cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
What is a pixel

The total list of processing required to view a pixel includes antialiasing, offset sampling, color space projection, reconstruction filter compensation, compositing, gamma correction, and quantization and dithering. If we look at all these operations we can see a pattern: Almost all of them throw away information. When we filter out high frequencies, quantize intensities into bins, project a continuous color spectrum into three numbers, and represent geometric edges with a single transparency value we can see that an ordinary-hardware pixel, either refreshed on the screen or stored in a file, is simply a bad data compression technique. Any rendering algorithm or image processing operation that converts data to pixels generally loses information about the original data that it uses as input. A few polygons become thousands of pixels; a high-resolution image becomes a low-resolution image. Conversion to pixels for viewing purposes used to be a slow operation, but with faster processors we no longer need to do the image generation offline for speed purposes. We can recalculate the image whenever we need to look at it.
The relationship between purely stochastic sampling error and the number of technical replicates used to estimate concentration at an extreme dilution

For any analytical system the population mean (μ) number of entities (e.g., cells or molecules) per tested volume, surface area, or mass also defines the population standard deviation\( (\sigma = \sqrt {\mu } ) \). For a preponderance of analytical methods, σ is very small relative to μ due to their large limit of detection (>102 per volume). However, in theory at least, DNA-based detection methods (real-time, quantitative or qPCR) can detect ≈ 1 DNA molecule per tested volume (i.e., μ ≈ 1) whereupon errors of random sampling can cause sample means (\( \overline x \)) to substantially deviate from μ if the number of samplings (n), or “technical replicates”, per observation is too small. In this work the behaviors of two measures of sampling error (each replicated fivefold) are examined under the influence of n. For all data (μ = 1.25, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 20) a large sample of individual analytical counts (x) were created and randomly assigned into N integral-valued sub-samples each containing between 2 and 50 repeats (n) whereupon N × n = 322 to 361. From these data the average μ-normalized deviation of σ from each sub-sample’s standard deviation estimate \(\left( {s_j ;\;j = 1\;{\hbox{to}}\;N;\;N = 7\;\left[ {n = 50} \right]\;{\hbox{to}}\;180\;\left[ {n = 2} \right]} \right)\) was calculated (Δ). Alternatively, the average μ-normalized deviation of μ from each sub-sample’s mean estimate (\( {\overline x_{\rm{j}}} \)) was also evaluated (Δ′). It was found that both of these empirical measures of sampling error were proportional to \( \sqrt[{ - 2}]{{n \cdot \mu }} \). Derivative (∂/∂n · Δ or Δ′) analyses of our results indicate that a large number of samplings \( (n \approx {33}\pm {3}.{1}) \) are requisite to achieve a nominal sampling error for samples with a μ ≈ 1. This result argues that pathogen detection is most economically performed, even using highly sensitive techniques such as qPCR, when some form of organism cultural enrichment is utilized and which results in a binomial response. Thus, using a specific gene PCR-based (+ or −) most probable number (MPN) assay one could detect anywhere from 0.2 to 105 CFU mL−1 using 6 to 48 reactions (i.e., 8 dilutions × 6 replicates per dilution) depending on the initial concentration of the pathogen and volume sampled.
The low cycle fatigue behavior of high strength 7XXX-type aluminium alloys in the T7351 condition

Abstract The effect of copper content (from 0.01% to 2.1 %) on the low cycle fatigue behavior of four Al6Zn2MgXCu-T7351 alloys was investigated in laboratory air and dry air and compared with a previous study of the T651 condition. This research was designed so that the effect of copper content could be studied independent of variations in degree of coherency of the precipitates. Incoherent strengthening precipitates were obtained for all alloys by using the overaging T7351 treatment. Unlike the results of the T651 study, no difference in the strain-life behavior was observed for the four alloys in either environment. Cyclic softening was observed and associated with grain boundary and slip band crack initiation and subsequent microcrack coalescence. The departure from linearity observed in the strain-life plots for both the peak-aged and overaged conditions is associated with the fatigue crack initiation mechanism. Cracks are initiated at grain boundaries at high strain amplitudes and at slip bands at low strain amplitudes. Both mechanisms are possible at intermediate amplitudes.
Cellular energy metabolism during fetal development. III. Deficient acetyl-CoA synthetase, acetylcarnitine transferase and oxidation of acetate in the fetal bovine heart

Abstract 1. Fetal heart mitochondria are deficient in their capacity to oxidize acetate. 2. This has been related to lower acetyl-CoA synthetase (acetate: CoA ligase (AMP), EC (6.2.1.2.) activity in the fetal heart as compared with the calf and adult. 3. Acetylcarnitine transferase (E.C. 2.3.1.7.) activity of fetal heart mitochondria is also lower than that found in older animals. 4. Evidence is presented indicating that acetylcarnitine transferase is present in two mitochondrial compartments. Fetal heart mitochondria show oxidation of acetylcarnitine but not acetyl-CoA plus carnitine. This indicates that the fetal heart is functionally deficient in acetylcarnitine transferase activity outside of the membrane barrier to acetyl-CoA but that an internal compartment of the enzyme can convert acetylcarnitine to acetyl-CoA.
Multidirectional UV Lithography for Complex 3-D MEMS Structures

