cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structural and diffusion weighted MRI registration for biomarker fusion in Crohn's disease diagnosis

Diffusivity of water molecules estimated from diffusion weighted MRI (DW-MRI) is an important biomarker to pinpoint regions with restricted diffusion such as inflamed bowel regions in patients with Crohn's Disease (CD). There is a need to fuse the information extracted from DW-MRI with other image modalities, e.g. structural T1w images, for more accurate and efficient diagnosis. However, due to low signal-to-noise ratio, distortion and lower resolution of DW-MR images compared to T1w images, fusion of these image modalities is challenging, especially in turns and folds of the bowel. This paper presents a novel method to register structural T1w and diffusion weighted images, which facilitates the image fusion. Based on the block-matching algorithm, the proposed method first determines multiple candidate matches in a neighborhood, and then iteratively finds the most probable match using additional geometric information. We examined the performance of the proposed method on five patients with confirmed CD. Our method outperformed other state-of-the-art registration methods, i.e. ANTS and Demons. This method has the potential for being a useful tool in structural and DW-MRI data fusion for more accurate CD diagnosis and severity assessment.
Embedded 6 bit flash converter design for digital stereo sound decoder

The design of a 25-MHz, 6-b flash converter embedded in a customized digital signal processor for decoding of digital stereo sound broadcast on terrestrial TV channels is described. The design is based upon an offset cancellation comparator which obviates the need for large storage capacitors traditionally used for input offset reduction, and makes the design easier to fabricate in standard CMOS technology. Simple measurement techniques used for design debug are described. >
Perceptions of Bystander Willingness to Intervene on Behalf of Victims of Criminal Assaults: Implications for the Development of Coproductive Strategies*

Crime prevention through the use of strategies designed to reduce opportunities for criminal activity is recognized as both practical and cost effective (NCPI, 1986). Routine strategies tend to focus on a siege or fortification model (NCPI, 1986; Sheleff, 1978; Jeffery, 1977; Newman, 1972) that may be neither possible nor desirable. A crime prevention strategy that goes beyond the fortification model routinely suggested by professional law enforcement involves the concept of coproduction (Schneider, 1986). Described as providing collective goods for the common welfare of the citizens (Ostrom, 1973), this concept is implicit in studies seeking to understand the behavior of witnesses (bystanders) in emergency situations. This study, based on a survey of New York city subway riders, examines the relationship between personal factors associated with bystanders and the likelihood of their intervention on behalf of a person being victimized in a criminal attack, i.e., their participation in coproduction. The fi...
An efficiently computable metric for comparing polygonal shapes

Abstract : Model-based recognition is concerned with comparing a shape A, which is stored as a model for some particular object, with a shape B, which is found to exist in an image. If A and B are close to being the same shape, then a vision system should report a match and return a measure of how good that match is. To be useful this measure should satisfy a number of properties, including: (1) it should be a metric, (2) it should be invariant under translation, rotation, and change-of-scale, (3) it should be reasonably easy to compute, and (4) it should match our intuition (i.e., answers should be similar to those that a person might give). We develop a method for comparing polygons that has these properties. The method works for both convex and nonconvex polygons and runs in time O(mn log mn) where m is the number of vertices in one polygon and n is the number of vertices in the other. Some examples are presented that show the method produces answers that are intuitively reasonable.
Comparison of several calculations of helix-coil transitions in heterogeneous polymers.

Random number methods are used to calculate helix—coil transition curves for the model of a heterogeneous polypeptide of random sequence. These curves are compared with several other calculations. The random number computations confirm the exact calculation of Lehman; among the several approximate calculations examined only that of Fixman and Zeroka agrees closely with results of the random number method over the whole range of conditions considered. Calculations are also reported of the average length of helix and coil sections in a heterogeneous molecule of random sequence which is undergoing the helix-coil transition.
Autism: an emerging public health problem.

Craig J. Newschaffer, PhDa Laura Kresch Curran, BAa Over the past decade, autism has emerged as a major public health concern in the United States. Although known for more than fifty years as one of the most severe childhood neuropsychiatric disorders, it was thought to be quite rare. Now, however, it is recognized that autism includes a much broader spectrum of affected individuals, beyond those with classic features. Recently, there has been much speculation that the underlying risk of the condition, in all its forms, may be increasing with time. Undoubtedly, more and more individuals have been seeking educational, medical, and social services to help confront the formidable challenges of autism. All this comes at a time when, despite a decade-long intensive search for autism genes, there is continued bafflement over the condition’s etiology. In this article, we review the factors responsible for the emergence of autism as a public health problem and briefly discuss the public health response to date and the prospects for the future.
Estrogen Receptor Domains E and F: Role in Dimerization and Interaction with Coactivator RIP-140

