cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vitamin E and other antioxidants inhibit human prostate cancer cells through apoptosis.

BACKGROUND Many human prostate cancer cells have escaped the apoptotic effects of natural regulators of cell growth such as transforming growth factor βl (TGF β-1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). METHODS Prostate cancer cell growth was investigated by treating with antioxidants. DU-145 (androgen-unresponsive), LNCaP (androgen-responsive), and ALVA-101 (androgen moderately responsive) were grown in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with bovine fetal calf serum and antibiotics, and were treated with various antioxidants for 1–7 days. Cell growth was then determined with the Cell Titer 96 AQ assay, and apoptosis was assessed by cell death detection ELISA, nuclear morphology, and TUNEL techniques. RESULTS Cells treated with or without (±)-α-tocopherol (vitamin E) for 1–7 days at concentrations from 0.078–2.5 μg/ml modestly affected cell growth compared to other antioxidants tested. Tocopherol produced a significant (P < 0.01) inhibition of ALVA-101 and LNCaP (10–24% of control; 0.078–2.5 μg/ml; at 6 days; n = 6). DU-145 cells were not growth-inhibited significantly. However, pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) produced a significant (P < 0.01, n = 6; 17–80% of control; 2.5–20 μg/ml; 1–7 days) inhibition of DU-145 and ALVA-101 cells. A significant (P < 0.01) and maximum inhibition of LNCaP cells occurred at all concentration of PDTC (2.5–20 μg/ml). A third compound, diethyldithiocarbamic acid (DETC), incubated for 1–7 days, produced a significant dose response suppression of cell growth of DU-145 and ALVA-101 cells (P < 0.01; 14–88% of control; 1.25–80 μg/ml; n = 6). LNCaP cells were inhibited by DETC (P < 0.01; 28% of control; 1.25–80 μg/ml; n = 6). All three antioxidants tested stimulated apoptosis in actively dividing ALVA-101, DU-145, and LNCaP cells (P < 0.01; n = 6), but confluent cells were affected less. Testosterone had additive inhibitory effects when combined with PDTC in ALVA-101 cells; however, the other cell lines were not influenced. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that antioxidants modulate human prostate cancer cell proliferation by altering apoptosis in dividing cells, and this necrosis or apoptosis in confluent cells is not as effective. Prostate 44:287–295, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Measuring the Degree of Internationalization of a Firm

In spite of both positivistic and instrumental research, the reliability of measuring the degree of internationalization of a firm remains speculative. We collected data on nine attributes of seventy-four American manufacturing MNCs. Alpha, factor, and frequency analyses revealed a linear combination of five variables with a reliability coefficient of .79 as a measure of the degree of internationalization of a firm. We discuss the statistical and conceptual properties of the scale and their implications for content and construct validity.
Determination of adenosine 5′-triphosphate by the luciferin-luciferase system with a stopped-flow spectrometer

Abstract A stopped-flow spectrometer is used for ATP assay by firefly luciferase-luciferin method. It allows one to record initial rise of the light intensity and to differentiate the light produced due to the conversion of ADP to ATP by nucleoside diphosphokinase in the firefly lantern when other nucleoside triphosphates are present. Addition of luciferin (0.27 m m ) to luciferase extract increases the light intensity by a factor of 50–100. This method can be used to measure ATP in the picomole range.
Sex Pheromone of the Codling Moth: Structure and Synthesis

The structure of a sex pheromone of the codling moth. Laspeyresia pomonella (L.), has been determined by spectrometric and chemical degradative techniques and by synthesis to be (2Z, 6E)-7-methyl-3-propyl-2,6-decadien-1-ol. In field cage tests the synthesized sex pheromone was as attractive as the natural, but neither was as attractive as ten virgin females per trap.
Helping clients with presbycusis

Hearing impairment is the most common chronic disability in the United States. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) reports that more than 28 million Americans have impaired hearing. Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent, depending on what function of the auditory system is not working right.
Steroid-induced elevation of glucose in Alzheimer's disease: relationship to gender, apolipoprotein E genotype and cognition.

Glucose and insulin may play an important role in the pathophysiology and symptomatology of Alzheimer s disease (AD), and prior studies suggest interactions among glucose, insulin, gender and apolipoprotein E genotype. We analyzed the relationship between steroid-induced glucose elevation and gender, presence of the apolipoprotein E e4 (APOE-4) allele and cognition using data from a multicenter trial of prednisone therapy in AD. The low-dose prednisone regimen (initial dose: 20 mg/day, maintenance dose: 10 mg/day) caused a moderate increase in random blood glucose (mean post-baseline glucose 115 mg/dl). There was a significant interaction between rise in glucose, gender and presence of the APOE-4 allele. There was no important relationship between glucose and cognitive function at baseline or with prednisone treatment. Meta-analysis including data from three other AD trials showed a small influence of random blood glucose on cognitive scores. These results support a relationship between gender, apolipoprotein E genotype and glucose metabolism, but do not indicate that mild changes in glucose have an important impact on cognitive function.
How many pears would a pear packer pack if a pear packer could pack pears at quasi-exogenously varying piece rates?

