cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multiple bilateral choroidal metastases in stage IV lung cancer

Although once thought to be rare, uveal metastases are now considered the most common intraocular malignancy in adults and are found in two to nine-per cent of all cancer patients.1997 The choroid ...
Globally standardized MODIS spectral mixture models

Standardized substrate, vegetation, and dark (S, V, & D) spectral endmembers (EMs) are presented for spectral mixture analysis (SMA) of MODIS version 6 daily nadir looking BRDF-adjusted reflectance...
LBE: A Computational Load Balancing Algorithm for Speeding up Parallel Peptide Search in Mass-Spectrometry Based Proteomics

The most commonly employed method for peptide identification in mass-spectrometry based proteomics involves comparing experimentally obtained tandem MS/MS spectra against a set of theoretical MS/MS spectra. The theoretical MS/MS spectra data are predicted using protein sequence database. Most state-of-the-art peptide search algorithms index theoretical spectra data to quickly filter-in the relevant (similar) indexed spectra when searching an experimental MS/MS spectrum. Data filtration substantially reduces the required number of computationally expensive spectrum-to-spectrum comparison operations. However, the number of predicted (and indexed) theoretical spectra grows exponentially with increase in post-translational modifications creating a memory and I/O bottleneck. In this paper, we present a parallel algorithm, called LBE, for efficient partitioning of theoretical spectra data on a distributed-memory architecture. Our proposed algorithm first groups the similar theoretical spectra. The groups are then finely split across the system allowing machines to perform almost equal amount of work when querying a MS/MS spectrum. Our results show that the compute load imbalance using LBE based data distribution is ≤ 20% allowing speedups of order of magnitudes over existing methods. The proposed algorithm has been implemented on a compute cluster using MPI library. Experimental results for increasing index sizes are reported in terms of execution time, speedups and memory footprint. To the best of our knowledge, LBE is the first load-balancing technique for MS/MS proteomics data on memory-distributed clusters that incorporates proteomics domain knowledge for efficient load-balancing. Source code is made available at: https://github.com/pcdslab/lbdslim/tree/mpi
Incorporating Case-Based Reasoning for Radiation Therapy Knowledge Modeling: A Pelvic Case Study:

Knowledge models in radiotherapy capture the relation between patient anatomy and dosimetry to provide treatment planning guidance. When treatment schemes evolve, existing models struggle to predic...
Index-Based Scheduling for Parallel State Machine Replication

State Machine Replication (SMR) is a fundamental approach to designing service with fault tolerance. However, its requirement for the deterministic execution of transactions often results in single-threaded replicas, which cannot fully exploit the multicore capabilities of today's processors. Therefore, parallel SMR has become a hot topic of recent research. The basic idea behind it is that independent transactions can be executed in parallel, while dependent transactions must be executed in their relative order to ensure consistency among replicas. The dependency detection of existing parallel SMR methods is mainly based on pairwise transaction comparison or batch comparison. These methods cannot simultaneously guarantee both effective detection and concurrent execution. Moreover, the scheduling process cannot execute concurrently, which introduces extra scheduling overhead as well. In order to further reduce scheduling overhead and ensure the parallel execution of transactions, we propose an efficient scheduler based on a specific index structure. The index is composed of a Bloom Filter and the associated transaction queues, which provides an efficient dependency detection and preserve necessary dependency information respectively. Based on the index structure, we further devise an elaborated concurrent scheduling process. The experimental results show that the proposed scheduler is more efficient, scalable and robust than the comparison methods.
A Thermal-Based Technology for Roller Path Tracking and Mapping in Pavement Compaction Operations

Compaction is one of the most important phases in construction of asphalt concrete (AC) pavements, as it directly affects the density and thereby the performance of pavements. This paper proposed a thermal-based compaction technology for real-time roller path tracking and mapping in pavement compaction operations, based on which roller operators can better control their compaction quality. In the proposed method, the incremental change of a roller position in a short interval was decomposed into two motion components (i.e., the change in heading direction and the linear translation). The global position of the roller was then recovered by chaining the frame-by-frame motion in terms of their changes. Two sets of experimental data from different pavement construction sites were used to test the performance of the proposed technology. The results showed that the developed technology is a promising alternative to the current GPS-based intelligent compaction (IC) in pavement compaction operations.
Linking the length scales

A challenge for multiscale simulations is how to link the macroscopic and microscopic length scales effectively. A new machine-learning-based sampling approach enables full exploration of macro configurations while retaining the precision of a microscale model.
Evolution of a remarkable intracellular polymer and extreme cell allometry in hagfishes.

