cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adaptive time-frequency representations for multiple structures

We propose an adaptive quadratic time-frequency representation (QTFR) based on a matching pursuit signal decomposition that uses a dictionary with elements matched to the instantaneous frequency of the analysis signal components. We form the QTFR as a weighted linear superposition of QTFRs chosen by the algorithm to provide a highly localized representation for each of the adaptively selected dictionary elements. This is advantageous as the resulting representations are parsimonious and reduce the effect of cross terms. Also, they exhibit maximum time-frequency localization for the difficult analysis case of signals with multiple components that have different time-frequency characteristics. Thus, the new technique can be used to analyze and classify multi-structure signal components as demonstrated by our synthetic and real data simulation examples.
Modeling and simulation of large scale communications networks

An approach for the analysis and design of communications network architectures is presented. Rather than dealing with detailed characteristics of alternative designs, aggregate measures some critical design parameters are treated. Several assumptions create an idealized representation of the geography in which the network is located, the traffic requirements to be placed on the network. The assumptions lead to algebraic expressions forming the basis of an optimization algorithm. Aggregate measures of the designs so created compare closely with similar measures operated by more conventional techniques. >
Influences of infrequent fire, elevation and pre‐fire vegetation on the persistence of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) in the Flat Tops area, Colorado, USA

Aim The recent concern that quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) has been declining in parts of western North America due to fire suppression is largely based on trends during the latter part of the 20th century. The aim of the current study was to compare the extent of aspen in the modern landscape with its extent in the late 19th century prior to fire suppression, and to assess the effects of elevation, late-19th century fires, and pre-fire forest composition on the successional status of aspen. Location North-west Colorado, USA. Methods We used a georeferenced 1898 map and modern maps to examine trends in aspen dominance since the late 19th century in a 348,586 ha area of White River and Routt National Forests in north-western Colorado. Stand age and structure were sampled in 30 stands. Results We found no evidence of overall aspen decline over this period. In fact, aspen distribution has increased in parts of the study area following severe fires in the late 19th century in forests that were previously dominated by conifers. Aspen persistence and increase was especially pronounced at elevations below 3000 m a.s.l. Most 120-year-old post-fire stands that are presently being successionally replaced by conifers were dominated by conifers prior to the last severe fire. Main conclusions Human perceptions of ecosystems are often on time scales that are shorter than the cycles of natural variation within those ecosystems. This disparity may lead to an underestimation of the range of natural variability of ecosystem patterns and processes. The appropriate temporal scale of inquiry is necessary for the correct understanding of natural variation in ecosystems.
Association of Immature Platelets With Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes

Abstract Background Immature platelets are less responsive to the effects of antiplatelet drugs and contain messenger ribonucleic acid that is translationally active. They can be measured easily using an automated hematoanalyzer and reported as part of the complete blood count. Objectives The purpose of this study was to determine the prognostic significance of elevated immature platelet count (IPC) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods In this prospective cohort study in patients with CAD, patients underwent IPC measurement and were then followed up for the composite endpoint of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as a composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, unplanned revascularization, or hospitalization for angina. For the purposes of analysis, patients were stratified into tertiles of IPC. Results Eighty-nine patients were followed up for a median of 31 months. Stratification to the high IPC tertile was associated with higher rates of MACE compared with the intermediate and low tertiles (60% vs. 24% vs. 16%, respectively; p Conclusions IPC is a novel biomarker for MACE risk stratification in patients with CAD. Future studies should focus on the utilization of this marker for individualized antiplatelet therapy.
Natural History of Indeterminate Pigmented Choroidal Tumors

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to delineate the natural history of indeterminate pigmented choroidal lesions and identify parameters from the initial visit that correlate with lesion enlargement. Methods: The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients with indeterminate pigmented choroidal lesions seen in consultation at the Ocular Oncology Unit at the University of California, San Francisco, after 1975. Clinical examination, fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, and ultrasound data were examined. Investigators masked to outcome coded sequential parameters of each of these modalities. Data were analyzed using both univariate and multivariate censored data techniques. Results: Of 293 lesions, 98 grew. The 5-year actuarial rate of growth was 36%. Greater tumor thickness, presence of symptoms, orange pigment, internal quiet zone on B-scan, and hot spots on fluorescein angiography all were significant predictors of tumor enlargement (relative risk of detectable tumor growth, >1.8). Risk scores were calculated, and subsets with higher probability of future growth were identified. In five of the patients with growing lesions, metastatic disease developed after a median posttreatment follow-up period of 51 months. Conclusion: Most small indeterminate pigmented lesions can be followed safely by serial observation and ancillary testing. The authors identified models based on data from the initial visit that can be used as an adjunct to planning tumor management.
The H19 methylation imprint is erased and re‐established differentially on the parental alleles during male germ cell development

