cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
LTE receiver design and multipath analysis for navigation in urban environments

Mitigating multipath of cellular long-term evolution (LTE) signals for robust positioning in urban environments is considered. A computationally efficient receiver, which uses a phase-locked loop (PLL)–aided delay-locked loop (DLL) to track the received LTE signals, is presented. The PLL-aided DLL uses orthogonal frequency division-multiplexing (OFDM)–based discriminator functions to estimate and track the time-of-arrival. The code phase and carrier phase performances in an additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel are evaluated numerically. The effects of multipath on the code phase and carrier phase are analyzed, demonstrating robust multipath mitigation for high transmission LTE bandwidths. The average of the DLL discriminator functions over multiple LTE symbols is presented to reduce the pseudorange error. The proposed receiver is evaluated on a ground vehicle in an urban environment. Experimental results show a root mean square error (RMSE) of 3.17 m, a standard deviation of 1.06 m, and a maximum error of 6.58 m between the proposed LTE receiver and the GPS navigation solution over a 1.44 km trajectory. The accuracy of the obtained pseudoranges with the proposed receiver is compared against two algorithms: estimation of signal parameters by rotational invariance techniques (ESPRIT) and EKAT (ESPRIT and Kalman filter).
Educational Game-Theme Based Instructional Module for Teaching Introductory Programming

Extensive Research study has conveyed that the game theme based learning is motivating, engaging and provides reliable learning context. This paper presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of a game theme-based instructional (GTI) module to teach linked list and binary tree. GTI modules are designed to invigorate the instructors to teach and motivate the learners to learn the concepts of the linked list and binary trees using a gaming metaphor. The virtual reality games seem to be more attractive but are less usable as they tend to have a more complex user interface. Additionally, if the software games have more educational material then it may become less attractive. So, the game with more educational content is likely to be less preferred by the game admirers. The purpose of this paper is to explore the issues concerning the usability and likability of game theme-based instructional module to teach linked list and binary trees. The results of the evaluation of GTI modules show the effectiveness of GTI modules and demonstrates that the GTI module is more usable and likable.
Relationship of Markers of Inflammation, Infection and Endothelial Function to Mortality and Severity of Coagulopathy in Patients with Sepsis-Associated DIC

Abstract Background: Sepsis-associated disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a complex clinical scenario involving derangement of many processes, including hemostasis. Assessment of markers of these other aspects of disease, including inflammation, immunity, endothelial function, and endogenous anticoagulants may provide insight into DIC pathophysiology and lead to improved methods for assessment of patient condition and response to treatment. This study was designed to measure biomarkers representative of multiple systems involved in DIC development in a cohort of patients with sepsis and DIC and determine the association of these biomarkers with disease severity and mortality. Materials and Methods: Citrated plasma samples were prospectively collected from 102 patients with sepsis and suspected DIC at ICU admission (day 0) and again serially on ICU days 4 and 8 under an IRB approved protocol. DIC score was determined using the ISTH scoring algorithm (e.g. platelet count, PT/INR, fibrinogen, and D-Dimer). Plasma from healthy individuals was purchased from a commercial laboratory (George King Biomedical, Overland, KS). . CD 40 Ligand (CD40L), Plasminogen inhibitor 1 ( PAI-1), nucleosomes, Procalcitonun (PCT), Microparicle Tissue Factor (MP-TF), and Prothrombin Fragment 1.2 (F1.2) were measured using commercially available ELISA kits. Protein C activity was measured using a clot-based assay. Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Interleukin 8 (IL-8), Interleukin 10 (IL-10) , Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNFα) , Monocyte Chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) were measured using a biochip technology. Results: Significant differences in levels of Protein C (p=0.009), PCT (p=0.0005), IL-6 (p=0.019), IL-8 (p= 0.015), and PAI-1 (p=0.015) were observed between survivors and non-survivors (Table 1). Significant variation of Protein C (p=0.002), nucleosomes (p=0.05), PCT (P Conclusion: Markers from multiple systems perturbed in DIC were associated with mortality suggesting that while these systems may not be routinely evaluated in the course of patient care, dysfunction of these system contribute significantly to mortality. In addition, numerous inflammatory cytokines showed an association with DIC score. This study suggests that the measurement of additional markers in sepsis-associated DIC may be of value in the prediction of mortality and may be helpful in guiding treatment for these patients. Download : Download high-res image (140KB) Download : Download full-size image Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Retrieval of Permafrost Active Layer Properties Using Time-Series P-Band Radar Observations