Summary The size of animal cells rarely scales with body size, likely due to biophysical and physiological constraints. 1 , 2 In hagfishes, gland thread cells (GTCs) each produce a silk-like proteinaceous fiber called a slime thread. 3 , 4 The slime threads impart strength to a hagfish’s defensive slime and thus are potentially subject to selection on their function outside of the body. 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 Body size is of fundamental importance in predator-prey interactions, which led us to hypothesize that larger hagfishes produce longer and stronger slime threads than smaller ones. 9 Here, by sampling a range of sizes of hagfish from 19 species, we systematically examined the scaling of GTC and slime-thread dimensions with body size within both phylogenetic and ontogenetic contexts. We found that the length of GTCs varied between 40 and 250 μm and scaled positively with body size, exhibiting an allometric exponent greater than those in other animal cells. Correspondingly, larger hagfishes produce longer and thicker slime threads and thus are equipped to defend against larger predators. With diameter and length varying 4-fold (0.7–4 μm and 5–22 cm, respectively) over a body-size range of 10–128 cm, the slime threads characterize the largest intracellular polymers known in biology. Our results suggest selection for stronger defensive slime in larger hagfishes has driven the evolution of extreme size and allometry of GTCs.
Efficiency in the Serverless Cloud Computing Paradigm: A Survey Study.

Serverless computing along with Function-as-a-Service (FaaS) are forming a new computing paradigm that is anticipated to found the next generation of cloud systems. The popularity of this paradigm is due to offering a highly transparent infrastructure that enables user applications to scale in the granularity of their functions. Since these often small and single-purpose functions are managed on shared computing resources behind the scene, a great potential for computational reuse and approximate computing emerges that if unleashed, can remarkably improve the efficiency of serverless cloud systems -- both from the user's QoS and system's (energy consumption and incurred cost) perspectives. Accordingly, the goal of this survey study is to, first, unfold the internal mechanics of the serverless computing and, second, explore the scope for efficiency within this paradigm via studying function reuse and approximation approaches and discussing the pros and cons of each one. Next, we outline potential future research directions within this paradigm that can either unlock new use cases or make the paradigm more efficient.
Chapter 20 Cell-specific pathology in neural systems of the temporal lobe in Alzheimer's disease

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on some major memory-related neural systems of the temporal lobe in the non-human primate and draws some specific comparisons with the pattern of pathology observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD). A combined analysis of the patterns and cellular specific distribution of pathology in AD has revealed a highly selective involvement of only certain neural systems of the temporal lobe. In large part, the markers of this disorder affect neurons and their axonal processes that in all likelihood interconnect the hippocampal formation with the cerebral cortex, with other parts of the telencephalon, such as the basal forebrain, and with a role in memory. Many of the changes affect long associational connections that link one part of the temporal cortex together with other cortical or subcortical parts. In many instances, shorter intrinsic systems are spared. This is particularly apparent in the hippocampal formation where the cells of origin for key intrinsic excitatory linkages among its various parts seem to survive.
Helper T cell differentiation and regulation of inflammatory lymphangiogenesis (IRC10P.468)

Lymph node lymphangiogenesis (LNL) is a critical regulator of inflammation. Although it is clear that pro lymphangiogenic factors VEGF-A and C play a central role in the regulation of this process, recent studies showed that these effects are balanced with anti-lymphangiogenic forces like IFN-g. However, although it is clear that T cells play a negative regulatory role in LNL, the effect of T cell differentiation remains unknown. We analyzed the effects of T cell differentiation on LNL in a mouse model of inflammation and analyzed draining lymph nodes at various time point by flow cytometry, histology, and RT-PCR. We found that induced inflammation, resulted in a robust inflammatory response in the draining lymph nodes beginning 7 days after injection and lasting until day 21. This process was associated with generation of a mixed Th1,Th2 responses, decreased expression of IFN-g, and increased expression of VEGF-A/C. Loss of CD4 or CD8 T cells resulted in augmentation of lymphangiogenesis, increased expression of IFN-g, and VEGF-C. Treatment of mice with IFN-g, IL13, or IL17A neutralizing antibodies resulted in augmented LNL and increased expression of VEGF-C and IFN-g. Loss of either CD4 or CD8 T cells resulted in augmentation of LNL as a result of increased VEGF-A/C expression. Similarly, inhibition of Th1, Th2, or Th17 cytokines increase LNL and increased VEGF-A/C expression. In conclusion, we showed that T cell differentiation modulates inflammatory LNL.
Prescriptive Tools for Analysis

This chapter will follow our discussion on the two methods of analysis identified in our taxonomy, focusing now on prescriptive instead of descriptive techniques. By way of a definition, prescriptive technique is generally used in system design, where a stated goal or objective is to be achieved. In the context of this book, the function of a prescriptive model then, is to configure a facility location or land use plan to achieve this goal or objective. For example, if one is to stimulate residential development in an area, the model, after it has been set up, will prescribe a land use plan that will provide all the utilities, transportation, and zoning that will best facilitate such a development. To the extent that we often wish to provide the best design, optimization procedures are an integral part of the prescriptive tool kit. Here in this chapter, we will introduce the basic building blocks of prescriptive analysis (including optimization concepts), deferring most of the implementation and computational details to subject focused chapters throughout this book and the appropriate book appendices. Included in the latter category are such appendices as “Optimization Schemes” (Appendix 4) and “Control, Dynamics, and System Stability” (Appendix 1).
Vaccination of cats against emerging and reemerging zoonotic pathogens.

