cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Partial Differential Approximants for Multivariable Power Series. I. Definitions and Faithfulness

The approximation of functions of two (or more) variables given in terms of their power series is discussed. Partial differential approximants, and their multipoint and constrained extensions, are defined systematically and their theory is developed. The questions of existence and uniqueness are addressed and broad criteria are established under which the approximants are faithful in that their expansions match the originally given series to appropriate order. The problem is raised of identifying classes of approximants possessing desirable invariance properties: part II (in preparation) attacks this generally and provides explicit criteria for invariance under Euler transformations and under homogeneous linear transformations of the variables.
Three dimensional modeling of complex heterogeneous materials via statistical microstructural descriptors

Heterogeneous materials have been widely used in many engineering applications. Achieving optimal material performance requires a quantitative knowledge of the complex material microstructure and structural evolution under external stimuli. Here, we present a framework to model material microstructure via statistical morphological descriptors, i.e., certain lower-order correlation functions associated with the material’s phases. This allows one to reduce the large data sets for a complete specification of all of the local states in a microstructure to a handful of simple scalar functions that statistically capture the salient structural features of the material. Stochastic reconstruction techniques can then be employed to investigate the information content of the correlation functions, suggest superior and sensitive structural descriptors as well as generate realistic virtual 3D microstructures from the given limited structural information. The framework is employed to successfully model a variety of materials systems including an anisotropic aluminium alloy, a polycrystalline tin solder, the structural evolution in a binary lead-tin alloy when aged, and a model structure of hard-sphere packing. Our framework also has ramifications in the development of integrated computational material design schemes and 4D materials modeling techniques.
Understanding the impact of power loss on flash memory

Flash memory is quickly becoming a common component in computer systems ranging from music players to mission-critical server systems. As flash plays a more important role, data integrity in flash memories becomes a critical question. This paper examines one aspect of that data integrity by measuring the types of errors that occur when power fails during a flash memory operation. Our findings demonstrate that power failure can lead to several non-intuitive behaviors. We find that increasing the time before power failure does not always reduce error rates and that a power failure during a program operation can corrupt data that a previous, successful program operation wrote to the device. Our data also show that interrupted program operations leave data more susceptible to read disturb and increase the probability that the programmed data will decay over time. Finally, we show that incomplete erase operations make future program operations to the same block unreliable.
Learning from Questions on Categorical Foundations

There are two ways to take the question ‘Does category theory provide a framework for mathematical structuralism?’ (Hellman [2003]).1 In terms of a working framework, Awodey had to say: ‘obviously, yes’ (Awodey [2004], p. 54). Category theory has been the standard research framework for topology, most algebra, and much functional analysis since the 1950s.2 It has been so in algebraic geometry and number theory since the 1960s and increasingly in all mathematics. It has been the textbook method of structuralist mathematics since the Algebras of Serge Lang [1965] and then Mac Lane and Birkhoff [1967]. So Hellman went on to the theoretical question whether ‘category theory provides an autonomous foundation for mathematics as an alternative to set theory’ (Hellman [2003], p. 129). I have said yes. Awodey [2004] is disinclined to any ‘foundation’— though I think he gives the word an unduly strict meaning.3 But we do not
The modification of wind turbine performance by statistically distinct atmospheric regimes

Power production from wind turbines can deviate from the manufacturer's specifications due to variability in atmospheric inflow characteristics, including stability, wind shear and turbulence. The practice of insufficient data at many operational wind farms has made it difficult to characterize this meteorological forcing. In this study, nacelle wind measurements from a wind farm in the high plains of central North America were examined along with meteorological tower data to quantify the effects of atmospheric stability regimes in the boundary layer on turbine power generation. The wind power law coefficient and the bulk Richardson number were used to segregate time periods by stability to generate regime-dependent power curves. Results indicated underperformance during stable regimes and overperformance during convective regimes at moderate wind speeds (8–12 m s−1). Statistical testing using the Monte Carlo approach demonstrated that these results were robust, despite potential deviations of the nacelle wind speeds from free-stream inflow values due to momentum loss from the turbine structure and spinning rotor. A hypothetical stability dependence between free-stream and nacelle wind speeds was generated that can be evaluated in future analyses. The low instrumentation requirement of our power analysis technique should enable similar studies at many wind sites formerly considered inappropriate.
Enabling quality-of-service in nanophotonic network-on-chip

With the recent development in silicon photonics, researchers have developed optical network-on-chip (NoC) architectures that achieve both low latency and low power, which are beneficial for future large scale chip-multiprocessors (CMPs). However, none of the existing optical NoC architectures has quality-of-service (QoS) support, which is a desired feature of an efficient interconnection network. QoS support provides contending flows with differentiated bandwidths according to their priorities (or weights), which is crucial to account for application-specific communication patterns and provides bandwidth guarantees for real-time applications. In this paper, we propose a quality-of-service framework for optical network-on-chip based on frame-based arbitration. We show that the proposed approach achieves excellent differentiated bandwidth allocation with only simple hardware additions and low performance overheads. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that provides QoS support for optical network-on-chip.
Modification of focal cerebral ischemia by cardiac output augmentation