Differences in DNA methylation distinguish the maternal and paternal alleles of many imprinted genes. Allele-specific methylation that is inherited from the gametes and maintained throughout development has been proposed as a candidate imprinting mark. To determine how methylation is established in the germline, we have analyzed the allelic methylation patterns of the maternally expressed, paternally methylated H19 gene during gametogenesis in the mouse embryo. We show here that both parental alleles are devoid of methylation in male and female mid-gestation embryonic germ cells, suggesting that methylation imprints are erased in the germ cells prior to this time. In addition, we demonstrate that the subsequent hypermethylation of the paternal and maternal alleles in the male germline occurs at different times. Although the paternal allele becomes hypermethylated during fetal stages, methylation of the maternal allele begins during perinatal stages and continues postnatally through the onset of meiosis. The differential acquisition of methylation on the parental H19 alleles during gametogenesis implies that the two unmethylated alleles can still be distinguished from each other. Thus, in the absence of DNA methylation, other epigenetic mechanism(s) appear to maintain parental identity at the H19 locus during male germ cell development.
Interpretation of NIMS and SSI Images on the Jovian Cloud Structure

We present maps of jovian cloud properties derived from images taken simultaneously by the Galileo solid state imaging system (SSI) and the near-infrared mapping spectrometer (NIMS) at 26 visible and near-infrared wavelengths, ranging from 0.41 to 5.2μm. Three regions—the Great Red Spot (GRS), a 5-micron Hot Spot, and one of the White Ovals—were studied. We perform a principal component analysis (PCA) on the multispectral images. The principal components (PCs), also known as empirical orthogonal functions, depend only on wavelength. The first PC is that spectral function which, when multiplied by an optimally chosen number (amplitude factor) at each pixel location and subtracted from the spectrum there, minimizes the variance for the image as a whole. Succeeding PCs minimize the residual variance after the earlier PCs have been subtracted off. We find that the pixel-to-pixel variations at the different wavelengths are highly correlated, such that the first three PCs explain 91% of the variance in the spectra. Further, one can estimate the amplitudes of the first two PCs using only the four SSI wavelengths and still explain 62% of the variance of the entire spectrum. This can be an advantage when trying to classify features that are resolved in the SSI images but not in the NIMS images. The first PC in all three regions shows negative correlation between 5μm emission and reflected solar light in both atmospheric windows and the methane and ammonia absorption bands. Thus most of the bright, optically thick clouds blocking thermal emission are also extended vertically to the upper troposphere. The first PC at the GRS shows a negative correlation between the violet and all other bands except 5μm for which the correlation is positive. Thus in the GRS there is a red chromophore (absorbing in the violet, reflecting at longer wavelengths) which is associated with clouds that block 5-μm emission. There is no such correlation at the hot spot and white oval regions and therefore no chromophore associated with clouds. The second PC shows a positive correlation between the depth of the methane and ammonia absorption bands and brightness at other visible and near-IR wavelengths; there is also a negative correlation between these quantities and 5-μm emission. Thus some of the bright, optically thick clouds blocking thermal emission are deep and do not extend vertically to the upper troposphere. A color image composed using the first three PCs shows areas of unusual spectra, which appear in distinct colors. An example is the small convective stormlike cloud to the northwest of the GRS. This cloud is highly reflective at long wavelengths (4μm) and might indicate unusually large particles.
Some factors affecting the pumping efficiency of optically pumped lasers

As a preliminary to the calculation and discussion of pumping efficiency, the results of an investigation into the properties of xenon flash tubes are given. Time resolved spectroscopy showed that the radiation during the flash is essentially that of a blackbody. The small range of measured blackbody temperatures (6000 degrees K to 7000 degrees K) cannot account for the variation in radiated power during the flash. However, emissivity variations (deduced from published absorption data) explain the observed time dependence exactly. An ionic mechanism is outlined which explains the spectral distribution of the radiation, the electrical properties of the discharge, and the emissivity variations. Possible reasons for the low radiative efficiency of 28% during the flash are discussed. The fraction of the electrical energy supplied to the tube reaching the laser crystal is calculated, taking into account the cavity geometry and wall reflectivity, the flash tube radiative efficiency and spectral distribution, the crystal ze and sorption, and the partial reconversion by the flash tube of light not absorbed in the crystal which returns to the tube. The predicted laser oscillation threshold agrees well with experiment. It is concluded that, while reconversion can significantly increase the effective radiative efficiency of the tube, the over-all efficiency of the laser is still limited by the low intrinsic radiative efficiency. Numerical examples are given to show that this parameter exercises the biggest influence on the present pumping efficiencies of about 0.5%. Over-all efficiencies of up to 9% could be obtained if this radiative efficiency could be raised to about 90%. Success in this area could give greater benefits than attempts to improve the spectral distribution of the tube radiation.
Effects of changing spatial resolution on the results of landscape pattern analysis using spatial autocorrelation indices