Many of the emerging infectious agents that threaten the human population are either directly zoonotic or involve animals, rather than humans, as their primary reservoir in nature. Vaccination of animals may be an important consideration for control of some of these diseases, and this review has specifically focused on the concept of vaccinating cats in the prevention of infection with T. gondii, B. henselae , and H. pylori . If we return to the considerations that were presented in Table III, T. gondii is really the only one of these three agents for which each of these “criteria” for vaccination is fulfilled at the present time. However, cats clearly play an important role in the epidemiology of infection with B. henselae and this is an organism for which we probably will and should see a vaccine for widespread and routine use in cats.
LIQUi|>: A Software Design Architecture and Domain-Specific Language for Quantum Computing.

Languages, compilers, and computer-aided design tools will be essential for scalable quantum computing, which promises an exponential leap in our ability to execute complex tasks. LIQUi|> is a modular software architecture designed to control quantum hardware. It enables easy programming, compilation, and simulation of quantum algorithms and circuits, and is independent of a specific quantum architecture. LIQUi|> contains an embedded, domain-specific language designed for programming quantum algorithms, with F# as the host language. It also allows the extraction of a circuit data structure that can be used for optimization, rendering, or translation. The circuit can also be exported to external hardware and software environments. Two different simulation environments are available to the user which allow a trade-off between number of qubits and class of operations. LIQUi|> has been implemented on a wide range of runtimes as back-ends with a single user front-end. We describe the significant components of the design architecture and how to express any given quantum algorithm.
Does the Electoral Rule Matter for Political Polarization? The Case of Brazilian Legislative Chambers

This study explores the effects of electoral rules on political polarization in the legislative branch of government. Since in Brazil the districts are also the states, and senators are chosen according to the plurality-majority rule while representatives are determined by a proportional rule, the comparison between legislative chambers enables one to test whether the plurality-majority rule induces politicians to behave less moderately, and whether the proportional rule has the opposite effect. To estimate these effects, roll call data from 1988 to 2010 was analyzed and legislators' ideal points were estimated using WNOMINATE. Evidence in favor of the hypothesis was found, although not in every circumstance.
Office‐Based Tools and Primary Care Visit Communication, Length, and Preventive Service Delivery

Background The use of physician office-based tools such as electronic health records (EHRs), health risk appraisal (HRA) instruments, and written patient reminder lists is encouraged to support efficient, high-quality, patient-centered care. We evaluate the association of exam room use of EHRs, HRA instruments, and self-generated written patient reminder lists with patient–physician communication behaviors, recommended preventive health service delivery, and visit length. Research Methods Observational study of 485 office visits with 64 primary care physicians practicing in a health system serving the Detroit metropolitan area. Study data were obtained from patient surveys, direct observation, office visit audio-recordings, and automated health system records. Outcome measures included visit length in minutes, patient use of active communication behaviors, physician use of supportive talk and partnership-building communication behaviors, and percentage of delivered guideline-recommended preventive health services for which patients are eligible and due. Simultaneous linear regression models were used to evaluate associations between tool use and outcomes. Adjusted models controlled for patient characteristics, physician characteristics, characteristics of the relationship between the patient and physician, and characteristics of the environment in which the visit took place. Results Prior to adjusting for other factors, visits in which the EHR was used on average were significantly (p .05) in adjusted models with the exception of that between HRA use and preventive service delivery. Dissemination and Implementation Implications Office-based tools intended to facilitate the implementation of desired primary care practice redesign are associated with both positive and negative cost and quality outcomes. Findings highlight the need for monitoring both intended and unintended consequences of office-based tools commonly used in primary care practice redesign.
Vitamin C Deficiency Increases the Lung Pathology of Influenza Virus–Infected Gulo−/− Mice