Various three-dimensionally (3-D) complex MEMS structures are fabricated using multidirectional ultraviolet (UV) lithography, which includes reverse-side exposure through a UV-transparent substrate, inclined exposure with or without simultaneous substrate rotation, and the combination of these processes. A reverse-side exposure scheme through UV-transparent substrates (e.g., glass, sapphire, or quartz) has been exploited for implementing high-aspect-ratio structures (greater than 20:1), repeatable self-alignment photoresist patterning with subsequent metallization on a BST/sapphire substrate, and unconventional patterning using substrate optics such as proximity patterning or integrated lens techniques. Inclined exposure has been applied to a SU-8 substrate with differing inclination angles and incidence directions. The refractive index of SU-8 is experimentally determined to be 1.68 by means of test structures fabricated using this approach. Implemented structures using the inclined exposure include vertical screen structures, inclined tubes, and conical shape structures. Dynamic mode operation, in which the substrate is continuously rotated and tilted during exposure is also discussed. Examples of achievable 3-D structures using dynamic mode operation are presented
Phlyctenular keratoconjunctivitis in a patient with Staphylococcal blepharitis and ocular rosacea.

Abstract Background Phlyctenular keratoconjunctivitis is a type IV hypersensitivity reaction to an inciting agent. The presentation is usually bilateral. The diagnosis can be difficult, especially if compounded by an underlying skin disorder such as rosacea. The 2 types of phlyctenules are differentiated based on the location on the eye, i.e., conjunctival or corneal. Case report A 22-year-old man presented with painful, bilateral, elevated vascularized corneal lesions. Ultimately, the diagnosis was bilateral phlyctenular keratoconjunctivitis secondary to concurrent posterior blepharitis and recurrent ocular rosacea. The patient was treated with topical steroids and followed up with until his lids and corneas stabilized. He was then maintained with oral doxycycline and cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion 0.5%. Lid hygiene and maintenance is a key factor in the course of the disease. Conclusion Phlyctenular keratoconjunctivitis usually responds well to topical steroids, but any inciting agents should be identified and treated. Complications include corneal scarring, thinning, and perforation. Staphylococcus aureus is a common culprit, and tuberculosis as a possible cause should also be considered.
Systematic Sampling with Unequal Probability and without Replacement

Abstract Given a population of N units, it is required to draw a sample of n distinct units in such a way that the probability for the i th unit to be in the sample is proportional to its ‘size’ x. From the alternative methods of achieving this we consider here only the so-called systematic method which, to the best of our knowledge, was first developed by W. G. Madow (1949): The units in the population are listed in a ‘particular’ order, their xi accumulated and a systematic selection of n elements from a ‘random start’ is then made on the accumulation. In a more recent paper (H. O. Hartley and J. N. K. Rao (1962)) an asymptotic estimation theory (for large N) associated with this procedure was developed for the case when the order of the listed units is random. In this paper we draw attention to certain properties of Madow's estimator: We utilize the fact that with systematic sampling the total number of different samples is N (rather than ( N n ) as with completely random sampling). This simplification...
Carbon-atom wires: charge-transfer doping, voltage drop, and the effect of distortions

We present first-principles calculations on electrical conduction through carbon atomic wires. The changes in charge distribution induced by a large bias exhibit the primary involvement of the wire's $\ensuremath{\pi}$ states. A significant fraction $(\ensuremath{\sim}40%)$ of the voltage drops across the atomic wire itself. At zero bias, there is a large transfer of charge from the electrodes to the wire, effectively providing doping without introducing scattering centers. This transfer leads, however, to potential barriers at the wire-electrode junctions. Bending the wire reduces its conductance.
Passive immunization against marinobufagenin attenuates renal fibrosis and improves renal function in experimental renal disease.

Elevated levels of endogenous cardiotonic steroids (CTS) have been reported in a variety of clinical conditions associated with plasma volume expansion, such as congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic renal failure, hypertension (HTN), renal ischemia, and preeclampsia.1 We have shown that the cardiotonic steroid marinobufagenin (MBG), signaling through the Na/K-ATPase pathway, causes many of the adverse pathologic effects of experimental renal disease induced by removal of five-sixths of the kidney (5/6 nephrectomy; PNx) in the rat.2,3 Furthermore, our group has demonstrated that pharmacologic administration of MBG causes cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in rats, whereas active immunization against MBG attenuated this in PNx animals.2,3 Additionally, treatment of cardiac fibroblasts with MBG at concentrations similar to those reported in experimental and clinical renal failure has been shown to stimulate collagen production.3 This increase in collagen production appears to depend on the Na/K-ATPase-Src-EGFR-ROS signaling cascade.1,3 We have also demonstrated that MBG induces renal fibrosis by stimulating the transcription factor Snail, leading to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the tubular epithelia.4 The transcription factor Friend leukemia integration-1 (Fli-1) has been shown to be a negative regulator of collagen synthesis.5,6 Protein kinase C-δ (PKC-δ) phosphorylates Fli-1 and promotes collagen synthesis.7 Our studies indicate that MBG signaling through the Na/K-ATPase-Src-EGFR-ROS cascade initiated PKC-δ translocation to the nucleus, leading to Fli-1 phosphorylation and collagen production.8 Our laboratory recently reported that treatment with a monoclonal antibody (mAb) directed against MBG (3E9 mAb) in PNx animals drastically decreased their blood pressure, significantly reduced cardiac levels of oxidant stress, increased the expression of Fli-1, and significantly reduced cardiac fibrosis.9 The goals of the current study were to determine whether immunization against MBG through the administration of 3E9 mAb would reduce the development of renal fibrosis, and improve renal function in experimental renal failure.
Electrokinetic chromatography and mass spectrometric detection using latex nanoparticles as a pseudostationary phase.

