cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Single image super-resolution using dictionary-based local regression

This paper presents a new method of producing a high-resolution image from a single low-resolution image without any external training image sets. We use a dictionary-based regression model for practical image super-resolution using local self-similar example patches within the image. Our method is inspired by the observation that image patches can be well represented as a sparse linear combination of elements from a chosen over-complete dictionary and that a patch in the high-resolution image have good matches around its corresponding location in the low-resolution image. A first-order approximation of a nonlinear mapping function, learned using the local self-similar example patches, is applied to the low-resolution image patches to obtain the corresponding high-resolution image patches. We show that the proposed algorithm provides improved accuracy compared to the existing single image super-resolution methods by running them on various input images that contain diverse textures, and that are contaminated by noise or other artifacts.
Periostin Regulates Goblet Cell Metaplasia in a Model of Allergic Airway Inflammation

Periostin is a 90-kDa member of the fasciclin-containing family and functions as part of the extracellular matrix. Periostin is expressed in a variety of tissues and expression is increased in airway epithelial cells from asthmatic patients. Recent studies have implicated a role for periostin in allergic eosinophilic esophagitis. To further define a role for periostin in Th2-mediated inflammatory diseases such as asthma, we studied the development of allergic pulmonary inflammation in periostin-deficient mice. Sensitization and challenge of periostin-deficient mice with OVA resulted in increased peripheral Th2 responses compared with control mice. In the lungs, periostin deficiency resulted in increased airway resistance and significantly enhanced mucus production by goblet cells concomitant with increased expression of Gob5 and Muc5ac compared with wild type littermates. Periostin also inhibited the expression of Gob5, a putative calcium-activated chloride channel involved in the regulation of mucus production, in primary murine airway epithelial cells. Our studies suggest that periostin may be part of a negative-feedback loop regulating allergic inflammation that could be therapeutic in the treatment of atopic disease.
Separate Enciphering of Correlated Messages for Confidentiality in Distributed Networks

This paper studies distributed joint secrecy and compression suitable for sensor networks. A capacity region that characterizes the tradeoff between compression and secrecy is derived. We demonstrate for the two-node case that under the restriction of separate enciphering (i.e., no inter-node collaboration) unconditional secrecy by both parties cannot be achieved simultaneously. A fundamental design rule for lightweight encoder implementation critical for secrecy based on distributed source coding using syndromes and Reed-Solomon codes is presented highlighting practical feasibility.
Radionuclides in Nephrourology, Part 1: Radiopharmaceuticals, Quality Control, and Quantitative Indices

Radionuclide renal scintigraphy provides important functional data to assist in the diagnosis and management of patients with a variety of suspected genitourinary tract problems, but the procedures are underutilized. Maximizing the utility of the available studies (as well as the perception of utility by referring physicians) requires a clear understanding of the clinical question, attention to quality control, acquisition of the essential elements necessary to produce an informed interpretation, and production of a report that presents a coherent impression that specifically addresses the clinical question and is supported by data contained in the report. To help achieve these goals, part 1 of this review covers information that should be provided to the patient before the scan, describes the advantages and limitations of the available radiopharmaceuticals, discusses quality control elements needed to optimize the study, summarizes approaches to the measurements of renal function, and focuses on recommended quantitative indices and their diagnostic applications. Although the primary focus is the adult patient, aspects of the review also apply to the pediatric population.
Analytic study of Delay/Fault-Tolerant Mobile Sensor Networks (DFT-MSN's)

The Delay/Fault-TolerantMobile Sensor Network (DFTMSN) has been proposed recently for pervasive information gathering. A DFT-MSN consists of a number of wearable sensor nodes and high-end sink nodes, forming a loosely connected mobile sensor network. In this paper we introduce a generic queuing analytic model for DFT-MSN, where the inputs are the data delivery scheme employed and the nodal mobility pattern, while the outputs are the queuing characteristics of the network. Based on our analysis of the message arrival and service processes, we find that each individual sensor can be modeled as an M/M/1/K queue, and the whole network can be treated as a network of queues. Following Jackson network theory, major queuing characteristics of the network can thus be obtained. We also exemplify the generic analytic model with several representative data delivery schemes (including Direct Transmission, ZebraNet, and Replication-based Data Delivery) and nodal mobility patterns (such as uniform and power-law distributions). To validate our analytic model, we have carried out extensive simulations and observed a good match between analytic and simulation results.
Polyphenols, inflammatory response, and cancer prevention: chlorination of isoflavones by human neutrophils.