We have used the yeast two-hybrid system to localize the ligand-dependent dimerization domain of the estrogen receptor-α (ER) to region E in vivo. In this system, the cDNAs corresponding to the A–D, E, E/F, A–E (ΔF), and full-length (wtER) domains of the human ER were each cloned into the yeast two-hybrid vectors GAL4 DB and GAL4 TA and expressed in different combinations in yeast harboring a GAL1-lacZ reporter. The reporter was used as a relative measure of the interaction between the ER domains, through reconstitution of GAL4 activity. We found that the interaction of E or E/F domains of the ER with full-length ER is estradiol dependent and estrogen responsive element independent, as measured by the reconstitution of GAL4 activity from GAL4-E domain-containing fusion protein interactions. In the presence of F domain, this activity is reduced 10-fold. The results suggest that sequences in the F domain are inhibitory to the dimerization signal that is present in the E region. We propose that the full-leng...
Multilayer-derived, ultrathin, stimuli-responsive hydrogels

In addition to a well-known capacity of the layer-by-layer (LbL) technique to create multilayers with strongly bound polymer chains, the technique also provides a unique opportunity to fabricate highly swollen, hydrogel-like films and capsules. Layered, ultrathin hydrogel-like membranes can be fabricated using electrostatically assembled or hydrogen-bonded multilayers as template matrices, or using a click chemistry approach. This review describes recent progress in the area, comparing various approaches used for the fabrication of these surface-mediated, LbL-templated structures, and discusses future applications of ultrathin hydrogel materials.
Surface Premelting of Ice

In this review, we summarize the available experimental data from recently developed molecular level techniques on the surface structure, surface premelting layer thickness, and friction of ice. We conclude that surface premelting of ice is responsible for the unique surface properties of the important substance.
Connoisseur's Choice: Spodumene var. Kunzite, Nuristan, Afghanistan

(1997). Connoisseur's Choice: Spodumene var. Kunzite, Nuristan, Afghanistan. Rocks & Minerals: Vol. 72, No. 5, pp. 340-343.
Equations for the spectrophotometric analysis of hemoglobin mixtures

Abstract The extinction coefficients for deoxyhemoglobin, oxyhemoglobin, and carbonmonoxyhemoglobin as well as those of ferrihemoglobin between pH 6.2 and 8.8 are given at a number of wavelengths. Equations are presented for the analysis of ternary mixtures of these hemoglobin derivatives.
Implications of Cardiac Risk and Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Distributions in the United States for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Dyslipidemia Data From National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999 to 2002

Background— Updated guidelines from the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III stratify patients into 5 groups of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk that determine intensity of lipid-lowering therapy. The present study assesses the distribution of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in the United States across the 5 groups of CHD risk as defined in the updated guidelines. Methods and Results— Subjects included 7399 individuals 20 to 79 years of age in the 1999 to 2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey representing 171 million individuals in the United States. CHD risk, LDL-C levels, and goal achievement were determined per Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines. CHD risk assessment incorporated a medical condition review, risk factor summation, and Framingham Risk Score calculation. Percentages were weighted to represent population estimates, and SEs were adjusted for the survey design. The distribution of individuals by CHD risk included 61.1% at lower risk, ...
Response to Adults' Angry Behavior in Children of Alcoholic and Nonalcoholic Parents

Abstract Children from alcoholic (COAs) and nonalcoholic (NCOAs) homes (N = 35; M age = 8.02 years) were presented with videotaped segments of angry and friendly interactions matched for mode of expression of affect (verbal, indirect, nonverbal, destructive or constructive, and aggressive or affectionate) and were interviewed following each segment. Children perceived all forms of expression of anger as more negative and expressed more anger and distress in response to them. Angry adults also were perceived as having more negative feelings toward children than friendly adults. Whereas male NCOAs responded with more anger than female NCOAs, male COAs responded, with less anger than female COAs. COAs more often proposed solutions to adults' interactions than NCOAs; this primarily reflected a higher rate of indirect responses intended to make others feel better. Finally, COA status and problem behaviors were associated, but analyses indicated that higher incidences of marital discord in the homes of COAs acc...
Dynamical effects of a hard garnet layer in the transition zone on geophysical signatures: geoid anomalies and postglacial rebound

Abstract Recent studies on the structure systematics of dense oxides have shown that the garnet structure has extremely high creep strength. These results suggest that the transition zone between 400 and 670 km depth may be stronger than the lower mantle (perovskite), which, in turn, is sturdier than the upper mantle above 400 km. We have compared two models, (1) one with two layers separated at 670 km, (2) the other with three layers having thicknesses of 400 km (olivine layer), 270 km (hard layer) and 2270 km (perovskite layer). The viscosity contrast between the olivine and garnet layers varies between O(10) and O(10 2 ); the viscosity contrast between the olivine and perovskite layer varies similarly. We have employed two modelling approaches: (1) cartesian model for calculating geoid anomalies and surface topographies due to internal loading; (2) a spherical-shell model, based on analytical functions, for analysing postglacial rebound. The existence of the garnet layer induces distinct effects in both the geoid and postglacial responses. Geoid responses, as a consequence of the hard layer, become much stronger due to excitation of long-wavelength density anomalies in the interior of the three-layer model. To obtain similar magnitudes of geoid signatures, a larger viscosity contrast between the lower and upper mantle is required. For postglacial rebound and shallow-seated density heterogeneities a smaller viscosity variation between the upper and lower mantle is needed in the presence of the garnet layer. These findings may reconcile some of the discrepancies in lower mantle viscosity inferred from the two data sets.
Narrating place, negotiating history: the politics of place in Land Between the Rivers