The utility of novel latex nanoparticles as pseudostationary phases for electrokinetic chromatography with UV and mass spectrometric detection is demonstrated. The nanoparticles are synthesized using ab initio RAFT (reversible addition−fragmentation chain transfer) in emulsion polymerization, which yields small (63 nm) particles with a narrow size distribution, a hydrophobic core, and an ionic shell. The nanoparticles are shown to provide efficient and selective separations, with retention and separation selectivity dominated by hydrophobic interactions. The nanoparticles are highly retentive, such that they are effective at relatively low concentrations. Addition of the nanoparticles to the background electrolyte at these concentrations has a minor effect on the noise with UV detection, no measurable effect on the separation current, and minor effects on analyte ionization efficiency during electrospray ionization. The nanoparticles do not cause fouling or degradation of the electrospray−mass spectromete...
Device optimization for integration of thin-film power electronics with thin-film energy-harvesting devices to create power-delivery systems on plastic sheets

Large-area electronics, through the integration of energy-harvesting devices and TFTs, can provide complete powering systems with embedded power electronics on large, flexible sheets. The performance and application range of such systems depends strongly on the characteristics of TFTs and harvesting devices. We explore device constraints and show how novel thin-film circuit topologies, and their optimization (enhanced by large-area passive components), can mitigate these constraints. Two power-inversion systems serve as vehicles for analysis.
Characterization of renal cell carcinoma, oncocytoma, and lipid-poor angiomyolipoma by unenhanced, nephrographic, and delayed phase contrast-enhanced computed tomography

The purpose of this study was to assess the characterization of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and benign renal tumors by unenhanced, nephrographic, and delayed phase computed tomography (CT). The study group consisted of 129 renal tumors including 79 clear cell RCCs, 17 papillary RCCs, 6 chromophobe RCCs, 21 oncocytoma, and 6 lipid-poor angiomyolipomas (AMLs). CT studies were retrospectively reviewed. Our results suggested that it was possible to discriminate clear cell RCC from papillary RCC, chromophobe RCC, and lipid-poor AML. CT findings of oncocytoma overlapped with both clear cell and non-clear cell RCCs, although oncocytoma more commonly became homogeneous in the delayed phase.
911 SICKLE CELL BLOOD INCREASES PROSTACYCLIN (PGI 2 ) PRODUCTION BY CULTURED ENDOTHLIAL CELLS IN AN IN VITRO FLOW SYSTEM

911 SICKLE CELL BLOOD INCREASES PROSTACYCLIN (PGI 2 ) PRODUCTION BY CULTURED ENDOTHLIAL CELLS IN AN IN VITRO FLOW SYSTEM
Solubility of calcium carbonate in seawater at high pressures and 2°C

Abstract The solubility product of calcium carbonate in seawater at high pressure was determined at 2°C. Results were used to study the degree of calcium carbonate saturation in the Pacific Ocean, and to determine the change in molal volume upon solution of calcium carbonate.
Classes of flow rules for finite viscoplasticity

Abstract Classes of flow rules for finite viscoplasticity are defined by assuming that certain measures for plastic strain rate and plastic spin depend on the state variables but not on the plastic deformation. It is shown that three of these classes are mutually exclusive for finite elastic strains. For small elastic shear strains, two of the three classes are approximately equivalent. A number of exact and approximate kinematic relations between the various measures for plastic strain rate and plastic spin are derived. Some inconsistent flow rules encountered in the literature are also discussed. Throughout the paper, arbitrarily anisotropic materials are considered, and some of the simplifications resulting from the assumption of isotropy are noted.
The effect of metastatic site and decade of diagnosis on the individual burden of metastatic melanoma: contemporary estimates of average years of life lost.

Objectives: Metastatic melanoma (MM) is a leading cause of years of life lost due to malignancy. This study aimed to identify the average years of life lost (AYLL) in MM patients. Methods: MM patients were identified from a prospectively maintained database, and a linear model predicting AYLL was developed. Results: Between 1970 and 1999, 4,774 patients diagnosed with MM died. The AYLL was 23.2 years. AYLL remained stable across three decades. Conclusions: AYLL for MM is greater than 20 years, and has not improved. This burden underscores the need for continued research and access to funding for this disease.
Apical-basal polarity proteins are required cell-type specifically to direct photoreceptor morphogenesis.