An important aspect of the risk of cancer is the involvement of the inflammatory response. Currently, antiinflammatory agents are used in chemopreventive strategies. For example, aspirin is recommended for the prevention of colon cancer as well as breast and other cancers. The inflammatory response involves the production of cytokines and proinflammatory oxidants such as hypochlorous acid (HOCI) and peroxynitrite (ONO 2 -) produced by neutrophils and macrophages, respectively. These oxidants react with phenolic tyrosine residues on proteins to form chloro- and nitrotyrosine. Diets rich in polyphenols (green tea catechins, soy isoflavones) have also been shown to be chemopreventive. The aromatic nature of polyphenols makes them potential targets of HOCI and ONO 2 -. These reactions may create novel pharmacophores at the site of inflammation. Previous studies in the neutrophil-like cell line, differentiated HL-60 cells, demonstrated the formation of chlorinated and nitrated isoflavones. In this study we have examined whether similar reactions occur in freshly isolated human neutrophils. After induction of a respiratory burst with a phorbol ester, isoflavones and their metabolites were identified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and then quantitatively measured by LC-mass spectrometry using multiple-reaction ion monitoring. The data obtained indicate that both chlorinated and nitrated genistein are formed by human neutrophils. The extent of chlorination of genistein was markedly increased by the phorbol ester whereas the low level of nitration of genistein was constitutive and unaffected. These data imply a potential role for modified forms of genistein that would be produced in the inflammatory environment in and around a tumor.
How labile are the egg-laying preferences of seed beetles?

Previous studies have produced conflicting results with respect to the genetic lability of host preference in the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus. 2. In this study, replicate lines of an Asian population were kept on an ancestral host (mung bean) or switched to a novel host (cowpea). After 40þ generations, lines were assayed for host preference (in choice tests) and host acceptance (under no-choice conditions), and were compared to African lines chronically associated with cowpea. 3. Host preference diverged in the expected direction. When presented a mixture of cowpeas and mung beans, females from the cowpea lines laid a greater fraction of their eggs on cowpea than did females from the mung bean lines. Preference for cowpea was nearly as strong in the cowpea lines as it was in the cowpea-adapted African lines. 4. In contrast, the experimental host shift did not affect long-term host accept- ance. African females laid more eggs if given cowpeas than if given mung beans, but realised fecundities in the cowpea and mung bean lines were similar on the two hosts. Females from all lines laid more eggs if they were reared on cowpea than on mung bean, but rearing host had no effect on either relative host acceptance or host preference. 5. Comparisons with earlier studies suggest that the lability of host preference varies among beetle populations, which precludes generalisation at the species level. Because lines were maintained under no-choice conditions, modification of host preference probably occurred via a lower acceptance threshold for the novel host, without a concomitant change in the long-term acceptance of the ancestral host.
The investigation of consumer motivations to patronize boutique hotels using push-pull theory: a case study in Xiamen, China

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate consumer motivations to boutique hotels in Xiamen, China with the push-pull theory. Design/methodology/approach – The survey for this study was conducted in boutique hotels in Xiamen, China. Findings – The results indicated identified “uniqueness-seeking,” “interpersonal experience,” and “social networking” as the primary push motivations and “decoration & theme” and “site value” as the primary pull motivations. Originality/value – The study is anticipated to provide the industry practitioners in boutique hotels marketing strategies such as positioning, packaging, and advertising.
Colloquy: Supplemental Jurisdiction, The ALI, and the Rule of the Kroger Case

In this four-part exchange we discuss the ALI's proposed new version of the supplemental-jurisdiction statute, 28 U.S.C. Section 1367. Professor Hartnett begins the colloquy with 'Would the Kroger Rule Survive the ALI's Proposed Revision of Section 1367?' He asserts that the American Law Institute's proposed revision of Section 1367 - set forth in Tentative Draft No. 2 of the ALI's Federal Judicial Code Revision Project and approved by the Institute in May 1998 - would inadvertently cut back more substantially on the rule of the Kroger case than was intended by the ALI's Reporter, Professor Oakley. If applied to the precise facts of the Kroger case, the ALI's statute would generate precisely the same outcome as in Kroger itself: supplemental jurisdiction would not be available to permit the plaintiff in a diversity suit to join a claim against a nondiverse third-party defendant. But Hartnett points out that this congruence between the ALI-s statute and the rule of the Kroger case is contingent on the relatively rare scenario featured in Kroger, where the third-party defendant was a cocitizen of both the plaintiff and the defendant. It is more likely that a third-party defendant who is a cocitizen of the plaintiff will not also be a cocitizen of the defendant, and Hartnett shows why, in this more common situation, the ALI's statute would extend supplemental jurisdiction to the plaintiff's claim against the nondiverse third-party plaintiff. Oakley's first response, 'Kroger Redux,' proposes a statutory cure for Hartnett's problem. Oakley drafts new statutory language that if added to the ALI's proposed new Section 1367 would conform the scope of supplemental jurisdiction under the ALI's statute to Hartnett's conception of the rule of the Kroger case. But Oakley goes on to consider whether Hartnett's conception of the rule of the Kroger case is the best conception to codify, and determines that it is not. Oakley advocates instead a 'minimal conception' of the rule of the Kroger case. Because the present text of the ALI's proposed new Section 1367 is fully consistent with Oakley's preferred conception of the Kroger rule, Oakley concludes that the ALI's statute should be enacted by Congress as is, without inserting the limiting amendment earlier proposed but ultimately rejected. In 'Section 1367 Producamus,' Hartnett responds to Oakley's 'no harm, no foul' defense of the ALI's proposed new Section 1367 by questioning whether Oakley's minimal conception of the Kroger rule gives away too much of the rule of complete diversity. After concluding that it does, Hartnett proposes his own draft of a curative amendment that Congress might enact along with the balance of the ALI's proposed new Section 1367. The exchange concludes with Oakley's 'Fiat Lux,' in which he discusses the strengths and weaknesses of Hartnett's proposed amendment, and defends his earlier conclusion that no amendment is needed.
Handedness Dependent Electromagnetically Induced Transparency in Hybrid Chiral Metamaterials

