cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Episodes of cenozoic volcanism in the circum-pacific region

Abstract The tempo of Cenozoic volcanism on opposite sides of the Pacific Ocean has been examined by compiling the numbers of radiometric dates reported for terrestrial volcanic sequences and the numbers of volcanic ash (glass) horizons recorded in Neogene deep-sea (DSDP) sedimentary sections. Within certain limits these data are believed to provide a reliable record of extrusive and explosive volcanism. Although terrestrial and marine records for individual regions reveal important differences in the episodicity of volcanism, a correlation is found between activity in the Southwestern Pacific, Central America and the Cascade Range of western North America. Two important pulses of Neogene volcanism (the Cascadian and Columbian episodes) occurred during the Quaternary ( t = ∼ 2 m.y. to present) and within the Middle Miocene ( t = 16 to 14 m.y. ago), with less important episodes in the latest Miocene to Early Pliocene ( t = 6 to 3 m.y. ago) and Late Miocene (11 to 8 m.y. ago). The names Fijian and Andean are proposed to these episodes. Dating of terrestrial sequences indicates that these episodes of intense volcanism took place in relatively short intervals of time, separated by longer more quiescent periods. It has been suggested that synchronous episodic volcanism is related to changes in rates of sea-floor spreading and subduction. If so, volcanism must amplify these changes, because the variations in tempo of volcanism are much too great for proportional rate changes. An apparent correlation of volcanism in orogenic zones of the circum-Pacific region with world-wide changes of sea level and changes of activity in the Hawaiian-Emperor chain suggests that volcanism records fundamental tectonic changes throughout the entire Pacific region.
Tale of lysosome in RPE cells and in the pathogenesis of AMD

In RPE cells, the lysosomal system is a crucial regulator of both phagocytosis and autophagy. We have recently shown in the Nuc1 rat (a spontaneous mutation in the Cryba1 gene encoding for betaA3/A1-crystallin) and in mice lacking betaA3/A1-crystallin specifically in the RPE, that impaired lysosomal clearance decreases both autophagy and phagocytosis. This leads to the accumulation of lipofuscin within RPE cells, subretinal lesions in the posterior pole, and deposits between the RPE and Bruch’s membrane. It is likely that disturbances in the homeostasis of RPE cells, due to accumulation of undegraded intracellular material in the mice lacking betaA3/A1-crystallin, trigger a para-inflammatory response in an attempt to restore normal RPE function. Severe or prolonged impairment of lysosomal-mediated clearance may also convert para-inflammation to chronic inflammation, leading to retinal degeneration. Several studies support the hypothesis that the immune system is involved in the pathogenesis of AMD, in concert with, or in addition to, other factors. We have generated a genetically engineered mouse model that exhibits a slowly progressing form of AMD-like pathology associated with inefficient lysosomal clearance.
High-accuracy fiber-optic shape sensing

We describe the results of a study of the performance characteristics of a monolithic fiber-optic shape sensor array. Distributed strain measurements in a multi-core optical fiber interrogated with the optical frequency domain reflectometry technique are used to deduce the shape of the optical fiber; referencing to a coordinate system yields position information. Two sensing techniques are discussed herein: the first employing fiber Bragg gratings and the second employing the intrinsic Rayleigh backscatter of the optical fiber. We have measured shape and position under a variety of circumstances and report the accuracy and precision of these measurements. A discussion of error sources is included.
Performance of the Ohio State University rate of heat release apparatus using polymethylmethacrylate and gaseous fuels

Abstract Rate of heat release measurements with several gases and with horizontal specimens of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) plastic were performed in the Ohio State University (OSU) apparatus using two different techniques: (1) standard compensated thermopile measurement and (2) oxygen consumption. Results indicate that the combustion enthalpy is measured substantially completely with the oxygen consumption technique, but that for the materials tested a varying 20–30% loss is seen with the standard method when the calibration is based on methane. With either method the PMMA rate of heat release is not steady but shows a monotonically rising nature until specimen burn-through. Theoretical analysis and diagnostic irradiance and temperature measurements show this to be attributable to the fact that specimen flames impinge upon, and heat up portions of the apparatus, causing an increase in irradiance to the burning sample.
Smalltalk and generic concepts in programming languages

Early generic concepts in programming languages were mixed-type arithmetic (e.g., “+” used with any combination of fixed-and floating-point numbers) and “print” functions which could be applied to any of a language's objects. Generic concepts reduce the number of terms which must be remembered and permit considerable condensation of language design. Three different paths in the development of generic-concept languages have been followed by APL, Algol 68, and object-oriented languages such as SIMULA 67 and Smalltalk. APL was the earliest and one of the most interesting applications of generic-concept methods, but now makes the weakest use of these ideas. My talk will use slides and movies to show how the message-object programming system Smalltalk makes use of generic concepts embedded in class descriptions to give rise to a wide variety of simply programmed dynamic simulations including graphic animation, music synthesis, document layout and retrieval, and APL-like calculation features. Many of these systems have been brought to life by child and adult novice programmers. A short list of references is given for those wishing more introductory information about Smalltalk.
The evaluation and management of leukopenia