Abstract Intravascular volume expansion has been employed successfully for treatment of ischemic stroke from cerebral vasospasm and from cerebrovascular occlusive disease. The physiologic mechanism responsible for this success has not previously been delineated in controlled experimentation. The objective of this investigation was to delineate the effects of cardiac output and of hemodilution in a primate model of focal cerebral ischemia. Two groups of anesthetized rhesus monkeys received extensive cardiovascular monitoring, and local cerebral blood flow (1CBF) was determined in both ischemic and nonischemic brain regions by the hydrogen clearance method. Both groups were subjected to unilateral middle cerebral artery occlusion. One group then underwent blood volume expansion with Dextran 40 (cardiac output augmentation), and one group underwent isovolemic hemodilution with Dextran 40, cardiac output being maintained constant. Significant increases in 1CBF occurred in ischemic regions only and occurred only in response to augmentation of cardiac output. Isovolemic hemodilution failed to produce any changes in ICBF. This investigation indicates that ischemic brain regions are selectively vulnerable to alterations in cardiac output, these effects being independent of alterations in blood pressure. Blood viscosity changes may play only a minor role. This study strongly suggests an important role of intravascular volume expansion and cardiac output augmentation in treatment of acute ischemic stroke.
Relative Network Positioning via CDN Redirections

Many large-scale distributed systems can benefit from a service that allows them to select among alternative nodes based on their relative network positions. A variety of approaches propose new measurement infrastructures that attempt to scale this service to large numbers of nodes by reducing the amount of direct measurements to end hosts. In this paper, we introduce a new approach to relative network positioning that eliminates direct probing by leveraging pre-existing infrastructure. Specifically, we exploit the dynamic association of nodes with replica servers from large content distribution networks (CDNs) to determine relative position information - we call this approach CDN-based relative network positioning (CRP). We demonstrate how CRP can support two common examples of location information used by distributed applications: server selection and dynamic node clustering. After describing CRP in detail, we present results from an extensive wide-area evaluation that demonstrates its effectiveness.
Low-energy ion-beam induced effects in Al(1 0 0) surface studied using Rutherford backscattering and channeling

Abstract The results of low-energy ion spectroscopy can be compromised by the damage that the ions cause in surface layers of target single crystals, so it is important to characterize the impact of the probe ion on the target. In this investigation Al(1 0 0) single crystal surfaces have been irradiated at room temperature with 1 keV He + and Ar + ions typical of low-energy ion scattering spectroscopy (LEIS) and sample sputter cleaning, respectively, and the effects have been studied as a function of ion dose and annealing. Rutherford backscattering and channeling measurements were used to probe the depth distribution and annealing characteristics of the dechanneling yield induced by low-energy ion bombardment. Analysis of the Al surface peak area for channeled MeV He ions, as well as the dechanneling yield from well below the surface, indicated an unusual increase in the depth distribution of the backscattered ion yield from Al with increasing low-energy He + ion dose. Thermal annealing of the crystal following irradiation with the highest He + dose of 4×10 17 ions/cm 2 restored the dechanneled ion yield to its lower starting value, with the relatively low activation energy of 0.05 eV. The increase in backscattered ions is attributed to implanted He atoms located in the [1 0 0] channels. The Ar + ion induced effects in the channeling spectrum are not as significant as those for He + ions, even at the highest Ar + dose of ∼10 17 ions/cm 2 .
5-(N-ethylcarboxamido)adenosine desensitizes the A2b-adenosine receptor in lung circulation.

The adenosine agonist 5-(N-ethylcarboxamido)adenosine (NECA) induces vasodilation in the pulmonary circulation via A2-adenosine-receptor activation. We addressed whether prolonged treatment with NE...
Originator Performance, CMBS Structures, and the Risk of Commercial Mortgages

This article examines information and incentive problems that can exist in the market for commercial mortgages that are pooled and repackaged as commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBSs). We find that mortgages that are originated by institutions with large negative stock returns in the quarters prior to the origination date tend to have higher credit spreads and default more than other mortgages with similar observable characteristics. Properties financed with these mortgages also exhibit weaker post-securitization operating performance. In addition, stock price loser institutions are anxious to securitize mortgages they originate more quickly. Finally we find that credit rating agencies require higher levels of subordination for CMBS pools (i.e., view these pools as riskier) that include more mortgages originated by underperforming originators. This evidence is consistent with reputation models in which poorly performing originators have less incentive to carefully evaluate the credit quality of prospective borrowers, thereby letting relatively riskier mortgages pass through their weaker screening standards. The Author 2010. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Society for Financial Studies. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oxfordjournals.org., Oxford University Press.
Moral deliberation and the agentive self in Laidlaw’s ethics

Comment on Laidlaw, James. 2014. The subject of virtue: An anthropology of ethics and freedom . Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Simulations and experiments of tunable GaN microdomes for broadband omnidirectional antireflection

GaN microdomes are studied as a broadband omnidirectional anti-reflection structure for high efficiency multi-junction concentrated photovoltaics. Simulation and experiment studies indicate a significant reduction of reflectance from the GaN mcirodomes.
Interleukin-12 p40- and Fas ligand-dependent apoptotic pathways involving STAT-1 phosphorylation are triggered during infection with a virulent strain of Toxoplasma gondii.

Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic intracellular parasite. Infection with the high-virulence T. gondii strain RH induces inflammatory cytokine overproduction and uncontrolled apoptosis in lymphoid organs. Here, we show by fluorescent terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and binding of fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated VAD-FMK, an irreversible pan-caspase inhibitor, that parasite-triggered apoptosis occurs among CD4+, CD8+, B220+, Gr-1+, and NK1.1+ splenic populations. Caspases 8 and 9 were activated during infection, implicating cell surface death receptors and mitochondria in apoptosis. Induction of apoptosis was absent among all cell populations in both interleukin-12 (IL-12) p40- and Fas ligand (FasL)-negative mice. STAT-1 phosphorylation correlated with onset of apoptosis during infection, but in the absence of IL-12 p40 and functional FasL, activation of this transcription factor failed to occur. The results demonstrate T. gondii-induced activation of multiple apoptotic pathways, dependent upon both IL-12 p40 and FasL, that may play a role in the lethal pathology of infection.
Periventricular nodular heterotopia and childhood absence epilepsy

A young female presented with an epileptic syndrome resembling childhood absence epilepsy, a normal neurologic examination, generalized 3-Hz spike-and-wave discharges, and clinical absences. Her seizures responded to treatment with valproic acid. Other abnormalities in her electroencephalogram prompted neuroimaging studies, which demonstrated periventricular nodular heterotopia. Review of published reports confirmed this presentation to be atypical of this developmental lesion. The authors describe their patient and discuss this unexpected association and the relevant reports briefly.
Are there gender differences in colorectal cancer test use prevalence and correlates

Despite evidence that screening tests reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality, screening prevalence is low. Gender differences in test uptake have been reported, but few studies examine correlates of test use by gender. Differences, if present, may inform strategies to increase test use. We examined gender differences in the prevalence and correlates of colorectal cancer test use [fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and endoscopy] using data from the 2002 to 2003 Health Information National Trends Survey. Male (n = 999) and female (n = 1687) respondents ages > or =50 years, without a personal history of colorectal cancer, were interviewed by telephone. Age-adjusted prevalence rates were reported for lifetime, recent, and repeat use by gender and test type. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify correlates of test use stratified by gender and colorectal cancer test type. More females reported only using FOBT in lifetime and in the past year, whereas more males reported repeat endoscopy use. The use of other tests or combinations of tests did not differ by gender. Consistent positive correlates of colorectal cancer test use for both genders included age, recent physician visits, recent breast or prostate cancer screening, and knowledge of test-specific screening intervals. Correlates that differed by gender included comparative perceived risk, belief that colorectal cancer testing was too expensive, fear of finding colorectal cancer if tested, and attention to and trust in media sources of health information. Such differences, if confirmed in future studies, may inform the use of gender-specific intervention strategies or messages to increase colorectal cancer test use.
Study on the Control Strategy of Wind Farms Connected to Power Grid by VSC-HVDC

The technology of VSC-HVDC transmission has a high degree of flexibility and controllability.This paper researches the control strategy of VSC-HVDC and the operating principle of the wind turbine, which can effectively enhance the stability of power system in the region of wind farms, improve the long-distance transmission capacity of wind power and stabilize the voltage level of public connection point.
Patterns of Leaf Mass, Area and Nitrogen in Young Northern Hardwood Forests

Abstract Patterns of leaf mass per unit area (LMA) and area-based foliar N concentration (N area) through the canopy were examined for seven tree species growing in reference and fertilized plots of two early successional northern hardwood stands in New Hampshire. Increases in LMA with height in the canopy were significantly related to increasing average daily photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). As expected, the slopes of regressions between LMA and PAR (i.e., plasticity) were higher for shade tolerant than intolerant species in both stands. Fertilization increased leaf area index in both stands. For the shade intolerant species (Prunus pensylvanica, Betula papyrifera), average canopy LMA increased in response to fertilization but no response was observed in the more tolerant species (Acer spp., Fagus grandifolia, Betula allegheniensis). The slopes of regressions between N area and PAR were highly significant, with higher plasticity of N area for shade tolerant than intolerant species. Average cano...
Using simulation across the curriculum

