cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A unified view of Balanced Truncation and Singular Perturbation Approximations

This paper demonstrates that both Balanced Truncation and Balanced Singular Perturbation Approximations can be viewed as limiting approximations of the same parameterization of Linear Time Invariant (LTI) systems. First, we introduce a specific parameterization of LTI systems that distinguishes dynamic and structural parameters. Next, we apply the Model Boundary Approximation Method (MBAM) [1] to particular parameters to achieve different approximations. This unified view of these popular model reduction techniques, which themselves can result in quite different approximations, illustrates that each approximation corresponds to a particular boundary element on a manifold, the “model manifold,” which is associated with the specific choice of model parameterization and is embedded in a sample space of measured outputs.
Improvement of Automobile Fuel Economy

A series of road, engine, chassis dynamometer, and accessory power consumption tests was conducted in order to characterize the fuel economy of 1973 standard and intermediate size vehicles. Combinations of individual improvements were selected and applied to the same vehicle. The evaluation procedure was repeated, and fuel economy improvements of 30 to 70% were predicted by comparison with 1973 model year vehicles.
Three-phase sine-wave reference generation using sliding modes

Methods for three-phase sine-wave reference generation are reviewed and a novel approach is introduced. A nonlinear oscillator based on sliding mode operation provides sinusoidal waveforms with programmable frequency and amplitude. The high-gain feedback action, inherent in sliding mode operation, provides low distortion waveforms without the requirement of precision components and tuned circuits. The oscillation is not fixed by any of the natural frequencies of the linear circuit, but is purely a consequence of the switching control law. A proposed hardware discrete implementation is presented along with simulation and experimental results. >
Abstract 2794: CD8+ natural regulatory T cells as antitumor immune effectors in carcinomas of breast and lung

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA CD8+ T cells are cytolytic effectors of adaptive immunity against invading pathogens, and under various pathological conditions including cancer. In syngeneic, immunocompetent murine models of epithelial cancers, including breast and lung cancer, we observed up-regulation in frequencies of a unique CD8+ T cell population, characterized as CD8+CD25-Foxp3+, referred here as CD8+ natural regulatory T cells. This regulatory cell population was present in very high numbers during initial stages of tumor growth. However, a drastic reduction in CD8+ natural regulatory T cells was observed as tumor burden increased, and also with the onset of metastasis to distant sites, including bone in the case of breast cancer. Upon further investigation of these cells, we observed that they are highly cytotoxic towards the cancer cells. Adoptive transfer of these CD8+ natural regulatory cells obtained from mice with minimal tumor burden resulted in significantly reduced tumor growth in the tumor-bearing recipients. There was also an inverse relationship between CD8+ natural regulatory T cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) as tumor burden increased. Additionally, depletion of pDC, either using depletion antibody or by using a transgenic mouse model lacking pDC, showed increased numbers of CD8+ natural regulatory T cells that resulted in decreased tumor burden. Analysis of a possible molecular mechanism on the role of CD8+ natural regulatory T cells as anti-tumor effectors demonstrated that these cells express PD-1. Furthermore, PD-L1, a ligand for PD-1, is expressed by both pDC and cancer cells in vivo. Ongoing experiments are focused on deciphering a possible role of PD-1 and PD-L1 interaction in determining the fate of CD8+ natural regulatory T cells in the presence of pDC and cancer cells through in vitro assays and using transgenic murine models and depletion antibodies for both PD-1 and PD-L1. Collectively, these data suggest a novel anti-tumor immune population that has a potential to be used as immunotherapy for cancer in conjunction with conventional treatments. Citation Format: Anandi Sawant, Carnella Lee, Cara Schafer, Jessy Deshane, Selvarangan Ponnazhagan. CD8+ natural regulatory T cells as antitumor immune effectors in carcinomas of breast and lung. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 2794. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-2794
The Nature of High School Students" Experiences at a Great Lakes Biological Field Station

Abstract. The purpose of this case study is to explore how high school students experienced a four-day field trip at Stone Laboratory Biological Field Station, from a visiting student’s perspective, in order to understand the value of that field station and its impact on science, science education, and students’ lives. Chosen from a population of fifty students, six rural high school student participants attended a four-day field trip, involving of two days and three nights at Stone Laboratory and excursions to two neighboring islands. Participants were given cameras to record their experiences during the field trips to record anything they found significant or meaningful. After the trip, students were asked to select the five most significant images and write a paragraph, describing the significance of each image. Each participant was interviewed three times in semi-structured and unstructured formats. Analysis consisted of open coding using apriori and emergent codes. Significant findings included: 1) Stone Lab provided a unique and novel venue where the equipped laboratories, the managed shorelines, and the natural areas provided the ingredients for awe and wonder; 2) The field station’s unique setting inspired curiosity and motivation among students; 3) In reference to science education, the payoff for these experiences was increased interest in science; 4) Three of the six participants redefined their career goals after their four day immersive Stone Lab field experience; 5) Students developed a sense of appreciation for the Lake Erie environment. Key words: Stone Laboratory Biological Field Station; Informal Learning; Experiential Learning; Photovoice
The large-scale organized structure in free turbulent shear flow and its radiation properties