This study was designed to determine the effects of vitamin C deficiency on the immune response to infection with influenza virus. l-Gulono-gamma-lactone oxidase gene-inactivated mice (gulo-/- mice) require vitamin C supplementation for survival. Five-wk-old male and female gulo-/- mice were provided water or water containing 1.67 mmol/L vitamin C for 3 wk before inoculation with influenza A/Bangkok/1/79. There were no differences in lung influenza virus titers between vitamin C-adequate and -deficient mice; however, lung pathology in the vitamin C-deficient mice was greater at 1 and 3 d after infection but less at d 7 compared with vitamin C-adequate mice. Male vitamin C-deficient mice had higher expression of mRNA for regulated upon activation normal T expressed and secreted (RANTES), IL-1beta, and TNF-alpha in the lungs at d 1 after infection compared with male controls. However, at d 3 after infection, male vitamin C-deficient mice had less expression of mRNA for RANTES, monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), and IL-12 compared with male controls. None of these differences were observed in female mice. Vitamin C-deficient male mice also had greater nuclear factor-kappaB activation as early as 1 d after infection compared with male controls. These data suggest that vitamin C is required for an adequate immune response in limiting lung pathology after influenza virus infection.
Relaxation time, activation energy, and reaction pathway determination of the poly(ethylene glycol dimethacrylate)–dopant (I2) interaction with the nuclear magnetic resonance technique

Conductive polymers were obtained with a new polymerization method in which UV light was used as a photochemical initiator. In a previous work, optimum irradiation times were determined to obtain high conversion percentages. The effect of dopants on the conductivity of the polymer poly(ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) (PEGDM) was studied with LiClO 4 and I 2 as a dopant. The most effective dopant concentration was determined by the measurement of conductivities. Through the tracing of the conductivity change at various temperatures during the reaction of PEGDM with the dopant, the activation energies of the interactions were calculated, and a method was developed to follow the kinetics of the polymerization reaction with a conductometric technique. This work presents a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) study of the same polymer prepared under the optimum conditions with the results obtained in a previous study. NMR spectroscopy was used to determine the relaxation time, rate constants, and activation energy of the polymer-dopant interactions. As a preliminary study, pyruvic acid was used, and for acid-catalyzed pyruvic acid/water reactions, the relaxation time, activation energy, and enthalpy change values (AH) were determined. With the same NMR technique, the reaction mechanisms of the polymerization, relaxation times, and rate constants of the polymer-dopant interactions were determined. The polymerization pathway was determined with NMR spectra; the results were confirmed by the calculation of the activation energies and bond-breaking energies.
Structure and particle aggregation in block copolymer-binary nanoparticle composites

The aggregation behavior and location of binary nanoparticles in a block copolymer-nanoparticle composite are investigated by employing three-dimensional dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) simulations. The dependence of the morphology of the composites and of the composition of the nanoparticle aggregates on the pair interactions between the same and different kinds of nanoparticles or segments, as well as between each kind of nanoparticles and each kind of segments of the block copolymer, is examined. The natures of the two kinds of nanoparticles employed constitute an important factor in the phase behavior of these composites. When the change of the state of some particles from individually distributed to aggregated is induced particularly by the interactions between particles, the configuration of the block copolymer is changed from lamellar to a complex one. In contrast, when the above change in the configuration of the particles (aggregated or nonaggregated) is induced particularly by the interactions between the particles and the segments of the block copolymer, the configuration of the block copolymer remains lamellar. DPD simulations imply repulsive pair interactions between all pairs of particles, segments and particles, as well as segments of the block copolymers. The aggregation observed in simulations, is caused by the collective behavior of the system which transforms the pair repulsive interactions (which are the only ones that are considered in DPD) in a collective attraction.
Nietzsche on Truth, Illusion, and Redemption

Truth is the first and most basic part of virtue. It must be loved for itsown sake.Montaigne, On PresumptionBut the depressive and self-wounding ego... rebuts: ... ‘illusion of thesenses and of the mind holds us prisoner always’.Calvino, Mr. PalomarAs Bernard Williams lately observed (2002: 1–19), the reception of Nietzsche’sthought has prompted sharp controversy about truth. Some readers highlightNietzsche’s widespread and provocative remarks dismissing the value or eventhe possibility of truth and science. Against these ‘deniers’, Williams identifies a‘party of common sense’ (2002: 5–7), whose adherents stress the ubiquity ofordinary truths in our practical and scientific projects. As they note, Nietzschehimself adduces such truths in his withering attacks against traditionalmetaphysical and religious pieties, and even the debunking claims of the verydeniers are motivated by a spirit of critique—a devotion to truthfulnessexempting nothing from the purview of its suspicion. The puzzle about thiscontroversy is that both ‘deniers’ and ‘common-sensers’ have gotten importantthings right about Nietzsche. This paper aims to explain how that could be. I offera reading of Nietzsche on truth and illusion which saves the insights on bothsides, reconciles the tensions among the texts, and accounts for the importance ofboth truth and illusion in his thought overall.It is worth noting, first, the broad array of positions available to either side.Quite different theses may be denied or affirmed about truth. ‘Deniers’ haveranged from Hans Vaihinger (1905, 1986 [1927]), who took Nietzsche as aforerunner of his own fictionalist strategy for saving science and other practices,to an essentially skeptical ‘post-modernist’ reception that tends to dismiss sciencein favor of art, in which ‘precisely the lie sanctifies itself’ (GM III, 25).
Dissolved organic carbon in old field soils: compositional changes during the biodegradation of soil organic matter.

