cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
PATHWAYS OF GLUCOSE METABOLISM IN THE LENS.

In the lens the biological energy necessary for the maintenance of transparency, synthesis, and repair is supplied primarily by the reactions that metabolize glucose to lactic acid. The low levels of the enzymes associated with the aerobic oxidation of glucose restrict the lens metabolism mainly to anaerobic glycolysis. Even in the epithelium, anaerobic glycolysis appears Jo be the principal source of biological energy. The evidence for this is that the active transport mechanisms of the lens occur primarily in the epithelium and these energyutilizing processes can be almost entirely supported by anaerobic glycolysis. Another unusual feature of lens glucose metabolism is the ability of the lens to' synthesize sorbitol. It is the unusual set of circumstances of low hexokinase, relatively high aldose reductase, and high pentose shunt activities which render the lens a favorable site for sorbitol production. B. 'ecause of its rather peculiar structure and avascularity one gains the impression that the lens is a metabolically inert organ. A comparison of the rate of O2 consumption and glucose utilization in the lens with those in other tissues would certainly support this conclusion. However, the lens must meet certain energy demands to maintain its viability. Obviously the main objective of the lens is to retain its transparency. The explanation of transparency of a tissue is far from being understood, but it is apparent that a normal state of hydration is important to maintain clarity. The volume of water in the lens is regulated primarily by the efficiency of energy-dependent mechanisms which control electrolyte levels. Furthermore, new fibers are continually laid down in the lens
INFINITE-DIMENSIONAL DISTRIBUTIONS IN THE THERMODYNAMIC LIMIT OF GRAPH-VALUED MARKOV PROCESSES AND THE PHENOMENON OF POSTGELATION STICKING*

In the first four papers of this series (cf. Pittel, Woyczynski and Mann) (1987), (1989a), (1989b), and Pittel and Woyczynski (1989c)) we began a detailed asymptotic analysis of the Flory-Stockmayer-Whittle polymerization process (cf. e.g. Stockmayer (1944), Whittle (1986)). In the case considered in the present paper this process is modeled as a continuous time Markov process M(t): t ≥ 0 whose finite state space M is a set of all forests M on a set Vn of n vertices labeled 1,2,…,n, and interpreted as basic structural units (monomers). The state of the process changes in time since bonds between the vertices may form, or break. Specifically, if at a time t the process is in a state M, then the rate of bond formation between two vertices a and b, which belong to the same tree component of M, equals λAj+1 Ak+1/AjAk, where j and k are, respectively, the degree of a and b in M, (in short, j = deg(a,M), k = deg(b,M)). Furthermore, the rate of bond breaking for two vertices a and b connected by a bond in M equals μ Dj-1 Dk-1/DjDk if deg(a,M) = j, deg(b,M) = k. In these formulas λ > μ > 0 and AJ: j ≥ 0, DJ: j ≥ 0 are such that Ao, Do, ≥ 0 and Aj, Dj > 0 for 1 ≤ j ≤ j1, j1 ≥ 3. (In case j1 ≤ 2, the trees are reduced to chains.) Concrete examples of natural choices of sequences (Aj) and (Di) can be found in our papers mentioned above.
Childhood Obesity and Blood Pressure Regulation

Obesity in children and adolescents continues to occur with increasing frequency and has been associated with the development of clinical consequences of obesity such as hypertension. This chapter will begin with a review of the definitions of hypertension and prehypertension in children and adolescents, followed by discussion of the epidemiology of obesity hypertension. After examining the complex relationship between obesity and hypertension and potential mechanisms contributing to the development of obesity hypertension, clinical approaches to the management of hypertension in the setting of obesity are discussed. The clinical management is multifaceted as one must consider that treating obesity may in fact lead to improved blood pressure. Yet, treating obesity takes time and motivation, and while awaiting the effects of changes in lifestyle on blood pressure, use of antihypertensive medications may be indicated in some children.
IAP Family of Proteins as Therapeutic Targets for Acute Myeloid Leukemia

The inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family is a group of proteins that are critical regulators of cell survival. They also play roles in cell cycle, cell signaling, and cell migration. The expression of many IAPs is deregulated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and other malignant cells and contributes to tumor formation, progression, and maintenance; drug resistance and treatment failure; and poor prognosis. In the last decade, abundant knowledge has been accumulated regarding the structure, expression, regulation, function, and mechanism of action of IAPs, which has led to significant progress in developing strategies to antagonize IAPs. Many candidate compounds have been investigated and tested in the preclinical setting, and some of them have moved to clinical development. This chapter highlights current knowledge of the expression and roles of IAPs in AML and discusses current strategies exploiting IAPs as therapeutic targets for AML.
Impact of Gray-Hole Attacks on PMU Data-Based Mode Estimation