Leukopenia, defined as a white blood cell count of <4,000 cells per microliter, is a common diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma faced by the primary care physician. The history and physical examination usually point to the underlying etiology. Selective laboratory tests and, when indicated, a bone marrow biopsy may aid in the diagnostic process. Although leukopenia is frequently caused by benign and self-limited conditions, some circumstances necessitate aggressive management. One such entity is neutropenia with sepsis, where empiric broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy must be initiated, whereas a simultaneous investigation for the infectious agent is carried out. The acuity, severity, age of the patient, and presence of infection are important factors in the individualized approach to the leukopenic patient. The obstetrician/gynecologist, by following patients over time and being familiar with the effects of chemotherapeutic agents, is well positioned to evaluate and treat leukopenia.
Middle East Studies and Academic Freedom: Challenges at Home and Abroad

For those who study the Middle East/North Africa (MENA), academic freedom has long been an issue of serious concern. Over the years we have seen our colleagues living under the authoritarian regimes of the region dismissed from teaching positions, prevented from conducting their research, arrested, imprisoned and sometimes tortured because of their writings or actions. However, largely as a result of responses to the September 11, 2001 attacks, in the last several years threats to academic freedom have dramatically increased both in number and intensity in the United States as well. While some of the attempts to suppress the voice of the academy have had implications across disciplines, there is no question that the community of MENA scholars has been disproportionately targeted. This short article cannot explore all the forms of intimidation to which scholars of and in the MENA region are exposed. Rather, the intent is to highlight a few of the most critical issue areas, both at home and abroad, to illustrate the range of challenges we face, some of which are particular to our field, but all of which should be deeply disturbing to other members of the academy, regardless of specialization.1 The authoritarian regimes of the MENA area, whether military or civilian, secular or religious, tribal or sectarian in basis, have all, long manifested varying degrees of hostility to freedom of expression, whether in the academy or beyond its walls. Indeed, the harassment of academics and the suppression academic freedom are part of broader violations of human and civil rights that are often key elements in regime maintenance. In addition, civil wars, insurgencies, interstate wars, as well as extra-regional interventions have all either directly destroyed or closed educational institutions, or provided a “national security” rationale to regimes eager to stifle serious research and debate. In …
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) based system for nondestructive detection of interior defects in wooden logs

A previous study used GPR to scan logs and find internal defects nondestructively. The GPR data was processed and analysed using RADAN software, which needs an expert and is time consuming. Also, the output from RADAN cannot be used to generate manufacturing process instructions required for optimal sawing of logs in saw mills since the output is in the form of an image. For online implementation of GPR scanning in saw mills, a quick automated defect detection system with numerical output for defect coordinates is required for which a MATLAB based algorithm has been developed and presented in this paper.
Characterization of the two major species of slow reacting substance from rat basophilic leukemia cells as glutathionyl thioethers of eicosatetraenoic acids oxygenated at the 5 position. Evidence that peroxy groups are present and important for spasmogenic activity.

Abstract The most prominent slow reacting substance from rat basophilic leukemia cells (type I) was characterized by radiochemical, chemical and physical methods and shown to contain a C20 unsaturated fatty acid oxygenated at the 5 position and a sulfur containing side chain in thioether linkage at the 6 position. Its spasmogenic action on guinea pig ileal muscle was largely inactivated under reducing conditions which suggested that a peroxy group was present and important for contractile activity. This was supported by ferrous thiocyanate analysis. The peroxy group is almost certainly at the 5 position, probably in the form of a peroxy ester or hydroperoxide. Based on amino acid hydrolysis (0.85 moles of glycine and 0.30 moles of glutamic acid per mole SRS), the sulfur containing side chain is apparently a mixture of glutathione and cysteinyl-glycine, but by chromatography the side chain is predominantly glutathione and the low yield of glutamic acid may be due to complexing of its α COOH group in a peroxy ester linkage. The fatty acid moiety has 3 conjugated double bonds, probably at the 7,8, 9,10 and 11,12 positions. Type II SRS, the second major species, differs in that the sulfur containing side chain is linked at the 12 or 13 position and is almost certainly glutathione and in the failure of alkaline borohydride to produce inactivation. These observations strongly implicate the lipoxygenase pathway in slow reacting substance biosynthesis.
Studies of Structure and Dynamics in Heterogeneous Reactions

The combination of methods from surface chemical physics with methods from studies of molecular reaction dynamics can provide a detailed understanding of the dynamics of heterogeneous reactions. Examples from work in the author's laboratory are used to illustrate this approach to the study of gas—solid reactions.
Learning to use design thinking tools for successful innovation

