaro Rivers by the middle of the 20th century.
Whose Cultural Studies

What follows is the text of a talk given to literary scholars at a December 1992 Modern Language Association forum called “Cultural Studies and the Disciplines: Are There Any Boundaries Left?” It reflects on the possibilities and anxieties aroused by cultural studies for anthropologists and ethnic studies faculty. It also tries to explain the potential of anthropology and ethnic studies to members of English departments who, at times, see themselves as the owners of cultural studies.
Effects of Diet and Exercise on Insulin Resistance during Pregnancy

Current evidence suggests that both diet and exercise can alter the usual increase in insulin resistance seen in Western societies during mid and late pregnancy. A low-glycemic diet combined with a low-volume exercise regimen during pregnancy decreases the glucose and insulin response to both mixed caloric intake and exercise, and probably lowers both 24-h blood glucose concentrations and the maternal substrate utilization ratio of carbohydrate/fat. The end result is a marked decrease in both maternal weight gain and size at birth. Regular weight-bearing exercise alone lowers markers of insulin resistance and lowers blood glucose concentration during and immediately after exercise during pregnancy. Changes in diet and/or physical activity appear to prevent the onset of gestational diabetes mellitus in at-risk women and may be of value in the treatment of those who develop gestational diabetes.
Sales force management strategies among U.S. freight railroads

Abstract Although the marketing discipline has become a more important functional area in many railroads since passage of the Staggers Act of 1980, much of the formal research has been devoted to pricing issues. Other elements of the marketing mix can impact profitability; consequently, U.S. freight railroads were surveyed about their sales force management practices on such items as recruitment and training. These sales practices, in turn, served as the basis for delineation of distinct sales force strategies being pursued by U.S. railroads. Three strategies—cautiously aggressive, focus, cost-conscious—are identified; the cautiously aggressive railroads utilize both traditional sales tactics (e.g. use of personal interviews) as well as nontraditional practices (e.g. evaluation by profitability analysis). Railroads following the focus strategy employ salespeople more concerned with efficient operations than with extensive selling. Cost-conscious sales strategies are characterized by sales practices that emphasize cost containment, such as internal recruitment.
Materials and design interface

Abstract The unprecedented demands faced by fusion structures primarily derive from severe time varying thermal-mechanical loading of complex, large scale, and highly interconnected heat transfer-energy conversion structures. This grand challenge is often much too narrowly couched in terms of the development of radiation damage resistant materials, while the enormously larger challenge is the creation of material systems and multifunctional structures. In addition, the fusion system designer is faced with the untenable situation that neither the fully functional materials, nor the requisite computational tools, nor experimental simulation facilities currently exist for reliable integrity and lifetime assessments of fusion reactor structures. Considering the absence of material information and design tools, neither the materials nor the fusion designer can follow standard design processes. The design process has to become actively materials-related while materials development must closely follow design process needs. This indispensible interaction between materials and design processes leads to a ‘concurrent materials-structure design’ path, which is necessary to meet the enormous materials-structural engineering challenges of fusion.
Visualization Of Velocity Field By Single Exposure Holospeckle Interferometry

A new holospeckle interferornetric technique is developed for visualizing two dimen­ sional velocity field of solids and fluids. The method requires only single exposure and results in sine function fringes representing velocity contours.IntroductionA number of optical methods have been developed for the measurement of velocity field. The most popular seems to be the laser-Soppier anemometry 1 which gives pointwise data. Holographic interferometry yields whole-field information in terms of fringe patterns. In a particular ^arrangement, the fringes depict one velocity ^component from each recording arrangementz . The scattered light laser speckle method~ is effective in measuring 2D velocity. However, at the present state of art, the method can only be applied to slow flows due to the low scattering efficiency along the viewing direction (which is normal to the beam). A newly developed double-exposure holospeckle method alleviates this difficulty by combining holography and speckle interferometry.In this paper, we present a single-exposure holospeckle technique for the visualization of velocity field. Although only sine fringes (whose contrast is low at higher orders) are generated, the method's advantage lies in its economic usage of light energy and avoidance of double exposure.Optical arrangement of methodA schematic of the optical arrangement is as shown in Fig. 1. It is the same as that used in Ref. 4. A section of the moving light scattering medium, situated at the front focal plane of the first FT (Fourier transform) lens, is back illuminated by a collimated laser beam. At the back focal plane the spectrum of the spatial frequency of the scattering wavelets is recorded together with a reference beam by a photographic plate. At this state it is nothing but a lens Fraunhofer hologram. After processing this hologram is placed back at its original position and illuminated by the reference beam for reconstruction. A second FT lens, situated at a focal distance away, converts the reconstructed virtual image into a real one at its back focul plane. Similar to the full-field filtering arrangement of a specklegram, a small aperture is erected at the spectrum plane to select the desired spatial frequency (or the observation direc­ tion) to be calculated by the second field lens for image formation. It shall be shown in the following that this image is modulated by a pattern of velocity contours.Theoretical analysisThe complex amplitude of the wavelets at the section dissected by the first field lens can be expressed as, at time t,
Automotive GMTI radar for object and human avoidance