Abstract The quality of soil dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was examined using the Leenheer DOC fractionation scheme, which separates soluble organic compounds into well-defined functional groups that exhibit similar reactive properties. DOC fractions were measured for five previously cultivated old fields undergoing secondary succession, and an undisturbed oak savanna. Despite differences in field age (time since abandonment), plant community composition, distribution and amounts of phytomass, C and N storage, and potential amounts of CO 2 -C and net-N mineralization, the quality of soil DOC did not appear to differ. Nearly all DOC occurred in acid fractions (77%); hydrophilic acids alone constituted 50%. The fractionation procedure was also performed at four different times during a 210-day regulated in vitro incubation of the soils. Despite decreasing mineralization response to soil DOC concentrations, the fractional composition of the DOC remained relatively constant throughout the incubation. Although we could not evaluate DOC utilization, the results demonstrated that soil DOC was altered during the decomposition of soil organic matter; both total amounts and the relative N content of the hydrophobic acid fraction increased during the incubation period.
Congenital effectiveness of an inhibitor of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase administered before implantation of the rat blastula.

A single dose of a stoichiometric inhibitor (2α-cyano-4,4,17α-trimethylandrost-5-en-17β-ol-3-one) of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehy-drogenase and Δ5-Δ4,3-ketosteroid isomerase produced the same congenital adrenogenital syndrome and defect of the fetal dehydrogenase system whether administered to pregnant rats on days 3–8 of gestation (pre-implantation), or to females 6 or 29 days prior to copulation (pre-ovulation). Thus, the analog is effective when injected considerably before the development of demonstrable activity of the dehydrogenase (day 15, 16), or of the differentiation of the cells containing the enzyme (day 11, 12). Enzyme inhibitory levels of analog were detected by an extraction and enzyme assay procedure in analog-treated animals in the injected leg 20 min and in both the leg and blood 1 hr after injection. Two days after injection, analog was not detected in the leg, adrenals, ovaries, liver, spleen, blood, fat, or intestines. Inhibitory levels of analog added directly to adrenals or ovaries were n...
Abstract 1070: Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDA) mice lacking Mucin 1 has a profound defect in tumor growth and metastasis

MUC1 is over expressed and aberrantly glycosolated in >60% of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. Over expression of MUC1 in pancreatic cancer is known, however the functional role has yet to be fully elucidated due to a dearth of appropriate models. In the present study, we have generated mouse models that spontaneously develop pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (KC), which are either Muc1 null (KCKO) or express human MUC1 as a self antigen (KCM). We show that PDA mice lacking Muc1 have significantly slower tumor progression, with tumor weight reaching up to a third of the KCM tumor and half of KC tumor. One out of 10 KCKO mice developed secondary metastasis versus 6 out of 10 and 3 out of 10 KCM and KC respectively. Cell lines derived from KCKO tumors have significantly lower tumorigenic capacity compared to cells derived from KCM tumors. Therefore, mice with KCKO tumors had a significant survival benefit compared to mice bearing the KCM tumors. In vitro, the KCKO cells have reduced proliferation and invasion compared to KCM cells and failed to respond to exogenous epidermal growth factor (EGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), or matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) stimuli. Further, significantly fewer KCKO cells entered the G 2 M phase of the cell cycle compared to the KCM cells, consequently more KCKO cells were observed at the S-phase of the cell cycle. Proteomics and western blotting analysis revealed a complete loss of cdc-25c expression, phosphorylation of MAPK, as well as a significant decrease in Nestin and Tubulin α-2 chain expression in KCKO cells. Treatment of the KCM cells with a MEK1/2 inhibitor, U0126, completely abrogated the enhanced proliferation of the KCM cells but had minimal effect on KCKO cells, strongly suggesting that MUC1 is necessary for MAPK activity and downstream oncogenic signaling. This is the first study to utilize a Muc1-null PDA mouse in order to fully elucidate the oncogenic role of MUC1, both in vivo and in vitro. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1070. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1070
Factors influencing students' use of a library Web portal: Applying course-integrated information literacy instruction as an intervention

Abstract This longitudinal study investigates factors influencing undergraduates' prior, current, and continued use of a university library Web portal using a credit-bearing course infused with information literacy (IL) components as an intervention. Applying a mixed methods approach and using the technology acceptance and information systems success models as theoretical foundations, the authors examined direct influences of user satisfaction, voluntariness, and competing resources on portal usage, as well as relationships among current use, user satisfaction, and continued use. The results indicated that the positive effect of user satisfaction on use increased and the unfavorable impact of voluntariness of use became non-significant after the intervention. Yet, the significant negative impact of competing resources on portal use remained unchanged. Additionally, current use had a significant positive relationship with user satisfaction which led to continued use. The outcomes signify that integrating IL components into credit courses could be a strategy to facilitate library portal use.
Placenta Accreta: MRI antenatal diagnosis and surgical correlation