We propose a method to estimate the active layer properties, including soil dielectric profiles and active layer thickness (ALT), in permafrost regions using time-series P-band polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (SAR) observations. The active layer and underlying permafrost are modeled as a three-layer dielectric structure with the layer dielectric constants representing the soil moisture and freeze-thaw state of the layer. To resolve the ambiguity of the retrieved layer thicknesses, an approach of finding the largest possible depths (LPDs) is combined with time-series observations, where the ALT is assumed time-invariant between the maximum thaw and before the upward freezing front rises significantly from the permafrost table. The LPD-assisted time-series retrieval algorithm is applied to the radar data acquired by the Airborne Microwave Observatory of Subcanopy and Subsurface (AirMOSS) P-band SAR in August and October 2014 and 2015 over the Alaska North Slope. The results show that the retrieved ALT values are generally underestimated for the sites where the in situ ALT is larger than the P-band sensing depth, with a retrieval bias ranging from −0.05 to −0.24 m as validated against the in situ ALT collected at Circumpolar Active Layer Monitoring (CALM) sites. For the sites where the in situ ALT is smaller than 0.55 m, the retrieval errors are generally less than 0.1 m. The retrieval results also show that the active layer properties are strongly influenced by the land cover types at the regional scale, and not as much by the North–South temperature gradient across a 180-km-long transect along the Deadhorse flight line.
Comparison of Early and Late Post-operative Outcomes after Supra-inguinal Bypass for Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease.

Objective The choice for surgical revascularisation for aortoiliac occlusive disease is often tempered by patient comorbidities. This study compares peri-operative outcomes and the association between choice of operation and one year major adverse limb event (MALE) free survival and five year mortality. Methods The Vascular Study Group of New England (VSGNE) dataset for supra-inguinal bypass operations from 2009 to 2015 was queried. This study excluded cases with bypass other than aortofemoral (AFB), axillofemoral (AXB), and femorofemoral (FFB), and those with endovascular interventions or femoral endarterectomy. Cases combined with other procedures, indications other than occlusive disease, and missing pathology were also excluded. Patients were divided into three groups: AFB, AXB, and FFB. Thirty day post-operative death (POD) and adverse events were compared using univariable and multivariable analyses. One year MALE free survival was compared between groups with log rank test and Kaplan–Meier plot. Proportional hazard Cox regression was used for adjusted comparison of MALE free and five year survival. Results In total, 1,602 cases were included: 207 (12.9%) AXB; 872 (54.4%) AFB; 523 (32.6%) FFB. AXB patients were older with more comorbidities. Post-operative complications and POD rates were significantly higher for AXB (p Conclusion After adjusting for confounding variables, and while acknowledging limitations related to the VSGNE data set, FFB led to significantly lower rates of post-operative complications than AXB. FFB may serve as the extra-anatomical operation of choice in high risk patients with extensive disease, who cannot undergo AFB, provided that anatomy permits. AFB should be performed preferentially in low risk patients with appropriate anatomy. Owing to its higher complications rates, the study suggests that AXB should be limited to patients with no other option for revascularisation.
Pattern formation in strongly magnetized plasmas: observations from the magnetized dusty plasma experiment (MDPX) device

The last decade has seen the development of new experimental devices to explore the physics of magnetized dusty plasmas. Because of the small charge-to-mass ratio of the charged microparticles, it is necessary to operate these experiments at high magnetic fields of several Tesla in order to observe the direct effect of the magnetic forces on the transport properties of the charged microparticles. While the study of magnetized dusty plasmas is still the ultimate goal, these experiments have also provided new opportunities to studies regimes of strongly magnetized, low temperature, laboratory plasmas that have not been extensively explored. Experiments show the formation of new types of self- and imposed-ordered structures that form in both the plasma and among the microparticles. This paper summarizes recent experimental observations of plasma filamentation (in the plasma) and will discuss possible connections to 'dust gridding' phenomena that are observed in the magnetized dusty plasma experiment device.
Robotic-Assisted Transabdominal Preperitoneal Ventral Hernia Repair

Ventral hernia repair is one of the most common operations performed by surgeons worldwide. The widespread adoption of laparoscopic surgery has significantly reduced complications related to traditional open approaches. The most common approach in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair is the intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) approach. This technique, though simple to perform, has limitations, including bridging mesh, intraperitoneal positioning of mesh, transfascial fixation, circumferential mesh fixation, and the use of more expensive composite mesh materials. These limitations are magnified when hernias occur in anatomically difficult sites such as the subxiphoid, suprapubic, and flank regions. Robotic-assisted hernia repair using a transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) approach has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional IPOM by potentially addressing these limitations. We review the operative considerations, intraoperative approach, and current body of literature related to robotic-assisted TAPP ventral hernia repair and conclude that it is feasible and may result in improved outcomes related to the restoration of abdominal wall anatomy and reduced operative costs. Further studies are needed to assess if robotic-assisted TAPP should become the standard approach for repair of ventral hernia defects.
Estrogen receptor α (ERα)-binding super enhancers drive key mediators that control uterine estrogen responses in mice