In this paper we shall describe some of our recent efforts in modelling the large-scale coherent structures in a turbulent free shear flow, the main aim is towards understanding of the interactions between the two disparate scales of fluctuations. We shall also describe some of the aerodynamic sound radiation properties of the large-scale structure.
Diagnosis of Trichodorus obtusus and Paratrichodorus minor on Turfgrasses in the Southeastern United States

“Stubby-root” nematodes are of agricultural importance as plant-pathogens and as vectors for plant viruses. Two species of stubby-root nematode have been identified as pathogens on warm-season turf...
Cyber-learning ecosystem: tools, technology and users

In this poster we will present results from a study aimed at determining factors that promote newcomer participation and integration in cyber-learning environments. At this stage we present the research design and some preliminary results and at the time of presentation we will be augmenting our results presented here.
Role of fine-needle aspiration in the clinical management of solid organ transplant recipients: a review.

BACKGROUND We evaluated the clinical course of the solid-organ transplant population at our institutions to determine the role of fine-needle aspiration (FNA) in the clinical management of this subgroup of patients. METHODS 1196 allograft recipients (522 liver, 288 cardiac, 250 renal, 131 lung, 5 heart and lung) were reviewed. A total of 62 (5.2%) (32 liver, 23 heart, 6 lung, and 1 renal) transplant patients underwent an FNA procedure. Thirty-seven males and 25 females were included, ranging in age from 18 to 71 years (mean 50 years). RESULTS Of the 62 fine-needle aspirates, 29 (47%) were neoplastic. The most common malignancies aspirated were malignant solid tumors (15 cases)—including 8 epithelial malignancies, 5 hepatocellular carcinomas, and 2 mesenchymal neoplasms—followed by posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorders (14 cases). Thirteen (21%) aspirates were inflammatory. The remaining 20 (32%) cases were benign aspirates from various sites (9 liver, 3 breast, 2 thyroid, 2 soft tissue, 2 lung, and 2 vertebral body). Surgical and/or autopsy material was available in 34 cases (55%). There was agreement between the tissue diagnosis and FNA material in 33 cases (97%). One case (3%) was a false negative. No false-positive cases were recorded. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that over 50% of the aspirates were benign, justifying a conservative approach in the clinical management of these patients. Histologic correlation was available in 54% of the cases with an overall specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 97%. We conclude that FNA is a highly sensitive and specific technique in the evaluation of lesions occurring in posttransplant patients. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 1999;87:286–94. © 1999 American Cancer Society.
Similar effects of carbachol and dopamine on neurons in the distal retina of the tiger salamander

Though there is considerable evidence that dopamine is an important retinal neuromodulator that mediates many of the changes in the properties of retinal neurons that are normally seen during light adaptation, the mechanism by which dopamine release is controlled remains poorly understood. In this paper, we present evidence which indicates that dopamine release in the retina of the tiger salamander, Ambystoma tigrinum, is driven excitatorily by a cholinergic input. We compared the effects of applying carbachol to those of dopamine application on the responses of rods, horizontal cells, and bipolar cells recorded intracellularly from the isolated, perfused retina of the tiger salamander. Micromolar concentrations of dopamine reduced the amplitudes of rod responses throughout the rods' operating range. The ratio of amplitudes of the cone-driven to rod-driven components of the responses of both horizontal and bipolar cells was increased by activation of both D1 and D2 dopamine receptors. Dopamine acted to uncouple horizontal cells and also off-center bipolar cells, the mechanism in the case of horizontal cells depending only upon activation of D1 receptors. Carbachol, a specific cholinomimetic, applied in five- to ten-fold higher concentrations, produced effects that were essentially identical to those of dopamine. These effects of carbachol were blocked by application of specific dopamine blockers, however, indicating that they are mediated secondarily by dopamine. We propose that the dopamine-releasing amacrine cells in the salamander are under the control of cells, probably amacrine cells, which secrete acetylcholine as their transmitter.
Comparison of three methods for the management of fragmented medial coronoid process in the dog - A systematic review and meta-analysis

The objective of this review and analysis was to compare arthroscopy, medial arthrotomy and medical management for treating fragmented coronoid process in the dog. The data come from manuscripts published in peer-reviewed veterinary journals, and the study design is a systematic review followed by meta-analysis. The meta-analysis combines data from a set of studies so that surgical techniques and medial management can be compared in a single analysis. Several literature databases and veterinary texts were thoroughly searched to provide a list of over 400 candidate manuscripts. Inclusion criteria were used to filter the candidate manuscripts to a final set of fourmanuscripts that directly pertained to the clinical question. They were scored for their evidentiary value using a semi-objective measure. The results were that arthroscopy was superior to medial arthrotomy and medical management, but medial arthrotomy was not superior to medical management. Only one manuscript was a randomized controlled trial, hence the results must be tempered by the evidentiary value of the data.
Optimal investment strategies with investor liabilities