Abstract We examine labor supply using a unique dataset collected from a large pear-packing factory. Pear packers face both expected and unexpected shocks to their wages, and we use this to evaluate different models of inter-temporal labor supply. We find strong evidence for reference-dependent preferences, but only mixed support for models of rational-expectations-based targets.
The Effect of Systemic Anticoagulation in Patients Undergoing Angioaccess Surgery

The benefit of intravenous heparin as an anticoagulant to avoid thrombotic complications during angioaccess surgery for hemodialysis is unknown. We prospectively randomized 115 consecutive patients referred to our institution for permanent hemodialysis access to receive systemic anticoagulation or no anticoagulation during angioaccess surgery. Patient demographics, comorbid conditions, procedure time, complications, and patency were recorded in accordance with standards recommended by the Society for Vascular Surgery. Of the 115 patients randomized, 58 received no anticoagulation and 57 received systemic anticoagulation with intravenous heparin. Arteriovenous fistulas were created in 84 patients and 31 arteriovenous grafts were inserted. Operative times were longer for grafts compared to fistulas, but there were no significant differences in operative times between patients receiving anticoagulation and those not (p = 0.31). Perioperative bleeding complications were more common in patients receiving heparin (p = 0.008). The primary 30-day patency was 84% for patients receiving heparin and 86% for those not (p = 0.79). The 3-month functional patency was 68% for both groups (p = 0.99). Age, gender, operative time, and incidence of bleeding complications had no impact on patency. In our experience, systemic anticoagulation for angioaccess surgery is associated with an increased incidence of bleeding complications and offers no advantage in terms of early patency.
Photoacoustic microscopy: Current situation and new ultrasonic detectors

We present the need for new ultrasonic detectors in photoacoustic microscopy and report on the development of a cover-slip type, optically transparent, all-optical ultrasonic detector based on a polymeric micro-ring resonator for various photoacoustic applications.
Influence of volume-restriction effect on phase separation phenomena in steric dispersions

Abstract Steric systems such as paints, inks, milk and other dairy products, and biocolloids such as tissue and blood cells and protein solutions form a significant class of practically and theoretically important dispersions. Stability and phase separation phenomena in steric systems are complex due, in part, to the role of the polymeric macromolecules which are used to impart steric stability (or, instability). In this study, phase separation phenomena in selected steric systems are examined using a statistical mechanical formalism. Specifically, the volume-restriction effect in steric systems, which arises from the depletion of free polymer from the interparticle region due to the loss of configurational entropy, is investigated. The exclusion of the polymer molecules from the region of interparticle separation leads to an attractive force which is described by an interparticle pair potential first developed by Asakura and Oosawa ( J. Chem. Phys. 22, 1255 (1954); J. Polym. Sci. 33, 183 (1958)). In the case of aqueous systems in which electrolytes are present, a suitable electrostatic interaction is added to the Asakura-Oosawa potential for the volume-restriction interaction. With or without electrostatic and van der Waals interactions. the volume-restriction interaction potential is used in combination with perturbation theory (one statistical mechanical technique) to obtain osmotic pressures and free energies in fluid-like dispersions. Results for the solid phase are obtained using another statistical mechanical technique, a cell model technique developed by Lennard-Jones and Devonshire ( Proc. R. Soc. London Ser. A 163, 53 (1937); 165, 1 (1938)). These results, in turn, are used to construct phase diagrams for nonaqueous and aqueous dispersions in terms of polymer concentration. These results are compared with selected experimental and other theoretical results available in the literature.
Eternal black holes in anti-de Sitter

We propose a dual non-perturbative description for maximally extended Schwarzschild Anti-de-Sitter spacetimes. The description involves two copies of the conformal field theory associated to the AdS spacetime and an initial entangled state. In this context we also discuss a version of the information loss paradox and its resolution.
Bond graph fluid line models for inclusion with dynamic systems simulations

Abstract A procedure is presented whereby the control volume equations for one-dimensional, compressible gas dynamics are cast into first-order, state variable form. These equations are interpreted using causal bond graphs. The resulting bond graph is shown to reduce to the classic I-C chain under acoustic constraints and to a more recently developed model of low speed thermal energy transport subject to associated constraints. Through example it is demonstrated that the control volume bond graph is easily coupled to an overall system model and thus can be digitally simulated as part of the overall nonlinear state space representation. The result is that a very accurate gas dynamic model can be coupled with an overall dynamic system model without requiring a prohibitively large number of equations.
Preventable cancers: the role of obstetrician gynecologists in colorectal cancer screening.