We provide the first experimental demonstration of the handedness dependent electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) in chiral metamaterials during the interaction with circularly polarized waves. The observed chiral-sensitive EIT phenomena arise from the coherent excitation of a non-radiative mode in the component split ring resonators (SRRs) produced by the corresponding Born−Kuhn type (radiative) resonators that are responsible for the pronounced chirality. The coherent coupling, which is dominated by the bonding and antibonding resonances of the Born−Kuhn type resonators, leads to an extremely steep dispersion for a circularly polarized wave of predefined handedness. Accordingly, retrieved effective medium parameters from simulated results further reveal a difference of 80 in the group indices for left- and right-handed circularly polarized waves at frequencies within the EIT window, which can potentially result in handedness-sensitive pulse delays. These chiral metamaterials which enable a handedness dependent EIT effect may provide more degrees of freedom for designing circular polarization based communication devices.
Investigations of orientation and length scale effects on micromechanical responses in polycrystalline zirconium using spherical nanoindentation

Abstract Here we investigate the elastic and plastic anisotropy of hexagonal materials as a function of crystal orientation using a high-throughput approach (spherical nanoindentation). Using high purity zirconium as a specific example, we demonstrate the differences in indentation moduli, indentation yield strengths and indentation post-elastic hardening rates over multiple grain orientations. These results are validated against bulk single crystal measurements, as well as data from cubic materials. By varying the indenter size (radius), we are also able to demonstrate indentation size effects in hexagonal materials, including possible signatures of strain hardening due to twin formation in the nanoindentation stress–strain curves.
Methylation of Homocystine by Chicks Deficient in Vitamin B12.

ConclusionsChicks very deficient in vit B12 grew as well when homocystine and betaine were added to a methionine-deficient diet as when a comparable amount of methionine was added. No evidence was obtained that vit B12 increased the efficiency with which preformed methyl groups were tranferred to homocystine since the effects of vit B12 were additive to those of methionine or its equivalents of homocystine plus labile methyl. It appears likely, however, that when the chick's diet lacks methyl groups vit B12 is concerned in the synthesis of such groups and their combination with homocystine to form methionine. Formation of methionine by this procedure, however, is limited and insufficient to meet the needs of the chick.
Tracking of Single Charge Carriers in a Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticle

The motion of individual charge carriers in organic nanostructures was tracked by fluorescence microscopy. A twinkling effect is observed in fluorescence microscopy of single conjugated polymer nanoparticles, that is, small displacements in the fluorescence spot of single nanoparticles of the conjugated polymer PFBT are observed over time. There is evidence that superquenching by the charge carrier induces a dark spot in the nanoparticle, which moves with the carrier, resulting in the observed displacements in the fluorescence. Zero-field mobilities of individual charge carriers consistent with highly trapped polarons were obtained from tracking experiments.
Imide photodissociation investigated by X-ray absorption spectroscopy.

X-ray absorption spectroscopy is used to investigate the photodissociation of the imides PMDI (pyromellitic diimide) and SSMCC (sulfosuccinimidyl 4-(N-maleimidomethyl) cyclohexane-1-carboxylate). PMDI contains only one type of imide, and its photodissociation can be explained by a simple conversion from imide to a mix of imine and nitrile after desorption of the oxygens from the imide. SSMCC contains two different imides. One reacts like PMDI, the other in a more complex multistep process. Eventually, N2 is formed in the bulk of the sample at high radiation density. The sequence of reactions is inferred from the π* peaks in total electron yield and fluorescence yield absorption spectra at the N 1s and O 1s edges. First-order rate equations are used to model the evolution of the peak areas versus radiation dose.
A Bayesian approach for temporally scaling climate for modeling ecological systems

With climate change becoming more of concern, many ecologists are including climate variables in their system and statistical models. The Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) is a drought index that has potential advantages in modeling ecological response variables, including a flexible computation of the index over different timescales. However, little development has been made in terms of the choice of timescale for SPEI. We developed a Bayesian modeling approach for estimating the timescale for SPEI and demonstrated its use in modeling wetland hydrologic dynamics in two different eras (i.e., historical [pre-1970] and contemporary [post-2003]). Our goal was to determine whether differences in climate between the two eras could explain changes in the amount of water in wetlands. Our results showed that wetland water surface areas tended to be larger in wetter conditions, but also changed less in response to climate fluctuations in the contemporary era. We also found that the average timescale parameter was greater in the historical period, compared with the contemporary period. We were not able to determine whether this shift in timescale was due to a change in the timing of wet-dry periods or whether it was due to changes in the way wetlands responded to climate. Our results suggest that perhaps some interaction between climate and hydrologic response may be at work, and further analysis is needed to determine which has a stronger influence. Despite this, we suggest that our modeling approach enabled us to estimate the relevant timescale for SPEI and make inferences from those estimates. Likewise, our approach provides a mechanism for using prior information with future data to assess whether these patterns may continue over time. We suggest that ecologists consider using temporally scalable climate indices in conjunction with Bayesian analysis for assessing the role of climate in ecological systems.
The effect of sodium fluoride on the metabolism of oral lactobacilli.