Estrogen receptor α (ERα) modulates gene expression by interacting with chromatin regions that are frequently distal from the promoters of estrogen-regulated genes. Active chromatin-enriched "super-enhancer" (SE) regions, mainly observed in in vitro culture systems, often control production of key cell type-determining transcription factors. Here, we defined super-enhancers that bind to ERα in vivo within hormone-responsive uterine tissue in mice. We found that SEs are already formed prior to estrogen exposure at the onset of puberty. The genes at SEs encoded critical developmental factors, including retinoic acid receptor α (RARA) and homeobox D (HOXD). Using high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) along with DNA sequence analysis, we demonstrate that most SEs are located at a chromatin loop end and that most uterine genes in loop ends associated with these SEs are regulated by estrogen. Although the SEs were formed before puberty, SE-associated genes acquired optimal ERα-dependent expression after reproductive maturity, indicating that pubertal processes that occur after SE assembly and ERα binding are needed for gene responses. Genes associated with these SEs affected key estrogen-mediated uterine functions, including transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and LIF interleukin-6 family cytokine (LIF) signaling pathways. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first identification of SE interactions that underlie hormonal regulation of genes in uterine tissue and optimal development of estrogen responses in this tissue.
Channel heat transfer in He II — steady state orientation dependence

Abstract Heat transfer measurements of a channel configuration containing He II are reported. The configuration is a rectangular cross-section channel heated uniformly over its length and open at both ends so that natural circulation can occur. The gap dimension and the angular orientation of the channel are variable. Enhanced heat transfer occurs in the lower portion were all obtained at a nominal bath temperature of 1.9 K and atmospheric pressure (p ≈1 bar † ).
Compressed Gas Actuated Knee Assistive Exoskeleton for Slip-Induced Fall Prevention During Human Walking

Slip and fall is a major cause of injury in the elderly and outdoor workers. This paper presents the development of a wearable knee assistive device aimed to prevent slip-induced falls. The proposed novel approach relies on providing active assistance to the trailing leg during slip onset. The assistive device, when slip is detected and device is activated, actively extends the knee of the trailing leg creating contact with the ground. This immediately extends subject’s base of support and helps with balance recovery. The lightweight device is powered by compressed CO2 gas from a small cartridge that can be used for a single slip assistance and easily replaced. The results of device characterization and human subject testing demonstrate that the device can assist with rapid knee extension during gait, forming an active slip and fall recovery strategy.
Aβ oligomer induced cognitive impairment and evaluation of ACU193-MNS-based MRI in rabbit.

Introduction Amyloid-beta oligomers (AβOs) accumulate in Alzheimer's disease and may instigate neuronal pathology and cognitive impairment. We examined the ability of a new probe for molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect AβOs in vivo, and we tested the behavioral impact of AβOs injected in rabbits, a species with an amino acid sequence that is nearly identical to the human sequence. Methods Intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection with stabilized AβOs was performed. Rabbits were probed for AβO accumulation using ACUMNS (an AβO-selective antibody [ACU193] coupled to magnetic nanostructures). Immunohistochemistry was used to verify AβO presence. Cognitive impairment was evaluated using object location and object recognition memory tests and trace eyeblink conditioning. Results AβOs in the entorhinal cortex of ICV-injected animals were detected by MRI and confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Injections of AβOs also impaired hippocampal-dependent, but not hippocampal-independent, tasks and the area fraction of bound ACUMNs correlated with the behavioral impairment. Discussion Accumulation of AβOs can be visualized in vivo by MRI of ACUMNS and the cognitive impairment induced by the AβOs can be followed longitudinally with the novel location memory test.
Introduction: Argirópolis or The Capital of the Confederated States of the Río de la Plata

In his introduction to Argiropolis, Sarmiento asks a series of questions that situate the reader in the political and ideological context of the nineteenth-century Rio de la Plata region. Sarmiento highlights the legal bases for the essay’s proposals and calls upon all parties involved—the governments of the Argentine provinces, the French representative, and General Urquiza—to follow the program he lays out to pacify the region and eliminate the sources of new conflicts.
Spectral Synthesis for Geostationary Satellite-to-Satellite Translation

Earth-observing satellites carrying multispectral sensors are widely used to monitor the physical and biological states of the atmosphere, land, and oceans. These satellites have different vantage points above the Earth and different spectral imaging bands resulting in inconsistent imagery from one to another. This presents challenges in building downstream applications. What if we could generate synthetic bands for existing satellites from the union of all domains? We tackle the problem of generating synthetic spectral imagery for multispectral sensors as an unsupervised image-to-image translation problem modeled with a variational autoencoder (VAE) and generative adversarial network (GAN) architecture. Our approach introduces a novel shared spectral reconstruction loss to constrain the high-dimensional feature space of multispectral images. Simulated experiments performed by dropping one or more spectral bands show that cross-domain reconstruction outperforms measurements obtained from a second vantage point. Our proposed approach enables the synchronization of multispectral data and provides a basis for more homogeneous remote sensing datasets.
Generalization of graph network inferences in higher-order probabilistic graphical models.