Purpose – Design thinking is a process of continuously redesigning a business to achieve both product and process innovation. The purpose of this paper is to present a this case study of two managers – both highly capable and committed, both seeking to innovate – a design thinking approach with a set of four tools which enables one to succeed with his initiative while the other struggles.Design/methodology/approach – The author demonstrates the use of four tools routinely practiced by successful innovation firms: Journey Mapping – the ethnographic technique to follow the customer home to explore their problems in life; Assumption Testing – a prototyping technique long practiced within any firm's RD Co‐creation – the surest way to de‐risk a new offering is to involve your value chain partners in the innovation's small initial experiments; and Rapid Prototyping – making small bets fast is nothing more than good old hypothesis generating and testing. Many managers have become so analysis focused that ...
Preoperative duplex scan assessment of the inferior epigastric artery as a coronary bypass conduit

Abstract The inferior epigastric arteries are currently being evaluated as alternative autologous arterial conduits for coronary artery bypass operations. The inferior epigastric arteries are Variable in diameter and length and require harvesting through separate abdominal incisions. There is a need, therefore, for a method to preoperatively assess the diameter and length of the inferior epigastric arteries to determine their suitability as a coronary artery bypass graft. We have found that the duplex scan is a valuable noninvasive preoperative imaging modality to evaluate the inferior epigastric arteries.
Phase II Trial Of Pegylated-liposomal Doxorubicin (Doxil™) In Sarcoma*

Pegylated-liposomal doxorubicin (Doxil) is a unique form of liposomal doxorubicin in which the liposomes are coated with methoxypoly (ethylene glycol), resulting in a diminished uptake by the reticuloendothelial system, leading to a longer half-life in blood and a different toxicity profile than nonpegylated liposomes. We performed a phase II study of Doxil in sarcoma. The patient population was primarily previously treated or had diagnoses considered unresponsive to chemotherapy. The initial dose per course was 55 mg/m2 every four weeks with dose modification based on mucositis and hand-foot syndrome (the main limiting toxicities). Treatment was generally well tolerated. Of 214 evaluable treatment courses in 47 patients, toxicities were mild and similar to previous reports, but dose reduction was common. No definite cardiac toxicity was observed. There were: 6 osteosarcomas, 3 Ewings, 1 extraosseous osteosarcoma, 1 chondrosarcoma, 2 alveolar soft part sarcomas, 15 gastrointestinal stromal cell tumors (GIST), and 19 other soft tissue sarcomas. Three of the 47 patients received a CR or PR, although 15 of the 47 patients were felt to have derived clinical benefit from the treatment. Some responses were delayed. These data suggest that pegylated-liposomal doxorubicin has activity in this population of poor prognosis sarcoma and that this treatment is associated with modest toxicity.
SAR image compression with the Gabor transform: a comparison of different quantizers and bit allocation methods

The Gabor transform is a combined spatial-spectral transform that provides local spatial-frequency and orientation analyses in overlapping image neighborhoods. This paper describes a system for compressing detected SAR images based on the Gabor transform. The effects of different quantizer on subjective and computed measures of image quality are examined. We compare scalar, vector, and trellis-coded quantizers. Because the Gabor transform is non-orthogonal, conventional bit allocation methods which are optimal for orthogonal transforms are suboptimal for the Gabor transform. We compare bit allocation methods based on the distortion-rate function and alternative methods based on the spatial-frequency characteristics of the human visual system (HVS). Trellis-coded quantizers with HVS-based bit allocators yield the best performance.
Effects of surface charge density and distribution on the nanochannel electro-osmotic flow

Surface charge density and distribution dependence of a nanochannel electro-osmotic flow was examined using a Molecular Dynamics (MD) model. Systems consisting of Na+ and Cl? ions in water confined between crystalline walls with varying negative charge on inner surfaces in an external electric field were investigated. At low surface charge densities, water flows as expected by common interpretations of electro-osmosis. At intermediate surface charge density, the flow exhibits a maximum. Strongly charged surfaces cause adsorption of counterions, immobilisation of the near-wall fluid layers, and subsequent flow reversal. An effect of increase in the viscosity of water near the strongly charged surface was demonstrated. When the discrete ?1 e charge was distributed on a subgrid of surface atoms, the flow deteriorated and reversed at much lower surface charge densities than when all the surface atoms carried equal partial charge.
Increment threshold and purity discrimination spectral sensitivities of X-chromosome-linked color-defective observers