This paper examines the portfolio problem from the viewpoint of an investor who faces a set of liabilities. We show that optimum choices can be made from a set of spanning portfolios which include cash flow matching portfolios, index funds and actively managed portfolios. The optimal composition of each and the optimum mix among the portfolios are presented in terms of criteria which are computationally simple and have an appealing economic interpretation.
Coarser connected metrizable topologies

Abstract We show that every metric space, X , with w ( X ) ⩾ c has a coarser connected metrizable topology.
State of the World 1987

As every scientist knows, the behavior of nonlinear systems is hard to predict, and their ultimate fate can be catastrophic. State of the World 1987 is the fourth in an annual series of reports on the impact of the human species on the habitability of the planet, the prospects for the future, and the steps that need to be taken if we are to achieve a long-term equilibrium with the rest of the biosphere and with the finite resources of the earth itself. This is surely a nonlinear problem of the highest order but one for which some kind of solution needs to be found within the next generation or two if our species is to survive. In 11 chapters, written by seven of the authors in varying combinations, the report presents a sobering and almost frightening picture of what is happening to society and what is likely to happen within the lifetime of many of us. The tone is calm and never hysterical, but the message comes through clearly. The two fundamental problems are that there are too many of us and that we have been too clever at devising new technology and not clever enough at assessing and alleviating its impact.
The rabbit B cell antigen receptor is non-covalently associated with unique heteromeric protein complexes: possible insights into the membrane IgM/IgD coexpression paradox.

Abstract We describe several proteins that are components of the rabbit B cell receptor complex. Two proteins (37 kDa and 42 kDa) were found in non-covalent association with IgM expressed on B cells from peripheral blood. These proteins were also immunoprecipitated by anti-B29 (Ig-β) and anti-mb1 (Ig-α) monoclonal antibodies. As in the mouse and human, the IgM associated molecules were found as heteromeric structures with non-reduced apparent molecular weights of approximately 70–75 kDa. On rabbit B cells we also found these proteins in a 100–135 kDa complex which may represent trimeric or tetrameric structures. By Western blot, the 37 kDa protein was identified as rabbit Ig-β (B29), suggesting that the 42 kDa protein is rabbit Ig-α. These data suggest that rabbit IgM is associated with both Ig-α/β and Ig-(αβ)2 or αβγ complexes. When similar immunoprecipitation studies were performed on lysates made from B cells isolated from appendix follicles, we found two additional IgM associated protein complexes containing 34 kDa and 36 kDa proteins.
Influence of prostaglandins and thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) on hormone secretion and growth in wether lambs

A series of experiments were conducted in ewes and wether (castrate male) lambs to evaluate the influence of prostaglandins on secretion of anabolic hormones and to determine if repeated injections of prostaglandin (PG) F2α would chronically influence the secretion of these hormones and perhaps growth rate as well. A single intravenous injection of PGA1 and PGB1 (100 μg/kg) exerted no significant (P > .10) influence on plasma concentrations of prolactin (PRL), growth hormone (GH) or thyrotropin (TSH) in ewes. PGA1, but not PGB1, stimulated an increase in the plasma concentration of insulin. Infusion of PGF2α for 5.5 hr into ewes resulted in increased (P < .05) plasma concentrations of both GH and PRL while TSH and insulin were not significantly influenced. Prostaglandin F2α, when injected subcutaneously into wether lambs (10 mg twice weekly) stimulated (P < .05) plasma GH concentrations after the first injection, but not after 3 weeks of treatment. Changes in plasma PRL or TSH were not observed consistently in the lambs treated chronically with PGF2α or TRH. Prostaglandin F2α, in the present studies, and PGE1 in previously reported studies (1–3), has been demonstrated to be stimulatory to the secretion of PRL and GH. In contrast, PGA1 and PGB1, which lack an 11-hydroxyl group, failed to influence the secretion of either PRL or GH. It would, therefore, appear that the 11-hydroxyl group is a structural requirement for prostaglandins to influence the secretion of these two hormones in sheep. Treatment with thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH), alone or in combination with PGF2α, significantly (P < .05) increased growth rate (average daily gains) while PGF2α did not, despite the fact that both compounds exerted similar effects on plasma GH.
Attitudes of Secondary Principals Toward the Learning Disabled, the Mentally Retarded, and Work-Study Programs

W ork-study programs that allow students to receive vocational training and work experience while in school have long represented a major option in secondary programming for handicapped students (Cegelka 1970). The success of such programs may well depend in part on the extent to which regular educators support programs for handicapped students and mainstreaming efforts. Regular educators tend to be less accepting of handicapped children than of nonhandicapped children (Kingsley 1967); the label " learning disabled" attached to a child is sufficient to produce negative evaluations by teachers in some cases (Foster, Schmidt, & Sabatino 1976, Foster & Salvia 1977).
N-I-P-I Superlattices For Electro-Optical Applications

The electro-optical properties of n-i-p-i doping superlattices are very promising for device applications, Two distinct approaches towards modulating the absorption and the refraction by applying external voltages are identified, and calculated results for GaAs n-p superlattices are presented. The first method uses the injection and extraction of non-equilibrium charge carriers into the superlattice via selective contacts to the n- and p-type layers. The second approach makes use of the possibility to apply a uniform external electric field parallel to the growth direction via sandwich electrodes. It is shown that the two schemes differ substantially in their dynamic response.
Chronic, Wide-Field Optical Imaging of Blood Flow Dynamics