Understanding the relationship between pattern and scale is a central issue in landscape ecology. Pattern analysis is necessarily a critical step to achieve this understanding. Pattern and scale are inseparable in theory and in reality. Pattern occurs on different scales, and scale affects pattern to be observed. The objective of our study is to investigate how changing scale might affect the results of landscape pattern analysis using three commonly adopted spatial autocorrelation indices,i.e., Moran Coefficient, Geary Ratio, and Cliff-Ord statistic. The data sets used in this study are spatially referenced digital data sets of topography and biomass in 1972 of Peninsular Malaysia. Our results show that all three autocorrelation indices were scale-dependent. In other words, the degree of spatial autocorrelation measured by these indices vary with the spatial scale on which analysis was performed. While all the data sets show a positive spatial autocorrelation across a range of scales, Moran coefficient and Cliff-Ord statistic decrease and Geary Ratio increases with increasing grain size, indicating an overall decline in the degree of spatial autocorrelation with scale. The effect of changing scale varies in their magnitude and rate of change when different types of landscape data are used. We have also explored why this could happen by examining the formulation of the Moran coefficient. The pattern of change in spatial autocorrelation with scale exhibits threshold behavior,i.e., scale effects fade away after certain spatial scales are reached (for elevation). We recommend that multiple methods be used for pattern analysis whenever feasible, and that scale effects must be taken into account in all spatial analysis.
Postoperative Hungry Bone Syndrome in Patients with Secondary Hyperparathyroidism of Renal Origin

Background Hungry bone syndrome (HBS) is a postoperative condition of severe hypocalcemia that can be seen in patients who have undergone parathyroidectomy (PTX) for secondary hyperparathyroidism (2HPT) of renal origin. This study examines HBS in patients after PTX for 2HPT.
Sediment transport in rill flow under deposition and detachment conditions

The understanding of soil erosion processes and the development of accurate erosion prediction models require understanding of detachment, deposition, and sediment transport in rills. The objectives of this study were to determine whether sediment transport capacity is a unique value for given soil, flow rate, and slope, and to determine if equilibrium sediment concentration in the rill obtained by detachment was different from that observed under depositional conditions. Experiments on a Carmi loam (fine, mixed, mesic Typic Hapludalf) simulated rill erosion under net detachment and net deposition conditions. Two discharge rates of 6 and 9 l min � 1 and two sediment input regimes of 0 and excess of transport capacity were tested on soil beds with lengths of 2, 4, 6, 7, and 8 m at 7% slope. Sediment load reached steady state conditions within the 8-m distance on the rill. At 9 l min � 1 discharge, 8 m length, and excess sediment added to the flow, sediment delivery was 71 g l � 1 versus 31 g l � 1 for the corresponding case with no sediment added. Overall, for the conditions tested, rill flow transported two times more sediment than it could detach. The flow did not reach its maximum potential transported load through detachment of soil due in part to changes in the sediment size distribution under deposition and possibly to the protective action of bedload particles moving along the rill bottom and/or changes in flow turbulence associated with sediment laden flow. D 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Strategies to Prevent Surgical Site Infections in Acute Care Hospitals

Previously published guidelines are available that provide comprehensive recommendations for detecting and preventing healthcare-associated infections. The intent of this document is to highlight practical recommendations in a concise format designed to assist acute care hospitals to implement and prioritize their surgical site infection (SSI) prevention efforts. Refer to the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America/Infectious Diseases Society of America “Compendium of Strategies to Prevent Healthcare-Associated Infections” Executive Summary and Introduction and accompanying editorial for additional discussion.1. Burden of SSIs as complications in acute care facilities.a. SSIs occur in 2%-5% of patients undergoing inpatient surgery in the United States.b. Approximately 500,000 SSIs occur each year.2. Outcomes associated with SSIa. Each SSI is associated with approximately 7-10 additional postoperative hospital days.b. Patients with an SSI have a 2-11 times higher risk of death, compared with operative patients without an SSI.i. Seventy-seven percent of deaths among patients with SSI are direcdy attributable to SSI.c. Attributable costs of SSI vary, depending on the type of operative procedure and the type of infecting pathogen; published estimates range from $10 billion annually in healthcare expenditures.1. Definitionsa. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance System and the National Healthcare Safety Network definitions for SSI are widely used.b. SSIs are classified as follows (Figure):i. Superficial incisional (involving only skin or subcutaneous tissue of the incision)ii. Deep incisional (involving fascia and/or muscular layers)iii. Organ/space
REQUIREMENTS FOR LYMPHOCYTE ACTIVATION BY UNUSUAL STRAINS OF SIMIAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS

When residues 17 and 18 in nef of simian immunodeficiency virus strain SIVmac239 were changed from RQ to YE, the resultant virus was able to replicate in peripheral blood mononuclear cell cultures without prior lymphocyte activation and without the addition of exogenous interleukin-2, caused extensive lymphocyte activation in these cultures, and produced an acute disease in rhesus and pigtail macaques (Z. Du, S. M. Lang, V. G. Sasseville, A. A. Lackner, P. 0. Ilyinskii, M. D. Daniel, J. U. Jung, and R. C. Desrosiers, Cell 82:665-674, 1995). These properties are similar to those of the acutely lethal pathogen SIVpbj14 but dissimilar to those of the parental SIVmac239. We show here that the single change of R to Y at position 17 in nef of SIVmac239 is sufficient to confer the full, unusual phenotype. Conversely, the lymphocyte-activating properties of SIVpbj14 were lost by the single change of Y to R at position 17 of nef. The change of R17F or Q18E in SIVmac239 nef did not confer the unusual in vitro properties. Since SIVpbj14 has a duplication of the NF-kappaB binding sequence in the transcriptional control region, we also constructed and tested strains of SIVmac239/Rl7Y with zero, one, and two NF-kappaB binding elements. We found no difference in the properties of SIVmac239/R17Y, either in cell culture or in vivo, whether zero, one, or two NF-kappaB binding sites were present. Thus, tyrosine at position 17 of nef is absolutely necessary for the unusual phenotype of SIVpbj14 and is sufficient to convert SIVmac239 to a virus with a phenotype like that of SIVpbjl4. Multiple NF-kappaB binding sites are not required for the in vitro properties or for acute disease.
Restructuring Vs. Greenmail In the Market For Corporate Control: The Effect On Shareholder Wealth

The effects of shareholder wealth of the payment of greenmail versus restructuring activities to thwart hostile takeover offers were investigated and illustrated in this study. The risk premium version of the market model was used to examine abnormal security price performance relative to an event announcement for selected sample sets of companies which have employed these defense techniques. The resulting company abnormal returns were summed cross-sectionally in event-time to obtain portfolio abnormal returns for use in hypothesis testing. Evidence from prior studies is first discussed to give some insight of the effects of merger activity, capital structure changes, and greenmail announcements on shareholder wealth. Research methods and results of this analysis are then presented. Based upon the comparison of these widely used anti-takeover tactics findings suggest that the payment of greenmail entrenches management at the expense of shareholder wealth, while restructuring activity to thwart hostile offers provides significant positive returns to shareholders.
Moral Hazard and Earnings Manipulation

We consider a principal-agent relationship, where the agent is subject to a double moral hazard problem (the choice of production effort and earnings manipulation). Since the agent cannot completely capture the results of his effort, the production effort is socially inefficient.The opportunity to manipulate earnings pro- tects the agent against the risk of a low payoff when the results of production are low. Ex-ante, this provides an incentive for the agent to improve effort. Optimal contract trades-off social loss from earnings manipulation and improved incentives for productive effort. In equilibrium some degree of earnings manipulation can be optimal.
Mobile technology & resident attitude research

Abstract This research note highlights the novelty of integrating location-based services (LBS) available on Smart Phones and Tablets into traditional resident attitude survey methodologies such as door-to-door data collection. It specifically reviews how the LBS technology available on mobile devices can be used to systematically capture GPS coordinates of one's residence and integrate this captured spatial information into software such as ArcGIS and SPSS for further analysis. By having GPS coordinates associated with respondents' answers, researchers have an additional layer of information available for conducting a multitude of tests previously not possible with subjective categorical spatial data. Two research applications using the spatial location of residences are provided as examples of how LBS available on mobile devices can be integrated within resident attitude projects. The use of LBS technology can help researchers better understand how the distance residents live from major tourist attractions influences their attitudes towards tourism.
Maps and the Meaning of the Cloud

In its long history, cartography has always been at the forefront of adapting to new tools. The computer, first introduced 60 years ago, has represented perhaps the greatest change in how maps are made. The further combination of computers and communication technology changed how maps are distributed – and how they are used. Maps became more interactive and animated. The cloud, the nexus of computers and communication technology, is the most recent symbol of this change. While often simply defined as using the processing and storage capacity of data centres, the cloud is interpreted here as representing a workspace for the continued development of maps as a form of both analysis and communication. Examined are the development and formation of the cloud, the distribution of multi-scale pan-able (MSP) maps, and other related areas of cloud cartography.
Nitrogen Fertility Influences Growth and Susceptibility of Rhododendrons to Phytophthora ramorum

Growth and susceptibility of evergreen Rhododendron 'English Roseum', 'Cunningham's White', and 'Compact P.J.M.' to Phytophthora ramorum in response to biweekly nitrogen (N) fertilizer application at rates of 25, 75, and 150 mg N per 11.4-L container was evaluated during two growing seasons. At the end of both growing seasons, horticultural evaluation of the different plants showed that 150 mg N-fertilized cultivars hadsuperiorshootgrowth,visualquality,leafcolor,andthehighestleafNconcentration, whereas the 25-mg N cultivars were inferior for these characteristics. Plants fertilized with the 75-mg N rate were typically intermediate to the 150- and 25-mg N plants for the measured characteristics. During the first growing season, the number of flower buds on 'Cunningham's White' and 'English Roseum' was not influenced by N rate but the second seasonbud numbers increased with increasing N fertilizer. Foliar susceptibility to P. ramorum was influenced by N fertilizer application rates in the most susceptible cultivars, 'English Roseum' and 'Cunningham's White', in which lesion size and infection frequencybothincreased at higher N rates.The results werevariable in'Compact P.J.M.', the most resistant cultivar.
Vortexlike excitations in the heavy-fermion superconductor CeIrIn 5