Conservation discourses in the last decade have witnessed a radical shift in the conceptualisation of nature. The imagery of a pristine nature has been replaced by a growing recognition of culture and place-based attachments as emerging frontiers of conservation. Yet, the complexities of place and culture call for a greater reflection on cultural approaches to natural resource management. In this paper, I argue that the cultural discourses in conservation policies are largely global in nature and conflict with a community's understanding of a local cultural tradition. The notion of the global closely relates to a global framing of an environmental problem that glosses over cultural specificities. On the other hand, local is defined here in materially specific terms that highlight the role of history in shaping environmental traditions. I examine these contradictory framings through a narrative of conservation, displacement, and cultural loss in a US rural community known as Land Between the Rivers.
Multi-layer Video Streaming with Helper Nodes Using Network Coding

Video streaming is one of the dominant forms of traffic on the Internet. This increases workload on the video servers, which leads to substantial slowdowns. In order to resolve the slowdown problem, and to provide a scalable and robust infrastructure to support on-demand streaming, helper-assisted video-on-demand (VoD) systems have been introduced. In this architecture, helper nodes, which are micro-servers with limited storage and bandwidth resources, download and store the user requested videos from a central server to decrease the load on the central server. Multi-layer videos, in which a video is divided into different layers, can also be used to improve scalability. In this paper, we study the problem of utilizing the helper nodes to minimize the pressure on the central servers. We formulate the problem as a linear programming (LP) optimization using joint inter- and intra-layer network coding (NC). We show that a lightweight triangular inter-layer NC can be used, instead of the general form of inter-layer NC, to achieve the optimal solution. Our solution can also be implemented in a distributed manner. We show how our method can be extended to the case of wireless live streaming, in which a set of videos is broadcast. We carefully study the convergence and the gain of our distributed approach.
Cellular Interaction of Different Forms of Aluminum Nanoparticles in Rat Alveolar Macrophages

Nanomaterials, with dimensions in the 1-100 nm range, possess numerous potential benefits to society. However, there is little characterization of their effects on biological systems, either within the environment or on human health. The present study examines cellular interaction of aluminum oxide and aluminum nanomaterials, including their effect on cell viability and cell phagocytosis, with reference to particle size and the particle's chemical composition. Experiments were performed to characterize initial in vitro cellular effects of rat alveolar macrophages (NR8383) after exposure to aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3-NP at 30 and 40 nm) and aluminum metal nanoparticles containing a 2-3 nm oxide coat (Al-NP at 50, 80, and 120 nm). Characterization of the nanomaterials, both as received and in situ, was performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV), and/or CytoViva150 Ultra Resolution Imaging (URI)). Particles showed significant agglomeration in cell exposure media using DLS and the URI as compared to primary particle size in TEM. Cell viability assay results indicate a marginal effect on macrophage viability after exposure to Al2O3-NP at doses of 100 microg/mL for 24 h continuous exposure. Al-NP produced significantly reduced viability after 24 h of continuous exposure with doses from 100 to 250 microg/mL. Cell phagocytotic ability was significantly hindered by exposure to 50, 80, or 120 nm Al-NP at 25 microg/mL for 24 h, but the same concentration (25 microg/mL) had no significant effect on the cellular viability. However, no significant effect on phagocytosis was observed with Al2O3-NP. In summary, these results show that Al-NP exhibit greater toxicity and more significantly diminish the phagocytotic ability of macrophages after 24 h of exposure when compared to Al2O3-NP.
Growth mechanisms of AuCu II plates

Abstract The growth mechanisms of AuCu II plates are considered upon the basis of the measurements of their lengthening and thickening rates as reported by Pedraza and Kittl ( Acta Met. 24 , 835, 1976). These rates are 3–4 orders of magnitude smaller than those estimated for incoherent AuCu II: disordered matrix (interphase) boundaries. During growth, the interphase boundaries are deduced to be coherent. At the edges of plates, coherency is maintained because the succession of ledges is too rapid to give the misfit dislocation structure time to develop. At the broad faces of plates, the closely spaced twins (initially, ca. 50 A apart) in the AuCu II greatly diminish the driving force for introduction of misfit dislocations until substantial coarsening of the twinned structure has occurred. Ledge growth at the broad faces is inhibited by the requirement that such growth occur parallel to the twins; this effect appears responsible for the order of magnitude larger spacing between ledges at the broad faces than at the edges of the plates and for the growth of AuCu II crystals as plates rather than as idiomorphs. The principal features of AuCu II growth were shown to be consistent with a massive rather than a martensitic mode of transformation.
Electric Charge Life Cycle in Warm Clouds