Colorectal cancer is second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and is the third most common cause of cancer deaths in U.S. women. Effective screening and intervention programs exist and, if followed, could halve the number of annual deaths from this disease. Detection of early-stage disease and, more important, premalignant polyps, is possible by following the recommendations of several national societies, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Recommended screening consists of identification of special risk factors, annual fecal occult blood testing, and flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years. Alternatively, a dual-contrast barium enema every 5 to 10 years or colonoscopy every 10 years are options. This article reviews the evidence underlying current screening guidelines, highlights emerging trends in screening, and analyzes the growing need for women's health care providers to understand and promote colorectal cancer screening as part of an optimal health maintenance program.
Characterization of glutenin protein fractions from sequential extraction of hard red spring wheats of different breadmaking quality

ABSTRACT Gluten proteins from two cultivars of hard red spring (HRS) wheat with good and poor breadmaking quality were fractionated into 13 fractions by sequential extraction with dilute hydrochloric acid. Each subfraction was characterized by multistacking (MS) SDS-PAGE under nonreducing conditions, followed by imaging densitometry. The glutenin polymers from the origins of MS-SDS-PAGE were analyzed by SDSP-PAGE under reducing conditions to determine the composition of high and low molecular weight subunits. The results showed that fractions differed significantly in glutenin-to-gliadin ratios and in the size distribution of glutenin polymers. The earlier precipitated fractions were composed of more gliadins but fewer glutenin polymers. However, the glutenin polymers gradually increased in their relative quantities with the residue having the largest glutenin-to-gliadin ratio. The size distribution of glutenin polymers differed significantly from early precipitated to later fractions. The relative quanti...
Operator scheduling strategies in supervisory control of multiple UAVs

The application of network centric operations to time-constrained command and control environments will mean that human operators will be increasingly responsible for multiple simultaneous supervisory control tasks. One such futuristic application will be the control of multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by a single operator. To achieve such performance in complex, time critical, and high risk settings, automated systems will be required both to guarantee rapid system response, as well as manageable workload for operators. Through the development of a simulation test bed for human supervisory control of multiple independent UAVs by a single operator, this paper presents recent efforts to investigate workload mitigation strategies as a function of increasing automation. A human-in-the-loop experiment revealed that under low workload conditions, operators' cognitive strategies were relatively robust across increasing levels of automated decision support. However, when provided with explicit automated recommendations and with the ability to negotiate with external agencies for delays in arrival times for targets, operators inappropriately fixated on the need to globally optimize their schedules. In addition, without explicit visual representation of uncertainty, operators tended to treated all probabilities uniformly. This study also revealed that operators who reached cognitive saturation adapted two very distinct management strategies, which led to varying degrees of success. Lastly, operators with management-by-exception decision support exhibited evidence of automation bias.
Higher coated-platelet levels are associated with chronic hypertension in patients with transient ischemic attack.

Coated-platelets are procoagulant platelets observed upon dual stimulation with collagen and thrombin. We previously reported that coated-platelet levels are elevated in patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA) compared to controls and that these levels correlate with ABCD2 scores, a validated tool for identifying the short-term risk for stroke occurrence in TIA patients. We now investigate the effect of individual elements of the ABCD2 score on coated-platelet levels in TIA. Coated-platelet levels were measured in 124 TIA patients. A nine-way ANOVA evaluated the impact of components of the ABCD2 score (age, blood pressure (BP), clinical features, symptom duration, and diabetes), smoking, pertinent medications, race, and gender on coated-platelet levels. In the initial model, the only significant main effect was for BP; patients with BP ≥ 140/90 had higher coated-platelet levels than those without (mean ± SEM; 44.0 ± 2.1% vs. 35.4 ± 2.3%, p = 0.0007). Because the diagnosis of hypertension (HTN) requi...
Potential radiation-sensitizing effect of semisynthetic epothilone B in human lung cancer cells

Abstract Background and purpose : To evaluate a semisynthetic epothilone B, BMS-247550, as a potential radiosensitizer in vitro and in vivo. Materials and methods : Human NCI-H460 lung cancer cells were treated with either BMS-247550 or paclitaxel and in combination with radiation at multiple doses for different time periods. Surviving fractions were then analyzed using a clonogenic assay. Cell cycle redistribution by BMS-247550 was measured with propidium iodide and flow cytometry. Percent apoptosis was also measured using 7-amino-actinomycin D staining with flow cytometry. For in vivo studies, the H460 xenograft model was used in athymic nude mice. Tumors were treated with BMS-247550 (5 mg/kg) i.p. injection on days 0, 2, and 4 and/or radiation (2 Gy/day, days 0–4). Results : The in vitro radiation dose enhancement ratios (DER) of 1-h BMS-247550 and paclitaxel were 2.03 and 1.34, respectively. Treatment with BMS-247550 enhanced the G2/M block and induced apoptosis; whereas in combination with radiation, the induction of apoptosis was additive. BMS-247550 in combination with radiation in vivo enhanced the tumor growth delay when compared with either drug or radiation alone. Conclusions : These results demonstrated that BMS-247550 could enhance the effects of radiation in human lung cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo and that a G2/M block and increased apoptosis might be possible explanations for the enhancement.
Simulation study of the performance of a cluster-based hypercube multicomputer