Probabilistic graphical models provide a powerful tool to describe complex statistical structure, with many real-world applications in science and engineering from controlling robotic arms to understanding neuronal computations. A major challenge for these graphical models is that inferences such as marginalization are intractable for general graphs. These inferences are often approximated by a distributed message-passing algorithm such as Belief Propagation, which does not always perform well on graphs with cycles, nor can it always be easily specified for complex continuous probability distributions. Such difficulties arise frequently in expressive graphical models that include intractable higher-order interactions. In this paper we construct iterative message-passing algorithms using Graph Neural Networks defined on factor graphs to achieve fast approximate inference on graphical models that involve many-variable interactions. Experimental results on several families of graphical models demonstrate the out-of-distribution generalization capability of our method to different sized graphs, and indicate the domain in which our method gains advantage over Belief Propagation.
ASXL3 controls cortical neuron fate specification through extrinsic self-renewal pathways

During corticogenesis, transcription plasticity is fundamental to the restriction of neural progenitor cell (NPC) multipotency and production of cortical neuron heterogeneity. Human and mouse genetic studies have highlighted the role of polycomb transcriptional regulation in this process. ASXL3, which encodes a component of the polycomb repressive deubiquitination (PR-DUB) complex, has been identified as a high confidence autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk gene. Genetic inactivation of Asxl3, in a mouse model that carries a clinically relevant ASXL3 frameshift (Asxl3fs) variant, disrupts lateral expansion of NPCs and delays cortical neuron differentiation. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis implicates Notch signaling, which alters the composition of excitatory neurons and fidelity of cortical layer deposition. Our data provides a new link between extrinsic signaling cues and intrinsic epigenetic regulation that together control the timing of cell fate programs. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis revealed dysregulation of other known ASD risk genes indicating that a convergent developmental pathway is affected. Collectively our work provides important insights about developmental mechanisms that contribute to ASD neuropathology.
Transfusion requirements and alloimmunization to red blood cell antigens in orthotopic liver transplantation.

Background and objectives Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has been associated with high blood transfusion requirements. We evaluated the transfusion needs and frequency of alloimmunization to RBC antigens among OLT recipients pre- and post-transplantation. Materials and methods We reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent a first OLT between January 2007 and June 2017. Transfusions given only during the perioperative period, defined by 1 week before OLT until 2 weeks following OLT, were included in this study. Records were reviewed in June 2019 for updated antibody testing results. Results A total of 970 patients underwent OLT during the study period. The median age of patients was 57 years; 608(62.7%) were male. During the perioperative period, transfused patients received an average of 10.7 (±10.7) RBC units, 15.6 (±16.2) thawed plasma units and 4.1 (±4.3) platelet units. At the time of OLT, a total of 101 clinically significant RBC alloantibodies were documented in 58(5.98%) patients. Fifty-three of these antibodies were directed against Rh blood group antigens. Twenty-two (37.9%) patients had more than one alloantibody. Patients with alloimmunization before OLT (N = 58) received perioperatively comparable number of RBCs to non-alloimmunized patients (10.5 ± 10.6 vs. 9.6 ± 10.7; p = 0.52). There was no significant difference in perioperative or intraoperative RBC transfusion between patients with one alloantibody and those with multiple alloantibodies. Only 16 patients (16/737; 2.17%) developed new alloantibodies at a median of 61 days after OLT. The overall alloimmunization rate was 9.8% (72/737), and female patients were more likely to be alloimmunized. Conclusion Blood transfusion requirements in OLT remain high. However, the rate of RBC alloimmunization was not higher than the general patient population.
Fluorescein-guided Resection of High Grade Gliomas: A Meta-Analysis.

Background High-grade gliomas (HGGs) have a poor prognosis despite current standard of care of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Achieving gross total resection (GTR) has been found to prolong survival in these patients. Intraoperative fluorescent agents are often used to aid in the resection of HGGs. One commonly used fluorescent agent is fluorescein sodium, which is U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved for ocular surgeries and has a better side effect profile and is less costly than 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA). In this meta-analysis, we provide statistical evidence of the efficacy in using fluorescein for HGG resection. Methods Following the PRISMA framework, we assessed 119 reports from PubMed, Medline (Ovid), and BIOSIS Citation Index and found 21 eligible studies for meta-analysis, assessing the rates of GTR with fluorescein-guided resection of HGGs. Results A pooled cohort of 336 patients underwent fluorescein-guided HGG resection with a GTR rate of 81% (95% confidence interval 73%–89%; P Conclusions This meta-analysis shows that fluorescein-guided surgery improves GTR rates of HGGs when compared with non-fluorescence guided surgery and has similar GTR rates when compared with reported 5-ALA-guided resection rates.
Maintaining the Neutral Axis in the Treatment of Distal Femur Fractures Via Dual Plate or Nail Plate Combination Technique: When and How?