Automotive radar can be used to detect and identify roadway obstructions including slowly-moving personnel, but must also reduce or remove the effect of platform motion. We measured the capabilities of a 77-GHz system under various conditions, such as rural and urban environments, and on various terrains, such as asphalt and grass. We utilized range-Doppler map processing capabilities to correct for platform motion using the variation in the clutter line and identified stationary obstacles as well as vehicles and personnel moving along the path of the system. We tracked pedestrians and vehicles, and detected stationary objects like road boundaries, a fire hydrant, picnic table and utility poles.
Infusing Diversity into Family and Couples Counseling

Several recent resources affirm the importance of culturally sensitive family practice and training. Two multidisciplinary anthologies are reviewed and their applications to family and couples coun...
A Thylakoid Membrane Protein Harboring a DnaJ-type Zinc Finger Domain Is Required for Photosystem I Accumulation in Plants

Photosystem I (PSI) is a large pigment-protein complex and one of the two photosystems that drive electron transfer in oxygenic photosynthesis. We identified a nuclear gene required specifically for the accumulation of PSI in a forward genetic analysis of chloroplast biogenesis in maize. This gene, designated psa2, belongs to the "GreenCut" gene set, a group of genes found in green algae and plants but not in non-photosynthetic organisms. Disruption of the psa2 ortholog in Arabidopsis likewise resulted in the specific loss of PSI proteins. PSA2 harbors a conserved domain found in DnaJ chaperones where it has been shown to form a zinc finger and to have protein-disulfide isomerase activity. Accordingly, PSA2 exhibited protein-disulfide reductase activity in vitro. PSA2 localized to the thylakoid lumen and was found in a ∼250-kDa complex harboring the peripheral PSI protein PsaG but lacking several core PSI subunits. PSA2 mRNA is coexpressed with mRNAs encoding various proteins involved in the biogenesis of the photosynthetic apparatus with peak expression preceding that of genes encoding structural components. PSA2 protein abundance was not decreased in the absence of PSI but was reduced in the absence of the PSI assembly factor Ycf3. These findings suggest that a complex harboring PSA2 and PsaG mediates thiol transactions in the thylakoid lumen that are important for the assembly of PSI.
Encoding and retrieval effects of dual sensory-semantic cues.

This experiment was designed to explore the relative effects of dual and embedded sensory-semantic retrieval cues (e.g.,GLAMOUR GIRL). Cues and targets shared both first-letter and associative features, only first-letter features, or only associative features. The cues were presented during the single test trial or they were presented during the single study trial and again at test. Finally, subjects in the dual-cue condition were or were not told about the addition of the first-letter contingency. The results indicated that dual were superior to single cues with each feature contributing independently and additively to recall. This dual facilitation was obtained when the cues were shown only at test or during both study and test and regardless of whether or not the subjects were explicitly aware of the additional sensory contingency. These findings were expected and explained by the assumptions of the coding-access-recognition model
Cordless Telephones: Extending Reference Service

Not so many years ago libraries with busy telephone reference services installed telephone jacks at strategic points near the card catalog and close to major indexes. Librarians on reference duty were supplied with small, lightweight head sets which they took with them when a telephone question necessitated a check of the card catalog or some consultation involving an index or telephone directory.
Trophic transfer of nanoparticles in a simplified invertebrate food web