Summary1. Of 11 strains of lactobacilli tested, all were reduced in their ability to produce acid by the addition of 1 and 100 p.p.m. of NaF. Resistance to the action of fluoride on acid production varied among strains.2. Continued exposure to 100 p.p.m. NaF lowered the ability of an actively acidogenic strain of lactobacilli to produce acid from glucose. This reduced acidogenic activity continued even in the absence of NaF. One p.p.m. of NaF had no demonstrable effect.3. One hundred p.p.m. NaF inhibited the dehydrogenases of lactobacilli for 8 out of 9 substrates. The inhibition by 1 p.p.m. was much less.
Veratrinic Effects of Pentamethylenetetrazol (Metrazol) and 2,2-Bis (P-Chlorophenyl) 1,1,1 Trichloroethane (DDT) on Mammalian Neuromuscular Function.

Summary1. Both metrazol and DDT evoke a veratriniic response in mammalian nerve and muscle.2. The characteristics of this response are indistinguishable from those of myotonia occurring spontaneously.3. The veratrinic effect of repetitive responses to single stimuli is accompanied by a shortening of the relatively refractory period.
Anaerobic Infection of the Paranasal Sinuses

Abstract Heavy growth of anaerobic bacteria in pure culture was obtained from 23 of 83 specimens aseptically removed from chronically infected paranasal sinuses during external frontoethmodectomy or radical antrotomy via the canine fossa. Since these procedures avoid nasal contamination, the data indicate that anaerobic bacteria are an important cause of chronic sinusitis. (N Engl J Med 290:135–137, 1974)
Generation of Primary Astrocyte Cultures Devoid of Contaminating Microglia

Microglia, resident phagocytic cells of the central nervous system, are frequent contaminants of astrocyte cultures. Unfortunately and not always fully appreciated, contamination by microglia can confound results of studies designed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying astrocyte-specific responses. The paradigm described herein employs the mitotic inhibitor, cytosine β-D: -arabinofuranoside, followed by the lysosomotropic agent, leucine methylester, to maximally deplete microglia, thereby generating highly enriched astrocyte monolayers that remain viable and functional. Successful removal of microglia from confluent monolayers of primary astrocyte cultures is achieved without the need for cell passage and successful reduction is confirmed by depletion of microglial-specific markers.
The Relationship Between Engagement and Neurophysiological Measures of Attention in Motion-Controlled Video Games: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Video games and virtual environments continue to be the subject of research in health sciences for their capacity to augment practice through user engagement. Creating game mechanics that increase user engagement may have indirect benefits on learning (ie, engaged learners are likely to practice more) and may also have direct benefits on learning (ie, for a fixed amount of practice, engaged learners show superior retention of information or skills). Objective: To manipulate engagement through the aesthetic features of a motion-controlled video game and measure engagement’s influence on learning. Methods: A group of 40 right-handed participants played the game under two different conditions (game condition or sterile condition). The mechanics of the game and the amount of practice were constant. During practice, event-related potentials (ERPs) to task-irrelevant probe tones were recorded during practice as an index of participants’ attentional reserve. Participants returned for retention and transfer testing one week later. Results: Although both groups improved in the task, there was no difference in the amount of learning between the game and sterile groups, countering previous research. A new finding was a statistically significant relationship between self-reported engagement and the amplitude of the early-P3a (eP3a) component of the ERP waveform, such that participants who reported higher levels of engagement showed a smaller eP3a (beta=−.08, P=.02). Conclusions: This finding provides physiological data showing that engagement elicits increased information processing (reducing attentional reserve), which yields new insight into engagement and its underlying neurophysiological properties. Future studies may objectively index engagement by quantifying ERPs (specifically the eP3a) to task-irrelevant probes.
Persistence of mumps antibodies after 2 doses of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine.

Background. Since 1990, most US schoolchildren have received a second dose of measles-mumps-rubella vaccine (MMR2) at kindergarten entry. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the short- and long-term mumps immunogenicity of MMR2.Methods. At enrollment in 1994–1995, children (n = 308) in a rural Wisconsin health maintenance organization received MMR2 at age 4–6 years. A comparison group of older children (n = 308) was vaccinated at age 9–11 years. Serum samples were collected over 12 years. Mumps antibody levels were evaluated by plaque-reduction neutralization (lowest detectable titer, 10).Results. Before MMR2, the geometric mean titer (GMT) for the younger group was 33; no subject was seronegative, but 16% had the lowest detectable titer. In response to MMR2, the GMT tripled to 97, and the proportion with low titers diminished to 3%. Four-fold boosts occurred among 54%, but only 3% were positive for immunoglobulin M. Twelve years after MMR2, the GMT declined to 46, the proportion with titers ⩾10 was not significantly different from the pre-MMR2 proportion, and 5% were seronegative. The older group showed similar patterns, and at age 17 years both groups had comparable antibody levels.Conclusions. The mumps antibody response to MMR2 was vigorous, but over a 12-year period titers declined to levels similar to pre-MMR2 titers. No advantage was apparent in delayingMMR2from kindergarten to middle school.
Hidden Variables and the Copenhagen Interpretation—A Reconciliation1