We describe a case of a placenta previa accreta that was diagnosed antenatally by MRI with subsequent surgical confirmation. We show the advantages of ultrafast MRI single shot (SS) fast spin echo (FSE) techniques for accurate diagnosis with minimal scan time and fetal motion artifacts.
A quantitative method of dialect subgrouping: The case of dialects in Jiangsu and Shanghai

Abstract Until now most of the studies on Chinese dialect subgrouping have been carried out by listing and comparing a handful of the linguistic features within the framework of traditional historical linguistics. Following the methodology for quantifying the degrees of closeness among Chinese dialects proposed in Cheng (1982) , this paper presents a quantitative method of dialect subgrouping which uses both correlational analysis and cluster analysis. Using this approach the dialects of 74 locations in Jiangsu Province and the Shanghai Area in China will be subgrouped and discussed.
Lipid inhibitors of platelet-activating factor (PAF) in normal human plasma

Abstract Endogenous, human plasma-derived lipids that inhibit the platelet stimulating activity of platelet-activating factor (PAF) have been identified. Chromatographic fractionation of neutral lipid PAF inhibitors revealed a majority of PAF inhibitory activity comigrating with cholesterol and a second peak localized with free fatty acids. Plasma phospholipids demonstrated theee distinct PAF inhibitory fractions in TLC regions corresponding to those of sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. Three fractions (one neutral lipid and two phospholipid) specifically inhibited PAF-induced platelet activation. Thus, there are both specific and non-specific lipid inhibitors of PAF in normal human plasma. These plasma lipids may be important in the specific regulation of the diverse, potent biological activities of PAF in various physiological states.
Structural Health Monitoring of Wind Turbine Blades

Wind Turbine blade failures can occur in several modes, which may depend on the type of construction and load history. Cracking and delamination are two typical modes of blade failure (Fig. 1). A structural health monitoring (SHM) system can help to better understand warranty costs and warranty periods for the blades in wind turbines and predict imminent failure before it occurs. Currently, industry best practices are to increase the number of physical inspections when blades are approaching the end of their fatigue lives. Implementation of an in situ monitoring system would eliminate or greatly reduce the need for such physical inspections. Another benefit of such a monitoring system is that the life of any given component could be extended since real conditions would be monitored. The SHM system is designed to operate while the wind turbine is in service. This means that wireless communication options will be implemented. Because blade failures occur due to cyclic stresses in the blade material, the sensing system will focus on monitoring strain at various points. This paper describes a design and implementation scheme for a real time structural health monitoring system in order to better understand when blade replacement is necessary. Although not described in this research, the same concepts can also be applied to gearbox damage detection.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Only Some Are Dead Men Walking: Teaching About Race Discrimination and the Death Penalty

This paper describes an experiential learning exercise I have used to teach race discrimination in my introductory and criminology courses. The exercise is designed to introduce students to the concept of non-conscious forms of racial bias, a form of race discrimination often difficult for students to grasp. Using a hypothetical criminal case, students imagine themselves as jurors in a capital murder trial and decide whether the defendant should receive the death penalty or life imprisonment. The results of the exercise are used as a basis for class discussion. Specifically, I consider why the students' findings either support or challenge previous research and consider social-psychological arguments about how racism manifests itself on a non-conscious level. After outlining the specifics of the exercise and describing the class discussion in detail, I offer an evaluation of the assignment based on student feedback and my own reflection.
Convergence of Mayer expansions

The tree graph bound of Battle and Federbush is extended and used to provide a simple criterion for the convergence of (iterated) Mayer expansions. As an application estimates on the radius of convergence of the Mayer expansion for the two-dimensional Yukawa gas (nonstable interaction) are obtained.
An anticoincidence-shielded dual Ge(Li) gamma-ray spectrometer for low-level environmental radionuclide analysis and gamma-gamma coincidence studies

Abstract A high-efficiency anticoincidence-shielded Ge(Li) gamma-ray spectrometer incorporating 70 and 80 cm 3 Ge(Li) detectors with high resolution has been developed which provides greater sensitivity and versatility for measuring low levels of radionuclides in environmental samples than previously reported Ge(Li) spectrometers. Its sensitivity is sufficient for measuring many radionuclides at activity levels less than 1 dpm with counting intervals of only 1000 min and has provided the first nondestructive instrumental measurement of 108m Ag in environmental s samples. Examples of its application to other low level environmental problems are illustrated and discused. Its analytical applications as a gamma-gamma coincidence spectrometer are also discussed.
Crystal Structure of Human Profilaggrin S100 Domain and Identification of Target Proteins Annexin II, Stratifin, and HSP27.