Abstract Warm cloud electricity was extensively studied using a system comprised of raindrop charge radiosondes, raindrop charge-size radiosondes, cloud droplet charge radiosondes, space charge radiosondes, and electric potential.gradient radiosondes. More than 90 radiosondes were launched by balloon, mainly over the land, and also dropped from a helicopter. Special efforts were made to identify visually the cloud life stage at the sounding. The data were analyzed and arranged to present a composite picture of the electric charge profile with respect to the cloud life cycle. It was found that warm clouds produce excess negative charge in-cloud throughout their life cycle. Two charge separation processes appear to occur: one results in the negative charging of cloud droplets and raindrops in-cloud, which occurs mainly in the developing stage. The other produces the positive charging of raindrops near the cloud top, occurring mainly in the mature stage. The raindrop charge distribution in clouds with cloud ...
Structure and Speciation in Hydrous Silica Melts. 1. Temperature and Composition Effects

Monte Carlo simulations were used to investigate the phase behavior of hydrated liquid silica as a function of temperature and overall water mole fraction, xw. Simulations using the Feuston−Garofalini potential were performed in the isobaric−isothermal ensemble at p = 1 GPa for 15 temperatures (2000 ≤ T ≤ 9000 K) and 25 compositions (0.0 ≤ xw ≤ 0.4). The unusual volume minimum exhibited by tetrahedrally coordinated liquid silica is found to persist up to xw ≈ 0.267, although the temperature of the volume minimum decreases with increasing water content. Structural properties of the pure and hydrated systems are compared and the addition of water to liquid silica disrupts the silica network more dramatically than temperature alone. The simulations yield very low concentrations of molecular water, e.g. only about 1.2% of the oxygen atoms are bound to exactly two hydrogen atoms at xw = 0.4 and T = 3000 K.
Myth, Representation and Identity: An Ethnography of Memory in Lipsi, Greece

According to Marilena Papachristophorou, the tension between fertility and death marks the symbolic complex of legends, oral history, and religious practice on the island of Lipsi, one of the north...
A 3D analysis of Caucasian and African American facial morphologies in a US population.

1.18i0.98 mm. The African-American females had a broader face, wider alar base and more protrusive lips. The Caucasian-American females had a more prominent chin, malar region and lower forehead. The average difference between African-American and Caucasian-American males was 1.11i1.04 mm. The African-American males had a more prominent upper forehead and periocular region, wider alar base and more protrusive lips. No notable difference occurred between chin points of the two male populations. Conclusions: Average faces were created from 3D photographs, and the facial morphological differences between populations and genders were compared. African-American males had a more prominent upper forehead and periocular region, wider alar base and more protrusive lips. Caucasian-American males showed a more prominent nasal tip and malar area. African-American females had broader face, wider alar base and more protrusive lips. Caucasian-American females showed a more prominent chin point, malar region and lower forehead.
Bilateral phrenic neuropathies in a diabetic patient responsive to intravenous immunoglobulin: A case report

Abstract Introduction Bilateral phrenic neuropathy is an uncommon complication of diabetes mellitus. Case presentation We present a patient with diabetes mellitus who developed dyspnea from diaphragmatic paresis secondary to bilateral phrenic neuropathies on the background of subclinical generalized polyneuropathy documented by electrodiagnostic studies. The patient was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin with improved diaphragmatic function. Conclusion Phrenic neuropathy is a rare but important complication of diabetes mellitus. We report the first case of the beneficial use of intravenous immunoglobulin in diabetic phrenic neuropathy.
Breakdown of Matthiessen's rule in high purity aluminum based alloys

Abstract Deviations from Matthiessen's rule were measured for dilute alloys of Al with Mg. The concentration of the alloyed elements varied from 0.03 to 1.0 at.%. The results were compared with other experimental results and discussed with respect to the relevant theoretical models.
Regulating cyberspace: concepts and controversies

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of some issues and controversies surrounding arguments for regulating cyberspace.Design/methodology/approach – The paper begins with a brief investigation of some background questions such as “What is cyberspace?” and “What is meant by ‘regulation’?” It then considers some distinctions between descriptive and normative aspects of questions involving internet regulation. Next, the paper examines Lawrence Lessig's model, which describes four modes of regulation that can be applied to cyberspace. The paper then considers some recent controversies that have emerged because of “regulation by code” and the “privatization of information policy.”Findings – Cyberspace regulation raises ethical concerns.Research limitations/implications – Internet regulation is evolving.Originality/value – The way cyberspace is viewed, either as a “place” or as a “medium,” affects how it will be regulated.
Stress Intensity Factors for Small Cracks in the Rim of Disks and Rings Subjected to Rolling Contact

The influence of the residual stresses attending the plastic deformation of a rim on the cyclic crack growth driving force produced by repeated two-dimensional rolling contacts is evaluated. The residual stresses are estimated for disks and rings with different geometries. Values of the Mode II and Mode I stress intensity range, ΔKI and ΔKII , are derived for small, subsurface cracks from the variations in the stress intensity factors with position of the contact for rolling in the absence of surface shear tractions. The calculations take into account (i) steady-state contact stresses generated by a relative peak pressure of po /k = 5; (ii) the radial and circumferential residual stresses, (iii) the frictional resistance on the crack faces; (iv) the crack inclination, and (v) the relative ratios of the inner and outer ring radii. A prediction of the crack initiation and growth rate for high strength steel is illustrated.
Quantitative Analysis of Multisite Protein–Ligand Interactions by NMR: Binding of Intrinsically Disordered p53 Transactivation Subdomains with the TAZ2 Domain of CBP