We report a systematic study of temperature- and field-dependent charge $(\mathbf{\ensuremath{\rho}})$ and entropy $(\mathbf{S})$ transport in the heavy-fermion superconductor ${\mathrm{CeIrIn}}_{5}$. Its large positive thermopower ${S}_{xx}$ is typical of Ce-based Kondo lattice systems, and strong electronic correlations play an important role in enhancing the Nernst signal ${S}_{xy}$. By separating the off-diagonal Peltier coefficient ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{xy}$ from ${S}_{xy}$, we find that ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{xy}$ becomes positive and greatly enhanced at temperatures well above the bulk ${T}_{c}$. Compared with the nonmagnetic analog ${\mathrm{LaIrIn}}_{5}$, these results suggest vortexlike excitations in a precursor state to unconventional superconductivity in ${\mathrm{CeIrIn}}_{5}$. This study sheds light on the similarity of heavy-fermion and cuprate superconductors and on the possibility of states not characterized by the amplitude of an order parameter.
N2- and (H2+He)-broadened cross sections of benzene (C6H6) in the 7–15 µm region for the Titan and jovian atmospheres

Abstract In support of atmospheric remote sensing of Titan and jovian planets, we measured absorption cross sections of benzene (C 6 H 6 ) in the 7–15 µm region at temperatures between 235 K and 297 K. For this, high-resolution laboratory spectra of C 6 H 6 were obtained using two cold cells (80 cm and 2.07 cm path length) configured to a high resolution Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer, Bruker IFS-125HR, at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). The spectrum sets include 15 pure and 15 N 2 -broadened benzene spectra in the 630–1534 cm −1 region, along with four additional spectra broadened by an H 2 (85%) and He(15%) gas mixture for the 630–740 cm -1 region. From these spectra, temperature dependent benzene cross sections were obtained for gas phase benzene in the presence of N 2 and (H 2 +He) at ambient pressures and temperatures down to 235 K. In addition, we generated two independent sets of pseudolines: one of N 2 -broadened benzene for Titan and the other of (H 2 +He)-broadened benzene for jovian planets. It is shown that the benzene pseudolines can reproduce the observed features to ∼ 5% in transmittance, including the continuum-like absorption formed by numerous overlapping weak and hot band transitions. Based on the pseudoline parameters, the integrated band intensities at 296 K for the three strongest bands in the region were measured to be 177.0(73), 14.0(10), 27.2(9)×10 − 17 cm −1 /(molecule·cm −2 ) in the region of v 4 at 674 cm −1 , v 14 at 1038.267, and v 13 at 1483.985 cm −1 , respectively, from the combined set of pure and N 2 -broadened benzene spectra. For the (H 2 +He) mixture-broadened benzene spectra, the integrated band intensity for v 4 band in the 630–735 cm −1 region was measured to be 168.8(17)×10 − 17 cm −1 /(molecule·cm −2 ) at 296 K, which is in agreement with the intensity derived from the N 2 -broadened benzene spectra within the combined measurement uncertainties. The results from this work show an excellent agreement (2%) with one of the latest experimental studies by Rinsland et al. (2008) . Furthermore, additional characteristics carried by the pseudolines approach are discussed. Finally, we provide the two sets of pseudo line list (PLL) as electronic supplements.
Population Sampling Method for Cocoons of the Gypsy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) Parasite, Apanteles melanoscelus (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), and Relationship of Its Population Levels to Predator- and Hyperparasite-Induced Mortality

The forest microhabitat distribution of overwintering Apanteles melanoscelus (Ratzeburg) was assessed by sampling live and dead trees and small ground plots. The logarithm of the average number of cocoons per lowest 2 m of dead tree or stump was used to predict cocoon population densities. Extensive sampling during fall and winter, laboratory rearing and dissection of collected cocoons, and partial correlation analysis showed that mortalities caused by some hyperparasites were negatively correlated with each other, suggesting competition between them. Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that the mortality caused by some A. melanoscelus hyperparasites [ Eurytoma appendigaster (Swederus) (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) and Eulophidae spp.] varied in a positive, density-dependent manner with differences in A. melanoscelus cocoon numbers. Such information is useful in suggesting which hyperparasites are important so that research on decreasing their impact on A. melanoscelus populations can be done.
Abstract 2092: Pathway specific gene profiling analysis reveals potential target genes of the stress oncoprotein LEDGF/p75 in prostate cancer cells