In this paper, discrete-event simulation is used to evaluate the performance of a cluster-based hypercube architecture running parallel simplex and parallel Gaussian elimination algorithms.The cluster-based hypercube architecture enhances the performance of the nodes of the existing hypercube architecture systems by incorporating in each node, a cluster of n execution processors connected through a small cross-bar switch with n memory modules. The memory modules in each node are shared by the processors within the node.The simulations were developed for both the cluster-based hypercube architecture and the Intel Personal Supercomputer (iPSC/860, a conventional hypercube), and the results obtained were compared. The simulation results show a response time performance improvement of up to 30% in favor of the cluster-based hypercube architecture. We also observe that for increased link delays, the performance gap increases significantly in favor of the cluster-based hypercube architecture.
Platelet-derived Growth Factor Receptor-β (PDGFR-β) Activation Promotes Its Association with the Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein (LRP) EVIDENCE FOR CO-RECEPTOR FUNCTION

Activation of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFR-beta) leads to tyrosine phosphorylation of the cytoplasmic domain of LRP and alters its association with adaptor and signaling proteins, such as Shc. The mechanism of the PDGF-induced LRP tyrosine phosphorylation is not well understood, especially since PDGF not only activates PDGF receptor but also binds directly to LRP. To gain insight into this mechanism, we used a chimeric receptor in which the ligand binding domain of the PDGFR-beta was replaced with that from the macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) receptor, a highly related receptor tyrosine kinase of the same subfamily, but with different ligand specificity. Activation of the chimeric receptor upon the addition of M-CSF readily mediated the tyrosine phosphorylation of LRP. Since M-CSF is not recognized by LRP, these results indicated that growth factor binding to LRP is not necessary for this phosphorylation event. Using a panel of cytoplasmic domain mutants of the chimeric M-CSF/PDGFR-beta, we confirmed that the kinase domain of PDGFR-beta is absolutely required for LRP tyrosine phosphorylation but that PDGFR-beta-mediated activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, RasGAP, SHP-2, phospholipase C-gamma, and Src are not necessary for LRP tyrosine phosphorylation. To identify the cellular compartment where LRP and the PDGFR-beta may interact, we employed immunofluorescence and immunogold electron microscopy. In WI-38 fibroblasts, these two receptors co-localized in coated pits and endosomal compartments following PDGF stimulation. Further, phosphorylated forms of the PDGFR-beta co-immunoprecipitated with LRP following PDGF treatment. Together, these studies revealed close association between activated PDGFR-beta and LRP, suggesting that LRP functions as a co-receptor capable of modulating the signal transduction pathways initiated by the PDGF receptor from endosomes.
Pathogenesis of papain-induced emphysema in the hamster.

In an effort to determine the mechanism of papain action in causing an emphysema-like lesion in hamsters, the number and types of cells and the activities of two lysosomal enzymes in the lung were determined after papain exposure. Three and four weeks after a 3-h exposure to an aerosol of 3% papain the following alterations in lung structure and function were observed: (1) the mean linear intercept, or average distance between adjacent alveoli, was increased; (2) the internal surface area declined; (3) the dynamic compliance was elevated at low breathing frequencies. The numbers of cells present free in the lung increased from a control value of 2.0±0.2×106 to 6.6±0.5×106 5 days after exposure. The freeβ-glucuronidase, a lysosomal enzyme, likewise increased over threefold during the first 3 days after exposure. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that papain induces an inflammatory-type response, and this may be in part responsible for inducing the lesion.
CD8+ T lymphocyte control of HIV replication in cultured CD4+ cells varies among infected individuals

Production of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by cultured peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PMC) from many seropositive individuals is inhibited by the presence of CD8+ T lymphocytes. In a study of 10 subjects, high levels of virus replication could be detected in cultures of purified CD4+ cells, but not in unseparated PMC. Addition of highly purified, autologous CD8+ cells to the enriched CD4+ cells resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of HIV growth and revealed that for some individuals, even low numbers of CD8+ cells can prevent replication of the virus. The data also indicated that culturing enriched CD4+ cells could greatly enhance detection of infectious virus in blood specimens and demonstrated that the CD4+ molecule is expressed on infected T cells isolated directly from the peripheral blood.
High pH-resistant, surface-bonded sol–gel titania hybrid organic–inorganic coating for effective on-line hyphenation of capillary microextraction (in-tube solid-phase microextraction) with high-performance liquid chromatography