SUMMARY Distal femur fractures in the elderly have been historically treated with locked plating or retrograde intramedullary nailing with good, reliable results. However, in certain more complex fracture patterns (native or periprosthetic), increased density of fixation via dual-plate or nail plate combination can help achieve immediate weight-bearing. It can also potentially increase rates of union by shifting and maintaining the neutral axis, distributing forces more evenly across the fracture site. Here, we discuss the indications, pros and cons of both dual-plate and nail plate combination techniques in a concise case-based format.
Calming emotional 911 callers: Using redirection as a patient-focused directive in emergency medical calls

Abstract Callers making an emergency phone call can exhibit emotional displays about a current situation characterized by different forms of conduct such as shouting, howling each spoken word, speech distortion, crying, pleas for help, expressions such as “Oh God” (Whalen and Zimmerman, 1998). Since emotional outbursts can derail the call's progress, emotional callers are considered ‘non-compliant’ with the primary task, and dispatchers face practical challenges with caller management. Findings show how using a modal verb format can redirect callers to focus on a patient's care. Using conversation analysis, this article illustrates dispatchers' methods for redirecting an emotional caller's attention to complete a task, which works to calm callers and sustain their attention for the call's duration.
Akodon (Thaptomys) nigrita nigrita

Many chromosomes have similar morphology, so that pairing is rather arbitrary. Identification of the Y chromosome is unequivocal.
Nontuberculous Mycobacteria—Introduction

Nucleic acid probes are available for the most frequently seen mycobacterial species, Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, M. avium complex, M. kansasii, and M. gordonae. It has seemed as if there is an increase in nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) disease in the United States and other developed countries in recent years, but it has not been clear whether this is a true increase or just better detection. Early on, pulmonary NTM infections seemed to occur mainly in persons who had previous structural lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, tuberculosis, histoplasmosis, or other causes of bronchiectasis. A more recent cause of immune-suppressiontriggered NTM lung diseases (and NTM disease generally) has been the introduction of biologic agents, especially tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitor. The 2007 ATS/IDSA Statement includes a section in which the authors conclude that "more fundamental information is needed to improve understanding in essentially all areas of NTM disease". A combination of clinical, radiologic, and bacteriologic features has been suggested for diagnosis of true pulmonary NTM disease. Evaluation should include, beside appropriate history and physical, chest imaging using high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), unless there is obvious cavitation by chest X ray. If possible, NTM should be identified at the species level. Patients suspected of having NTM disease should be monitored closely until the diagnosis is made or excluded.
Mapping The Evolution of Scientific Community Structures in Time

The increasing online availability of scholarly corpora promises unprecedented opportunities for visualizing and studying scholarly communities. We seek to leverage this with a mixed-method approach that integrates network analysis of features of the online corpora with ethnographic studies of the communities that produce them. In our development of tools and visualizations we seek to support the going back and forth between views of community structures and the perceptions and research trajectories of individual researchers and research groups. We here present results from tracking the temporal evolution of community structures within a research specialty. We explore how the temporal evolution of these maps can be used to provide insights into the historical evolution of a field as well as extract more accurate snapshots of the community structures at a given point in time. We are currently conducting qualitative interviews with experts in this research specialty to assess the validity of the maps.
Using technology to encourage social problem solving in preschoolers

A recent emphasis in the early childhood literature has been on using computers to facilitate social skills in preschool children. Findings are mixed on how well children collaborate when using computers. This inconsistency indicates that the design of the computer curriculum may dictate the nature of the climate of use.
Nanometer Displacement Measurement Using High Magnification Diffraction Imaging

This paper proposes a direct nanometer measurement method using the technique of high magnification diffraction imaging. The principles of employing both gratings and speckles are described, in which the illumination distances that generate high magnified and focused images are discussed along with demonstration test results. In addition, the potential extension to sub-nanometer displacement measurement is discussed.
Subjective odor evaluation of toasted canola oil

Abstract A panel composed of Americans, and another composed of Koreans, ranked the odor acceptability of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% toasted canola oil. Samples were prepared by adding appropriate amounts of non-toasted canola oil. The American panel preferred the 0% toasted oil sample whereas the 100% toasted sample was judged to be significantly inferior. In contrast, the Korean panel judged the sample containing 50% non-toasted oil to be significantly superior.
Serological differences in two Blastomyces dermatitidis isolates from different geographical regions of North America

Yeast phase lysate antigens were prepared from two isolates (T-58 and ERC-2) from different geographic locations, Tennessee and Wisconsin. These lysate were evaluated with respect to their ability to detect antibody in dogs infected with blastomycosis and rabbits immunized with the lysates by an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Both the dog sera and rabbit sera assays demonstrated that there were serological differences in these two isolates, which implied that there was antigenic variance in geographical populations of B. dermatitidis. These results correlated with a previous molecular study that indicated that there are genetic differences in different geographical populations of the organism.
Semiparametric Bayesian Modeling of Multivariate Average Bioequivalence