Computer simulation has been well recognized as a valuable modelling tool in many disciplines, and many computer science educators already make use of simulations in various courses. To fully exploit its benefits, however, we believe that computer simulation should be integrated more broadly and intentionally across the curriculum rather than taught in an isolated, ad hoc fashion. In this paper we advocate the teaching and use of simulations across the undergraduate computer science curriculum at a liberal arts college. We focus on the development of simulations by students, though we also address the use of existing simulations. We present both advantages and disadvantages, and argue that in many situations the advantages outweigh the drawbacks. We then present in outline specific examples of how, with limited resources, simulations can be taught and used in several courses that are widely taught at many undergraduate institutions. An on-line version of this paper along with several resources and links can be found at: www.middlebury.edu/~dickerso/simulation/.
Representing shared data on distributed-memory parallel computers

The problem of representing a setU≜{u 1,...,u m} of read-write variables on ann-node distributed-memory parallel computer is considered. It is shown thatU can be represented among then nodes of a variant of the mesh of trees usingO((m/n) polylog(m/n)) storage per node such that anyn-tuple of variables may be accessed inO(logn (log logn)2) time in the worst case form polynomial inn.
ATHEROGENESIS AND THROMBOGENESIS IN THE RAT.

Summary and conclusionsThree groups of rats were given diets containing cholesterol, sodium cholate and propylthiouracil. In addition the diets contained a fat that consisted of 40% butter in Group I, 40% corn oil in Group II and 8% corn oil in Group III. All groups showed atheromatous lesions and thrombus-like masses in cardiac chambers and in great vessels. Infarcts were present in a small number of animals in each group. Incidence and severity of atheromatous lesions varied but this variation was mainly related to length of survival on the diet rather than the type of added fat. There was no isolated development of thrombosis related to the type of fat in the diet as suggested by some investigators. Moreover, reservations were expressed regarding the exact nature of the thrombus-like masses and infarcts and their relevance to atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and infarction in man.
College Students' Mental Health and Their Received Affection From Their Grandparents

The purpose of this study was to test Affection Exchange Theory in the context of college students’ relationships with their grandparents by examining the extent to which college students’ reports of received love and esteem, caring, memories and humor, and celebratory affection from their grandparents are associated with grandchildren's mental health (i.e., stress, depression, and loneliness). Two hundred-fourteen young adult grandchildren (i.e., 18–25 years old) completed a series of questionnaires. In support of the hypotheses, the results of partial Pearson correlational analyses indicate that grandchildren's stress, depression, and loneliness are negatively related to their received memories and humor and celebratory affection from their grandparents. Surprisingly, grandchildren's mental health was not significantly related to their received love and esteem and caring affection from their grandparents.
Deoxycorticosterone Secretion in Chronic Experimental Heart Failure and during Infusion of Angiotensin II

SummaryExperiments were undertaken in dogs to determine the contribution of deoxycorticosterone (DOC) to the increased mineralocorticoid activity in heart failure. Chronic experimental heart failure occurred secondary to induced tricuspid insufficiency and pulmonic stenosis. Simultaneous measurements of DOC, corticosterone and aldosterone revealed average secretion rates of 0.18, 1.50, and 0.020 μg/min respectively for eight normal dogs and 0.18, 1.33, and 0.097 μg/min for five dogs with heart failure. The fivefold increase in aldosterone secretion was significant at the 5% level. Because of earlier evidence for increased activity of the renin-angiotensin system in experimental heart failure, the effect of angiotensin II on steroid secretion was studied. In acute experiments, intravenous infusion of angiotensin II in normal dogs increased DOC secretion. The explanation for the finding of a normal rate of DOC secretion in heart failure whereas acutely angiotensin II increased DOC secretion is not clear.
The Effects of Worker Honey Bee Diet and Age on the Vitamin Content of Larval Food

Nurse honey bees, Apis mellifera L., were fed alternately a balanced diet and an all-carbohydrate diet, and the content of pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, niacin, and ascorbic acid in the subsequent larval food produced was compared. For all but ascorbic acid, the vitamin content of the larval food decreased with increasing age of the bees even after the bees had been returned to the balanced diet.
Wing Performance Insight from the Self-Preserved Turbulent Wake

The self-preserved turbulent wake behind an airfoil is explored to determine the extent to which wing performance information can be extracted. The turbulent wake 10 chord lengths downstream of an SD7003 wall to wall airfoil model is analyzed through the lens of the irreversibilities in the flow. The concept of Exergy is used to quantify these irreversibilities. The variation in the [surrogate] eddy viscosity was previously obtained from mathematical models derived for wake identification studies by the authors. These models are developed further here to determine the Exergy destruction rate in the turbulent wake. To validate the model, the velocity field experimentally obtained by Particle Image Velocimetry in the wake of a wall-to-wall SD7003 airfoil is used to calculate the exergy destruction rate through the finite difference technique. The Exergy destruction rate is mathematically modeled as a function of the coefficient of drag and other initial conditions of the wing (thickness, chord, etc.) through the momentum-deficit model. A relationship between the Reynolds stress and exergy destruction rate was derived based on the eddy viscosity model. The results from the exergy destruction rate model are validated against the exergy destruction rate obtained from experimental data and they show good agreement.
Oxide Removal on Silicon by Rapid Thermal Processing Using SiH2CI2 and H2