Sol-gel titania-poly(dimethylsiloxane) (TiO2-PDMS) coating was developed for capillary microextraction (CME) to perform on-line preconcentration and HPLC analysis of trace impurities in aqueous samples. A method is presented describing in situ preparation of the titania-based sol-gel PDMS coating and its immobilization on the inner surface of a fused silica microextraction capillary. To perform CME-HPLC, the sol-gel TiO2-PDMS capillary was installed in the HPLC injection port as an external sampling loop, and a conventional ODS column was used for the liquid chromatographic separation. The target analytes were extracted on-line by passing the aqueous sample through this sampling loop. The sol-gel titania-PDMS coated capillaries were used for on-line extraction and HPLC analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones, and alkylbenzenes. The extracted analytes were then transferred to the HPLC column using an organic-rich mobile phase followed by HPLC separation via gradient elution. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the use of sol-gel titania-based organic-inorganic material as a sorbent in capillary microextraction. The newly developed sol-gel titania-based CME coatings demonstrated excellent pH stability and enhanced extraction capability over the commercial GC coatings that are conventionally used for the same purpose. Extraction characteristics of a sol-gel titania-PDMS capillary remained practically unchanged after continuous rinsing with a 0.1 M NaOH solution (pH 13) for 12h.
Fallen Uterus: Social Suffering, Bodily Vigor, and Social Support among Women in Rural Mexico

This article focuses on rural indigenous Mexican women's experiences with uterine prolapse, particularly the illness's expression of social suffering. Drawing on ethnographic research conducted during 2004-2005 and 2007 in a Nahua village in the state of Veracruz, the article analyzes the multifactorial nature of women's social suffering. Results show that the roots of uterine displacement for the women lie in lack of social relations and in perceptions of bodily vigor. Additionally, inequality present in the women's interactions with mainstream Mexico brings into focus the larger structural factors that shape their reproductive health. The implications of research on the effect of social support on women's embodiment of social suffering can extend beyond one illness, linking it to broader issues shaping the health of marginalized populations.
Expression of antisense epidermal growth factor receptor RNA downmodulates the malignant behavior of human colon cancer cells

Human colon cancer (Moser) cells produce and secrete epidermal growth factor (EGF) and respond to EGF via an autocrine/paracrine mode through the cell surface EGF receptor (EGFR). In this report we show that EGF promotes the malignant behavior of the Moser cells in vitro in terms of growth in soft agarose and invasion of Matrigel-coated porous membranes. Expressing antisense EGFR RNA in the Moser cells (through transfection with an inducible antisense EGFR expression vector) downmodulated the expression of cell surface EGFR and EGFR mRNA with a concurrent inhibition of growth in soft agarose and invasion of Matrigel-coated membranes. In addition, the ability of exogenously applied EGF in promoting the malignant behavior of these cells was circumvented. We conclude that antisense EGFR RNA was a potent agent in circumventing the in vitro malignant properties of the Moser cells.
The Earth's mantle

The principal facts contributing to modern ideas of the structure of the mantle will be briefly reviewed. Particular attention will be given to the problem of a physical interpretation of the seismic velocities and their variations with depth, following a method discussed in detail in a recent paper by the author in the Journal of Geophysical Research (Elasticity and constitution of the Earth's interior). The principal conclusions are (1) that the mantle as a whole is not homogeneous; (2) that there may be a reasonably homogeneous layer between the depths of 900 and 2900 km, consisting of high-pressure phases, presumably of the composition of a ferromagnesian silicate; (3) that gradual changes of composition of the proportion of high pressure phases, or both, take place in a transitional layer between the depths of 200 to 900 km. Discovery of the nature of this transitional layer is considered to be of crucial importance for dynamical geology and petrology.
Elevated blood pressure in offspring of rats exposed to diverse chemicals during pregnancy

Adverse intrauterine environments have been associated with increased risk of later cardiovascular disease and hypertension. In an animal model using diverse developmental toxicants, we measured blood pressure (BP), renal nephron endowment, renal glucocorticoid receptor (GR) gene expression, and serum aldosterone in offspring of pregnant Sprague Dawley rats exposed to dexamethasone (Dex), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), atrazine, perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), arsenic, or nicotine. BP was assessed by tail cuff photoplethysmography, nephron endowment by confocal microscopy, and renal GR mRNA by qPCR. BP was also measured by telemetry, and corticosterone (CORT) was measured in resting or restrained Dex and atrazine offspring. Treated dams gained less weight during treatment in all groups except arsenic. There were chemical- and sex-specific effects on birth weight, but offspring body weights were similar by weaning. BP was higher in Dex, PFOS, atrazine, and PFNA male offspring by 7-10 weeks. Female offspring exhibited elevated BP at 10 weeks for PFNA and arsenic, and at 37 weeks for Dex, PFOS, and atrazine. Dex, PFOS, and atrazine offspring still exhibited elevated BP at 52-65 weeks of age; others did not. Elevated BP was associated with lower nephron counts. Dex, PFOS, and atrazine offspring had elevated renal GR gene expression. Elevations in BP were also observed in Dex and atrazine offspring by radiotelemetry. Atrazine offspring exhibited enhanced CORT response to restraint. Elevated offspring BP was induced by maternal exposure to toxicants. Because all treatments affected maternal gestational weight gain, maternal stress may be a common underlying factor in these observations.
Global Optimization With Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines

This paper presents a novel procedure for approximating the global optimum in structural design by combining multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) with a response surface methodology (RSM). MARS is a flexible regression technique that uses a modified recursive partitioning strategy to simplify high-dimensional problems into smaller yet highly accurate models. Combining MARS and RSM improves the conventional RSM by addressing highly nonlinear high-dimensional problems that can be simplified into lower dimensions, yet maintains a low computational cost and better interpretability when compared to neural networks and generalized additive models. MARS/RSM is also compared to simulated annealing and genetic algorithms in terms of computational efficiency and accuracy. The MARS/RSM procedure is applied to a set of low-dimensional test functions to demonstrate its convergence and limiting properties
Tree regeneration following drought‐ and insect‐induced mortality in piñon–juniper woodlands

Widespread pinon (Pinus edulis) mortality occurred across the southwestern USA during 2002-2003 in response to drought and bark beetle infestations. Given the recent mortality and changes in regional climate over the past several decades, there is a keen interest in post-mortality regeneration dynamics in pinon-juniper woodlands. Here, we examined pinon and Utah juniper (Juniperus osteosperma) recruitment at 30 sites across southwestern Colorado, USA that spanned a gradient of adult pinon mortality levels (10-100%) to understand current regeneration dynamics. Pinon and juniper recruitment was greater at sites with more tree and shrub cover. Pinon recruitment was more strongly facilitated than juniper recruitment by trees and shrubs. New (post-mortality) pinon recruitment was negatively affected by recent mortality. However, mortality had no effect on pinon advanced regeneration (juveniles established pre-mortality) and did not shift juvenile pinon dominance. Our results highlight the importance of shrubs and juniper trees for the facilitation of pinon establishment and survival. Regardless of adult pinon mortality levels, areas with low tree and shrub cover may become increasingly juniper dominated as a result of the few suitable microsites for pinon establishment and survival. In areas with high pinon mortality and high tree and shrub cover, our results suggest that pinon is regenerating via advanced regeneration.
Microgravity Geyser and Flowfield Prediction

Modeling and prediction of flow fields and geyser formation in microgravity cryogenic propellant tanks was investigated. A computational simulation was used to reproduce the test matrix of experimental results performed by other investigators, as well as to model the flows in a larger tank. An underprediction of geyser height by the model led to a sensitivity study to determine if variations in surface tension coefficient, contact angle, or jet pipe turbulence significantly influence the simulations. It was determined that computational geyser height is not sensitive to slight variations in any of these items. An existing empirical correlation based on dimensionless parameters was re-examined in an effort to improve the accuracy of geyser prediction. This resulted in the proposal for a re-formulation of two dimensionless parameters used in the correlation; the non-dimensional geyser height and the Bond number. It was concluded that the new non-dimensional geyser height shows little promise. Although further data will be required to make a definite judgement, the reformulation of the Bond number provided correlations that are more accurate and appear to be more general than the previously established correlation.
IFE TARGET INJECTION TRACKING AND POSITION PREDICTION UPDATE

To achieve high gain in an inertial fusion energy power plant, driver beams must hit direct drive targets with {+-}20 {mu}m accuracy ({+-}100 {mu}m for indirect drive). Targets will have to be tracked with even greater accuracy. The conceptual design for our tracking system, which predicts target arrival position and timing based on position measurements outside of the reaction chamber was previously described. The system has been built and has begun tracking targets at the first detector station. Additional detector stations are being modified for increased field of view. After three tracking stations are operational, position predictions at the final station will be compared to position measurements at that station as a measure of target position prediction accuracy.The as-installed design will be described together with initial target tracking and position prediction accuracy results. Design modifications that allow for improved accuracy and/or in-chamber target tracking will also be presented.
Developing a Quality Index grading tool for hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis × Morone chrysops) based on the Quality Index Method

Summary A Quality Index Method (QIM) scheme was developed for hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis × M. chrysops). The new scheme is a convenient way to estimate storage time and remaining shelf life of fresh hybrid striped bass stored in ice. It consists of eight descriptors resulting in a total allowable score or Quality Index (QI) of fourteen points. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was used to separate the effects of storage time and origin of fish. The calculated QI related linearly with storage days (QI = 0.483 × days in ice + 1.568, r2 = 0.934). Storage time of unknown samples can be predicted from this relationship with a prediction error of ±1.2 days. Using Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA), the maximum shelf life of fresh hybrid striped bass was determined to be 14 days in ice.
A network-based software distribution system for smaller organizations

Software distribution has been and continues to be an ongoing problem, for both internal and external distribution. CD-ROMs, the current distribution media of choice for many organizations, can become unusable due to repeated use due to damage or soiling. This paper reports on a successful effort to deploy a network-based software distribution system within a relatively small college.
How to look busy while being as lazy as ever: the Implementation of a lazy functional debugger