The goal of the study was to evaluate spectral opponency in nine X-chromosome-linked color-defective observers. The tasks included increment threshold spectral sensitivity on an achromatic background, heterochromatic flicker photometry, and colorimetric purity discrimination. With a task of heterochromatic flicker photometry, the anomalous trichromatic observers showed spectral sensitivity of the corresponding dichromat. The increment threshold spectral sensitivity and colorimetric purity discrimination data were analyzed using the concept of standard cone photopigment spectral sensitivities for normal and defective vision, and a model that postulates one cone-additive and two cone-antagonistic systems. The model incorporated a shift of the peak spectral sensitivity of the long-wavelength-sensitive (LWS) pigment (for protan observers) or of the middle-wavelength-sensitive (MWS) pigment (for deutan observers). Two dichromats and two anomalous trichromats did not show clear evidence of LWS vs MWS cone antagonism. Five anomalous trichromats showed such cone antagonism. Molecular genetic analysis of the opsin genes is presented for eight of the observers.
Efficacy and safety of oclacitinib for the control of pruritus and associated skin lesions in dogs with canine allergic dermatitis

Background Oclacitinib (Apoquel®) inhibits the function of a variety of pro-inflammatory, pro-allergic and pruritogenic cytokines that are dependent on Janus kinase enzyme activity. Oclacitinib selectively inhibits Janus kinase 1. Hypothesis/Objectives We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of oclacitinib for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis in a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Methods Client-owned dogs (n = 436) with moderate to severe owner-assessed pruritus and a presumptive diagnosis of allergic dermatitis were enrolled. Dogs were randomized to either oclacitinib at 0.4–0.6 mg/kg orally twice daily or an excipient-matched placebo. An enhanced 10 cm visual analog scale (VAS) was used by the owners to assess the severity of pruritus from day 0 to 7 and by veterinarians to assess the severity of dermatitis on days 0 and 7. Dogs could remain on the study for 28 days. Results Pretreatment owner and veterinary VAS scores were similar for the two treatment groups. Oclacitinib produced a rapid onset of efficacy within 24 h. Mean oclacitinib Owner Pruritus VAS scores were significantly better than placebo scores (P < 0.0001) on each assessment day. Pruritus scores decreased from 7.58 to 2.59 cm following oclacitinib treatment. The day 7 mean oclacitinib Veterinarian Dermatitis VAS scores were also significantly better (P < 0.0001) than placebo scores. Diarrhoea and vomiting were reported with similar frequency in both groups. Conclusions and clinical importance In this study, oclacitinib provided rapid, effective and safe control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis, with owners and veterinarians noting substantial improvements in pruritus and dermatitis VAS scores.
A Cottage Cheese Whey Product as a Precipitant for Soy Protein

Partially delactosed ultrafiltrated acid whey concentrate, pH 3.5, was evaluated as a substitute for acid in precipitation of soy protein. Nitrogen precipitation at different pH values and isolate production at pH 4.6 were investigated by comparing to a 1:12 lactic acid solution and a 1:20 hydrochloric acid solution. Soy protein isolates prepared with partially delactosed ultrafiltrated whey concentrate showed chemical, physical, and functional properties similar to those with acid solutions. Other potential applications for partially delactosed ultrafiltered whey concentrate are as acidified water for washings, soy concentrate production, and fiber spinning. The use of aqueous by-product streams is presented as a possible environmental solution to waste disposal problems of the combined dairy and soy industries.
The submillimeter wave spectrum of 32S16O2, 32S16O2(ν2), and 34S16O2☆

Abstract Extensive new measurements in the region 400–1000 GHz have been made on 32S16O2, 32S16O2(ν2), and 34S16O2. These measurements represent almost a threefold extension in the frequency region for which high-resolution microwave data are available. These data have been combined with the previously available microwave data for this analysis. The results, when extrapolated into the far infrared, compare favorably with recent results obtained from high-resolution FIR spectroscopy.
Adolescents’ emotional competence is associated with parents’ neural sensitivity to emotions

An essential component of youths’ successful development is learning to appropriately respond to emotions, including the ability to recognize, identify, and describe one’s feelings. Such emotional competence is thought to arise through the parent-child relationship. Yet, the mechanisms by which parents transmit emotional competence to their children are difficult to measure because they are often implicit, idiosyncratic, and not easily articulated by parents or children. In the current study, we used a multifaceted approach that went beyond self-report measures and examined whether parental neural sensitivity to emotions predicted their child’s emotional competence. Twenty-two adolescent-parent dyads completed an fMRI scan during which they labeled the emotional expressions of negatively valenced faces. Results indicate that parents who recruited the amygdala, VLPFC, and brain regions involved in mentalizing (i.e., inferring others’ emotional states) had adolescent children with greater emotional competence. These results held after controlling for parents’ self-reports of emotional expressivity and adolescents’ self-reports of the warmth and support of their parent relationships. In addition, adolescents recruited neural regions involved in mentalizing during affect labeling, which significantly mediated the associated between parental neural sensitivity and adolescents’ emotional competence, suggesting that youth are modeling or referencing their parents’ emotional profiles, thereby contributing to better emotional competence.
COOLING PACIFIC SHRIMP (Pandalus jordani) WITH SPRAYED REFRIGERATED SEAWATER