In this paper, we report in-situ oxygen removal on Si using SiH2Cl2 and H2 in a high vacuum rapid thermal chemical vapor deposition reactor. The system consists of a main process chamber and a load-lock with base pressures of ~ 1x10−7 Torr and 1x10−5 Torr respectively. The experiments were conducted in the temperature range of 750'C to 865 'C, and SiH2Cl2/H2 flow ratios of 1% to 7%. For comparison, samples were also prepared with only H2 prebaking in the same temperature and pressure range as well as with no in-situ cleaning. With no in-situ cleaning, the oxygen content was found to decrease at higher temperatures suggesting partial oxygen removal during early stages of growth. The results indicate a strong temperature dependence for the H2 clean with an increased effectiveness at higher temperatures which is believed to be due to temperature dependence of oxygen desorption from Si. In the temperature range studied, the SiH2Cl2 clean was found to be effective at 750°C. An additional oxygen removal mechanism appears to be introduced by the addition of SiH2Cl2. Using this approach, at 750°C, the peak oxygen concentration can be reduced to 4x1018 cm−3 whereas the H2 anneal at the same temperature results in a concentration of 6x1018 cm−3. At higher temperatures, the oxide can be removed in pure H2 just as efficiently or desorbed during initial stages of growth. The results show that the efficiency of the process increases as more SiH2Cl2 is added to the system up to a critical pressure. However, if the SiH2Cl2 partial pressure is above this critical value, Si deposition can occur on the Si surface yielding an optimum partial pressure which is a function of temperature. The results indicate that the use of a small amount of SiH2Cl2 as a cleaning agent may provide a low temperature pre-epi clean.
Affect analysis of power grid energy quality for Jiangsu coastal wind power access

With the inshore wind energy of Jiangsu province incorporating in the power network, more attentions have been paid on the influences of wind energy on power systems. Based on practical power quality monitoring data, this paper presented analysis of nowadays influences on power quality and predicted further trend after the connection of future massive wind farms. Finally, suggestions have been put forward for future improvement.
Genetic analysis on the NS gene of H9N2 avian influenza virus isolated from sewage in poultry market

Objective To analyze the evolutional and molecular characteristics of non-structural(NS)gene of H9N2 avian influenza virus(AIV)isolated from sewage in poultry market in Changsha in order to explore the transmission risk.Methods One H9N2 AIV sample was collected from poultry market in Changsha.The NS gene was amplified by PCR and then sequenced with TA cloning.Lasergene and Mega5 software were used for amino acid sequence alignment and phylogenetic tree analysis.Results Sequencing analysis revealed that the NS gene contained 890 bp and encoded NS1(217 amino acids)and NS2(217 amino acids)proteins.Phylogenetic analysis showed that the NS gene belonged to the A/ Chicken/ Shanghai/ F/ 1998-like lineage in allele A and originated from A/Chicken/Beijing/1/94 strain which was the first isolate in mainland China in 1994.Amino acid homology analysis showed that NS1 gene had as high as 96.3% identity with A/Chicken/Shanghai/F/98 and NS2 had 96.7% homology with A/ Chicken/ Beijing/ 1/ 1994 and A/ Chicken/ Shanghai/ F/ 1998.13 amino acids were absent on the C terminal of H9N2 NS1 protein and there was D amino acid on the 92 site,which both were the molecular characteristics of low pathogenicity.Conclusions The NS gene of H9N2 AIV from sewage in poultry market is lack of molecular characteristics of high pathogenicity,therefore,there is low risk of transmitting to human being.
Mit Innovations-Management und Kreativität Unternehmensprozesse organisieren

Schon fruhzeitig haben kluge Kopfe erkannt, dass die Fahigkeit zur Innovation uber Erfolg und Misserfolg eines Unternehmens entscheidet. Joseph Schumpeter hat in seiner Theory of Economic Development (1911) als einer der ersten die Bedeutung der Innovation fur die Weiterentwicklung der Wirtschaft beschrieben. Nach Schumpeter wird ein innovativer Unternehmer, der sein Produkt oder seine Dienstleistung als Erster auf den Markt bringt, den grosten Erfolg haben. Er wird durch sein neues Produkt oder seine neue Dienstleistung zumindest kurzfristig Monopolist am Markt sein und kann dadurch hohere Gewinne einfahren als die Nachahmer. Innovation wird somit zur Grundlage wirtschaftlichen Erfolges. Auch wenn die Sichtweise, dass nur der erste auf dem Markt erfolgreich sein wird, nicht immer zutrifft, durfte die Bedeutung von Innovation fur die Volkswirtschaft und fur das einzelne Unternehmen unumstritten sein.
CHAPTER 11 – Regulation of antigen capture, MHC biosynthesis, and degradation by dendritic cells