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Chronic inflammation in the prostate microenvironment, with its associated increase in oxidative stress, is critical for prostate carcinogenesis since it leads to DNA mutations and epigenetic changes, as well as deregulation of stress and antioxidant proteins that protect prostate cells against oxidative damage and cell death. The lens epithelium-derived growth factor p75 (LEDGF/p75), an oxidative stress-induced transcription coactivator, is overexpressed in prostate tumors and other tumor types. LEDGF/p75 is emerging as a stress oncoprotein that protects cancer cells against lysosomal cell death and promotes resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. We hypothesize that the pro-survival function of LEDGF/p75 is associated with its ability to promote the transcriptional activation of protective stress genes. To date, only very few candidate target genes of LEDGF/p75 have been identified in cancer cells. Towards this goal we initiated a stress focused gene profiling analysis of PC3 prostate cancer cells overexpressing or lacking LEDGF/p75, using the Real Time PCR Array System (SABiosciences). We selected an array that contained 80 genes involved in the cellular stress response and antioxidant defense. siRNA oligos targeting the C-terminus of the LEDGF/p75 mRNA sequence were used to induce transient LEDGF/p75 knockdown in PC3 cell. LEDGF/p75 was also stably overexpressed in PC3 cells by transduction with a lentiliviral vector. Both transient siRNA-mediated knockdown and overexpression of LEDGF/p75 were associated with significant changes in the expression of several stress/antioxidant genes, using a cutoff fold change value of 1.5 (P<0.001). We selected for further analysis common genes that were significantly downregulated when LEDGF/p75 was knocked down and upregulated when this protein was overexpressed. These genes are phosphoinositide-binding protein E, cytoglobulin, superoxide dismutase 3, thyroid peroxidase, titin, glutathione transferase zeta1 and albumin. The expression of these genes in response to LEDGF/p75 expression was further validated using real-time RT-PCR. This study identifies candidate stress genes potentially regulated by LEDGF/p75 in PC3 cells, and provides a rationale for investigating the mechanisms by which this emerging stress oncoprotein promotes resistance to lysosomal cell death and chemotherapy in prostate tumor cells. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2092. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2092
On the preservation in vitro of living erythrocytes

The length of life of the functioning red blood cell is not known, but there is indirect evidence that it is several weeks at least. A priori one might suppose that if these elements were kept in the cold outside the body their period of survival would be much longer. But as a matter of fact in citrated plasma or defibrinated blood the erythrocytes of many species begin to break down within a week or ten days; and washed erythrocytes in normal salt solution or Ringer's fluid do not last even so long.In previous papers we have shown that the early hemolysis of washed erythrocytes is attributable in large part to injury during washing; and that this injury can be prevented by the presence of a very little gelatin in the wash fluid (1/8th of 1 per cent.). But even when protected during washing the erythrocytes do not remain intact in vitro nearly so long as they are supposed to in the circulation. We have addressed ourselves to the problem of their preservation.For reasons which need not here be entered into...
Measure Less, Succeed More: A Zen Approach to Organizational Effectiveness

Over the last decade, managers have placed increasing emphasis on the creation of tangible measures of intangible organizational properties. Many major corporations now include measures for intellectual capital, knowledge capital, reputational capital, and other such intangible assets on their financial ledgers. Counter to the rubric that "If it doesn't get measured, it doesn't get done", we argue that some intangibles are truly intangible, and attempts to force fit such measures on them creates undue organizational stress and harms the underlying asset. Instead, managers may better foster the growth of intangible assets by placing less emphasis on outcome measurement and more emphasis on the process. Using New York University's Office of Community Service as a case study, we illustrate how a Zen approach can augment tangible measures to create a truly "balanced" organizational strategy. American firms have widely adopted the strict measurement practices of Japanese firms, but have largely not adopted the Eastern practice of Zen. A Zen approach fosters trust and provides flexibility that allows organizations to better achieve success in the long run.
Pleiotropic Properties of Rotavirus Nonstructural Protein 4 (NSP4) and Their Effects on Viral Replication and Pathogenesis

Rotavirus (RV), the causative agent of infantile diarrhea in a wide range of hosts, encodes a multifunctional nonstructural protein, NSP4. Interactions of NSP4 with both host factors and other viral proteins are critical for viral replication, morphogenesis, and pathogenesis. This review focuses on the strategies used by intracellular NSP4 (iNSP4) and extracellular NSP4 (eNSP4) to induce diarrhea, to modulate intracellular calcium homeostasis, apoptosis, and tight junction integrity, to regulate viral transcription, replication, and morphogenesis; as well as exploit cellular processes, such as protein trafficking and autophagy, required for RV biology. The molecular mechanisms underpinning the numerous roles for NSP4 are discussed with particular emphasis towards delineating both the functional domains and the structural forms of NSP4 required for its many activities. Defining the multiple functions of NSP4 is important to fully understand rotavirus replication and pathogenesis and will possibly lead to new approaches to prevent or treat disease.
Exploring design structure matrices to reduce enterprise information systems complexity