The study's objective was to describe how various factors affect on-board spray cooling of Pacific shrimp. Laboratory samples were sprayed with water to determine the variation of cooling rate with spray rate and depth of sample. Other experiments showed how flow patterns resulting from poorly distributed spray water varied with spray rate and with depth and density of the sample. Results of the study were used to conclude that a spray rate on the order of 0.4 gpm/ft2 is needed for typical high catch rate conditions.
Efficacy of the fetal-pelvic index as a predictor of fetal-pelvic disproportion in women with abnormal labor patterns that require labor augmentations

The fetal-pelvic index, which compares fetal head and abdomen circumferences with respective maternal inlet and midpelvic circumferences, was introduced in 1986 as a means of identifying the presence or absence of fetal-pelvic disproportion. In this study the efficacy of the fetal-pelvic index was evaluated in 46 patients with abnormal labor patterns that required labor augmentations and was compared with that of two other means (Colcher-Sussman x-ray pelvimetry and ultrasonographically derived estimated fetal weight greater than or equal to 4000 gm). Of the 24 women who required operative intervention (19 cesarean sections and five operative vaginal procedures), 17 had positive fetal-pelvic index values (sensitivity = 0.71). Six of the seven fetuses of patients with false-negative fetal-pelvic index values persisted in an occipitoposterior presentation, and these patients failed to progress in labor. Of the 22 patients in whom vaginal deliveries were spontaneous, 21 had negative fetal-pelvic index values (specificity = 0.95). Of the 18 women with positive fetal-pelvic index values, 17 required operative intervention (positive predictability = 0.94). In contrast, when used alone, neither x-ray pelvimetry nor ultrasonographically derived estimated fetal weight greater than or equal to 4000 gm provided accurate identification of fetal-pelvic disproportion.
Cell repopulation in vascularized bone grafts

Following vascularized bone autografts, osteocyte viability is largely maintained. Viable cells within a graft may be surviving graft-derived cells, their progeny, or host-derived cells from circulation or surrounding bone. This study was conducted to define the process of cell repopulation, within vascularized bone grafts. Using inbred Lewis rats, 30 female vascularized tibial bones were transplanted to syngeneic male recipients and 45 male grafts were transplanted to female recipients. Twenty-five female recipients were immunosuppressed with FK506 to prevent rejection caused by Y-chromosome related antigens. The grafts were assessed up to 24 weeks post-transplant by radiography, histology and semi-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using both Y-chromosome and autosome gene-specific primers. The female to male isograft transplants were useful to measure low levels of repopulation with host-derived cells, while male to female transplants more accurately quantified higher levels of cellular replacement. No host-derived cells were detected in the transplanted bone before six weeks. Thereafter, the ratio of host-derived cells gradually increased. By 24 weeks only 0.1-1.0% of graft-derived cells remained in the transplanted tibias. This study demonstrates that Y-chromosome-specific PCR is a useful tool to detect the cell lineage and cell repopulation following rat sex-mismatch vascularized bone grafting. Our results showed that donor cells in vascularized bone grafts were gradually repopulated with recipient cells. Correlation with histologic findings suggests that the periosteal hypertrophy observed by six weeks post-transplant results from graft-derived cells, while later remodeling is associated with host-derived cells.
Olfactory neuroblastomas: a clinicopathologic study.

Clinical and pathologic findings in seven patients with olfactory neurbblastomas are reviewed. These neoplasms occurred over a wide age range and, regardless of microscopic pattern, had an unpredictable clinical course. Total extirpation followed by radiation provided optimal therapeutic benefit. The difficulty of pathologic diagnosis of olfactory neuroblastomas is emphasized by the number of neoplasms excluded from this series after critical review of clinical and microscopic findings.
Thin Film Field Emission

Aluminum, oxidized electrolytically, and subsequently treated with caesium and oxygen possesses new and interesting properties when subjected to electron bombardment in the presence of an adjacent collector electrode whose potential is held positive with respect to the aluminum. True secondary electron emission from the treated surface results in the establishment of a positive charge on the surface and a polarization of the oxide film. This positive charge acting through the thin oxide film produces a high gradient, resulting in the emission of electrons through the surface. The emission increases with collector voltage and beam currents, obeying power laws, but exhibits saturation tendencies. The removal of the primary beam does not result in the immediate cessation of the field emission, but rather in a slow decay which is due to the fact that the surface charge takes an appreciable time to leak away. Similar time lags are noticed when the beam is first applied, particularly if the collector voltage has been reversed while the beam impinges on the surface. The surfaces are also light sensitive, in that light causes a decrease in the field emission and a speeding up of decay. Attempts were made to demonstrate this effect for other surfaces, but, with a few exceptions, the results were negative.
A conversational paradigm for multimodal human interaction