The unique chemical and physical properties of engineered nanomaterials1 that make them attractive for numerous applications also contribute to their unexpected behaviour in the environment and biological systems2. The potential environmental risks, including their impact on aquatic organisms, have been a central argument for regulating the growth of the nanotechnology sector3. Here we show in a simplified food web that carboxylated and biotinylated quantum dots can be transferred to higher trophic organisms (rotifers) through dietary uptake of ciliated protozoans. Quantum dot accumulation from the surrounding environment (bioconcentration) was limited in the ciliates and no quantum dot enrichment (biomagnification) was observed in the rotifers. Our findings indicate that dietary uptake of nanomaterials should be considered for higher trophic aquatic organisms. However, limited bioconcentration and lack of biomagnification may impede the detection of nanomaterials in invertebrate species. New laboratory studies using a simplified food web show that quantum dots can be ingested by certain ciliates and transferred to higher trophic organisms such as the predatory rotifers by dietary uptake.
Hospital and neurodevelopmental outcomes of extremely low-birth-weight infants with necrotizing enterocolitis and spontaneous intestinal perforation

We sought to determine the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) in surviving extremely low-birth-weight (ELBW, <1000 g birth weight) infants and to establish the impact of NEC on outcomes by hospital discharge and at 18 to 22 months adjusted age in a large, contemporary, population-based practice. Hospital outcome data for all ELBW infants born in the greater Cincinnati region from 1998 to 2009 were extracted from the National Institute of Child Health Neonatal Research Network Database. Neurodevelopmental outcome at 18 to 22 months was assessed using Bayley Scales of Infant Development-II scores for Mental Developmental Index and Psychomotor Developmental Index. Multivariable logistic regression was used and adjusted odds ratios reported to control for confounders. From 1998 to 2009, ELBW infants accounted for 0.5% of the 352 176 live-born infants in greater Cincinnati. The incidence of NEC was 12%, with a 50% case-fatality rate. Death before discharge, morbid complications of prematurity and neurodevelopmental impairment were all increased among infants diagnosed with NEC. Infants with surgical NEC and SIP had a higher incidence of death, but long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes were not different comparing surviving ELBW infants with medical NEC, surgical NEC and SIP. Although ELBW infants comprise a very small proportion of live-born infants, those who develop NEC and SIP are at an increased risk for death, morbid complications of prematurity and neurodevelopmental impairment. No significant differences in neurodevelopmental outcomes were observed between the medical and surgical NEC and SIP groups.
Stability results for scattered‐data interpolation on Euclidean spheres

Let $$S^m$$ denote the unit sphere in $$R^{m + 1}$$ and $$d_m$$ the geodesic distance in $$S^m$$ . A spherical‐basis function approximant is a function of the form $$s\left( x \right) = \sum\nolimits_{j = 1}^M {a_j \varphi \left( {d_m \left( {x,x_j } \right)} \right)\;x \in S^m }$$ , where $$\left( {a_j } \right)_1^M$$ are real constants, $$\varphi :\left[ {0,{\pi }} \right] \to R$$ is a fixed function, and $$\left( {x_j } \right)_1^M$$ is a set of distinct points in $$S^m$$ . It is known that if $$\varphi$$ is a strictly positive definite function in $$S^m$$ , then the interpolation matrix $$\left( {\varphi \left( {d_m \left( {x_j ,x_k } \right)} \right)} \right)_{j,k = 1}^M$$ is positive definite, hence invertible, for every choice of distinct points $$\left( {x_j } \right)_1^M$$ and every positive integer M. The paper studies a salient subclass of such functions $$\varphi$$ , and provides stability estimates for the associated interpolation matrices.
A Prospective Study of Platelets and Plasma Proteolytic Systems during the Early Stages of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Abstract We prospectively examined early changes in platelets and plasma proteolytic systems in 12 vaccinated and 6 unvaccinated volunteers in whom Rocky Mountain spotted fever developed after challenge with Rickettsia rickettsii. The platelet counts declined while the plasma concentration of β-thromboglobulin and the ratio of β-thromboglobulin to platelet factor 4 increased, indicating in vivo activation of platelets. Plasma levels of antithrombin III decreased and levels of fibrinopeptide A increased, indicating in vivo activation of the coagulation system. Plasma fibrinogen levels peaked at 24 hours and gradually declined; this is consistent with the behavior of fibrinogen as an acute-phase reactant. Prolongation of the prothrombin time and a decrease in plasma levels of factor VII in the absence of evidence of liver injury suggested possible activation of the extrinsic pathway of coagulation. A decline in plasma prekallikrein levels with an increase in plasma C1-inhibitor–kallikrein complexes suggeste...
Binding of riboflavin to lipophorin and a hexameric protein in the hemolymph of Heliothis virescens