One of the most interesting features of the quantum theory from the philosopher's point of view is the so-called measurement problem.2 There are various ways of formulating this problem, either with reference to the time evolution of an individual system, or in terms of the statistical properties of ensembles. Basically, the problem is to provide an explanation for the fact that within the framework of the quantum theory physical processes involving measurement differ fundamentally from physical processes which do not involve measurement. This is in sharp contrast to the classical theory, according to which a measurement process is not different, in principle, from any other physical process. 'Providing an explanation' in this context means either 'providing an interpretation of the quantum theory', or 'providing a new theory with its own interpretation'. The Copenhagen interpretation is generally regarded as the orthodox interpretation of the quantum theory. As expressed by Bohr, this view emphasises a 'feature of wholeness typical of proper quantum phenomena'3 -the integral relationship between the measuring instrument and the system measured. The 'feature of wholeness' is introduced via an argument which involves the assumption that unambiguously communicable information about what is observed is necessarily described in terms of the concepts of classical physics, or refinements of classical concepts. This argument leads to the conclusion that the quantum theoretical description Received I September 1967
Alabama's Public Pensions: Building a Stable Financial Foundation for the Years Ahead

Over the past 10 years, Alabama's public retirement system has seen its liabilities overtake its assets by more than $15 billion. This means the system has only 66 cents for every dollar owed to current and future retirees. Worse still, the shortfall has been growing by $4 million each day that our elected officials fail to tackle the problem. As we document, the state should implement a "cash balance" pension plan structure for all new employees. Also, the judicial retirement plan should be amended to bring benefits more in balance with the pensions of other state employees to reduce the significant disparity that exists. Lastly, the Alabama Education Association staff, which includes a group of lobbyists, should no longer be able to participate in the public pension system and should instead select a private retirement plan of its own.
Analysis of the epidemiological characteristics of mumps and evaluation of the control and prevention measures in Guangzhou from 2001 to 2010

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of mumps in Guangzhou from 2001 to 2010,and provide basis to develop measures for prevention and control.Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted on the data of mumps in Guangzhou from 2001 to 2010.Results 41 885 mumps cases were reported,and the annual average incidence rate was 53.51 /100 000.The incidence peaked at May to July,accounting for 38.02% of the total cases.Children younger than 15 years old were the major group affected by mumps,accounting for 83.94%,and most of them were 5 to 9 years old.Over 86% cases occurred in students at school,children in kindergartens and scattered children,and over 59% cases occurred in those districts with a large number of floating populations.Conclusion The incidence of mumps was still high in Guangzhou.Increase of the immunization coverage rate,strengthening management of immunization for floating population and verifying the vaccination history of children should be the necessary measures for controlling the mumps in the future
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Tongue During Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Epidemiologic data have shown changes in the demographic profile of patients presenting with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) during the past 4 decades. In particular, there has been a marked increase in the number of young women without a history of smoking presenting with SCC of the tongue. A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results review of patients with head and neck cancer identified 5.3% younger than 40 years. After comparing cohorts from 1973 to 1984 with 1985 to 1997, a 60% increase in tongue cancer in patients younger 40 years was noted. Epidemiologic data also have shown that women are tending to delay childbearing to an older age. These 2 factors have resulted in an increasing prevalence of cancer diagnosed during pregnancy. If current trends continue, oral surgeons and maternal fetal medicine obstetric specialists will see an increasing number of pregnant patients presenting with malignancies. This in turn will lead to a number of complex surgical and adjuvant treatment considerations resulting in ethical and moral decisions for which limited data exist to guide best practice. The treatment chosen will affect not only the health of the patient, but also the health of the fetus and ongoing pregnancy. This report describes the case of a woman who was diagnosed with SCC of the tongue at 14 weeks' gestational age. This report presents her treatment course and a review of the literature to support her decisions related to the care given.
Bone mineral density in mucopolysaccharidosis IVB