We present an alternative to the manipulative and semaphoric gesture recognition paradigms. Human multimodal communicative behaviors form a tightly integrated whole. We present a paradigm multimodal analysis in natural discourse based on a feature decompositive psycholinguistically derived model that permits us to access the underlying structure and intent of multimodal communicative discourse. We outline the psycholinguistics that drive our paradigm, the Catchment concept that facilitates our getting a computational handle on discourse entities, and summarize some approaches and results that realize the vision. We show examples of such discourse-structuring features as handedness, types of symmetry, gaze-at-interlocutor and hand 'origos'. Such analysis is an alternative to the 'recognition of one discrete gesture out of k stylized whole gesture models' paradigm.
kintype classification and concepts of relatedness in South Asia

Focusing on alternative analyses of South Asian materials, this paper examines several of the assumptions underlying structural semantic analyses of systems of kintype classification. It is argued that inappropriate genealogical concepts must be avoided in the interpretation of such systems and that indigenous concepts of relatedness must be distinguished from kinship terms per se. It is suggested that intraregional comparisons may be used to choose among competing semantic analyses. [South Asia, kintype classification, kinship systems, cultural analysis]
New Species of Cottus (Teleostei: Cottidae) from the Middle Atlantic Eastern United States

Abstract Cottus caeruleomentum (Blue Ridge Sculpin) is described from the Elk, Susquehanna, Bush, Patapsco, Patuxent, Potomac, Nanticoke, James, and Roanoke drainages of the middle Atlantic eastern United States. The new species is a member of the bairdi group with the following characters: sexual dimorphism in breeding features, two-spotted first dorsal fin, chin uniformly pigmented, dorsal saddles moderate to wide, incomplete lateral line, preopercular spines slight to moderate, palatine teeth weak to moderate, and postpectoral prickling slight to moderate. Cottus caeruleomentum is differentiated from C. b. bairdi by (the first character state refers to C. caeruleomentum): (1) caudal base band unnotched in at least one side versus both sides notched; (2) pectoral fin rays modally 14 versus modally 15; and (3) electrophoretic mobility at the Ck-A locus fast versus slow. Cottus caeruleomentum is a variable species with interdrainage differences in morphology and allozymes. Parsimony analysis of allozyme d...
Local BLyS production by T follicular cells mediates retention of high affinity B cells during affinity maturation

We have assessed the role of B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) and its receptors in the germinal center (GC) reaction and affinity maturation. Despite ample BLyS retention on B cells in follicular (FO) regions, the GC microenvironment lacks substantial BLyS. This reflects IL-21–mediated down-regulation of the BLyS receptor TACI (transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor) on GC B cells, thus limiting their capacity for BLyS binding and retention. Within the GC, FO helper T cells (TFH cells) provide a local source of BLyS. Whereas T cell–derived BLyS is dispensable for normal GC cellularity and somatic hypermutation, it is required for the efficient selection of high affinity GC B cell clones. These findings suggest that during affinity maturation, high affinity clones rely on TFH-derived BLyS for their persistence.
Experimental evaluation of transport layer protocols for real-time applications

Several transport protocols have been proposed for use in the Internet. The specifications of these protocols are based on the assumption that a general purpose transport protocol can be designed to be used by a variety of applications, including time-constrained applications. A widespread consensus among the researchers is that a general purpose transport protocol is not optimized for any applications, and thus cannot deliver the high performance required by real-time applications such as voice, motion and still video, and large file transfer. This paper investigates the validity of the above claim based on the gathering of empirical data. A generic 'protocol benchmark' is used to assess the real-time performance of a set of known transport protocols, and to analyze their suitability to handle the requirements of real-time applications. >
Foods as Drugs

We are in the middle of a major revolution in American medicine, with both physicians and consumers looking at diet as a component of a system to provide not only the maintenance of good health but, perhaps more importantly, its improvement. For agencies concerned with public health issues, this new-found interest in diet and health has led to a modification in public health policies. The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) traditional mandate to protect the public health has been expanded to include improvement of public health. The FDA has approached this expanded mandate along several lines. For example, the Agency has participated in the development and dissemination of national dietary guidelines; it has provided regulations for labeling nutritional attributes of food; and it is involved in a number of nutrition-related monitoring programs. The FDA is also actively working on establishing policy in the area where foods become drugs—the so-called “medical foods.” Medical foods constitute a class of s...
The Boltzmann Perceptron Network: A Multi-Layered Feed-Forward Network Equivalent to the Boltzmann Machine

The concept of the stochastic Boltzmann machine (BM) is attractive for decision making and pattern classification purposes since the probability of attaining the network states is a function of the network energy. Hence, the probability of attaining particular energy minima may be associated with the probabilities of making certain decisions (or classifications). However, because of its stochastic nature, the complexity of the BM is fairly high and therefore such networks are not very likely to be used in practice. In this paper we suggest a way to alleviate this drawback by converting the stochastic BM into a deterministic network which we call the Boltzmann Perceptron Network (BPN). The BPN is functionally equivalent to the BM but has a feed-forward structure and low complexity. No annealing is required. The conditions under which such a conversion is feasible are given. A learning algorithm for the BPN based on the conjugate gradient method is also provided which is somewhat akin to the backpropagation algorithm.
Regional Analysis of Trend and Step Changes Observed in Hydroclimatic Variables around the Colorado River Basin