Summary Insect photoreceptor function is dependent on precise placement of the rhabdomeres, elaborated apical domains specialized for capturing light, within each facet of a compound eye [1]. In Diptera, an asymmetric arrangement of rhabdomeres, combined with a particular pattern of axonal connections, enhances light sensitivity through the principle of neural superposition [2, 3]. To achieve the necessary retinal geometry, different photoreceptors (R cells) have distinct shapes. The Crumbs and Bazooka complexes play critical roles in directing rhabdomere development [4–9], but whether they might direct cell-type-specific apical architectures is unknown. We demonstrate that while mutations in Bazooka complex members cause pleiotropic morphogenesis defects in all R cell subtypes, Crumbs (Crb) and Stardust (Sdt) function cell autonomously to direct early stages in rhabdomere assembly in specific subsets of R cells. This requirement is reflected in the cell-type-specific expression of Crb protein and demonstrates that Sdt and Crb can act independently to similar effect. These two genes are also required for zonula adherens (ZA) assembly but display an unusual pattern of cellular redundancy for this function, as each gene is required in only one of two adjoining cells. Our results provide a direct link between fate specification and morphogenetic patterning and suggest a model for ZA assembly.
Extensive projections from the midbrain periaqueductal gray to the caudal ventrolateral medulla: a retrograde and anterograde tracing study in the rat

We investigated the innervation of the caudal ventrolateral medulla by the midbrain periaqueductal gray in the rat using retrograde and anterograde tract-tracing. Iontophoretic injection of Fluoro-Gold or cholera toxin B subunit into the caudal ventrolateral medulla resulted in retrogradely labeled neurons in discrete regions of the periaqueductal gray. These labeled cells were observed throughout the rostrocaudal extent of the periaqueductal gray and were distributed (as percentage of total labeled cells) in its lateral (53-67%), ventrolateral (14-28%), ventromedial (7-16%) and dorsomedial aspects (7-10%). About 70-72% of labeled cells were found in the caudal half of the periaqueductal gray and 28-30% in the rostral half. In the ventromedial periaqueductal gray, more labeled cells were seen in the contralateral side (5-13%) than the ipsilateral side (2-3%), whereas for other periaqueductal gray areas labeling was preferentially ipsilateral. Phaseolus vulgaris leucoagglutinin anterograde tracing was used to confirm the retrograde labeling results. Following iontophoretic injection into the periaqueductal gray, labeled fibers and terminals were observed throughout the rostrocaudal extent of the caudal ventrolateral medulla. Injections in the lateral and/or ventrolateral aspect of the periaqueductal gray yielded more anterograde labeling in the ipsilateral than the contralateral caudal ventrolateral medulla, while injections in the ventromedial aspect of the periaqueductal gray produced labeling preferentially in the contralateral caudal ventrolateral medulla. The present study indicates that specific regions of the periaqueductal gray project to the caudal ventrolateral medulla and may regulate cardiovascular and respiratory functions through these connections.
Central Nervous System Grafting: Animal and Clinical Results

In the 2 years since this topic was reviewed, there have been dramatic changes in our understanding of the basic science of central nervous system transplantation, as well as further realization of the crude state in which we find the clinical application of this technology. Early concepts of simple diffusion and neuronal replacement have been altered as we understand more the rule of neurotrophic factors and the response of the host to the transplantation process. Clinical studies are becoming increasingly sophisticated as we realize that the initial observations were frequently flawed and quantitative eveluations are increasingly important in determining the effectiveness of the procedure. There is, nervertheless, still a great deal of excitement in the field as new technologies are being developed and utilized in the clinical sphere.
Acute rectus muscle palsy in children as a result of orbital myositis

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Acute rectus muscle palsy caused by orbital myositis is often confused with infectious orbital cellulitis. The purpose of this article is to clarify the former condition by explaining how it is manifested and treated. METHODS: The seven children less than age 11 years in this study were examined after having an acute onset of ocular pain. Physical examination indicated a loss of motility in the field of action of the involved extraocular rectus muscle. Computed tomographic examination confirmed the existence of orbital myositis. Treatment consisted of intravenous or oral administration of corticosteroids. RESULTS: In all the initial evaluations, computed tomography showed the isolated rectus muscle to be enlarged. In four of the patients in whom the lateral rectus was involved, esotropia was present in the primary position. In the fifth patient with lateral rectus involvement, esotropia was seen only in the field of gaze of the involved lateral rectus muscle. The patient with medial rectus involvement had exotropia, and the patient with superior rectus involvement had hypotropia on the involved side. Each had injection and chemosis of the conjunctiva and Tenon fascia only in the quadrant overlying the involved rectus muscle. CONCLUSIONS: Children with orbital myositis can have an acute rectus muscle palsy. The inflammation and strabismus are exquisitely sensitive to systemic corticosteroid therapy, which produces a rapid resolution of symptoms. If the steroid therapy is discontinued abruptly, the myositis can recur. (J PEDIATR 1996;128:230-3)
Probiotics in pediatrics.