To date, the only published reports of bone mineral density (BMD) in MPS IV involve patients with MPS IVA; no reports exist describing BMD for MPS IVB. In this prospective study of BMD in three patients with MPS IVB, BMD was acquired by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at whole body (WB), lumbar spine (LS), and lateral distal femur (LDF). Functional abilities, ambulatory status, medical history, and height z-score were evaluated. Three patients with MPS IVB (two females), aged 17.7, 31.4 and 31.7 years, were evaluated. Every patient was ambulatory and one sustained two fractures caused by trauma. Whole body and hip DXA scans were technically invalid in every patient due to the presence of prosthetic hip hardware. Lumbar spine was valid in only 1 patient due skeletal abnormalities, and was normal (Z-score of − 0.8). The LDF was valid in every patient and was low at all three regions of interest: average LDF z-scores were − 3.1 (range, − 2.9 to − 3.6), − 2.3 (range, − 2.0 to − 2.5), and − 2.1 (range, − 2.0 to − 2.3) for region 1–region 3, respectively. Patients with MPS IVB have low BMD of the lower extremities even with full-time ambulation. Routine body sites to measure by DXA were problematic; hip and WB were invalid due to artifact, and LS had limited utility. The LDF was the only body site consistently available on all patients. Patients did not experience low-energy fractures despite low BMD.
A survey of homeland security biometrics and forensics research

Biometrics and forensics applications for Homeland Security include access control, screening, tracking, and criminal investigation. This paper surveys biometrics and forensics research published in the Proceedings of the IEEE International Symposium on Technologies for Homeland Security. This survey should be useful for graduate students and researchers seeking to immerse themselves in these topics. It should also be beneficial to Homeland Security professionals wishing to obtain an overview of previous work. In addition to summarizing key research results, we also identify open data sets and developing trends worthy of continued exploration.
Autoantibodies in Human Diabetic Depression Inhibit Adult Neural Progenitor Cells In vitro and Induce Depressive-Like Behavior in Rodents.

Aim: Diabetic depression increases in association with microvascular complications. We tested a hypothesis that circulating autoantibodies having anti-endothelial and anti-neuronal properties increase in subsets of diabetes with co-morbid depression. Methods: Protein-A eluates from plasma of 20 diabetic depression patients and 30 age-matched controls were tested for effects on endothelial cell survival, neurite outgrowth in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells, or process extension and survival in adult rat dentate gyrus neural progenitor cells. The protein-A eluates from depressed or non-depressed, diabetic patients were injected (via intracerebroventricular route) into mice and 7-10 days later behavioral tests (sucrose preference, and tail suspension tests) were conducted to determine whether the autoantibodies induced anhedonia or despair. Results: Diabetic depression (n=20) autoantibodies caused a significant inhibition of PC12 cell neurite outgrowth (P<0.001) or endothelial cell proliferation compared to autoantibodies in control, diabetic (n=20) or non-diabetic (n=10) patients without depression. Process extension and survival in adult rat dentate gyrus neural progenitor cells was significantly reduced (P<0.001) by diabetic depression autoantibodies (n= 11) compared to the effects from similar concentrations (5-7 µg/mL) of autoantibodies in diabetic (n=12) or non-diabetic patients without depression (n=7). Ten micromolar concentrations of Y27632, a selective Rho-Associated Protein Kinase (ROCK) inhibitor, significantly prevented (P<0.0001) neural progenitor cell process retraction induced by diabetes depression autoantibodies (n=5). Mice treated with diabetic depression autoantibodies (n=16 from two different patients’ autoantibodies) exhibited significantly reduced (P=0.027) sucrose preference (anhedonia) compared to mice treated with diabetic control autoantibodies (n=16 from two different patients’ autoantibodies). Conclusion: These data suggest that autoantibodies in a subset of older adult diabetic depression inhibit endothelial cell survival, and impair process extension and survival in adult dentate gyrus neural progenitor cells in vitro.
Ultralow phase noise dual-loop optoelectronic oscillator

Summary form only given. We have designed, built, and characterized a double-loop optoelectronic oscillator (OEO) operating at 10 GHz. The OEO has achieved an unsurpassed low phase noise of -140 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz away from the carrier. More than 30 dB close-in phase noise reduction is expected using a novel noise reduction technique. Such a low phase noise oscillator can find wide applications in radar systems, microwave photonic systems, fiber-optic communication systems, and high-speed analog to digital conversion systems.
Increased Prevalence of Anti-CD36 and Elevated Endothelial Microparticles in Patients with Recurrent Thrombosis.