Noninvasive blood flow characterization is essential to assess the health status of biological tissue and to evaluate the efficacy of therapies which target the microvasculature. Optimization of laser therapy for disfiguring vascular birthmarks is one specific clinical application. Current treatment protocols involve the use of high-power pulsed laser irradiation with parameters selected to induce selective photocoagulation of the targeted blood vessels. Protocol design is based largely on results from numerical modeling studies, which have predictive capability of the laser light distribution within the skin and subsequent photothermal response leading towards selective photocoagulation. However, the biological response of the microvasculature to therapeutic laser intervention remains a poorly-researched field. We hypothesize that the acute photothermal response of the microvasculature is a poor predictor of the chronic response, due to vascular remodeling processes which are not included in current modeling studies. To test this hypothesis, we employ an optical imaging method to assess blood flow dynamics in response to therapeutic intervention.© 2007 ASME
Receptor cross-talk can optimize assays for autoantibodies to the thyrotropin receptor : effect of phenylisopropyladenosine on adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate and inositol phosphate levels in rat FRTL-5 thyroid cells

Immunoglobulins (IgG) from patients with Graves' disease increase inositol phosphate (IP) as well as cAMP production in rat thyroid FRTL-5 cells; IgGs from normal control subjects do not. Graves' IgG-and TSH-induced IP formation is inhibited by blocking TSH receptor (TSHR) antibodies from hypothyroid patients with primary myxedema, as is the cAMP response; this suggests that the Graves' IgG are acting through the TSHR to induce both the cAMP and phosphatidyl-inositol 4,5-biphosphate signal cascades in FRTL-5 thyroid cells as in cells with recombinant TSHR. Optimal conditions for measuring the Graves' IgG-induced IP increase include a NaCl-free Hanks' Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) buffer system and a P1 purinergic receptor agonist; the action of each is additive. Optimization by NaCl-free HBSS is similar to that observed in cAMP assays and is specific for TSH or Graves' IgG; thus, NaCl-free HBSS did not affect ATP-induced, and actually inhibited norepinephrine-induced, IP production in FRTL-5 cells. The P1...
The Cardiorenal Syndrome: A Clinician's Guide to Pathophysiology and Management

J. Thomas Heywood, John C. Burnett Jr , eds. 235 pages. Minneapolis, USA: Cardiotext Publishing, 2012. $89.00. ISBN 978-0-9790164-7-9 Simply put, the cardiorenal syndrome represents a condition in which renal impairment occurs as a result of acute or chronic cardiac dysfunction. Impaired kidney function is very strongly associated with poor outcomes in patients with heart failure and often complicates treatment. The underlying pathophysiology of the cardiorenal syndrome is complex and heterogeneous. There have been recent advances in understanding the underlying relationship between the heart, kidneys, and the autonomic nervous system. However, there are no evidence-based treatment guidelines available to assist clinicians in the management of these challenging patients. The publication of The Cardiorenal Syndrome: A Clinician's Guide to Pathophysiology and Management is very timely and represents a welcomed …
Human Hyperimmune HIV Intravenous Immunoglobulin (HIV-IG) in the Treatment of HIV-1 Infection in Children (PACTG-273)

Human Hyperimmune HIV Intravenous Immunoglobulin (HIV-IG) in the Treatment of HIV-1 Infection in Children (PACTG-273)
On evolving neighborhood parameters for fuzzy density clustering

The problem of identifying core patterns with the correct neighborhood parameters is a major challenge for density-based clustering techniques derived from the popular DBSCAN algorithm. An evolutionary approach to optimizing the assignment of core patterns is proposed in this paper. Key ideas presented here include a genetic representation that associates distinct neighborhood parameters with potential core patterns and specialized crossover and mutation operators. The evolutionary framework is based on the multi-objective NSGA-II algorithm, with simplified fitness measures derived from local (neighborhood) information. Clustering experiments on both synthetic and benchmark clustering datasets are presented and results are compared to the original DBSCAN, fuzzy DBSCAN and k-means.
Hexose monophosphate shunt dehydrogenases in the sea urchin and the frog: comparison of some functional properties of the enzymes in vitro.

Abstract 1. 1. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6-PGD) from unfertilized eggs of the sea urchin Arbacia punctulata and from liver and other tissues of the frog Rana pipiens have been partially purified and characterized. 2. 2. Sea urchin egg G6PD has a pH optimum of 8.8–9.2, while frog liver G6PD has optimum activity between pH 7.9 and 8.9; 6-PGD from both sources shows optimum activity between pH 7.9 and 8.6. 3. 3. G6PD from both sources is active with glucose-6-P and galactose-6-P as substrates. Sea urchin egg G6PD also accepts 2-deoxyglucose-6-P as a substrate. 4. 4. Apparent K m 's for glucose-6-P are about 4 × 10 −5 M and 4 × 10 −4 M, for sea urchin egg and frog liver G6PD, respectively. 5. 5. High concentrations of ATP and ribose-5-P inhibit G6PD from both sources.
Effect of waxy corn starch modification on growth, serum biochemical values and body composition of Pitman-Moore miniature pigs.