Soluble antigens can be captured by a wide variety of specific receptors on the surface of dendritic cells (DCs), and internalized for processing and presentation by class I and class II molecules. Antigens bind to receptors and cluster in coated pits, and are then internalized in clathrin-coated vesicles, which are about 0.1 μm in diameter, in an ATP-dependent process. In DCs, antigens internalized by Fc receptors may be partially degraded and exported from the endocytic vesicle to avoid complete destruction of potential epitopes. Receptor-mediated endocytosis is a very efficient way to selectively target antigens to the class II processing pathway. Both Fc receptors and mannose receptor can enhance the efficiency of presentation of soluble antigens by 100–1000-fold. Antigens in immune complexes taken up by the Fc receptors can be presented by class II MHC much more efficiently than in soluble form. In addition, CD32 has been shown to mediate uptake of antigens for presentation to class I molecules in DCs.
Multiple Causes for Ischemia Without Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease: Not a Short List

Among angina patients undergoing coronary angiography to further evaluate suspected ischemic heart disease, normal or nonobstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) is found in 30% of men and 40% to 60% of women and appears to be increasing.1 It is becoming very clear that such patients do not have benign outcomes as documented in larger and larger prospective cohorts.2–5 Also important are accumulating data indicating that patient-reported outcomes and societal implications rival those observed with obstructive CAD.6,7 Article see p 1054 After several hundred years of focus on obstructive stenosis, numerous reports have described coronary physiological evaluations documenting that mechanisms other than flow-limiting CAD are present among such patients with symptoms or signs of ischemia. Some of these such as endothelial or vascular smooth muscle dysfunction and spasm are associated with heightened risk for adverse outcomes. However, almost all of the reports are directed at only one or another mechanism (most often endothelial or vascular smooth muscle dysfunction), and very limited information is available about the possible coexistence of several such coronary mechanisms in the same patient. In addition, the frequency of such patients without a coronary explanation for ischemia after multiple tests is unknown, again because most publications have focused on only 1 or 2 possible mechanisms. To this end, the work by Lee et al8 in this issue of Circulation contributes important new information by testing for multiple different mechanisms in a prospective cohort with symptoms suggesting ischemic heart disease without apparent flow-limiting obstruction on angiography. Their comprehensive invasive assessment included fractional flow reserve (FFR) to evaluate epicardial obstructive disease that was not apparent from the angiogram, endothelial function testing with acetylcholine, index of microvascular resistance with adenosine, and myocardial bridge evaluation by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Concealed diffuse obstructive disease defined …
Cardiac strength-interval curves calculated using a bidomain tissue with a parsimonious ionic current.

The strength-interval curve plays a major role in understanding how cardiac tissue responds to an electrical stimulus. This complex behavior has been studied previously using the bidomain formulation incorporating the Beeler-Reuter and Luo-Rudy dynamic ionic current models. The complexity of these models renders the interpretation and extrapolation of simulation results problematic. Here we utilize a recently developed parsimonious ionic current model with only two currents—a sodium current that activates rapidly upon depolarization INa and a time-independent inwardly rectifying repolarization current IK—which reproduces many experimentally measured action potential waveforms. Bidomain tissue simulations with this ionic current model reproduce the distinctive dip in the anodal (but not cathodal) strength-interval curve. Studying model variants elucidates the necessary and sufficient physiological conditions to predict the polarity dependent dip: a voltage and time dependent INa, a nonlinear rectifying repolarization current, and bidomain tissue with unequal anisotropy ratios.
Use of Density Equalizing Map Projections (DEMP) in the Analysis of Childhood Cancer in Four California Counties

In studying geographic disease distributions, one normally compares rates of arbitrarily defined geographic subareas (e.g. census tracts), thereby sacrificing the geographic detail of the original data. The sparser the data, the larger the subareas must be in order to calculate stable rates. This dilemma is avoided with the technique of Density Equalizing Map Projections (DEMP). Boundaries of geographic subregions are adjusted to equalize population density over the entire study area. Case locations plotted on the transformed map should have a uniform distribution if the underlying disease rates are constant. The density equalized map portrays both individual cases and rates, and can be understood by untrained observers. Simple statistical techniques can be used to test the uniformity of the transformed map. This report describes application of the DEMP technique to a sizeable `real-world` data set: 401 childhood cancer cases occurring between 1980 and 1988 in four California counties. In an earlier analysis of the same data, the California Department of Health Services (DHS) calculated rates for 101 communities and found no significant geographic variability. The DDS 1980--88 population estimates are no longer available, so in this analysis 1980 Census data were used; geographic units were 262 census tracts. A k`th nearestmore » neighbor analysis, corrected for boundary effects and for within-tract variability, provides strong evidence for geographic nonuniformity in tract rates ({rho} < l0{sup {minus}4}). No such effect is observed for artificial cases generated under the assumption of constant rates. Pending reanalysis with 1980-88 population estimates, no epidemiologic conclusions can be drawn at this time.« less
3D-Printing: Applications in Cardiovascular Imaging