Determination of affinities and binding sites involved in protein-ligand interactions is essential for understanding molecular mechanisms in biological systems. Here we combine singular value decomposition and global analysis of NMR chemical shift perturbations caused by protein-protein interactions to determine the number and location of binding sites on the protein surface and to measure the binding affinities. Using this method we show that the isolated AD1 and AD2 binding motifs, derived from the intrinsically disordered N-terminal transactivation domain of the tumor suppressor p53, both interact with the TAZ2 domain of the transcriptional coactivator CBP at two binding sites. Simulations of titration curves and line shapes show that a primary dissociation constant as small as 1-10 nM can be accurately estimated by NMR titration methods, provided that the primary and secondary binding processes are coupled. Unexpectedly, the site of binding of AD2 on the hydrophobic surface of TAZ2 overlaps with the binding site for AD1, but AD2 binds TAZ2 more tightly. The results highlight the complexity of interactions between intrinsically disordered proteins and their targets. Furthermore, the association rate of AD2 to TAZ2 is estimated to be 1.7 × 10(10) M(-1) s(-1), approaching the diffusion-controlled limit and indicating that intrinsic disorder plus complementary electrostatics can significantly accelerate protein binding interactions.
Categorification, term rewriting and the Knuth–Bendix procedure

Abstract An axiomatization of a finitary, equational universal algebra by a convergent term rewrite system gives rise to a finite, coherent categorification of the algebra.
ansa-Metallocenes: Catalysts for the dehydrocoupling of hydrosilanes

Abstract The dehydrocoupling of PhMeSiH2 to form oligomers and of PhSiH3 to form polysilanes has been performed with the precatalyst combination of [Me2El(C5H4)2MCl2 (El = Si, C; M = Ti, Zr, Hf) and nBuLi. The results are compared to those produced from (η 5 - C 5 H 5 ) 2 MCl 2 BuLi .
Expression of an F1/V fusion protein in attenuatedSalmonella typhimuriumand protection of mice against plague

Abstract A novel approach to making fusions of F1 and V antigens, which may be incorporated into a live recombinant vaccine for plague, was developed. The nucleotide sequences encodingYersinia pestisV antigen (lcrV) and the mature form of F1 antigen (caf1) were amplified by PCR with primers which included tails. At the 3′ end ofcaf1and the 5′ end oflcrV, the tails encoded one of three six- or eight-amino acid linkers or their complementary sequences. The DNA overlap in each linker region was used to prime a second PCR to generate three F1/V fusions, which were cloned into pUC18. The resulting plasmids expressed fusion proteins consisting of F1 and V antigens, separated by the linkers Gly-Ser-Ile-Glu-Gly-Arg, Ser-Ala-Pro-Gly-Thr-Pro or Ser-Ala-Pro-Gly-Thr-Pro-Ser-Arg. As shown by Western blotting of bacterial cell lysates with anti-V and anti-F1 sera, the level of expression and degree of degradation of the three fusion proteins was similar. To investigate the immunogenicity of F1/V, one of the plasmids, placFV6 which encoded the Gly-Ser-Ile-Glu-Gly-Arg linker, was electroporated into the attenuatedSalmonella typhimuriumstrain SL3261 (aroA). Mice receiving two intravenous doses of 5 × 106cfu SL3261/placFV6 developed serum anti-V and anti-F1 IgG titres, with similar IgG1:IgG2aisotype ratios, and T cell responses specific for V and F1 antigens. Six weeks after vaccination, mice were challenged subcutaneously with 7.4 × 102or 7.4 × 104LD50s ofY. pestisstrain GB, and a significant degree of protection was demonstrated. These results demonstrate the potential of co-expressingY. pestisantigens as fusion proteins to develop a live recombinant vaccine against plague.
Method for Evaluating Single-End Control of Distillation Columns

Distillation columns are, in an ideal situation, controlled using a dual-composition structure in which the light-key impurity in the bottoms and heavy-key impurity in the distillate are both maintained at the specified values. This structure minimizes energy consumption. However, it is often almost as efficient to use one-end control of either a composition or a temperature. This single-end distillation control structure is widely used in industry because of its simplicity and because it avoids dynamic interaction between the two competing loops. Because distillation columns have two control degrees of freedom, another variable besides the single temperature or composition must be selected among several alternatives. Usually these choices involve a ratio so that feed rate changes can be effectively handled. However, different ratio schemes handle feed composition changes with different degrees of effectiveness. The two most commonly used are either a reflux-to-feed ratio (R/F) or a reflux ratio (RR). The...
Automatic segmentation of colonic polyps in CT colonography based on knowledge-guided deformable models