The fused-type S100 protein profilaggrin and its proteolytic products including filaggrin are important in the formation of a normal epidermal barrier; however, the specific function of the S100 calcium-binding domain in profilaggrin biology is poorly understood. To explore its molecular function, we determined a 2.2 A-resolution crystal structure of the N-terminal fused-type S100 domain of human profilaggrin with bound calcium ions. The profilaggrin S100 domain formed a stable dimer, which contained two hydrophobic pockets that provide a molecular interface for protein interactions. Biochemical and molecular approaches demonstrated that three proteins, annexin II/p36, stratifin/14-3-3 sigma, and heat shock protein 27, bind to the N-terminal domain of human profilaggrin; one protein (stratifin) co-localized with profilaggrin in the differentiating granular cell layer of human skin. Together, these findings suggest a model where the profilaggrin N-terminus uses calcium-dependent and calcium-independent protein–protein interactions to regulate its involvement in keratinocyte terminal differentiation and incorporation into the cornified cell envelope.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme: vascular endothelial localization

Fluorescein-labeled antibody to rabbit pulmonary angiotensin-converting enzyme localized in the vascular endothelium of rabbit lung, liver, adrenal cortex, pancreas, kidney, and spleen. Epithelial cells of the renal proximal tubules were the only parenchymal cells among the organs studied that demonstrated immunoreactivity.
Sounder bias correction of the east-west radiance gradient

As reported by Weinreb et. al., both the imager and sounder exhibit an east-west radiance gradient due to reflection off the coating of the scan mirrors. While this problem was basically eliminated with ground processing in the imagers as of the spring and summer of 1995, the sounder instruments were corrected on March 26, 1996 and June 19, 1996 for the GOES-9 and GOES-8, respectively. This paper will investigate the process of minimizing the sounder east-west radiance variation by a radiance bias adjustment prior to the use of radiances in product generation. The sounder ground- corrected data show that the radiance bias adjustment does not change as much as a function of longitude, and that the biases between those observed from the sounder and those calculated from the 'truth' profiles are reduced. The artificial east-west gradient across the earth is difficult to observe due to several affects, including clouds, land/sea differences, topography and natural variations. Reducing/eliminating the artificial east-west gradient helps the retrieving of atmospheric parameters, like moisture. The second part of this paper presents the verification of satellite derived moisture profiles. Even before the ground correction of the east-west gradient, atmospheric moisture retrievals have been shown to improve upon the 'first guess' profile.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The effect of heparin on fibronectin and thrombospondin synthesis and mRNA levels in cultured human endothelial cells.

Abstract Studies to eludicate the effect of heparin on the synthesis of extracellular matrix components by cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (EC) were conducted. Using pulse-labeling and ELISA techniques, we found that EC grown in the presence of heparin (90 μg/ ml) and endothelial cell growth factor (ECGF) synthesized 50% less fibronectin (FN) than did ECGF-treated control cultures. No change in the synthesis of thrombospondin (TSP) was induced by heparin. The effect of heparin on EC FN synthesis was independent of whether the cells were cultivated on plastic or gelatin substrates. However, ECGF modulates the effect of heparin on EC synthesis of FN. RNA slot—blot analysis demonstrated that heparin treatment specifically decreased the steady-state mRNA levels for both FN and TSP in the cells. Steady-state levels of mRNA for two intracellular proteins, actin and tubulin, were unchanged. These data suggest that heparin decreases EC expression of FN at least in part by decreasing the amount of FN mRNA available for translation. The failure of heparin to inhibit TSP expression, although it reduces TSP mRNA levels, points to the possibility that the rate of EC synthesis of TSP is translationally or post-translationally regulated.
Renal revascularization by extra-anatomic bypass

Patients who suddenly become anuric and in whom no urinary obstruction is found should undergo arteriography both to confirm acute renal arterial occlusion and to plan surgical treatment. In acute renal arterial occlusion collateral circulation is often sufficient to maintain kidney viability and subsequent successful revascularization. Because there are no clinical or radiologic criteria to determine salvageability of the kidney, surgical exploration is advised in these patients. Such individuals who undergo successful renal revascularization often have gratifying return of renal function. Axillofemoral-renal bypass is suggested as a method to accomplish this objective.
Contesting the margins of modernity: women, migration, and consumption in Thailand

Rural women who move to Bangkok for employment confront significant social and economic constraints as low-wage, low-status migrant labor; yet experiences of exploitation in the workplace are widely mediated by aspirations for and participation in new patterns of commodity consumption. In this article, I examine these consumption practices as important sites of cultural struggle in which young women seek to construct new identities and contest their marginalization within the wider society, albeit with conflicting and often ambivalent results.
Effective engagement of decisionmakers in program evaluation