Bioequivalence trials are usually conducted to compare two or more formulations of a drug. Simultaneous assessment of bioequivalence on multiple endpoints is called multivariate bioequivalence. Despite the fact that some tests for multivariate bioequivalence are suggested, current practice usually involves univariate bioequivalence assessments ignoring the correlations between the endpoints such as AUC and Cmax. In this paper we develop a semiparametric Bayesian test for bioequivalence under multiple endpoints. Specifically, we show how the correlation between the endpoints can be incorporated in the analysis and how this correlation affects the inference. Resulting estimates and posterior probabilities “borrow strength”’ from one another where the amount and direction of the strength borrowed are deter∗Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, 30303-3083, USA; Email: pghosh@mathstat.gsu.edu †Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021;
Recurrent ameloblastoma in autogenous rib graft: Report of a case

Abstract Recurrent tumors in previously placed bone grafts are rare. A case of recurrent ameloblastoma in a rib graft 13 years after resection and reconstruction is presented. A review of the literature discloses only one case of ameloblastoma recurring within a bone graft. Considering that the recurrence rate is substantial in these tumors, prudent planning and meticulous surgery is mandatory prior to any attempt at reconstruction to minimize the risk of failure due to recurrence.
Simulation-based time-dependent reliability analysis for composite hydrokinetic turbine blades

The reliability of blades is vital to the system reliability of a hydrokinetic turbine. A time-dependent reliability analysis methodology is developed for river-based composite hydrokinetic turbine blades. Coupled with the blade element momentum theory, finite element analysis is used to establish the responses (limit-state functions) for the failure indicator of the Tsai---Hill failure criterion and blade deflections. The stochastic polynomial chaos expansion method is adopted to approximate the limit-state functions. The uncertainties considered include those in river flow velocity and composite material properties. The probabilities of failure for the two failure modes are calculated by means of time-dependent reliability analysis with joint upcrossing rates. A design example for the Missouri river is studied, and the probabilities of failure are obtained for a given period of operation time.
Characterization of the Monomeric and Dimeric Forms of Latent and Active Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 DIFFERENTIAL RATES FOR ACTIVATION BY STROMELYSIN 1

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is a member of the MMP family that has been associated with degradation of the extracellular matrix in normal and pathological conditions. A unique characteristic of MMP-9 is its ability to exist in a monomeric and a disulfide-bonded dimeric form. However, there exists a paucity of information on the properties of the latent (pro-MMP-9) and active MMP-9 dimer. Here we report the purification to homogeneity of the monomer and dimer forms of pro-MMP-9 and the characterization of their biochemical properties and interactions with tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2. Gel filtration and surface plasmon resonance analyses demonstrated that the pro-MMP-9 monomeric and dimeric forms bind TIMP-1 with similar affinities. In contrast, TIMP-2 binds only to the active forms. After activation, the two enzyme forms exhibited equal catalytic competence in the turnover of a synthetic peptide substrate with comparable kinetic parameters for the onset of inhibition with TIMPs and for dissociation of the inhibited complexes. Kinetic analyses of the activation of monomeric and dimeric pro-MMP-9 by stromelysin 1 revealed K m values in the nanomolar range and relative low k catvalues (1.9 × 10−3 and 4.1 × 10−4s−1, for the monomer and dimer, respectively) consistent with a faster rate (1 order of magnitude) of activation of the monomeric form by stromelysin 1. This suggests that the rate-limiting event in the activation of pro-MMP-9 may be a requisite slow unfolding of pro-MMP-9 near the site of the hydrolytic cleavage by stromelysin 1.
Nitrogen Fate and Transport in a Conventional Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Installed in a Clay Soil: Experimental Results

Relationships between N transport and hydraulic function of onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTSs) in clay-textured soils are largely unknown. The objectives of this study were to quantify N concentrations in a clay soil and estimate denitrification in the vadose zone beneath a conventional OWTS. An OWTS installed in the Piedmont region of Georgia was dosed with residential strength wastewater three times per day for 2 yr. Soil near trench bottoms cycled between saturated and unsaturated conditions under the dosing schedule we used. Mean NH 4 –N concentrations decreased to −1 within 90 cm of trench bottoms due to adsorption, immobilization, and nitrification. Mean NO 3 –N concentrations increased as the drainfield matured and ranged from 10 to 25 mg L −1 near the end of the two year study period. Mean pressure heads and Cl − concentrations measured at 3.3 m and 6.6 m from trench inlets indicated that significantly more water infiltrated the drainfield at the 3.3 m position. Wet conditions at the 3.3 m position may have restricted nitrification, while dry conditions at the 6.6 m caused rapid nitrification. Nitrogen:chloride ratios suggested that 61% of N entering the drainfield was lost, potentially as volatile N-species. The 30-cm zone directly beneath the trenches had high biomass N and C contents (15 mg kg −1 N and 60 mg kg −1 C) and was presumably the most biologically active zone. The fate and transport of N was dynamic in this system due to variable moisture conditions near the trench-soil interface which may have intermittently stimulated denitrification.
Wiener filtering of aliased imagery