Abstract BACKGROUND: CD36 is a widely distributed transmembrane glycoprotein, called GpIV on platelets, involved in various physiologic processes. It has been implicated in thrombogenic pathologies such as diabetes, atherosclerosis and anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). It is also an adhesion molecule capable of interacting with collagens and is considered a platelet collagen receptor. We investigated autoantibodies (Ab) against CD36 in TTP [Schultz et al, BrJH 103:849, 1998]. The present study was undertaken to explore relationships of anti-platelet Ab (aPlt-Ab), antiphospholipid Ab (APLA), and circulating cell-derived microparticles (MP) in patients with thrombosis. METHODS: Forty-five patients with documented thrombosis (TB) referred for hypercoagulable workups were recruited consecutively. Of them, 18 suffered from recurrent thrombosis (rTB) while 27 had a single event (sTB) within the past 5 years. We measured APLA, lupus anticoagulant (LA), antiplatelet antibody (aPlt-Ab) and MP. The APLA were IgG and IgM against cardiolipin (CL) and β2-glycoprotein-I (β2GP1) measured by ELISA. The aPlt-Abs were IgG and IgM reacting to GpIIb/IIIa (CD41b), GpIb/IX (CD42b), and GpIV (CD36), assayed by the PAICA method of Macchi et al [Thromb Haemost 76:1020, 1996]. The following types of MP were measured by flow cytometry: endothelial MP defined by CD31+/CD42− (EMP31) or by CD62E+ (EMP62); platelet MP defined by CD31+/CD42+ (PMP); leukocyte MP defined by CD45+ (LMP); and red blood cell MP by glycophorin+ (RMP). Lupus anticoagulant (LA) was measured in the hospital clinical laboratory and was considered positive if 2 of 3 different test methods were positive. Platelet activation was measured by CD62p expression in flow cytometry. RESULTS: 1. Although both groups had increased prevalence of APLA and LA, there were no significant differences between the sTB and rTB groups. About 70% of patients in both groups were positive for at least one APLA. 2. Of the aPlt-Ab, only aGpIV (aCD36) statistically discriminated between the groups, being more frequent in rTB for both IgG (p 3. Among the MPs assayed, PMP were elevated in all patients in both groups. EMP62 discriminated best between rTB and sTB (p=0.003). LMP and RMP were also significantly higher in rTB than sTB, p 4. Platelet activation marker CD62p was more often increased in rTB than sTB, p=0.022. CONCLUSION: GpIV (CD36) antibodies are the most prominent risk factor for rTB to emerge from this study. This confirms a previous report [Pelegri et al, Clin Exp Rheum 21:221, 2003]. EMP, LMP, RMP and platelet activation (CD62p) are also increased in the recurrent TB group vs single TB. EMP62 were associated with aCD36. Since CD36 is found also on endothelial cells, this suggests that aCD36 could be responsible for the high EMP62 in the rTB group. The present study demonstrates an association between high EMP62 and aCD36. We suggest that persisting autoantibodies against GpIV activate EC to predispose to recurrent thrombosis.
MOF-Sensitized Solar Cells Enabled by a Pillared Porphyrin Framework

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are highly ordered, functionally tunable supramolecular materials with the potential to improve dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Several recent reports have indicated that photocurrent can be generated in Gratzel-type DSSC devices when MOFs are used as the sensitizer. However, the specific role(s) of the incorporated MOFs and the potential influence of residual MOF precursor species on device performance are unclear. Herein, we describe the assembly and characterization of a simplified DSSC platform in which isolated MOF crystals are used as the sensitizer in a planar device architecture. We selected a pillared porphyrin framework (PPF) as the MOF sensitizer, taking particular care to avoid contamination from light-absorbing MOF precursors. Photovoltaic and electrochemical characterization under simulated 1-sun and wavelength-selective illumination revealed photocurrent generation that is clearly ascribable to the PPF MOF. Continued refinement of highly versatile MOF str...
Palliative chemotherapy and travel distance impacts hospice referral in patients with stage IV pancreatic cancer.

490Background: Despite advances in chemotherapy (CTx), the prognosis for metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) is poor and while hospice is known to improve end-of-life care, referrals are often placed close to death. This may be due to accessibility issues or misconceptions that referral implies abandonment. We hypothesized that utilization of palliative CTx and travel distance to the treatment center impacts hospice referral patterns. Methods: Patients with histologically confirmed or radiographically presumed mPDAC as their initial diagnosis were retrospectively identified in a Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC) from 2005-2014. Demographic and clinical data were collected according to timing of hospice referral. Results: Fifty-eight mPDAC patients were identified with a median age of 63yr of which 57 (98.3%) were male. Palliative CTx was used in 26 (44.8%) patients with 32 (55.2%) not treated due to poor performance status (n = 18; 56.3%) or patient refusal (n = 14; 43.8%). Of ...
Concurrent Abdominal and Thyroid Lymphoma: A Case Report

ABSTRACT Objective: Thyroid lymphoma constitutes a rare presentation of extranodal, diffuse, large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and represents a small proportion of thyroid cancers. In this article, we present a case report of extranodal DLBCL presenting with simultaneous thyroid, abdominal, and retroperitoneal involvement. We also review the relevant epidemiologic literature and treatment modalities of thyroid lymphoma as well as providing a potential pathophysiologic mechanism. Methods: A literature search was conducted using the databases PubMed and Google Scholar for primary thyroid lymphoma and extranodal lymphoma involving the thyroid. Publications were selected based upon size of patient cohorts, treatment modalities investigated, quality of the data, as well as subsequent citation frequency. Articles most recently published, and therefore belonging to the post-rituximab era, were favored. Results: Thyroid lymphoma in the presence of concurrent abdominal disease usually presents with goiter with or with...
(1-x)Pb(Sc_(1/2)Ta_(1/2))O_3-(x)PbTiO_3二元系铁电陶瓷的压电特性

已有的研究表明,二元系铁电陶瓷(1-x)Pb(Sc_(1/2)Ta_(1/2))O_3-(x)PbTiO_3在介电、热电、光电方面都有广阔的应用前景.本文研究了该材料的压电特性,发现在准同型相界(x=0.45)附近,压电应变常数d_(33)和机电耦合系数k_t,k_p,k_(33)达到极值,而机械品质因数Q_m达到最小值.这种具有高机电耦合特性和低Q_m的压电材料特别适用于制备宽带滤波器、水声换能器及医学超声换能器件.
On-chip Integrated All-Optical Fast Fourier Transform: Design and Analysis