An automatic method to segment colonic polyps from CT colonography is presented. The method is based on a combination of knowledge-guided intensity adjustment, fuzzy c-mean clustering, and deformable models. The input is a set of polyp seed points generated by filters on geometric properties of the colon surface. First, the potential polyp region is enhanced by a knowledge-guided adjustment. Then, a fuzzy c-mean clustering is applied on a 64*64 pixel sub-image around the seed. Fuzzy membership functions for lumen air, polyp tissues and other tissues are computed for each pixel. Finally, the gradient of the fuzzy membership function is used as the image force to drive a deformable model to the polyp boundary. The segmentation process is first executed on the 2D transverse slice where the polyp seed is located, and then is propagated to neighboring slices to construct a 3D representation of the polyp. Manual segmentation is performed on the same polyps and treated as the ground truth. The automatically generated segmentation is compared with the ground truth segmentation to validate the accuracy of the method. Experimental results showed that the average overlap between the automatic segmentation and manual segmentation is 76.3%. Given the complex polyp boundaries and the small size of the polyp, this is a good result both visually and quantitatively.
A fault tolerant massively parallel processing architecture

Abstract This paper presents two massively parallel processing architectures suitable for solving a wide variety of algorithms of divide-and-conquer type for problems such as the discrete Fourier transform, production systems, design automation, and others. The first architecture, called the Chain-structured Butterfly ARchitecture (CBAR), consists of a two-dimensional array of N = L · (log2(L) + 1) processing elements (PE) organized as L levels of log2(L) + 1 stages, and which has the butterfly connection between PEs in consecutive stages with straight-through feedback between PEs in the last and first stages. This connection system has the desirable property of allowing thousands of PEs to be connected with O(N) connection cost, O(log2(N/log2N)) communication paths, and a small number (=4) of I/O ports per PE. However, this architecture is not fault tolerant. We, therefore, propose a second architecture, called the REconfigurable Chain-structured Butterfly ARchitecture (RECBAR), which is a modified version of the CBAR. The RECBAR possesses all the desirable features of the CBAR, with the number of I/O ports per PE increased to six, and uses O((log2N)/N) overhead in PEs and approximately 50% overhead in links to achieve single-level fault tolerance. Reliability improvements ofthe RECBAR over the CBAR are studied. This paper also presents a distributed diagnostic and structuring algorithm for the RECBAR that enables the architecture to detect faults and structure itself accordingly within 2 · log2(L) + 1 time steps, thus making it a truly fault tolerant architecture.
A sensitive radioenzymatic assay for (S)-5-formyltetrahydrofolate.

Abstract A highly sensitive, radioenzymatic method has been developed for the specific and quantitative estimation of (S)-5-formyltetrahydrofolate. This method is based on enzymatic cycling of the 5-formyl derivative to methylenetetrahydrofolate followed by entrapment into a stable ternary complex with thymidylate synthase and tritiated fluorodeoxyuridylate. Determination of bound radiolabeled ligand permits estimation of the original folate. The initial cycling step is catalyzed by the enzyme, methenyltetrahydrofolate synthetase, which is specific for the (S)-diastereomer of 5-formyltetrahydrofolate and generates a product which can be further cycled to tetrahydrofolate using either 10-formyltetrahydrofolate deacylase or glycinamide ribonucleotide transformylase. Tetrahydrofolate is ultimately converted to the entrapable methylene derivative in the presence of excess formaldehyde. Using this assay recovery of reference (S)-5-formyltetrahydrofolate was linear over the range 0.03–1.9 pmol with an average recovery of 83 ± 2%. The method has been applied to estimation of plasma (S)-5-formyltetrahydrofolate from a volunteer who had been administered (R,S)-5-formyltetrahydrofolate. Where comparison was possible, estimation of plasma (S)-5-formyltetrahydrofolate by this one step ternary complex-based method yielded results that were very similar to those observed by Straw et al. (Cancer Res., 44, 3114, 1984) who used an HPLC-based method for separation of diastereomeric mixtures of reduced folates and microbiological growth dependence to determine (S)-5-formyltetrahydrofolate.
Effects of prey characteristics and web structure on feeding and predatory responses of Nephila clavipes spiderlings

1. Field studies were conducted with second and third instar spiderlings of the orb weaver Nephila clavipes. The influences of prey type, prey condition, and web structure on feeding and predation were assessed. 2. After emergence from the egg sac, spiderlings inhabited a communal, tangled web. Juveniles readily ate dead or immobile siblings and insect prey but did not attack live prey. 3. Communal web inhabitants were transferred to solitary, viscid spiral orbs built by spiderlings after dispersal. Some predatory responses were expressed by these subjects, while inhabitants of solitary orbs tested in communal webs did not attack prey. It is concluded that web structure influences predatory responses in early instars.
Evaluation of human islet-specific functional quality cultured on different gas-permeable membranes.