Abstract Four groups each of eight Pitman-Moore miniature pigs were weaned at 3 days of age and then fed for 25 days on formula diets identical except for the type of carbohydrate. The diets contained thin-boiling waxy corn starch or one of three chemical modifications of this starch (phosphated distarch phosphate, distarch phosphate and hydroxypropylated distarch glycerol). No statistically significant treatment-related effects were observed on growth, biochemical values of blood or serum, or carcass or liver composition.
Multiscale modeling of developmental processes

In contrast to most synthetic neural nets, biological neural networks have a strong component of genetic determination which acts before and during experiential learning. Three broad levels of phenomena are present: long-term evolution, involving crossover as well as point mutation; a developmental process mapping genetic information to a set of cells and their internal states of gene expression (genotype to phenotype); and the subsequent synaptogenesis. We describe a very simple mathematical idealization of these three levels which combines the crossover search method of genetic algorithms with the developmental models used in our previous work on "genetic" or "recursively generated" artificial neural nets [18] (and elaborated into a connectionist model of biological development [19]). Despite incorporating all three levels (evolution on genes; development of cells; synapse formation) the model may actually be far cheaper to compute with than a comparable search directly in synaptic weight space.
Weight Loss and Malnutrition in Breast-fed Infants

Sir .—The cases reported in the article "Critical Weight Loss and Malnutrition in Breast-fed Infants: Four Case Reports" by Roddey and colleagues (Journal1981;135:597-599) do not include sufficient comment on maternal factors nor do they discuss the pros and cons of continuing breast-feeding. In this regard, Roddey et al repeat many of the same omissions, and in some ways, their article is less informative than the article "Critical Malnutrition in Breast-fed Infants" by Gilmore and Rowland that was also published in theJournal(1978;132:885-887). The marginal comment by Lawrence 1 was an excellent addition, covering the majority of the points that should have been included in a case report on lactation problems. However, Roddey et al might have benefited from perusing the letters to the editor that were published after gilmore and Rowland's article, each of which asked for specific additional data. 2-6 Although the marginal comment brings many problems to the fore,
Time-slot sorter

We present a time slot sorter which can sort N destination time slot numbers in N time slots of a frame in a system which uses time division multiplexing. The time slot sorter, SN, is obtained from the spatial sorting network, the Batcher network, and consists of a series of 1/2n(n + 1 exchange switches with associated delay elements, N equals 2n. The individual switch settings of SN are determined on-the-fly by pairwise comparison of destination time slot numbers included in the time slots entering each switch. A time slot sorter is more powerful than a time slot permuter in that it can sort N arbitrary destination time slot numbers whereas a time slot permuter can sort a permutation of N integers 0 through N -1. A time slot sorter has an important application in a general switching problem known as the time-space-time domain permutation in telecommunications. Obviously a time slot sorter can also be used as a time slot permuter.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Neuronal affinity of a C7C loop peptide identified through phage display.

Background: Phage display is a promising tool for the screening of peptides with high affinity for specific cells. Here we describe a novel peptide with neuronal affinity isolated from a C7C library. The C7C library is based on a randomized 7-mer sequence flanked by two cysteine residues. In contrast to linear peptides displayed in other libraries, these cysteine residues form a disulfide cross-link, resulting in a loop structure.
Control of surface composition and hydrogen recycling by plasma conditioning

Abstract Data from a laboratory simulator, TEXTOR, JET, and other tokamaks are used to show that oxygen and carbon surface impurities on the walls of plasma chambers are interrelated and can be manipulated by controlling the composition of the gas used for plasma surface conditioning. Not only can oxygen be reduced to low levels, but carbon (and other elements) can be either removed or deposited and reacted with the substrate. In the case of carbon deposits, a thin metal-carbide layer can be formed or thicker deposits of elemental carbon can be made. Surface compositions can be reproduced easily and reversibly in a controlled way. Furthermore, these composition changes can alter the hydrogen recycling speed and plasma impurity levels by an order of magnitude or more. In the simulator we have related gas composition to surface composition changes and resulting recycling behavior. Surface oxygen levels can be reduced from 30 to less than 3 at.% in less than 45 min of discharge cleaning. Carbon and oxygen levels as well as those of other surface active impurities are interrelated. Examples are shown and discussed. Comparisons are made to show the changes in the hydrogen recycling behavior caused by various surface preparations (compositions).
A bone marrow biopsy technique suitable for use in neonates

Thrombocytopenia and neutropenia are common among neonates in intensive care units. Bone marrow aspirations are sometimes performed as part of their evaluation. However, marrow biopsies have not been reported from living neonates. Since architecture and cellularity cannot generally be accurately assessed from marrow aspirates, we devised a biopsy technique which we successfully applied to five cytopenic neonates (three with severe persistent thrombocytopenia and two with idiopathic neutropenia). This technique used a 19 gauge, half-inch Osgood needle to obtain bone marrow clots from the tibias of small preterm neonates which enabled the assessment of marrow cellularity and architecture. On the basis of our initial experience we have ceased using the traditional bone marrow aspiration technique in neonates and now use this technique exclusively.
Cohesion, Solidarity, and Interaction