Recent research has suggested that changes in temperature and precipitation events due to climate change have had a significant impact on the availability and timing of streamflow. In this study, monthly temperature and precipitation data collected over 29 climate divisions covering the entire Colorado River basin and monthly natural flow data from 29 U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gauge locations along the Colorado River are investigated for trend or step changes using parametric and nonparametric statistical tests. Temperature increases are persistent (at least 10 climate divisions over 6 months in trend analysis) throughout the year over the Colorado River basin, whereas precipitation only notably increased over 17 climate divisions (during trend analysis) during February and remained relatively unchanged otherwise. These results correspond with changes in naturalized streamflow throughout the year. Streamflow increases are recorded between November and February but exhibit a decreasing trend over the traditional peak runoff season (April through July). Under trend analysis, 18 flow stations exhibited increasing trends in January and 19 flow stations exhibited decreasing trends in June. It is likely that increasing temperature trends have affected the character of precipitation in the Colorado River basin, causing a change in the timing of runoff events.
Diurnal Cloud and Thermodynamic Variations in the Stratocumulus Transition Regime: A Case Study Using In Situ and Remote Sensors

Radiosonde, in situ, and surface-based remote sensor data from the Atlantic Stratocumulus Transition Experiment are used to study the diurnal cycle of cloud and thermodynamic structure. A cloud layer and decoupled subcloud layer separated by a stable transition layer, often observed in the vicinity of cumulus cloud base, characterizes the thermodynamic structure during the study period. The mode of cloud structure is cumulus with bases below decoupled stratus. Data are presented that support the hypothesis that diurnal variations in cumulus development are modulated by the stability in the transition layer. The frequency of cumulus convection decreases during the afternoon, but mesoscale regions of vigorous cumulus with cloud tops overshooting the base of the trade inversion and increased surface drizzle rates are present during the late afternoon and early evening, when the transition layer is the most stable. It is postulated that mesoscale organization may be required to accumulate enough water vapor in the subcloud layer to produce the convective available potential energy needed for developing cumulus to overcome transition layer stability. The mesoscale regions appear to fit the description of cyclic cumulus convection proposed in a previous study, and this theory is expanded to account for diurnal variations in the stability of the transition layer. The occurrence of these mesoscale clusters of vigorous convection makes it difficult to determine if the latent heat flux in the cloud layer has actually decreased in the late afternoon and early evening, when the transition layer is the most stable. Liquid water structure was examined and no pronounced diurnal signal was found. Results showed that clouds thicker than approximately 450 m tended to have subadiabatic integrated liquid water contents, presumably due to evaporation of drizzle in the subcloud layer, removal of liquid water at the surface, and the evaporation of cloud water at cloud top. A significant fraction of clouds less than 450 m thick produced liquid water contents that were greater than adiabatic, and there may be a physical mechanism that could produce such values in this cloud system (i.e., lateral detrainment of cloud water from convective elements mixing with existing liquid water in decoupled stratus or with liquid water detrained by nearby convective elements). Unfortunately, instrument limitations may have also produced these greater-than-adiabatic values and the extent of instrument artifacts in these results is unclear.
Impact of Postplacement Adjustment of Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters on the Risk of Bloodstream Infection and Venous Thrombus Formation

Objective. Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) tip malposition is potentially associated with complications, and postplacement adjustment of PICCs is widely performed. We sought to characterize the association between central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) or venous thrombus (VT) and PICC adjustment.Design. Retrospective cohort study.Setting. University of Michigan Health System, a large referral hospital.Patients. Patients who had PICCs placed between February 2007 and August 2007.Methods. The primary outcomes were development of CLABSI within 14 days or VT within 60 days of postplacement PICC adjustment, identified by review of patient electronic medical records.Results. There were 57 CLABSIs (2.69/1,000 PICC-days) and 47 VTs (1.23/1,000 PICC-days); 609 individuals had 1, 134 had 2, and 33 had 3 or more adjustments. One adjustment was protective against CLABSI (), whereas 2 or 3 or more adjustments had no association with CLABSI ( and .47, respectively). One, 2, and 3 or more a...
The Evolution of Built Landscapes in Metropolitan Regions

This article analyzes the evolution of built landscapes in six U.S. metropolitan regions using historic maps, aerial photographs, and GIS software. The analysis identifies seven main historic patterns of urban form and nine types created in the 1980-2005 period. This recent period was characterized by a proliferation and fragmentation of built landscape types, rapid spatial expansion, and falling densities. These trends raise the question of whether the public sector should more proactively shape urban form. Rural sprawl accounts for much of the land now being urbanized, representing a new planning challenge. The Portland Urban Growth Boundary is found to be effective at limiting this type of development. The New Urbanist neighborhood form is still extremely rare.
Tissue radiation dosages using the RVG-S with and without niobium filtration