At birth, the gastrointestinal tract is sterile. Within hours, bacteria ingested during the birthing process rapidly colonize the gut. The gastrointestinal tract soon contains about 10 times as many bacteria as there are cells in the body. Hundreds of species are present, many of which are unculturable and remain unidentified. It is these bacteria that are responsible for priming the gastrointestinal immune system. Studies in germ-free mice have proven that without these bacteria, the systemic immune system will not function normally.1 After this initial colonization, a person’s individual gut flora remain remarkably constant throughout life. The gut immune system learns to recognize and tolerate those bacterial species acquired during early infancy. Consequently, it is very difficult to permanently change gastrointestinal flora after this time. As one would therefore expect, each person’s bacterial flora are remarkably similar to that of his/her mother, as they were initially ingested from the mother’s vagina at birth. The vagina is typically colonized with normal fecal flora.2 Most gastrointestinal organisms are relatively benign. Some are potentially more pathogenic; however, many are actually beneficial. It is these beneficial organisms that have attracted attention as possible probiotics. Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that, when ingested, produce some therapeutic or preventive health benefit.3 Because of the difficulty in permanently changing intestinal flora, successful colonization with a probiotic is usually transient. In fact, many so-called probiotics fail to colonize even transiently, as the gastrointestinal tract has many defenses that inhibit colonization. These include gastric acid, duodenal bile, mucin, and the gut immune system.4 Successful probiotics are capable of resisting these insults, and transiently take up …
Probing the energetics of organic-nanoparticle interactions of ethanol on calcite

Knowing the nature of interactions between small organic molecules and surfaces of nanoparticles (NP) is crucial for fundamental understanding of natural phenomena and engineering processes. Herein, we report direct adsorption enthalpy measurement of ethanol on a series of calcite nanocrystals, with the aim of mimicking organic–NP interactions in various environments. The energetics suggests a spectrum of adsorption events as a function of coverage: strongest initial chemisorption on active sites on fresh calcite surfaces, followed by major chemical binding to form an ethanol monolayer and, subsequently, very weak, near-zero energy, physisorption. These thermochemical observations directly support a structure where the ethanol monolayer is bonded to the calcite surface through its polar hydroxyl group, leaving the hydrophobic ends of the ethanol molecules to interact only weakly with the next layer of adsorbing ethanol and resulting in a spatial gap with low ethanol density between the monolayer and subsequent added ethanol molecules, as predicted by molecular dynamics and density functional calculations. Such an ordered assembly of ethanol on calcite NP is analogous to, although less strongly bonded than, a capping layer of organics intentionally introduced during NP synthesis, and suggests a continuous variation of surface structure depending on molecular chemistry, ranging from largely disordered surface layers to ordered layers that nevertheless are mobile and can rearrange or be displaced by other molecules to strongly bonded immobile organic capping layers. These differences in surface structure will affect chemical reactions, including the further nucleation and growth of nanocrystals on organic ligand-capped surfaces.
Country-level spatial dynamics of user activity: a case study in location-based social networks

Identifying and understanding the emerging patterns in user activity is an important step in designing and developing features for online social networks. With the explosive growth of user-generated data in such networks, the recorded user activities are no more sparse snapshots but are close to a live reflection of real life. This allows us to extract patterns which are tied to the time and space context of real life activity from such recorded data. In this work, we analyze two rich datasets obtained from two major location-based social networks (Foursquare and Gowalla) and show how users change their activity patterns depending on the country they currently reside on. We also compare activity patterns between foreign users from different countries and local users. The detailed results may not automatically generalize but this kind of analysis can be repeated on different datasets and the outcomes of such analyses can benefit social and behavioral scientists as well as designers of online social media.
Influences of short-term pre-slaughter dietary manipulation in sheep and goats on pH and microbial loads of gastrointestinal tract

Abstract Sheep (BW = 39.9 kg, n = 16) and goats (BW = 32.8 kg, n = 16) were used in a completely randomized design to determine the effect of short-term pre-slaughter diet and feed deprivation (FD) time on pH and microbial loads in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) contents. In a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement, the main effects of species, diet, and FD time prior to slaughter and their interactions were studied. Animals were fed either a hay or concentrate diet for 4 d and then feed deprived for either 12 or 24-h prior to slaughter. The pH of rumen and colon contents as well as weight of GIT was measured. The contents of rumen and rectum were also sampled for microbial analysis. The GIT of sheep (1.82 kg) was heavier (P
Good and poor mobilizing patients differ in mobilized CD34+ cell adhesion molecule profiles.

BACKGROUND: Alterations in expression of adhesion molecules are important in the trafficking of hematopoietic progenitors and probably in the mobilization process. Relatively little and conflicting data are currently available on the differences in expression between good and poor mobilizing patients. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In this study, the expression of eight adhesion molecules on the collected CD34+ cells from 36 patients undergoing mobilization was determined. RESULTS: Good mobilizing patients, defined as those who collected their target in one apheresis procedure, had significantly fewer cells that expressed CD11a (LFA-1) and CD54 (ICAM-1) and borderline fewer that expressed CD11c, CD49d (VLA-4), and CD49d (VLA-5). No differences were detected in CD11b (Mac-1), CD15s (sLex), or CD62L (L-selectin). Linear regression analysis identified number of prior chemotherapy courses and expression of CD11a (LFA-1) as independent predictive factors for mobilization efficiency. Good and poor mobilizing patients had approximately the same number of total CD34+ cells collected and little difference in times to engraftment. CONCLUSIONS: CD11a (LFA-1) expression inversely correlates with mobilization efficiency. Elucidation of the mechanism(s) underlying these observations will require further study.
Immunobiology of Cardiac Allograft and Xenograft Transplantation