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate different gas-permeable membranes for culturing human islets. Dynamic insulin release was used to assess islet functional quality. Islets isolated from cadaveric pancreata ( n = 8) using standard isolation methods were stained with dithizone, counted, and cultured on five different commercially available medical-grade membranes reported to have high permeability to O 2 , CO 2 , and other gases. Fraction 1 (20,000 islet equivalents [IEQ] purity >70%; viability >85%) was cultured using serum-free medium in nonadherence tissue culture flasks (group I) and custom-made chambers with membranes (group II). Each vessel contained 5000 IEQ at a density of 30 IEQ/cm 2 and 69 IEQ/cm 2 for groups I and II, respectively. Islets were cultured for 48 to 90 hours at 37°C in 5% CO 2 . In vitro dynamic insulin response to low glucose (3 mmol/L), high glucose (16.7 mmol/L), and 25 mmol/L KCI was measured. Stimulation indices were calculated by dividing average of initial response over basal insulin release; basal insulin release defined as average of the first seven values. Islets cultured on MG7 ( n = 3) showed a higher stimulation index (3.49 ± 0.37) compared with flasks (2.44 ± 0.22), indicating better specific functional quality. Islets cultured on other membranes proved to show similar or worse functional quality than those cultured in flasks. In fact, islets cultured on MG6 ( n = 2) were not tested owing to complete disintegration. Islet functional quality was improved when cultured on selected biocompatible gas-permeable membranes; however, finding the best membrane requires further investigation before clinical application.
Mechanism of prostaglandin E2 inhibition of acute changes in vascular permeability

In order to determine the mechanism of antiinflammatory activity, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) or diluent was administered to rats 2 h prior to intradermal injections of various mediators of inflammatory vascular permeability changes. Vascular permeability was measured as the accumulation of [125I]rat serum albumin at the site of mediator injunction. PGE2 at 500μg significantly inhibited protein leakage produced by histamine, platelet activating factor, zymosan, and zymosan-activated plasma. Pretreatment with PGE2 had no effect on protein leakage induced by injection of lysosomal enzymes, glucose oxidase, or xanthine oxidase. The accumulation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) at the site of injection of zymosan or zymosan-activated plasma was not altered by PGE2 administration. In separate experiments, the ability of PGE2 to alter phagocytosis and oxygen radical production by PMN was examined. PGE2 significantly inhibited phagocytosis at 2 h, but this returned to normal by 6 h. Production of hydrogen peroxide by PMN was not affected by PGE2. These results suggest that PGE2 prevents acute changes in vascular protein leakage by preventing endothelial cell contraction and by inhibiting specific PMN functions.
Biological and pharmacological aspects of perioperative hemorrhagic complications associated with oral platelet-directed antithrombotic agents: Focus on isolated coronary artery bypass grafting and oral irreversible P2Y12 receptor antagonists

Abstract Coronary arterial bypass grafting (CABG)—the most common heart surgery performed worldwide—is an effective procedure for treating patients with advanced, obstructive atherothrombotic coronary artery disease, prolonging survival in selected high-risk patients. However, CABG is also associated with hemorrhagic complications, which can impact outcome measures such as perioperative morbidity, mortality, length of hospital stay, and health care expenditures. Recent observations have expanded our understanding of the complex process of hemostasis, fostering a more informed view of CABG-associated bleeding complications. Additional research is warranted to determine whether new antithrombotic drug treatment options, such as reversible P2Y12 receptor antagonists among patients with acute coronary syndromes, will favorably impact these clinically relevant complications.
Transferring Diagnosis Versus Actual Diagnosis at a Center for Thoracic Aortic Disease

Background Lack of physician awareness of thoracic aortic disease has received increased media attention. As a referral center for thoracic aortic disease our institutional experience confirms discrepancies between the transferring diagnosis and the actual pathologic diagnosis. A retrospective review was undertaken to identify the incidence and sources for disparate diagnoses. Methods Medical records from 100 consecutive patients transferred to The University of Florida—Shands Hospital between April 2002 and October 2003 were reviewed. To identify sources for error, the charts of 24 patients with diagnostic discrepancies were examined in detail with attention to outside radiologic reports, level of physician experience, and additional diagnostic testing required. Results The transferring diagnosis of 24 patients was different from the final aortic pathologic disease. The most common discrepancies were misclassifications of dissections and aneurysms. Seven patients had either no leak or no dissection. Two patients had misleading "pulsation artifacts" on their computed tomographic scans. In half of the patients diagnostic differences were secondary to initial misinterpretation by the referring radiologist. Seventeen of 24 patients underwent additional diagnostic testing. Misdiagnoses were more common when the referring physician was not a surgeon (15 of 24). The diagnosis of 5 patients was confirmed only in the operating room. Conclusions A significant incidence of disparate diagnosis was identified between transferring facilities and our referral center. Discrepancies were secondary to initial radiographic misinterpretation and the complexity of thoracic aortic pathologic disease. Medical schools and continuing medical education programs should place increased emphasis on thoracic aortic disease in their curricula.
Failure Prediction of Flip Chip Packages Using Finite Element Technique