Abstract The hemolymph of late final instar Heliothis virescens larvae was analyzed for riboflavin and its metabolic derivatives. Riboflavin levels in the hemolymph were found to be relatively high at this developmental stage ( ca 25 μg/ml hemolymph) and all of the flavin was associated with high molecular weight proteins. Based on the recovery of riboflavin with purified hemolymph protein preparations, approx. 15% of the total was bound to lipophorin and the remainder to a hexameric storage protein comprised of 82 kDa subunits, designated p82. The recovery of p82-bound riboflavin was not quantitative, a result attributable to the effects of sample dilution during purification. The p82 hexamer (but not lipophorin, arylphorin or other hemolymph proteins) was bound by a flavinyl-agarose affinity matrix, which provided independent confirmation of its identity as a flavin-binding protein. In addition to the large hemolymph pool of protein-bound riboflavin, H. virescens larvae also contained substantial amounts of free riboflavin in malpighian tubules ( ca 19μg/g tissue) and in testes ( ca 25 μg/g tissue). These findings suggest a complex pattern of riboflavin binding and transport mediated by specific pathways of flavin metabolism, storage and excretion depending upon the target tissue.
Neurological deficits in mice with profound biotinidase deficiency are associated with demylination and axonal degeneration

Biotinidase deficiency is an autosomal recessively inherited disorder characterized by neurological and cutaneous abnormalities. We have developed a transgenic knock-out mouse with biotinidase deficiency to better understand aspects of pathophysiology and natural history of the disorder in humans. Neurological deficits observed in symptomatic mice with biotinidase deficiency are similar to those seen in symptomatic children with the disorder. Using a battery of functional neurological assessment tests, the symptomatic mice performed poorly compared to wild-type mice. Demyelination, axonal degeneration, ventriculomegaly, and corpus callosum compression were found in the brains of untreated, symptomatic enzyme-deficient mice. With biotin treatment, the symptomatic mice improved neurologically and the white matter abnormalities resolved. These functional and anatomical findings and their reversal with biotin therapy are similar to those observed in untreated, symptomatic and treated individuals with biotinidase deficiency. The mouse with biotinidase deficiency appears to be an appropriate animal model in which to study the neurological abnormalities and the effects of treatment of the disorder.
QUANTITATIVE Cu X-RAY ABSORPTION EDGE STUDIES : OXIDATION STATE AND SITE STRUCTURE DETERMINATION

X-ray absorption edge studies of Cu(I) complexes with different coordination number and covalency reveal that the 8983-8984 eV feature (assigned as the 1s→4p transition) can be correlated with ligation and site geometry. These Cu(I) features have been qualitatively interpreted using a Ligand Field model, and this has been applied to analyze the polarized single crystal, pH dependent edge spectra of reduced plastocyanin. In addition, normalized difference X-ray absorption edge analysis has been used to quantitatively determine the percent of Cu(I) in several derivatives of the multicopper oxidase, laccase.
Outcome of Patients Requiring Medical ICU Admission Following Bone Marrow Transplantation

Despite encouraging results seen following bone marrow transplantation (BMT), it has been observed that once these patients become critically ill and require medical intensive care unit (MICU) admission, the chances of survival are poor. We hypothesized that while mechanical ventilation would be an important predictor for death in the MICU, those patients not requiring mechanical ventilation could he successfully discharged from the MICU. The records of 36 patients with 43 admissions to the MICU following BMT were analyzed. Of these admissions, 33 (76.7 percent) patients had allogeneic and 10 (23.3 percent) had autologous transplants, respectively. Overall, 14 (32.6 percent) of the admissions resulted in a satisfactory discharge from the MICU. There was no significant difference in the survival rates between those patients undergoing allogeneic or autologous transplantations, 11 (33.3 percent) vs 3 (30.0 percent), respectively. Twenty-seven (62.8 percent) of the admissions resulted in mechanical ventilation and were performed in 20 (66.7 percent) patients with allogeneic BMTs and 7 (70.0 percent) patients with autologous BMTs, which was not significantly different. The survival rate for those requiring mechanical ventilation was significantly less than for those not mechanically ventilated during their MICU stay, 1 (3.7 percent) vs 13 (81.3 percent), respectively (p
In Situ Observations of Temperature Microstructure above and below the Tropopause

The small-scale (less than 1 km) structure of temperature near the tropopause, as indicated by ozone concentration, is examined using data recorded during GALE from the NCAR Sabreliner. A systematic difference is observed in the temperature microstructure of the troposphere and stratosphere in qualitative agreement with evidence from VHF radar observations. Spectral distribution of the temperature variations also differs across the tropopause.
The emperor's clothes: Assessing the validity of scores on the Tennessee self-concept scale