The current state of three-dimensional (3D) printing for cardiovascular applications will be reviewed in this article with a special emphasis placed on recent updates on the use of 3D printing. Cardiovascular imaging has been shown to be beneficial for planning congenital heart, valvular and other structural heart, and vascular disease treatments. 3D printing has seen increased use for education, including procedural simulation which may fundamentally change how proceduralists are trained in the future. 3D bioprinting is an emerging field of 3D printing that has the potential to revolutionize therapy, although additional development is needed to fully reach this potential. Finally, because of the increased use of 3D printing, there is an increased emphasis on regulation and quality. Cardiovascular 3D printing has undergone rapid growth in the past several years and has influenced current cardiovascular therapy and, with future advancements, will aid in further improving therapies.
Abstract #2292: Cytosolic phospholipase A2: A novel molecular target for tumor sensitization to radiation therapy

We have recently identified cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA 2 ) as a key component in the vascular endothelium response to therapeutic doses of ionizing radiation (2-5 Gy). Radiation-induced activation of cPLA 2 leads to downstream phosphorylation of the pro-survival kinases Akt and ERK1/2. This results in enhanced radioresistance of tumor vasculature which can significantly diminish overall cancer treatment success rates. In our present study, we provide evidence that chemical inhibition of cPLA 2 with AACOCF 3 can increase the radiation-induced destruction of tumor blood vessels and may significantly improve the response of radioresistant lung tumors to radiation therapy. Using a tumor model of Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC), we demonstrated that a combined treatment of AACOCF 3 and radiation inhibited tumor growth by 75% as compared to untreated tumors. Treatment with either radiation or drug alone failed to produce a significant delay in tumor growth (2.6 days and 1.8 days, respectively.) However, mice treated with AACOCF 3 and radiation demonstrated a significant tumor growth delay of 12.2 days. Tumor blood flow analysis revealed that treatment with AACOCF 3 resulted in a 1.6-fold decrease in tumor blood flow as compared to untreated mice (7.5% vs. 12%). This decrease was further potentiated in mice that received AACOCF 3 followed by radiation (6% vs. 12%). To investigate whether cPLA 2 inhibition affects tumor vascularity, tumor sections were stained with anti-von Willebrand Factor antibody. Treatment with AACOCF 3 resulted in a significant decrease in tumor blood vessel number (4%) compared to untreated mice (10%). The most pronounced reduction in vascularity, however, was observed in mice treated with AACOCF 3 followed by radiation (2%). TUNEL staining revealed that this blood flow attenuation and reduction in vascularity is associated with the induction of apoptosis within tumor vascular endothelial cells. In addition, treatment with AACOCF 3 suppressed radiation-induced Akt phosphorylation in irradiated tumors. To determine whether AACOCF 3 affects cellular viability in irradiated tumor cells as well as vascular endothelial cells, we performed clonogenic survival assays. Treatment with AACOCF 3 enhanced radiation-induced cell death among 3B11, but not LLC cells. At 2 Gy, 3B11 cells pretreated with AACOCF 3 exhibited a 30% decrease in survival in comparison to irradiated cells treated with vehicle alone. Western immunoblot analysis revealed that the effects of AACOCF 3 on 3B11 cell viability may be due to changes in radiation-induced pro-survival signaling. At 3 minutes post-irradiation, AACOCF 3 prevented radiation-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation in 3B11 cells, but not in LLC. Taken together, these findings identify cPLA 2 as a critical component of the tumor vascular response to ionizing radiation and suggest that cPLA 2 is a novel molecular target for tumor sensitization to radiation therapy. Citation Information: In: Proc Am Assoc Cancer Res; 2009 Apr 18-22; Denver, CO. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; 2009. Abstract nr 2292.
Coase and the Platform Economy

This Chapter analyzes the ways in which digital platforms such as Uber and Airbnb are perfecting the deal and lowering transaction costs. The chapter argues that the three stages of pre-deal, deal-making, and post-deal, 1) search costs; 2) bargaining and decision costs; and 3) policing and enforcement costs, may benefit from the digital platform. Each stage depends on enhanced information and optimal matching to reduce costs. The chapter suggests that the platform – based on digital large scale multi-sided networks and sophisticated algorithmic pricing – impacts the relevant transaction costs at all three stages. It then argues that regulators must consider the opportunities that come from the platform delivery as well as the possibility that certain traditional regulations become redundant by platform innovations.
Kings and Counselors

Monarchy as understood by Montesquieu is a regime with concentrated but legitimate authority, whose dominant motive is glory, especially glory achieved in battle. Four kings who initiated wars are examined: Louis XIV; Charles XII; Frederick the Great; and Nicholas I. Minister-President Bismarck, advisor to the King of Prussia, is the fifth case. Although its advisory process is generally rational, Monarchy becomes conducive to war when its warrior ethos is no longer held in check by law and institutions. Christianity as the kings interpreted it did not always restrain them, but did form the character of the most successful statesmen, Bismarck. Monarchy’s concentrated authority can produce impressive successes or tribulations, depending on the statesman’s character and abilities.
How extreme was the October 2015 flood in the Carolinas? An assessment of flood frequency analysis and distribution tails.