ABSTRACTComplexity and redundancy in large enterprises have grown over the last few decades and have not yet been extensively studied using optimal automated algorithms. Design structure matrices (DSMs) have been shown to be useful for analyzing and clustering complex interacting components. However, the preponderance of DSM literature has focused on product or system-level problems with little focus on enterprise-level issues. This article introduces the problem of enterprise information system (IS) redundancy and conducts a literature review of methods for developing roadmap-generating algorithms to iteratively reduce that redundancy. The literature supports the proposition that DSMs provide a suitable technique for this purpose, which is highly relevant when evolving many legacy ISs toward an integrated enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution.
A robust segmentation approach to iris recognition based on video

One of the key problems of conventional iris recognition methods is that they are based on processing single iris image and require good image quality as an essential condition. These requisites entail considerable constraints on users for taking iris images. Video based iris recognition can provide convenience and time efficiency to the subjects with undemanding restrains during iris acquisition. These videos which are usually taken of moving subjects at a distance, although convenient to the user, may result in an acquisition approach that can certainly introduce unexpected noise sources to the iris images, impacting as a consequence the verification accuracy for iris recognition. With this dilemma, this study introduces a new segmentation approach for video based iris recognition. The proposed approach consists of two steps. The first step consists of a video frame selection which is to obtain qualified frames from near infrared (NIR) video, where the subjects' eye images are extracted based on the featured reflection spots generated by the specified video camera. The second step is based on an iris segmentation designed to isolate the iris from the eye image. Since iris images obtained from NIR video may suffer from different kinds of noise effects, a new strategy is proposed for iris segmentation to overcome such noise effects and process effectively the eye images (frames) in the presence of noise. More importantly, the proposed iris segmentation strategy would not only separate the iris part from the sclera and pupil, but also can identify the extraneous overlapping parts caused by eyelids, eyelashes, and reflection spots.
Jan de Beer's Lifetime Reputation and Posthumous Fate

Recommended Citation: Dan Ewing, “Jan de Beer’s Lifetime Reputation and Posthumous Fate,” JHNA 7:2 (Summer 2015) DOI: 10.5092/jhna.2015.7.2.1 Available at http://www.jhna.org/index.php/vol-7-2-2015/314-dan-ewing Published by Historians of Netherlandish Art: http://www.hnanews.org/ Terms of Use: http://www.jhna.org/index.php/terms-of-use Notes: This PDF is provided for reference purposes only and may not contain all the functionality or features of the original, online publication. This PDF provides paragraph numbers as well as page numbers for citation purposes. ISSN: 1949-9833 Journal of Historians of Netherlandish Art
Topology-aware performance optimization and modeling of adaptive mesh refinement codes for exascale

We introduce a topology-aware performance optimization and modeling workflow for AMR simulation that includes two new modeling tools, ProgrAMR and Mota Mapper, which interface with the BoxLib AMR framework and the SSTmacro network simulator. ProgrAMR allows us to generate and model the execution of task dependency graphs from high-level specifications of AMR-based applications, which we demonstrate by analyzing two example AMR-based multigrid solvers with varying degrees of asynchrony. Mota Mapper generates multiobjective, network topology-aware box mappings, which we apply to optimize the data layout for the example multigrid solvers. While the sensitivity of these solvers to layout and execution strategy appears to be modest for balanced scenarios, the impact of better mapping algorithms can be significant when performance is highly constrained by network hop latency. Furthermore, we show that network latency in the multigrid bottom solve is the main contributing factor preventing good scaling on exascale-class machines.
Arsenic-induced acquisition of cancer stem cell-like characteristics during malignant transformation of human pancreatic epithelial ductal cells

E data indicates cancer stem cells (CSCs) may be critical to the carcinogenic process. Arsenic is linked with human pancreatic diseases potentially including cancer. Our prior work showed chronic cadmium exposure of a human pancreatic ductal epithelial (HPDE) cell line caused oncogenic transformation and formation of CSC-like cells. Thus, we studied if inorganic arsenic exposure could induce a similar tumor cell phenotype in HPDE cells and derivative non-adherent spheroids, which are enriched in stem cells (SCs or CSCs). HPDE cells were chronically exposed to sodium arsenite (2.5 μM) for up to 30 weeks and cancer cell characteristics were assessed including matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) secretion, invasion, colony formation and expression of cancer relevant genes by RT-PCR or immunoblotting. Non-adherent spheroid formation was used to assess CSClike production and tumor cell phenotype was assessed in such spheres. Chronic arsenic exposed (CAE) cells (30 weeks) showed morphological changes (loss of contact inhibition, atypical foci of cell mounding), increased MMP-9 secretion and colony formation, and marked over-expression of pancreatic cancer markers (S100P, PSCA), oncogenes (C-myc, C-jun), and the cell proliferation marker Cyclin D1, all typical for pancreatic cancer cells. CAE cells also became tolerant to arsenic (LC50 74.8±1.9 μM) compared to control (18.1±2.1 μM) which is common in chronic treatment. Compared to control, CAE cells produced 300% more non-adherent spheres, which contain an abundance of SCs or CSCs. CAE-derived spheres were more invasive, secreted more MMP-9, and over-expressed markers for pancreatic CSCs (CXCR4, CD133, CD44) and S100P. Single spheres from CAE cells rapidly produced aggressive, highly branched, poorly differentiated glandular-like structures in Matrigel. Thus, chronic arsenic causes acquisition of multiple tumor cell characteristics in HPDE cells. These data support the plausibility of arsenic as a human pancreatic carcinogen.
PERCUTANEOUS RENAL DENERVATION FOR RESISTANT HYPERTENSION: AN UPDATED META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS

Background: Percutaneous renal denervation (RDN) was heralded as a novel approach to treat resistant hypertension (RH), however evidence supporting its efficacy is conflicting. We therefore conducted an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT's) evaluating the effect of RDN on
Erratum to: Changes in ecosystem engineers: the effects of kelp forest type on currents and benthic assemblages in Kachemak Bay, Alaska

In many temperate, rocky-reef coastal ecosystems, kelp forests modify alongshore currents, impact invertebrate settlement, and regulate understory algal abundances. Along the southern coasts of Alaska, in particular, two species of canopy-forming kelps with dissimilar morphologies, Nereocystis luetkeana and Eualaria fistulosa, co-occur but vary in their distributions and patterns of abundance, with one species often replacing the other at given sites in subsequent years. As a result, their differences in morphology may affect patterns of current flow through the forests, which could have strong impacts on invertebrate settlement and benthic diversity, particularly in Kachemak Bay, Alaska (59° 36′33ʺN, 151° 20′51ʺW), which experiences large tidal fluctuations resulting in strong alongshore currents. In this study, significant differences in current reductions were observed between the two kelp forest types within Kachemak Bay, but these reductions were small compared to the natural spatiotemporal variability of currents within the bay, and they were primarily limited to the upper few meters of the water column where the two species exhibit their greatest differences in morphology. Consequently, invertebrate settlement and abundance differed between the two kelp forest types as well as among study sites within the bay. In addition, there were differences observed in the composition and abundance of understory algae between the two forest types, which were presumably due to differences in shading abilities of the dominant kelps. Together, our results suggest that future changes in the distribution and abundances of these two kelp forest types may result in corresponding changes in hydrodynamic conditions within the forests, and thereby impact invertebrate and benthic algal assemblages.
Time of flight imaging through scattering environments (Conference Presentation)

Light scattering is a primary obstacle to imaging in many environments. On small scales in biomedical microscopy and diffuse tomography scenarios scattering is caused by tissue. On larger scales scattering from dust and fog provide challenges to vision systems for self driving cars and naval remote imaging systems. We are developing scale models for scattering environments and investigation methods for improved imaging particularly using time of flight transient information. With the emergence of Single Photon Avalanche Diode detectors and fast semiconductor lasers, illumination and capture on picosecond timescales are becoming possible in inexpensive, compact, and robust devices. This opens up opportunities for new computational imaging techniques that make use of photon time of flight. Time of flight or range information is used in remote imaging scenarios in gated viewing and in biomedical imaging in time resolved diffuse tomography. In addition spatial filtering is popular in biomedical scenarios with structured illumination and confocal microscopy. We are presenting a combination analytical, computational, and experimental models that allow us develop and test imaging methods across scattering scenarios and scales. This framework will be used for proof of concept experiments to evaluate new computational imaging methods.
ROS-mediated carbon monoxide and drug release from drug-conjugated carboxyboranes

Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are associated with several detrimental diseases. Therefore, using this condition for selective treatments could be a great advantage in fighting these disorders. Here, we present amine carboxyboranes as a class of molecules for therapeutic CO gas generation and for delivering drug molecules in the presence of ROS. Our findings indicate amine carboxyboranes to be very slow CO releasers at physiological pH and temperature without any inducers but generate CO faster when reacted with a non-radical ROS (H2O2). Furthermore, a radical ROS (˙OH) dramatically expedites the production of CO from amine carboxyboranes. A decomposition profile shows the release of the amine group during the decarbonylation process from drug-conjugated carboxyboranes. This suggests that the carboxyborane moiety can be a useful tool for the delivery of amine-containing drugs to disease sites which display abundant ROS levels.
Deserts of Disadvantage: The Diffuse Effects of Structural Disadvantage on Violence in Urban Communities:

We advance discussion of structural inequality by operationalizing “concentrated” disadvantage in terms of highly disadvantaged communities located at the spatial core of contiguous areas of high d...
ORBITAL VASCULAR LESIONS: Role of Imaging

Vascular lesions represent an important subgroup of orbital abnormalities; however, there is much controversy regarding their pathophysiology and nomenclature. Attempts at resolution of some of the issues have resulted in changes of names of some of the lesions (e.g., lymphangioma to venolymphatic malformation). Imaging plays an important role in delineation and characterization of these lesions. A radiologist informed about the pathophysiology and attentive to the internal architecture of the lesions shown on images, particularly MR images, often can predict the histologic diagnosis. Imaging information helps clarify some of the controversies surrounding these lesions.