In 1985, Tzeng, Maxey, Fortier, and Landis conducted an extensive psychometric study of the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale (TSCS) and reported a systematic failure to validate the factor structure of...
Positive reinforcement: A test of the Premack theory

Two human Ss were tested on a key pressing task in which two keys produced the same reinforcer, counter points, but on different reinforcement schedules. The results of a contingency arranged between the two keys supported Premack’s reinforcement theory; not only do high rate responses reinforce low rate responses, but they do so even when both responses depend on the same reinforcer.
Multi-spectral scanning fiber endoscope with concurrent autofluorescence mitigation for enhanced target-to-background ratio imaging

We developed a multispectral fluorescence-reflectance scanning fiber endoscope (SFE) for wide-field molecular imaging of fluorescence-labeled molecular probes. Concurrent multi-channels imaging with the wide-field SFE also allows for real-time mitigation of background autofluorescence (AF) signal, especially when the FDA approved fluorescein is used as the target fluorophore. In the current study, we demonstrated a real-time AF mitigation algorithm on a tissue phantom which featured molecular probe targeted cells of high grade dysplasia on a substrate containing AF species. The targetto- background ratio was enhanced by over an order of magnitude when applying the real-time AF mitigation algorithm. By minimizing the background signal, multispectral fluorescence imaging can provide sufficient image contrast and quantitative target information for detecting small pre-cancerous lesions in vivo.
Using Sensor Lines to Show Control-Display Linkages on a Four Burner Stove

This study examined the ability of sensor lines (lines drawn from a control to the display it is linked with) to quicken response times and reduce errors on a conventional (square burner pattern) four burner stove to levels shown on a stove whose four burners were arranged in a staggered pattern such that each burner was directly in line with its control.
Searches for ultimate chemical carcinogens and their reactions with cellular macromolecules

Studies on a variety of chemical carcinogens have demonstrated that their ultimate reactive and carcinogenic forms are strong electrophiles. Some carcinogens, such as alkylating agents, are in their ultimate forms as administered, but most require metabolism to these active derivatives. The ultimate carcinogens react, usually non-enzymatically, with nucleophilic constituents in vivo. Of particular interest in regard to their possible importance in carcinogenesis have been the covalent interactions of these electrophilic reactants with cellular informational macromolecules, the DNAs, RNAs, and proteins. Current data are consistent with the idea that the initiation step of chemical carcinogenesis is a mutagenic event and is caused by alteration of DNA by the ultimate carcinogens. The nature of the carcinogen metabolite(s) involved in the promotion phase has not been determined, but there appears to be no requirement that they be electrophilic. The development of the concept of ultimate chemical carcinogens as strong electrophilic reactants is reviewed, especially with respect to the studies carried in the authors' laboratory.
Cardiac troponin I and C-reactive protein concentrations in dogs with severe pulmonic stenosis before and after balloon valvuloplasty.

Abstract Objective To report cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations in dogs with severe pulmonic stenosis (PS) before and after balloon valvuloplasty (BV). Background Increased morbidity and mortality have been reported with severe PS and histopathologic evidence of myocardial damage is demonstrated with BV. Severity of myocardial injury and inflammation associated with severe PS and BV, as assessed by cTnI and CRP, is unknown. Animals, materials and methods Serum cTnI and CRP concentrations were measured in dogs with severe PS ( n = 23) and following BV ( n = 16). Results Baseline cTnI and CRP were elevated in 7/23 (30.4%) and 8/23 (34.8%) dogs. Median cTnI at baseline and post-BV were 0.20 ng/mL (range, 0.20–1.29 ng/mL) and 2.85 ng/mL (range, 0.21–55.40 ng/mL), respectively. Median CRP at baseline and post-BV were 3.40 μg/mL (range, 0–14.70 μg/mL) and 11.70 μg/mL (range, 4.20–120 μg/mL), respectively. Post-BV concentrations were significantly increased compared to baseline for cTnI ( p p = 0.001). Conclusions Serum cTnI and CRP are increased in dogs with severe PS and following BV. Future studies should evaluate whether biomarkers correlate with severity and prognosis of PS or can be used to guide therapy.
Influence of temperature on tearing resistance of welds for PWR vessels