This article describes the implementation of a debugger for lazy functional languages like Haskell. The key idea is to construct a declarative trace which hides the operational details of lazy evaluation. However, to avoid excessive memory consumption, the trace is constructed one piece at a time, as needed during a debugging session, by automatic re-execution of the program being debugged. The article gives a fairly detailed account of both the underlying ideas and of our implementation, and also presents performance figures which demonstrate the feasibility of the approach.
Bottleneck Flow Control

The problem of optimally choosing message rates for users of a store-and-forward network is analyzed. Multiple users sharing the links of the network each attempt to adjust their message rates to achieve an ideal network operating point or an "ideal tradeoff point between high throughput and low delay." Each user has a fixed path or virtual circuit. In this environment, a basic definition of "ideal delay-throughput tradeoff" is given and motivated. This definition concentrates on a fair allocation of network resources at network bottlenecks. This "ideal policy" is implemented via a decentralized algorithm that achieves the unique set of optimal throughputs. All sharers constrained by the same bottleneck are treated fairly by being assigned equal throughputs. A generalized definition of ideal tradeoff is then introduced to provide more flexibility in the choice of message rates. With this definition, the network may accommodate users with different types of message traffic. A transformation technique reduces the problem of optimizing this performance measure to the problem of optimizing the basic measure.
Pharmacokinetics of the thymidine analog 2′-fluoro-5-methyl-1-β-d-arabinofuranosyluracil (FMAU) in tumor-bearing rats

Abstract The thymidine analog 2′-fluoro-5-methyl-1-β- d -arabinofuranosyluracil (FMAU) is incorporated into DNA and is resistant to catabolism. We performed pharmacokinetic measurements with [ 14 C]FMAU and PET studies with [ 11 C]FMAU using rats bearing several different syngeneic tumors. Among normal tissues, FMAU uptake reflected relative cell turnover rates. Among tumors, the highest uptake occurred in a rapidly growing colon carcinoma, but was similarly low in both rapidly and slowly growing prostate tumors. FMAU was not catabolized and was rapidly incorporated into DNA by small intestine and colon tumors. Results indicate that FMAU may be useful for imaging tissue DNA synthesis, although tumor uptake was modest and not well correlated with growth rate among the models examined.
Bridge Functionality Relationships for Improved Seismic Risk Assessment of Transportation Networks

Relationships between bridge damage and the resulting loss of functionality of the bridge are critical to assessing the impact of an earthquake event on the performance of the transportation network. This study addresses this data need by use of a Web-based survey of central and southeastern U.S. Department ofTransportation bridge inspectors and officials. Results of the 28 responses are analyzed and offer a link between various types of bridge component damage and the expected level of allowable traffic carrying capacity due to closure decisions and repair procedures.This data is utilized to assess the probability of meeting various damage states, expressed in terms of restoration of functionality, and subsequently facilitate the refinement of component limit-state capacities for analytical fragility curve development. The bridge functionality relationships and methodology outlined serve as the basis for refinement of critical tools in the seismic risk assessment framework and improved assessment of transportation network performance. DOI: 10.1193/1.2431209
Interval estimation using replication/deletion and MSER truncation

This paper addresses the construction of a consistent interval estimator for the steady-state mean within a replication/deletion framework for output analysis when MSER truncation is applied. Because the MSER truncation point is a random variable, the truncated output sequences for each replication typically are unequal in length. A weighting scheme is applied to the replication means to correct for unequal sample sizes, as is standard in ANOVA. A numerical example is provided to illustrate the procedure and consequences.
Postural dynamics: Clinical and empirical implications

Objective: To provide a rationale for the examination of posture from a dynamic (behavioral) perspective and to relate the vertebral subluxation to postural instability and motion sickness via inefficiency. Data Collection: A manual search of available reference texts and a computer search of literature from Index Medicus, PsycINFO, and ISI Science Citation Index Expanded were collected with an emphasis on postural dynamics, vertebral subluxation, and motion sickness. Results: Evidence linking behavioral and health research has emerged from the study of posture and postural dynamics. Studies examining the relation between postural control and motion sickness have shown that motion sickness is preceded and predicted by postural instability. Motion sickness is characterized by maladaptive response to unusual motion events. The symptoms are nonspecific and variable. Although the Postural Instability theory of motion sickness predicted that instability should precede sickness, it did not make any claims regarding the symptoms associated with it. Chiropractic literature has emphasized the effects of vertebral subluxation on neurologic dysfunction. Vertebral subluxation is a condition that is postulated to interfere with neurologic processes and may influence organ system function and general health. As in the case of motion sickness, symptoms are nonspecific and variable (and in some instances the person may have no symptoms). So what do these disorders have in common? In each instance the disruptions lead to inefficiency in the system. Conclusion: Given this potential commonality, we propose that some of the methods used by behavioral researchers to study postural dynamics may also be of great utility to health care practitioners and psychologists alike. Furthermore we propose that this link will provide a framework that will allow scientists to address seemingly intractable problems such as motion sickness or subluxation. (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2001;24: 340-9)
An analysis of electronic health record-related patient safety concerns.