Heart transplantation has been performed clinically for four decades, and has become the standard of care for end-stage heart disease. Our understanding of the immunobiology of transplantation has made tremendous strides, but our knowledge still lags behind the clinical use. As a result, nonspecific immunosuppression remains the standard therapy. This chapter is a review of our present knowledge of the immunobiology of allotransplantation and xenotransplantation with emphasis on antigen presentation, costimulation, and T-cell activation in the context of transplantation. The molecular events of T-cell activation, with some emphasis on the sites of action of present day immunosuppression, are reviewed. Basic aspects of immunosuppression are reviewed elsewhere in this edition. Given the paucity of allografts, xenografts are being considered as an alternative donor source. This being the case, cellular and humoral response to xenografts is considered and contrasted with our understanding of allograft immunity. Basic mechanisms of tolerance are discussed, with examples of experimental tolerance induction in small and large animals. A brief description of special considerations for the immunology in human neonate/infant recipients is mentioned. Understanding the immunobiology of transplantation is key to making decisions regarding heart transplant recipients today, in addition to developing better protocols and the induction of tolerance in the future.
Lymph node dissection in the surgical management of atypical endometrial hyperplasia.

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of lymph node dissection in patients with atypical endometrial hyperplasia. Study Design Patients undergoing surgical management of atypical endometrial hyperplasia during the study period were retrospectively identified. Clinical and pathologic information was analyzed. Results Eighty-eight patients comprised our cohort. Median age was 54 years (range, 37–85 years). Sixty-seven patients had lymph node dissection at the time of surgery for atypical endometrial hyperplasia, whereas 21 did not. Twenty-five of 88 (28.4%) had endometrial carcinoma on final uterine pathology. Stages were as follows: 4 IA, 15 IB, 3 IC, 2 IIB, and 1 IIIC. Surgical outcomes were not statistically significant between staged and unstaged groups. Information from lymph node dissection influenced management decisions in 7 of the 25 (28%) cancer patients. Conclusion Lymph node dissection did not adversely affect surgical outcomes in patients with atypical endometrial hyperplasia. Because many of these patients have concurrent endometrial cancer, we recommend consideration of lymph node dissection in atypical endometrial hyperplasia patients undergoing definitive surgical treatment.
Correlation between soil apparent electroconductivity and plant hyperspectral reflectance in a managed wetland

The apparent electrical conductivity (σa) of soil is influenced by a complex combination of soil physical and chemical properties. For this reason, σa is proposed as an indicator of plant stress and potential community structure changes in an alkaline wetland setting. However, assessing soil σa is relatively laborious and difficult to accomplish over large wetland areas. This work examines the feasibility of using the hyperspectral reflectance of the vegetation canopy to characterize the σa of the underlying substrate in a study conducted in a Central California managed wetland. σa determined by electromagnetic (EM) inductance was tested for correlation with in-situ hyperspectral reflectance measurements, focusing on a key waterfowl forage species, swamp timothy (Crypsis schoenoides). Three typical hyperspectral indices, individual narrow-band reflectance, first-derivative reflectance and a narrow-band normalized difference spectral index (NDSI), were developed and related to soil σa using univariate regression models. The coefficient of determination (R2) was used to determine optimal models for predicting σa, with the highest value of R2 at 2206 nm for the individual narrow bands (R2 = 0.56), 462 nm for the first-derivative reflectance (R2 = 0.59), and 1549 and 2205 nm for the narrow-band NDSI (R2 = 0.57). The root mean squared error (RMSE) and relative root mean squared error (RRMSE) were computed using leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV) for accuracy assessment. The results demonstrate that the three indices tested are valid for estimating σa, with the first-derivative reflectance performing better (RMSE = 30.3 mS m-1, RRMSE = 16.1%) than the individual narrow-band reflectance (RMSE = 32.3 mS m-1, RRMSE = 17.1%) and the narrow-band NDSI (RMSE = 31.5 mS m-1, RRMSE = 16.7%). The results presented in this paper demonstrate the feasibility of linking plant-soil σa interactions using hyperspectral indices based on in-situ spectral measurements.
Spatio-temporal Rayleigh matches

Abstract Rayleigh Matches are identical whether the red plus green primaries are presented steadily or in counterphase sinusoidal flicker above fusion. Below fusion, however, the color appearance of the heterochromatic field is a function of flicker frequency such that at lower frequencies subjects selected shorter wavelengths as a match to the heterochromatic field. When Rayleigh Matches were made at color fusion threshold, the wavelength selected as a match was invariant with frequency. At several modulation amplitudes above color fusion threshold Rayleigh Matches were both frequency and modulation amplitude dependent. Given a standard wavelength 5–20 nm shorter than the static Rayleigh Match monochromatic standard, subjects were able to adjust the modulation amplitude of the flickering red and green primaries to achieve a color match at various flicker frequencies. The modulation amplitude/frequency/wavelength relationship adequately describes a three dimensional Rayleigh Match space.
The application of the indirect boundary element method to optimum shape design