Abstract This paper examines the frequency, distribution tails, and peak-over-threshold (POT) of extreme floods through analysis that centers on the October 2015 flooding in North Carolina (NC) and South Carolina (SC), United States (US). The most striking features of the October 2015 flooding were a short time to peak (Tp) and a multi-hour continuous flood peak which caused intensive and widespread damages to human lives, properties, and infrastructure. The 2015 flooding was produced by a sequence of intense rainfall events which originated from category 4 hurricane Joaquin over a period of four days. Here, the probability distribution and distribution parameters (i.e., location, scale, and shape) of floods were investigated by comparing the upper part of empirical distributions of the annual maximum flood (AMF) and POT with light- to heavy- theoretical tails: Frechet, Pareto, Gumbel, Weibull, Beta, and Exponential. Specifically, four sets of U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gauging data from the central Carolinas with record lengths from approximately 65–125 years were used. Analysis suggests that heavier-tailed distributions are in better agreement with the POT and somewhat AMF data than more often used exponential (light) tailed probability distributions. Further, the threshold selection and record length affect the heaviness of the tail and fluctuations of the parent distributions. The shape parameter and its evolution in the period of record play a critical and poorly understood role in determining the scaling of flood response to intense rainfall.
Radical Prostatectomy and the Influence of Early Endocrine Therapy for Stage D1 Prostate Cancer: Long-Term Follow-Up Study

Published long term results for treatment of patients with Stage D1 prostate cancer are meager. This report of 70 such patients treated by pelvic lymphadenectomy and radical prostatectomy provides survival data not previously published and updates an earlier analysis (1) of the same patients when follow-up was insufficient to make any reliable pronouncements about survival. Of the 70 patients, 32 also received early endocrine therapy. These 32 had apparently more extensive disease than the remaining 38 who had surgery but no early endocrine therapy. Median follow-up was 7.9 years (range-6.3 to 19.6 years). Disease free survival was 69 percent (22/32) of those who received early endocrine therapy but only 21 percent (8/38) of those who did not. Bilateral orchiectomy appeared to be primarily responsible for these results. With this demonstrated high probability for disease free survival, radical prostatectomy with immediate bilateral orchiectomy is recommended as a highly effective treatment option in suitable surgical candidates with limited Stage D1 prostate cancer.
Prevalence and risk factors for refractive errors in an adult inner city population.

PURPOSE: To estimate the prevalence of refractive errors among adult black and white Americans and to identify risk factors associated with these refractive errors. METHODS: Refractive error was measured in a population-based sample of black and white adults age 40 or older residing in east Baltimore from 1985 through 1988. Aphakic eyes were excluded from analysis. RESULTS: The prevalence of myopia varied from 10.5% among black men 80 years and older to 42.1% among white women 40 to 49 years of age. Hyperopia ranged from 11.8% among black men 40 to 49 years to 68.1% among white men 80 years of age and older. Astigmatism ranged from 15.8% to 45.2%, and anisometropia ranged from 2.8% to 8.1%, depending on age, race, and gender. Black persons had less myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and anisometropia than did white persons. Myopia ( +0.5 D), astigmatism (> 0.5 D of cylinder), and anisometropia (> 1.0 D between eyes) increased with age. Myopia increased with increasing years of education, although this association was stronger for white persons than for black persons and among younger subjects. Hyperopia declined with increasing years of education, and this association was stronger among younger than older subjects. Education was not associated with astigmatism or anisometropia. CONCLUSIONS: Black persons had lower rates of refractive error than did white persons, except for hyperopia prevalence, which was comparable in black and white women. Refractive errors are common among adult inner city Americans, but rates vary substantially by age, race, gender, and education levels.
Results and Methods Used to Determine the Acoustic Properties of the Southeast Asian Margins

More than 850 new sonobuoy sound velocity solutions and some published solutions have been analysed statistically to develop 16 regional velocity functions from the Southeast Asian shelves and marginal basins. The velocity functions are least-squares regressions of the form V = VO + Kt, where t is one-way vertical travel-time to layer mid-points. The value of K shows surprisingly little variability on the shelves and adjoining basins from the Bay of Bengal to the Japan Sea. The average value is 1.86 ± .30 km/s2. Very large values of 3.2 km/s2 from Western Australia (not included in the average) are unique, and may result from the special combination of very low sedimentation rates on quite old oceanic crust. Paired comparisons of interval velocities and refraction velocities from the same sonobuoys show that the two measurements are interchangeable if they are compared at equal depths at layer mid-points. More than 30 high-resolution velocity inversions from the Southeast Asian shelf data have been compiled to yield 5 average seafloor velocity gradients. Gradients predicted from statistically derived functions, based on refraction solutions from relatively thick layers, are not in satisfactory agreement with these averaged values. These differences can be reconciled by picking thinner layers or by using greater (and more realistic) seafloor sound velocities than those obtained as intercepts from the statistical regressions.