Abstract The necessity for evaluators who produce program information to forge links with decisionmakers who use program information is a major theme in the literature on evaluation use. This paper describes techniques successfully developed in one federal agency to forge those links. The techniques are designed to engage decisionmakers at five key points in the evaluation process: (a) during the identification of candidate programs for evaluation; (b) in the selection among candidates; (c) while the evaluation is being conducted; (d) during the reporting of evaluation results; and (e) in assessments of the impact of completed evaluations.
Corruption and term limits: An investment approach

In many developing countries, there seems to be more corruption. In this paper, an explanation is proposed. It is argued that term limitations give presidents the incentives to increase their personal income in the present period by diverting resources that could be used for the production of public goods. Under a term limitation, such an opportunity will not appear again.
Heat transport by moving charge-density waves

Abstract By employing a novel technique we have measured the thermoelectric Onsager coefficient L12 in the current carrying charge-density wave state of TaS3 and K0.3MoO3. The electric field dependence of the charge-density wave Peltier coefficient in the nonlinear conductivity regime is given by IICDW=T[c1 (T)+c2 (T) E]. At electric fields E ⪢ ET the heat carried is proportional to the Joule heat generated by the translational motion of the condensate. The implications of this result are discussed.
Variables in Effective CEO-Medical Director Relations

It is becoming commonplace that physicians are not just working in hospitals but are helping run them as well. This means that chief executive officers are working side by side with chief medical officers. What are the factors that influence the working relationship between these roles? The author presents data from a survey that helps to answer this question.
Pitfalls of School-University Partnerships

Teacher candidates and teacher-preparation faculties have long valued authentic experiences serving students in elementary, middle, and secondary schools. In the last two decades, the popularity of school-community partnerships, service learning, and other forms of civic engagement by universities has increased. At the same time, limitations on local school resources, the shortage of qualified teachers in distressed areas, and the stress to perform on high stakes testing has led to abuses of the partnerships from both sides. In this article, the authors elucidate some of the pitfalls experienced in a partnership with a distressed school district and suggest means to avoid these problems.
Pseudotumor and lymphoid tumor: Distinct clinicopathologic entities

Abstract Although in the past some have considered lymphoid tumor to be a form of pseudotumor, clinical, radiologic and pathologic features show them to be distinct entities. Acute pseudotumor presents with abrupt, painful onset, and CT scan shows a diffuse process with no distinct mass to biopsy. Chronic or recurrent pseudotumor leads to a mass of fibrosis apparent on CT scan, which should be biopsied. Lymphoid tumor presents without pain, and orbital CT scan shows a homogenous mass that should be biopsied. Acute pseudotumor usually responds to steroids, but patients with chronic or recurrent pseudotumor may require low-dose radiation or immunosuppressive therapy. Lymphoid tumors that are classified as reactive lymphoid hyperplasia initially may be treated withh steroids, followed by low-dose radiation if steroids are ineffective. Orbital lymphomas are treated with higher dose radiation and, perhaps, chemotherapy, if systemic disease is present. Reports of representative cases of acute and chronic pseudotumor and lymphoid tumor illustrate the distinguishing clinical, radiologic and pathologic characteristics of each type of tumor, and recommendations for management of each type are outlined.
The order determination problem for linear time-varying AR models

We are often faced with the problem of estimating the number of parameters, as well as their values, for a model that will fit a given set of observations. An important study of this identification problem was made by Akaike, who improved the maximum likelihood principle and established the so-called AIC criterion to select suitable models. This criterion has been applied extensively to constant coefficient AR models. The question of validity of the AIC approach for more general models appears to be open. Motivated by the desire to model nonstationary geophysical data the main purpose of this paper is to establish conditions guaranteeing the validity of the AIC approach to a class of time-varying AR models.
Androgen influence on mating behavior in selected lines of Japanese quail

Abstract Bidirectional selection for high and low mating behavior has resulted in lines of Japanese quail that differ significantly in mating frequency. To evaluate the effects of this selection on the endocrine aspects of mating behavior, exogenous testosterone cypionate (TC) was administered to caponized and intact males from selected and control lines. Dosages of TC, administered as a single injection, were 0, 5.0, and 10.0 mg for the caponized and 1.25, 2.5, and 5.0 mg for the intact males. Mating performance was measured by testing each male individually with a series of female tester-flocks for eight 8-min periods. Capons mated within 3 to 4 days postinjection, with the period of peak activity occurring between the eighth and twelfth days. Hypertrophy of the cloacal gland followed a similar pattern. At no TC level was the mating frequency of caponized males from the low mating line equal to that of males from the high mating line. Furthermore, exogenous TC at these dosages failed to stimulate capons from the high and low mating lines to mate as frequently as the intact males of their respective lines. Exogenous TC had a depressing effect upon the mating frequency of intact males from the high mating and control lines but had no influence on those from the low mating line.