Abstract This paper describes a laboratory study of social integration. Assumptions regarding the social structures of groups are identified which lead to a distinction regarding the different bases for integration. These bases for social structure are hypothesized to affect social interaction in groups. Experimental evidence reported here supports the prediction that actors respond to differences in solidarity in group decision making structures by altering their behavior in certain ways. Others in the group perceive these actors differently depending upon whether or not the perceivers were included in group decision making structures, as well.
High glucose sensitizes human retinal endothelial cells for IFN-g-mediated apoptosis

Purpose The biochemical mechanisms by which inflammatory cytokines cause damage in the diabetic retina are poorly understood. Indoelamine 2, 3-dioxygenase (IDO) is an inducible by IFN-γ enzyme and is the first enzyme of the kynurenine pathway, which produces cytotoxic kynurenines. In this study we have investigated the role of IDO in apoptosis of human retinal capillary endothelial cells (HREC) under hyperglycemic conditions. Methods HREC were cultured in medium containing high glucose (25 mM) or low glucose (7.5 mM) and incubated with 1-100 U/ml of IFN-γ. IDO activity was measured by an HPLC assay. Expression of IFN-γ receptor 1, and activation of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway along with activation of PKC-δ was assessed by Western blotting. HREC apoptosis was measured by Hoechst staining. The role of IDO in HREC apoptosis was evaluated in the presence specific chemical inhibitors of the kynurenine pathway. Results IFN-γ dose-dependently activated JAK-STAT signaling and PKC-δ, and upregulated IDO. The IDO-mediated tryptophan oxidation led to formation of kynurenines, which was followed by chemical modification of proteins by kynurenines in HREC. These changes were accompanied by production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depletion of protein-free thiols. IFN-γ inhibited cell cycle at low concentrations and caused caspase-3-mediated apoptosis and at higher concentrations, and those effects were amplified in the presence of high glucose in HREC. We found that IFN-γ mediated cytotoxicity in HREC was primarily due to ROS generated by 3-hydroxykynurenine. Conclusion Our results suggest that high glucose sensitizes HREC to deleterious effects IFN-γ and provide a novel mechanistic pathway for retinal capillary endothelial cell death in diabetes.
Magnetization reversal of a thin polycrystalline cobalt film measured by the magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE) technique and field-dependent magnetic force microscopy

The magnetic properties of a 100-nm-thick cobalt film, deposited thermally on a glass substrate under high-vacuum conditions, were measured ex situ through the longitudinal magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE) technique and through field-dependent magnetic force microscopy (MFM). The MOKE measurements showed that the film had a uniaxial anisotropy in the plane of the sample. Two series of MFM images were measured under the presence of an external magnetic field, applied separately along the easy and hard axes, with magnitudes encompassing positive and negative saturation of the sample magnetization. Each series of images recorded the magnetization reversal clearly, revealing and explaining distinctions between the two reversal processes that correlate well with the macroscopic reversals recorded by the MOKE technique. The reversal of the gray-scale polarity with the change of the applied field from negative saturation to positive saturation suggests the presence of a component to the magnetic force that was related directly to the magnetization of the individual grains. A calculation of the easy-axis MFM gray-scale image differences showed a hysteresis-like behavior that agreed qualitatively with the corresponding measured MOKE hysteresis loops.
Surface‐based remote sensing of the observed and the Adiabatic liquid water content of stratocumulus clouds

A laser ceilometer, an acoustic sounder, and a microwave radiometer were used to estimate cloud thickness and the adiabatic and integrated liquid water content of shallow stratocumulus clouds continuously for three days using two-minute averages. Although the observed liquid water path was close to the theoretical adiabatic value for most of the three days, there was one four-hour period when the liquid water content dropped to about 50% of the adiabatic value. Hourly-averaged values for a 19-day period of intensive observations show that the cloud water content was generally close to the adiabatic value. Occasionally there were clouds greater than 300 m in depth in which the water content was clearly less than adiabatic.
The foundations of social epistemology

There is no more prolific analytical philosopher than Alvin I. Goldman when it comes to social epistemology. During the past two decades, he has done more than any other analytical philosopher to set the tone for how social epistemology ought to be conceptualized. However, while Goldman has provided numerous contributions to our understanding of how applied epistemology can assist not only philosophy, but other fields of learning such as the sciences, law, and communication theory, there are concerns with the way he conceptualizes the foundations of social epistemology. One is that he somewhat problematically partitions off social epistemology from traditional analytic epistemology in ways that make the latter, but not the former, naturalistic and reliabilist (on his construal of naturalism and reliabilism). Another difficulty is that he seems not to recognize that social epistemology poses a rather embarrassingly potential problem for traditional epistemology, namely, it exposes traditional epistemology’s excessive individualism. That Goldman seems not to recognize this is evidenced by the fact that in his conceptualization of the foundations of epistemology he retains traditional epistemology as an area of philosophical inquiry on its own terms, without arguing that elements of the social might well have to be taken into account by traditional analyses of human knowledge. Thus, to put it in the terms of another social epistemologist, Steve Fuller, Goldman’s social epistemology is not revisionistic, though Goldman himself insists that it is normative. This leads to a third problem for Goldman’s social epistemology, namely, that it contains no justified true belief analysis of the nature of social knowledge.
Seasonal changes in tissue elasticity in chaparral shrubs