Tissue doses for a modified Rando head-and-neck phantom were measured for imaging with speed group E film with standardized aluminium filtration and the RVG-S both with and without added niobium filtration. Cylindrical holes drilled into the phantom's tissue-equivalent material permitted the placement of a small ionization chamber into anatomically correct sites representing the thyroid, parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands. To establish the necessary cone positions, angulations and time settings for each exposure, diagostically acceptable images of six teeth, representative of different intraoral regions, were made for a DXXTR mannequin. Entrance and exit points were marked and transferred to the phantom to allow reproducible repeat exposures. The RVG-S provided reductions in average skin entrance dose of 31 per cent to 39 per cent with standard aluminium filtration and 51 per cent to 60 per cent with the addition of niobium filtration to attenuate the beam. While dose reductions relative to E-speed film usage were found for deep tissue sites, these were site and projection specific. The cumulative reduction from use of the RVG-S without niobium filtration was 32 per cent. It was 42 per cent with additional niobium filtration. It should be noted, however, that adding niobium filtration resulted in increased dosages to the deeper soft tissues such as the thyroid gland.
Rapid and sensitive LC-MS approach to quantify non-radioactive transition metal impurities in metal radionuclides

A rapid and sensitive LC-MS approach for the quantification of non-radioactive metal contaminants present in metal radionuclide formulations was developed. Traditional 12C/1H and heavy stable isotope 13C/2H-labeled chelator–amino acid conjugates are used as chelating agents to quantify contaminating transition metals, allowing for determination of effective specific activity of radio-metals.
A Hypothetical Mechanism for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Involving Ethanol Inhibition of Retinoic Acid Synthesis at the Alcohol Dehydrogenase Step

Ethanol acts as a teratogen causing brain, craniofacial, and limb abnormalities in those suffering from fetal alcohol syndrome. Normal embryonic development of the vertebrate nervous system and limbs has recently been shown to be governed by retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A. Retinol dehydrogenase is an enzyme needed to convert vitamin A (retinol) to retinoic acid, a molecule that specifies embryonic pattern formation by controlling gene expression. Ethanol acts as a competitive inhibitor of the retinol dehydrogenase activity attributed to mammalian alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), an enzyme that uses both retinol and ethanol as substrates. An hypothesis is presented in which many of the abnormalities observed in fetal alcohol syndrome may be caused by high levels of ethanol acting as a competitive inhibitor of ADH-catalyzed retinol oxidation in the embryo or fetus. This would presumably result in a reduction of retinoic acid synthesis in embryonic tissues such as the nervous system and limbs that require critical levels of this molecule to specify spatial patterns.
Bayesian Approach to Some Problems in Life Testing and Reliability Estimation

In this paper a survey of some inference problems relating to the exponential distribution is presented. Among the problems considered are: (1) estimation of parameters of exponential distribution using asymmetric loss function; and (2) reliability estimation of complex systems. Parametric empirical Bayes methods for the estimation of failure processes for repairable systems are also given.
Associations of food group and nutrient intake, diet quality, and meal sizes between adults and children in the same household: a cross-sectional analysis of U.S. households

One might assume that individuals living in the same household have similar dietary intakes of food groups and nutrients. However, the manner in which an adult's dietary intake affects children's food consumption, diet quality (defined as meeting intake recommendations), and meal sizes is understudied to date. The objective of this study was to estimate these relationships between minor children and the female or male head of household. Dietary intakes of one randomly selected child of each age group (2-5, 6-11, or 12-18 years old (n = 2,380)) and that of the female/male head of household ((HH), proxy for mother and father) using multiple 24-hour recalls from the Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals (CSFII) 1994-1996 was coded to reflect food group and nutrient density (servings/grams per 1,000 kcal). Linear or logistic regression models were used to determine the association between intakes, whether individuals' diets trended toward meeting her/his intake recommendations, and whether individuals were in the highest quintile for food group densities at four distinct eating occasions (breakfast, brunch/lunch, supper/dinner, or other) in each subject group. Stata's survey commands were used to fit linear or logistic regression models and obtain adjusted regression coefficients or odds ratios. Associations between food group/nutrient densities were significant but weak to moderate. Adults with diets that trended toward meeting their intake recommendations doubled the odds for children to have diets that trended toward meeting the recommendations; for many meals, adults consuming in the highest quintile for food group density predicted that children's intakes were also in the highest quintile. Female and male adults living in the same household significantly affect children's food group and nutrient intakes, diet quality, and meal sizes. There is an urgent need for in-depth analysis to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, especially for studies involving both the female and male HH.