Objective A recent Institute of Medicine report called for attention to safety issues related to electronic health records (EHRs). We analyzed EHR-related safety concerns reported within a large, integrated healthcare system. Methods The Informatics Patient Safety Office of the Veterans Health Administration (VA) maintains a non-punitive, voluntary reporting system to collect and investigate EHR-related safety concerns (ie, adverse events, potential events, and near misses). We analyzed completed investigations using an eight-dimension sociotechnical conceptual model that accounted for both technical and non-technical dimensions of safety. Using the framework analysis approach to qualitative data, we identified emergent and recurring safety concerns common to multiple reports. Results We extracted 100 consecutive, unique, closed investigations between August 2009 and May 2013 from 344 reported incidents. Seventy-four involved unsafe technology and 25 involved unsafe use of technology. A majority (70%) involved two or more model dimensions. Most often, non-technical dimensions such as workflow, policies, and personnel interacted in a complex fashion with technical dimensions such as software/hardware, content, and user interface to produce safety concerns. Most (94%) safety concerns related to either unmet data-display needs in the EHR (ie, displayed information available to the end user failed to reduce uncertainty or led to increased potential for patient harm), software upgrades or modifications, data transmission between components of the EHR, or ‘hidden dependencies’ within the EHR. Discussion EHR-related safety concerns involving both unsafe technology and unsafe use of technology persist long after ‘go-live’ and despite the sophisticated EHR infrastructure represented in our data source. Currently, few healthcare institutions have reporting and analysis capabilities similar to the VA. Conclusions Because EHR-related safety concerns have complex sociotechnical origins, institutions with long-standing as well as recent EHR implementations should build a robust infrastructure to monitor and learn from them.
High field related thin oxide wearout and breakdown

The high voltage wearout and breakdown of thin silicon oxides has been described in terms of traps generated inside of the oxide and at the interfaces by a high field emission process. The trap generation was accompanied by the motion of atoms which resulted in permanent traps fixed in space. Breakdown occurred when the local density of traps exceeded a critical density. The charge state of these traps could easily be changed by application of low voltages after the high voltage stresses. The energy levels of the traps varied depending on the probability of trap generation. This model has been applied to analyze the thickness, field, polarity, time, and temperature dependences of oxide wearout and breakdown observed in oxides thinner than 22 mn. It was concluded that the wearout process in oxides thinner than 22 nm was determined by the electric fields applied to the oxides and not by the passage of currents through the oxides. >
Steam Oxidation and Chromia Evaporation in Ultra-Supercritical Steam Boilers and Turbines

U.S. Department of Energy’s goals include power generation from coal at 60% efficiency, which requires steam conditions of up to 760 °C and 340 atm, so-called ultra-supercritical (USC) conditions. Evaporation of protective chromia scales is expected to be a primary corrosion mechanism. A methodology to calculate Cr evaporation rates from chromia scales was developed and combined with Cr diffusion calculations within the alloy (with a constant flux of Cr leaving the alloy from evaporation) to predict Cr concentration profiles and to predict the time until breakaway oxidation. At the highest temperatures and pressures, the time until breakaway oxidation was predicted to be quite short for the turbine blade, and of concern within the steam pipe and the higher temperature portions of the superheater tube. Alloy additions such as Ti may allow for a reduction in evaporation rate with time, mitigating the deleterious effects of chromia evaporation.
Outpatient Costs of Medications for Patients with Chronic Heart Failure

BACKGROUND The outpatient costs of medications prescribed for chronic heart failure are high and are often borne by individual patients. Lack of financial resources may force noncompliance with use of medications. OBJECTIVE To compare the outpatient costs of medications for patients with different New York Heart Association classifications of chronic heart failure. METHODS The charts of 138 patients with chronic heart failure were reviewed retrospectively. Outpatient costs of medications were obtained from the Web sites of commercial pharmacies. Medications were classified by type according to the system of the American Heart Association. A mean cost for each classification of medication was used for analysis. RESULTS The overall mean monthly cost of medications for chronic heart failure was $438. Patients with class II and class III chronic heart failure had the highest costs: $541 and $514, respectively. Analysis of variance indicated that the differences in monthly costs of medications between the patients with the 4 stages of chronic heart failure were significant (F = 4.86, P = .003). A post hoc Scheffe test revealed significant differences in costs between patients with class I and patients with class II heart failure (P = .02) and between patients with class I and those with class III heart failure (P = .02). CONCLUSIONS The outpatient costs of medications for chronic heart failure are significant. Ability to pay for prescribed medications must be determined. Healthcare professionals must maintain an awareness of the costs of medications and patients' ability to pay.