An important physiological feature of chaparral shrubs is the development of low water potentials during periods of drought characteristic of southern Californian summers. Changes in tissue elasticity may be an important characteristic allowing these low water potentials to be reached and maintained without the development of detrimental water deficits. To examine this possibility, seasonal changes in tissue elasticity were measured in 3 species of chaparral shrubs, Arctostaphylos glandulosa Eastw., Quercus dumosa Nutt. and Ceanothus greggii Gray., by the pressure-volume method. Tissue elasticity was characterized using graphs of the modulus of elasticity plotted as a function of turgor pressure, and maximum values of the elastic modulus. The moduli of elasticity of the shrubs increased following leaf emergence in the spring, were highest during periods of low soil water potential, and tended to decrease following the summer-fall drought period. Increases in tissue elasticity facilitate water uptake from drying soils, but result in greater turgor loss during tissue dehydration.
Digital Filtering And Feature Extraction Of GI Digital Images

SUMMARYThe idea of smart filters is one wethink should be addressed by those inimage analysis in radiology. The above is gust a beginning, but we hope itdemonstrates our point of view of the importance of smart filters versussimple filters.REFERENCES 1) CA --A cancer journal for clinicians.1985; 35:19 -35. 2> Muto T, Bussey HJR; Morson BC. The evolution of cancer of the colon and rectum. Cancer 1975; 36:251 -2270.3) Gilbertsen VA. Proctosigmoidoscopy and polypectomy in reducing the incidence of rectal cancer. Cancer 1974; 34:936 -939. 4) Ott DJ, Gelfand DW, Wu WC, Kerr RM. Sensitivity of double- contrast bariumenema: emphasis on polyp detection. AJR1980; 135:327 -330. 5) Kelvin FM, Gardiner R, Vas W, Stevenson GW. Colorectal carcinomamissed on double -contrast barium enema study: a problem in perception. AJR1981;137: 307 -313. 6) Ott DJ, Gelfand DW, Ramquist NA. Causes of error in gastrointestinalradiology: Barium enema examination.Gastrointest Radiol 1980;5:99-105.7) Ott DJ, Ablin DS, Gelfand DW, Meschan
Examination of estradiol effects on the rapid estradiol mediated increase in hippocampal synaptic transmission in estrogen receptor α knockout mice

Hippocampal slices from rats exhibit a rapid increase in basal synaptic transmission following 17 beta-estradiol (E(2)) application. In the current study we examined the role of the classic genomic receptor, estrogen receptor alpha (ER alpha), in mediating E(2) effects on synaptic transmission. E(2) (100 pM) increased the extracellular synaptic response in hippocampal slices from gonadectomized male and female mice lacking a functional ER alpha knockout (ER alpha KO) and wild-type (WT) littermates. No sexually dimorphic differences were observed, however, the increase in the field potential was more pronounced in WT mice. ER antagonists did not block E(2) mediated growth of the synaptic response in ER alpha KO mice. The results suggest that the rapid effect of E(2) on synaptic transmission is not mediated by ER alpha, however, ER alpha appears to modulate non-genomic influences on synaptic transmission.
Nano-thermotunneling systems for efficient power generation

Thermoelectrics have been investigated for their cooling and energy harvesting uses over the last six decades. Those devices can be bought from a number of commercial suppliers. Thermotunneling (TT) devices, on the other hand, have been known only for the last two decades, and nobody has been able to practically manufacture or demonstrate the performance of those devices. In this study, we will discuss the high thermodynamic efficiency of these systems and design bottlenecks to reach the high efficiencies such as thermal back path and electrical losses. Concepts for possible device designs will be discussed in detail. Efficiency of those devices will be compared with the conventional power generation as well as solid-state power generation systems. Thermodynamic limits of TT systems will be compared, and first order economic analysis will be performed.
Longevity comparisons among lithium anode power cells for cardiac pacemakers.