Flip-chip electronic package undergoes thermal loading during its curing process and operational life. Due to the thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) mismatch of various components, the flip-chip assembly experiences various types of thermally induced stresses and strains. Experimental measurement of these stresses and strains is extremely tedious and rigorous due to the physical limitations in the dimensions of the flip-chip assembly. While experiments provide accurate assessment of stresses and strains at certain locations, a parallel finite element (FE) analysis and analytical study can complementarily determine the displacement, strain and stress fields over the entire region of the flip-chip assembly. Such combination of experimental, finite element and analytical studies are ideal to yield a successful stress analysis of the flip-chip assembly under the various loading conditions. In this study, a two-dimensional finite element model of the flip-chip consisting of the silicon chip, underfill, solder ball, copper pad, solder mask and substrate has been developed. Various stress components under thermal loading condition ranging from −40°C to 150°C have been determined using both the finite element and analytical methods. Stresses such as (σ11 , σ12 , e12 etc. are extracted and analyzed for the individual components as well as the entire assembly, and the weakest positions of the flip-chip have been discovered. Detailed description of FE modeling is presented and the different failure modes of chip assembly are discussed.© 2002 ASME
Banisterine and Parkinson's disease

It is of historical interest that 63 years ago Louis Lewin reported the use of a hallucinogenic compound prepared from the South American vine, Banisteria Caapi, to treat Parkinson's disease (PD). This psychoactive compound, named banisterine, proved to be identical to harmine, but 30 years were to pass before it was shown to be a reversible monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor. The first reports of the use of banisterine to treat postencephalitic parkinsonism in 1929 created a stir in the popular press and banisterine was hailed as a "magic drug." Despite continued studies of the harmala alkaloids by other researchers, interest in the therapeutic value of these compounds vanished during the 1930's. The story of banisterine is reviewed because it was the first MAO inhibitor to be used in parkinsonism, and illustrates the historical role of psychoactive drugs in the development of effective therapies, and in elucidating the pathophysiology of PD.
Determination of the radiographic position of the temporomandibular joint disk.

Abstract We describe a method of measuring displacement and reduction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disk that makes use of reproducible geometric measurements from radiographs in the sagittal plane. This procedure leads to a simple quantitative classification scheme for condyle-disk-fossa / eminence relationships. The method was applied to microscopic sections of 12 human TMJs and then to 30 complete lateral corrected cephalometric arthotomographic studies of the TMJ. Statistical analyses of the classification scheme confirm that it is highly significant and consistent with clinical diagnoses.
Enhancing Magnetometry with Single Spins in Diamond

Phase estimation algorithms are used to enhance AC and DC magnetometry with a single electron spin in diamond. We demonstrate significant enhancements in the dynamic range and linearity, and a new dual-channel lock-in detection method.
The effect of ozone onLegionella pneumophila and other bacterial populations in cooling towers

Ozone was found to reduce the numbers of bacteria detectable by plate counts and the numbers of presumptiveLegionella pneumophila (DFA-reactive cells), including those that were INT positive, in test cooling towers. The numbers of DFA-reactiveL. pneumophila eventually reached those of the makeup water (Troy, NY, city water). Microbial slime on the interior tower surfaces andPseudomonas populations in the tower waters were also reduced. Water chemistry parameters measured showed no tendency toward a condition that would cause accelerated deterioration of tower material.
Cholesterol vehicle in experimental atherosclerosis Part 13. Randomized peanut oil

Abstract Peanut oil (PNO) is more atherogenic than is corn oil (CO) when fed to rabbits in a diet containing 2 % cholesterol and 6 % fat. To test the hypothesis that the arachidic and behenic acid content of PNO is responsible for this observation, four groups of rabbits were fed 2 % cholesterol plus 6 % PNO, CO or two fats, prepared by interesterification (randomization) of CO and a special fat, PGF, with a fat containing arachidic and behenic acids. The new fats, CO/R and PGF/R, contained levels of arachidic and behenic acids similar to those found in PNO. Average atheromata (arch plus thoracic/2) for a series of 3 experiments were: PNO — 1.59; PGF/R — 1.41; CO/R — 1.34; CO — 1.20 and PGF — 1.17. The data suggested an effect beyond fatty acid composition. We then compared PNO, CO and autorandomized peanut oil, PNO/A. The fatty acid composition of PNO/A is identical with that of PNO, but its triglyceride structure is markedly different. Average atheromata for 3 experiments were: PNO — 1.88; PNO/A — 1.18 and CO — 1.17. The data clearly indicate that triglyceride structure of a fat, as well as its fatty acid composition, is a determining factor in its atherogenic potency.
A minicomputer system for image processing of electron micrographs

Abstract This paper describes how a PDP 11/34A computer system was set up to handle research problems in computer image processing of electron micrographs. This system is referred to as CIPRES, for Computer Image Processing and Reconstruction System (pronounced the same as cypress, the name of an evergreen tree). The RSX-11M operating system is used. Various execution speeds are given. For instance, a disk-based fast Fourier transform or FFT (complex to complex, 128 X 128 pixels) runs in three minutes. This report may be useful to anyone wishing to set up a similar computer system.