We report the design of an all-optical fast Fourier transform (FFT) on a silicon-photonics on-chip platform, show the phase-, amplitude-, and delay sensitivity of the transfer function, and a delay performance of 20 Tbps.
Skeletal Muscle Thermogenesis and Its Role in Whole Body Energy Metabolism

Obesity and diabetes has become a major epidemic across the globe. Controlling obesity has been a challenge since this would require either increased physical activity or reduced caloric intake; both are difficult to enforce. There has been renewed interest in exploiting pathways such as uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1)-mediated uncoupling in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and white adipose tissue to increase energy expenditure to control weight gain. However, relying on UCP1-based thermogenesis alone may not be sufficient to control obesity in humans. On the other hand, skeletal muscle is the largest organ and a major contributor to basal metabolic rate and increasing energy expenditure in muscle through nonshivering thermogenic mechanisms, which can substantially affect whole body metabolism and weight gain. In this review we will describe the role of Sarcolipin-mediated uncoupling of Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPase (SERCA) as a potential mechanism for increased energy expenditure both during cold and diet-induced thermogenesis.
Research Deviations in FDA-Regulated Clinical Trials: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of FDA Inspection Citations.

Background:The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ensures clinical trials meet regulatory/ethical standards through inspections. If FDA Investigators observe potential violations of regulatory r...
Ocular Involvement in Sarcoidosis.

Sarcoidosis presents with ocular involvement in 20–30% of patients1, with the most common ocular manifestations being granulomatous uveitis, dry eye, and conjunctival nodules. Pain may be caused by ciliary spasm or elevated intraocular pressure, and granulomas of the choroid cause visual disturbance only when they are located in the macula or center of vision, unlike the peripheral lesion in …
Colloidal crystal order and structure revealed by tabletop extreme ultraviolet scattering and coherent diffractive imaging

Colloidal crystals with specific electronic, optical, magnetic, vibrational properties, can be rationally designed by controlling fundamental parameters such as chemical composition, scale, periodicity and lattice symmetry. In particular, silica nanospheres -which assemble to form colloidal crystals- are ideal for this purpose, because of the ability to infiltrate their templates with semiconductors or metals. However characterization of these crystals is often limited to techniques such as grazing incidence small-angle scattering that provide only global structural information and also often require synchrotron sources. Here we demonstrate small-angle Bragg scattering from nanostructured materials using a tabletop-scale setup based on high-harmonic generation, to reveal important information about the local order of nanosphere grains, separated by grain boundaries and discontinuities. We also apply full-field quantitative ptychographic imaging to visualize the extended structure of a silica close-packed nanosphere multilayer, with thickness information encoded in the phase. These combined techniques allow us to simultaneously characterize the silica nanospheres size, their symmetry and distribution within single colloidal crystal grains, the local arrangement of nearest-neighbor grains, as well as to quantitatively determine the number of layers within the sample. Key to this advance is the good match between the high harmonic wavelength used (13.5nm) and the high transmission, high scattering efficiency, and low sample damage of the silica colloidal crystal at this wavelength. As a result, the relevant distances in the sample - namely, the interparticle distance (≈124nm) and the colloidal grains local arrangement (≈1μm) – can be investigated with Bragg coherent EUV scatterometry and ptychographic imaging within the same experiment simply by tuning the EUV spot size at the sample plane (5μm and 15μm respectively). In addition, the high spatial coherence of high harmonics light, combined with advances in imaging techniques, makes it possible to image near-periodic structures quantitatively and nondestructively, and enables the observation of the extended order of quasi-periodic colloidal crystals, with a spatial resolution better than 20nm. In the future, by harnessing the high time-resolution of tabletop high harmonics, this technique can be extended to dynamically image the three-dimensional electronic, magnetic, and transport properties of functional nanosystems.
Structural Characteristics and Rapid Solidification of Nd2Fe14B-Type Permanent Magnet Materials

A new era in permanent magnet technology has been initiated by the development of rare earth-iron-boron materials, whose prototypical representative is Nd2Fe14B. This paper describes the structural properties of Nd2Fe14B and the preparation of practical magnets based on it and isostructural compounds via the rapid solidification technique of melt spinning. Although characterized by tetragonal lattice symmetry, Nd2Fe14B is crystallographically related to many other rare earth-transition metal systems, including those having the hexagonal CaCu5 structure (e.g., SmCo5) and the rhombohedral Th2Zn17 structure (e.g., Sm2Co17 and Nd2Fe17). Similarities between Nd2Fe14B and simpler, transition metal-metalloid systems such as FeB are also afforded by the trigonal prisms formed by each boron and its six nearest-neighbor iron atoms. A genuine departure from traditional sintering methods, melt spinning has emerged as a commercially viable means for producing magnets principally comprised of Nd2Fe14B-type compounds.