The effect of temperature on ductile fracture toughness of three narrow gap SAW welds and one MMAW weld (SA 508 Cl.3 base metal) was investigated using 25 mm thick CT specimens. Chemical analyses, tensile and Charpy V tests were also performed. Two methods of toughness characterization (partial unloadings or interrupted tests) were used at 20–43°C and service temperature (293°C). Values of J at initiation, and after a moderate propagation were considered and compared. At a given temperature, properties of the four welds were fairly similar. A conservative estimate of the toughness reduction factor, associated with a temperature increase from 43°C to 293°C, is J293 ⋍ J431.6. Fracture surfaces were examined, showing a pattern of patches with dimples separated by areas of smoother surfaces. This fracture surface appearance can be related to the weld microstructure. Two models were tried for predicting the change of fracture toughness with temperature through the effect of this latter parameter on tensile properties. The characteristic distance model of ductile fracture provides a satisfactory estimate of the temperature effect on toughness.
Changes in spontaneous neural activity in the dorsal cochlear nucleus following exposure to intense sound: relation to threshold shift

Previous studies have shown that the dorsal cochlear nucleus exhibits increased spontaneous activity after exposure to intense sound. Such increases were apparent 1-2 months after the exposure and were generally proportional to the shift in response thresholds induced by the same exposure. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether this sound-induced increase in spontaneous activity is an early event which can be observed shortly after exposure. As in previous studies, anesthetized hamsters ranging in postnatal age from 60-70 days were exposed to a 10-kHz tone at levels between 125 and 130 dB SPL for a period of 4 h. Control animals were similarly anesthetized but were not exposed to the intense tone. Exposed animals were examined in two groups, one at 30 days after exposure, the other at 2 days after exposure. Time of exposure was adjusted so that all animals were between 90 and 100 days of age when spontaneous activity was studied electrophysiologically. The results showed that the increases in spontaneous activity, which were evident at 30 days after exposure, were not observed in animals studied 2 days after exposure. This result contrasted with the effect of the intense tone exposure on neural response thresholds. That is, the shifts in response thresholds seen 2 days after exposure were similar to those observed in animals studied 30 days after exposure. These results indicate that changes in spontaneous activity reflect a more slowly developing phenomenon and occur secondarily after induction of threshold shift.
Ozone uptake in Prunus serotina, Acer rubrum and Quercus rubra forest trees of different sizes

SUMMARY Information on ozone uptake by various tree species has been derived mainly from controlled-exposure studies of seedlings. Parallel measurements of foliar physiological processes in large trees are rare, as are measurements of local ozone concentrations within forest environments. Thus, our objectives were to characterize foliar ozone uptake in forest trees of different size and to identify a mechanistic linkage between small and large trees. Light-saturated net photosynthesis (Pn), stomatal conductance (gH2O), and ozone uptake (gO23) in seedling (< 2 m), sapling (2–5 m) and mature (9–21 m) black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.), northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.) and red maple (Acer rubrum L.) trees were measured monthly over two growing seasons at sites at high (1240 m) and low (600 m) elevation in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Seasonal ozone dose to northern red oak and red maple in the upper crown of mature trees was approx. double that of respective understorey seedlings and saplings. Seasonal ozone dose to black cherry was up to six times greater in mature trees than in seedlings and saplings. The lower ozone dose to understorey trees was mainly a function of lower gH2o, although canopy gradients in ozone concentration were indicated. Differences in Pn and gH2O between small and large deciduous forest trees were linked to variation in nitrogen concentration expressed on a leaf area basis.
Nonexpandable silicone esophageal stents for treatment of malignant tracheoesophageal fistulas: complications and radiographic appearances.

Background: The aim was to evaluate the radiologic appearances and complications that occurred after placement of nonexpandable silicone stents used as palliative therapy for patients with malignant tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEFs).
Evaluation of optimal RNA extraction method from human carotid atherosclerotic plaque

Investigating molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of carotid atherosclerotic plaques has been challenging. Isolating high-quality RNA from plaque tissue can be difficult because of acellularity, calcification, and degradation. It is essential that the mRNA isolated from this tissue preserves and reflects the actual relative gene expression. Two common methods for RNA preservation, snap-freezing and stabilizing reagent, were compared using surgically resected human carotid atherosclerotic tissue. In addition, isolation methods were compared for integrity and quantity: column-based extraction, phenol-based extraction, and a combination of the two. We found that using a stabilizing reagent with column filtration resulted in the lowest yield and quality. Phenol-based extraction resulted in higher yields but also increased fragmentation. Snap-frozen tissue coupled with column-based extraction yielded the highest quality. The higher quality and quantity RNA obtained when processing snap-frozen tissue with column-based extraction make it possible to use difficult sample types for molecular downstream applications.