Abstract This paper presents a strategy for optimum shape design using the indirect boundary element method. The optimization problem is solved iteratively by transforming the implicit non-linear problem to a sequence of explicit linear sub-problems. Beginning with initial geometry, the boundary is modified until convergence to the minimum stress distribution is achieved. The optimization is applicable to any loading condition and is adaptable to any boundary element code. The paper also presents three formulations for computing the stress sensitivity using the indirect boundary element method. The optimization algorithm is applied to optimize the shape of 90 ° V-notch under tensile stress and combined shear and tensile stresses. The optimum shapes and stress distributions for wide ranges of σ xy σ xx ratios are determined. The monotonic convergence of the peak boundary stress reflects the high accuracy the indirect boundary element method provides in the computation of the stress sensitivities. In all cases, convergence is attained at the fourth iteration. It is also shown that minimizing the boundary stress is a process that can be described as a curvature re-distribution process. The curvature is decreased in the highly stressed segment and is increased in the low stressed segments. Finally, it is shown that the constant stress distribution along the entire moving boundary is not always the optimum solution. The portion of the boundary, over which the optimum stress is constant, is a function of the applied loading. For uniform tensile loading, σxx, the optimum stress distribution is constant along the entire moving boundary. The constant stress region along the moving boundary then decreases as the shear loading is applied.
Volume changes correlate with entropies and enthalpies in the formation of nucleic acid homoduplexes: differential hydration of A and B conformations.

We have used a combination of densimetric, calorimetric, and uv absorption techniques to obtain a complete thermodynamic characterization for the formation of nucleic acid homoduplexes of known sequence and conformation. The volume change delta V accompanying the formation of four duplexes was interpreted to reflect changes in hydration based on the electrostriction phenomenon. In 10 mM sodium phosphate buffer at pH 7, the magnitude of the measured delta V's ranged from -2.0 to +7.2 ml/mol base pair and followed the order of poly(rA).poly(dT) approximately poly(dA).poly(dT) < poly(rA).poly(dU) approximately poly(rA).poly(rU). Inclusion of 100 mM NaCl in the same buffer gave the range of -17.4 to -2.3 mL/mol base pair and the following order: poly(dA).poly(dT) < poly(rA).poly(dT) < poly(rA).poly(rU) approximately poly(rA).polyr(dU). Standard thermodynamic profiles of forming these duplexes from their corresponding complementary single strands indicated similar free energies that resulted from the compensation of favorable enthalpies with unfavorable entropies along with a similar counterion uptake at both ionic strengths. The differences in these compensating effects of entropy and enthalpy correlated very well with the volume change measurements in a manner suggesting that the homoduplexes in the B conformation are more hydrated than are those in the A conformation. Moreover, the increased thermal stability of these homoduplexes resulted from an increase in the salt concentration corresponding to larger hydration levels as reflected by the delta V results.
An Examination of Transformational Leadership among Graduating Baccalaureate Nursing Students and Practicing Nurses

Leadership skills are essential among nurses to address the challenges faced by the nursing profession. This quantitative comparative study examined five components of transformational leadership skills as outlined by Kouzes and Posner among graduating baccalaureate nursing students and practicing nurses [1]. Five leadership components were used to examine if differences existed among the groups studied. The results indicated significant differences for modeling the way, inspiring a shared vision, enabling others to act, and encouraging the heart. The study revealed that nursing students graduating from generic and accelerated programs have inferior leadership skills compared to nurses in clinical practice. The results may be useful in leadership training of nursing students through collaborative practices between practice settings and nursing schools to improve patient safety.
Determination of the effect of in vitro time, temperature, and tourniquet use on whole blood venous point-of-care lactate concentrations.

Objectives:The authors sought to determine the effect of in vitro time, temperature, and removable tourniquet use on changes in venous point-of-care lactate concentrations. Methods:This was a prospective randomized trial on healthy volunteers. Subjects were randomized to one of three groups: group 1 had venous lactate concentrations measured on blood drawn without a tourniquet and the sample placed in ice (−1°C), group 2 had lactate concentrations measured on blood drawn without a tourniquet and the sample left at 23°C, and group 3 had lactate concentrations measured on blood drawn with a tourniquet placed 5 minutes before venipuncture and the sample placed in ice (−1°C). Lactate concentrations were measured on a point-of-care device at time 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 minutes in all three groups. Mean lactate concentrations were analyzed using a two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance. Results:Eighty subjects were randomized, with complete data available in 63 (21 per group). Over the 15-minute period, lactate concentrations
IL-17E (IL-25) and IL-17RB promote respiratory syncytial virus-induced pulmonary disease