Of over 10,000 lithium-powered pacemakers followed by a commercial franstelephone monitoring service, 148 have been explanted due to rate decline. A breakdown according to the power cell manufacturers shows that the longevity is not uniform, indicating that significant differences exist among the power cell designs even though all have lithium anodes. One tenth of all lithium-powered pacemakers in the study were explanted for rate declines within 4 years.
P‐60 Hypercalcaemia associated with disseminated Lagenidium spp. infection in a dog: case report

Oomycetes such as Pythium insidiosum are soil- or water-dwelling organisms that belong to the Kingdom Stramenopila. Recently, a member of the genus Lagenidium has been recognized as a second canine pathogen in the class Oomycetes, causing multifocal ulcerative cutaneous lesions, subcutaneous pyogranulomatous nodules and draining tracts, often with dissemination to lymph nodes and abdominal great vessels. This report describes the clinical, cytologic and pathologic features of Lagenidium spp. infection associated with hypercalcaemia in a dog. A 1.5-year-old female border collie was referred for evaluation of progressive ulcerative skin lesions. Physical examination revealed pyrexia, generalized lymphadenopathy and multiple draining tracts, nodules and ulcers with eschars involving the distal aspect of all four limbs. Serum biochemical analysis revealed hyperglobulinaemia, hypoalbuminaemia and hypercalcaemia. Cytologic evaluation of fine-needle aspirates from lymph nodes and cutaneous lesions revealed pyogranulomatous inflammation surrounding multiple poorly staining broad (14–21 μm) hyphae. These right-angle branching hyphae were infrequently septate with irregular nonparallel walls. Thoracic radiography was normal. Abdominal ultrasonography showed no great vessel involvement. Euthanasia was elected, and necropsy revealed severe pyogranulomatous dermatitis and lymphadenitis involving the prescapular, popliteal, superficial inguinal, gastric, lumbar and external iliac lymph nodes. Histologically, all lesions were characterized by severe pyogranulomatous inflammation centred around broad, poorly septate hyphae. Parathyroid glands were histologically normal. Granulomatous disease associated with oomycosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis for hypercalcemia in canine patients with subcutaneous nodules or ulcerative dermatopathy associated with lymphadenopathy. Funding: Self-funded.
Characteristics of tissue growth into proplast and porous polyethylene implants in bone

One objective of this study was to determine why fibrous tissue, not bone, forms in internal pores of Proplast implants even though the material is labeled as having pore characteristics compatible with bone ingrowth. A second objective was to assess the suitability of the fibrous tissue in Proplast implants for supporting load-bearing prostheses. Thirty cylindrical rods of Proplast were implanted through the lateral diaphyseal cortex of eight dogs for periods of 1 to 20 weeks. Porous high density polyethylene was used as a „control” in the study since it is a low modulus polymer which does undergo bone ingrowth. Twenty rods of porous polyethylene (400 μm average pore size) were implanted in the experimental animals along with the Proplast. Postmortem specimens were prepared for microradiography and histological evaluation. Optical point-counting techniques and mercury intrusion porosimetry were used to determine the pore characteristics of the materials. Microradiography and histological evaluation revealed bone growth throughout the porous polyethylene implants. In contrast, bone growth was only occasionally observed in surface pores of the Proplast. However, bone completely filled Proplast specimens which were teased to purposely enlarge the pores of the material prior to implantation. This observation, along with the pore analyses which revealed an average pore size of only 75 μm and interconnecting pores less than 50 μm in diameter, led to the conclusion that fibrous tissue, not bone, forms in Proplast specimens because of the small pore size of the material. Further, the results demonstrated that there was no collagen continuity of the fibrous tissue in the pores of the material with surrounding bone (e.g., no Sharpey' fibers) suggesting that the load-bearing support which can be afforded by Proplast implants is limited by the incomplete bone ingrowth along the margins of the material and the tensile strength of Proplast.
SU-GG-T-317: Investigation of Dosimetric Characteristics for Lung Tumor Geometries for a 6 MV Photon Beam

Purpose: The uncertainty in heterogeneous geometry dosimetry can have a significant impact on lungSBRT. This study investigated dosimetric characteristics of complex heterogeneous geometries for validation of calculation algorithms. Methods and materials:Solid Water and lung‐equivalent phantom blocks were used to construct homogeneous and heterogeneous geometries. The simulated tumor was composed of 3×2×3 cm3 pieces of Solid Water. The lung equivalent media was 12×8×18 cm3 imbedded in Solid Water. The five geometries used were tumor‐in‐lung geometry with tumor and beam axis at 6.5 cm and at 1.5 cm from the interface, lung‐only geometry with beam axis at 6.5 cm and at 1.5 cm from the interface, and homogeneous Solid Water. A field size of 4×4 cm2 was used to cover the simulated tumor. Gafchromic™ EBT film was mounted in the phantom and was scanned in a known orientation and position using a flatbed CCDscanner. Film was used to measure dose parallel and perpendicular to the beam axis. Film perturbation in heterogeneous geometry was investigated to determine an appropriate method for parallel film measurements. The doses for CT‐scanned geometries were calculated using the Dose Planning Method (DPM) Monte Carlo algorithm in the University of Michigan Treatment Planning System (UMPlan) and results were compared with the measurements. Results: The influence of film perturbation in lung material increases with increasing depth. Using a gantry angle (∼2°) for parallel film measurements reduced the film perturbation but still showed a ∼3% discrepancy. The dose distributions along the central axis and off‐axis vary with heterogeneous geometry as expected. DPM was able to track the dosimetric characteristics for the different heterogeneous geometries. Conclusions: Measurements in multiple planes provide more confident information for complex heterogeneous geometries for evaluating the accuracy of calculation algorithms, which increases confidence in lungSBRTdosimetry. This project is supported by NIHP01CA59827.