We analyze a Fourier-domain Wiener filter for the reconstruction of aliased imagery. The filter is designed to minimize the expected mean square error for the unaliased portion of the object Fourier transform. This analysis yields a net system transfer function, which characterizes the combined effects of the imaging system, sampling, and the reconstruction process, that is valid at both aliased and unaliased spatial frequencies. This transfer function provides insight into how aliasing artifacts are modified by the reconstruction process. Additionally, the net transfer function is useful for characterizing the combined performance of the imaging system and post processing. For example, the net system transfer function can be used to calculate the edge response for reconstructed imagery even in the presence of aliasing. Examples are used to illustrate these aspects of using the Wiener filter with aliased imagery.
Percutaneous pinning of symptomatic scaphoid nonunions

A prospective study was conducted to determine whether multiple percutaneous pinning of symptomatic scaphoid nonunions could result in union. All patients had symptomatic nonunions, confirmed by x-ray film, and of sufficient severity to interfere with activities of daily living or military duties. Eighteen patients had pinning with two to four 0.045-inch C-wires guided by image intensification. All nonunions were immobilized in below the elbow thumb spica casts until healed. Thirteen patients, treated by our protocol, had adequate follow-up of an average of 10.3 months. Bony union occurred in 10 (77%) cases, asymptomatic fibrous union occurred in two, and one failed to unite. Complications were few.
Father-son testicular tumors: evidence for genetic anticipation? A case report and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND The etiology of testicular carcinomas is unknown. Father-son testicular tumors represent an important subset of patients because the sons have a 6- to 10-fold increase in the risk of developing a testicular tumor compared with the general population, suggesting a possible genetic component in the etiology of the disease. Genetic anticipation has been established for several diseases and manifests itself clinically with earlier age of onset (AO) of disease or with increased severity of disease in children compared with their parents. METHODS We report only the 13th case of pure seminoma occurring in both a father and a son. The most striking feature of our case study was a 27-year difference in the AO between father and son. A review of the literature from 1972 through 1999 provided 47 cases of father-son testicular tumors in which sufficient information was available to compare the AO and the severity of the disease in the fathers (G1) and the sons (G2). RESULTS The mean AO for G1 was 43.3 (± 1.6) years compared with a mean AO for G2 of 27.0 (± 1.0) years for all 47 cases (P < 0.01). For fathers presenting with a pure seminoma, the mean AO was 45.9 (± 1.8) years for G1 compared with 27.0 (± 1.1) years for G2 (P < 0.01). For fathers presenting with a nonseminomatous tumor, the mean AO in G1 was 37.9 (± 2.6) years and 26.9 (± 1.8) years for G2 (P < 0.01). For the entire group of 47 cases, disease was more severe in G2 compared with G1 in 43% of cases, of equal severity in 47% of cases, and less severe in G2 compared with G1 in 10% of cases. CONCLUSIONS Genetic anticipation may be responsible for many father-son testicular tumors. Cancer 2000;88:2319–25. © 2000 American Cancer Society.
Within the Context of Many Contexts: Family, News Media Engagement, and the Ecology of Individual Political Development Among Generation Xers

Using cultural studies and media ecology perspectives, I analyze data collected from 15 Generation Xers about how they remember and understand the roles played by family and news media in the development of their politics-what is usually referred to as political socialization. This study suggests that news media are understood best not as discrete agents of influence, but rather as environments within which individuals develop politically. It finds that news media are of subtle-but-fundamentally powerful ecological importance, not just because news media engagement interrelates with, and takes place in the context of, institutions and phenomena like the family, but because all aspects of the larger culture and society-including family-are themselves shaped by mass media. Future scholarship should denote and more fully explore this fruitful tension between the cultural studies theorization of subjectivity and agency, and the media ecology theorization of media as environments with structuring biases.
Endoscopic needle localization of pancreatic pseudocysts before transmural drainage

(biliary stents) for improved drainage. Radiology 1983;148:8994. 14. Dooley JS, Dick R, George P, et al. Percutaneous transhepatic endoprosthesis for bile duct obstruction: complications and results. Gastroenterology 1984;86:905-9. 15. Mueller PR, Ferrucci JT, Teplick SK, et al. Biliary stent endoprosthesis: analysis of complications in 113 patients. Radiology 1985;156:637-9. 16. Lammer J, Neumayer K. Biliary drainage endoprostheses: experience with 201 placements. Radiology 1986;159:625-9. 17. Deviere J, Baize M, de Toeuf J, Cremer M. Long-term follow-up of patients with hilar malignant stricture treated by endoscopic internal drainage. Gastrointest Endosc 1988;34:95-6. 18. Motte S, Deviere J, Dumenceau JM, Serruys E, Thys JP, Cremer M. Risk factors for septicemia following endoscopic biliary stenting. Gastroenterology 1991;101:1374-81. 19. Coons HG. Self-expanding stainless steel biliary stents. Radiology 1989;170:979-83.
Integrating Activity-Based Costing and Economic Value Added in Manufacturing