One of the most severe pathologic responses of RSV infection is associated with overproduction of cytokines and inflammation, leading to mucus hypersecretion. This study investigated the role of IL-25 in the development of RSV-associated immunopathology. IL-25 and its receptor IL-17RB were increased following RSV infection, and IL-25 blockade using neutralizing antibodies reduced RSV-associated pathology, AHR, and type 2 cytokine production. Likewise, IL-17RB-/- mice demonstrated a modified inflammatory response during RSV infection characterized by decreased Th2 and increased Th17 cytokine production. Additionally, the IL-17RB-/- mice demonstrated significantly reduced inflammation and cytokine production in a model of RSV-driven asthma exacerbation. These results indicate that IL-25 regulates the inflammatory response to RSV infection and that its inhibition may enable a reduction in the severity of RSV-associated pulmonary inflammation, including during viral-induced asthma exacerbation.
Heat transfer from a cylinder in a time‐dependent cross flow at low Peclet number

The heat transfer from a constant‐temperature cylinder in a uniform, time‐dependent cross flow at low Peclet number is considered. The time dependence is allowed to be strong, so that the velocity fluctuations may be comparable to, or larger than, the mean flow. The first nontrivial term in the Oseen approximation is calculated using matched‐expansion theory, and its physical significance is discussed. As an illustration, the time‐dependent heat transfer is calculated for a steady cross flow with large sinusoidal perturbations.
EXACT EQUATIONS OF STATE FOR ONE-DIMENSIONAL CHAIN FLUIDS

Using the isothermal-isobaric ensemble, exact equations of state are derived for three classical models of one-dimensional chain fluids. Each chain molecule is modeled by a series of linked sites which interact through nearest-neighbor bond potentials. In two of the models, the intramolecular bonds are modeled by infinitely deep square-well potentials, while in the third, the bonds are modeled by a harmonic potential. Intermolecular interactions are modeled by a hard-rod potential. Numerical results are presented for dimer and 8-mer fluids which illustrate the influence of chain length, well width and spring constant on the compressibility factor. The effect of adding an infinitely weak, infinitely long-ranged attractive interaction between the sites is also considered. The attractive tail induces a first-order phase transition of the gas-liquid type in all of the chain models. For certain values of the model parameters, however, two of the models show evidence of a second gas-liquid type transition, which appears to be associated with chain collapse.
Tumor-Promoting, Initiating, and Hepatotoxic Effects of 3,4,3',4'-Tetrabromobiphenyl (34-TBB) in Rats

Female, 180–200 g Sprague-Dawley rats were used to determine if 3,4,3',4'-tetrabromobi-phenyl (34-TBB) is a promoter or initiator in a two-stage hepatocarcinogenesis assay. To test for promotion, rats were partially hepatectomized (PH) 24 hr before initiation (day 1) with 10 mg of diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/kg body weight given intraperitoneally (IP). Thirty days later, promotion was with 34-TBB (0.1,1 or 5 mg/kg) or phenobarbital (PB) (500 mg/kg) in diets for 180 days. To test for initiation, rats were PH and were initiated on day 1 with 34-TBB (1, 5, or 10 mg/kg) orally or DEN (10 mg/kg) IP. On day 31, promotion was with 500 mg of PB/kg of diet for 180 days. Noninitiated and non-PH rats were used to assess the histological and ultrastructural tissue changes associated with administration of 34-TBB in the diet for 180 days. Tumor promotion-initiation were assessed by counting and measuring hepatic enzyme-altered foci (EAF) with gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) activity. Congener 34-TBB acts as a promote...
In Vivo Elongation of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Posterior Cruciate Ligament During Knee Flexion

BackgroundMost knowledge regarding cruciate ligament function is based on in vitro experiments.PurposeTo investigate the in vivo elongation of the functional bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament during weightbearing flexion.HypothesisThe biomechanical role of functional bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament under in vivo loading is different from that measured in cadavers.Study DesignIn vivo biomechanical study.MethodsElongation of the anterior cruciate ligament and posterior cruciate ligament was measured during a quasi-static lunge using imaging and 3-dimensional computer-modeling techniques.ResultsThe anterior-medial bundle of the anterior cruciate ligament had a relatively constant length from full extension to 90° of flexion. The posterior-lateral bundle of the anterior cruciate ligament decreased in length with flexion. Both bundles of the posterior cruciate ligament had increased lengths with flexion.ConclusionThe data did not...
Choroidal Involvement in Systemic Necrotizing Vasculitis

• Wegener's granulomatosis and lymphomatoid granulomatosis are systemic necrotizing vasculitides of unknown cause. We report similar involvement of the choriocapillaris in these two diseases. A presumed choriocapillaritis caused ischemia and infarction of the choriocapillaris-retinal pigment epithelium-outer neurosensory retina complex. Systemic corticosteroid and immunosuppressive agents were successful in controlling systemic disease and preserving useful vision. At the time of this study, one patient had not had a recurrence for 12 years, and the other patient had been asymptomatic for seven years.
A survey of the theory of hypercube graphs

Abstract We present a comprehensive survey of the theory of hypercube graphs. Basic properties related to distance, coloring, domination and genus are reviewed. The properties of the n-cube defined by its subgraphs are considered next, including thickness, coarseness, Hamiltonian cycles and induced paths and cycles. Finally, various embedding and packing problems are discussed, including the determination of the cubical dimension of a given cubical graph.