This article presents a cost and perfonnance measurement system that integrates activity-based costing (ABC) with the economic value added financial perfonnance measure. This proposed ABC-and-EVA s...
Effect of phenolic compounds on glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase isoenzymes

Abstract Effector studies with two isoenzymes (I and IV) of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) from tobacco suspension culture WR-132 revealed that chlorogenic acid, at 0.4 mM, inhibited both isoenzymes almost 100%, with the inhibition decreasing as the concentration of the acid was reduced. At 0.3 and 0.4 mM, the coumarin glucosides scopolin and esculin were inhibitory, whereas their aglucones scopoletin and esculetin were less inhibitory, and at low concentrations of glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), the latter two were actually stimulatory for G6PDH I. Of the possible effectors studied, only scopoletin and esculetin exhibited a significant activation of G6PDH I under these conditions. However, with G6PDH IV these two effectors do not show the same marked activation at the low G6P concentrations. The phenolic acids, caffeic and ferulic, were less inhibitory than the coumarins tested. The activation of G6PDH I by scopoletin, a compound which accumulates in tobacco under certain stress conditions, gives a possible clue as to the resulting enhanced activity of the hexose monophosphate pathway that has been reported for some plants subjected to stress conditions.
On-chip, cell-based microarray immunofluorescence assay for high-throughput analysis of target proteins.

We have developed an immunofluorescence-based assay for high-throughput analysis of target proteins on a three-dimensional cellular microarray platform. This process integrates the use of three-dimensional cellular microarrays, which should better mimic the cellular microenvironment, with sensitive immunofluorescence detection and provides quantitative information on cell function. To demonstrate this assay platform, we examined the accumulation of the α subunit of the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1α) after chemical stimulation of human pancreatic tumor cells encapsulated in 3D alginate spots in volumes as low as 60 nL. We also tested the effect of the known dysregulator of HIF-1α, 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME2), on the levels of HIF-1α using a dual microarray stamping technique. This chip-based in situ Western immunoassay protocol was able to provide quantitative information on cell function, namely, the cellular response to hypoxia mimicking conditions and the reduction of HIF-1α levels after cell treatment...
A plasma source based on the Penning ionization of caesium by photoexcited mercury

A high-pressure plasma source based on the Penning ionization of caesium by photoexcited mercury is studied by a kinetic model. Mercury vapour is photoexcited by resonant excitation at 253.7 nm to the 3P1 level, then quenched to the metastable 3P0 level by a small admixture of nitrogen. Helium is added to enhance the electron collision frequency, but as a result also enhances the decay of electron density by three-body recombination processes. The results show that almost complete ionization of caesium to densities of order 1012 ions cm-3 can be achieved. Radiation transport in this medium is also studied, and the effects of pressure broadening and hyperfine splitting are explored. Using excitation sources and plasma sources enriched with different isotopes of mercury, hyperfine splitting can be exploited to increase the depth of penetration of the resonant excitation radiation into the plasma source volume and therefore increase the volume over which strong ionization can occur.
Nuclear rotational current and velocity fields, the cranking model, and transverse electroexcitation of the first excited state of /sup 12/C

We examine current and velocity fields of rotating deformed nuclei. Although the harmonic oscillator cranking model gives rigid moments of inertia, the velocity field is not a rigid rotation in the examples studied. Such fields are partially observable via electroexcitation, and we compare $^{12}\mathrm{C}$ to experiment. A slight improvement in experimental precision would allow different models to be distinguished.NUCLEAR REACTIONS Inelastic electron scattering, deformed nuclei; transverse electroexcitation probability, rotational model; $^{12}\mathrm{C}(e,{e}^{\ensuremath{'}})^{12}\mathrm{C}^{*}$ (4.4 MeV).
The Mammalian Intervertebral Disc. The Collagen of Whale Fetal Nucleus Pulposus

The hydroxyproline content and total amount of imino acids of whale nucleus collagen are in the range of variability usually observed in other mammalian collagen and about the same as the values reported for the collagen isolated from human intervertebral disc.Salt and acid extracted collagen of fetal whale nucleus pulposus was obtained with the aid of pronase. Soluble collagen preparations were also obtained without the use of pronase. Insoluble collagen was purified as gelatin. The amino acid and carbohydrate composition of these preparations was essentially the same. The salt-soluble collagen of the fetal nucleus contains 2% neutral carbohydrate, present as galactose and glucose in 1.5:1 ratio, trace amounts of hexosamine and no uronic acid. The galactose to glucose ratio is, however, higher in gelatin preparations.Carboxymethylcellulose chromatography of neutral salt-extracted collagen (after pronase) primarily showed two chromatographic components corresponding to αl and β11 chains of rat tendon solu...