Synchrophasor data from phasor measurement units (PMUs) are increasingly being incorporated in various power system applications for real-time monitoring and control. Utilities are beginning to adopt PMU data-based mode estimation techniques to monitor the electromechanical oscillations in real time. Since PMU data is time-sensitive in nature, it is an attractive attack target for adversaries intending to harm the system. It is important to know the impacts caused by cyber-attacks, like gray-hole attacks, so that appropriate mitigation steps can be adopted. In this paper, experiments have been performed on simulated and measured PMU data to show the impact of gray-hole attacks on modal estimates obtained using Least Squares and Yule Walker algorithms. Results show that in most cases both algorithms perform well in the typical range of congestion-related drop-rates. In case of random and consecutive packet-drop models, performance only degrades severely at packet drop-rates high enough to trigger data-availability warnings. The reported results demonstrate that most forms of gray-hole attacks could disable mode monitoring capabilities but would likely fail to mislead system operators into making poor decisions.
An Active-Subspace-Based Algorithm for Reducing Redundancy in a Hybrid Neuroprosthesis

Hybrid neuroprosthesis (HN) systems combine the use of a powered exoskeleton with functional electrical stimulation of muscles to restore mobility in persons with paraplegia. At the same time, HN systems suffer from increased complexity due to redundant actuators that require coordination to function effectively. Muscle synergy-inspired control that coordinates these actuators can reduce system complexity. The calculation of these synergies requires the solution of a constrained optimization problem. As a way to reduce complexity during dynamic optimizations, we have developed a novel technique based on active subspaces to reduce the dimensionality of the redundant control system. Given an initial system state, a set of random control trajectories were generated, and the gradient of the cost function was obtained through the derivation of an adjoint function. The active subspaces were then obtained by performing eigenvalue decomposition on the outer product of the gradient of the cost function, and choosing the appropriate eigenvectors based on the magnitude of their corresponding eigenvalues. By leveraging the algorithm's parallel nature as well as simplifications that can be utilized in adjoint calculation, we show that by using this algorithm, synergies can be calculated more quickly than performing dynamic optimization. Once the active subspace is found, it is used in a gradient-projection optimization scheme to control the redundant actuators.
A new technique to find the facial nerve and recess by using the short process of the incus and the spine of Henle as landmarks: incus-spine angle.

Background: Precise techniques to find the facial nerve (FN) and recess are lacking.Objectives: We aimed to define incus-spine and incus-FN angles which can be used to localize the FN and recess du...
Managing Pending Events in Sequential and Parallel Simulations Using Three-tier Heap and Two-tier Ladder Queue

Performance of sequential and parallel Discrete Event Simulations (DES) is strongly influenced by the data structure used for managing and processing pending events. Accordingly, we propose and evaluate the effectiveness of our multi-tiered (two- and three-tier) data structures and our Two-tier Ladder Queue, for both sequential and optimistic parallel simulations on distributed memory platforms. Our experiments compare the performance of our data structures against a performance-tuned version of the Ladder Queue, which has been shown to outperform many other data structures for DES. The core simulation-based empirical assessments are in C++ and are based on 2,500 configurations of well-established PHOLD and PCS benchmarks. In addition, we use an Avian Influenza Epidemic Model (AIM) for experimental analyses. We have conducted experiments on two computing clusters with different hardware to ensure our results are reproducible. Moreover, to fully establish the robustness of our analysis and data structures, we have also implemented pertinent queues in Java and verified consistent, reproducible performance characteristics. Collectively, our analyses show that our three-tier heap and two-tier ladder queue outperform the Ladder Queue by 60× in some simulations, particularly those with higher concurrency per Logical Process (LP), in both sequential and Time Warp synchronized parallel simulations.
Variable interactions between non-cereal grasses and Fusarium graminearum

In addition to causing disease in wheat and other grain crops, Fusarium graminearum is associated with a wide range of forage, weedy and non-cultivated gramineous species.. The nature of these asso...
Motility induced fracture reveals a ductile to brittle crossover in the epithelial tissues of a simple animal

ABSTRACT Animals are characterized by their movement, and their tissues are continuously subjected to dynamic force loading while they crawl, walk, run or swim1. Tissue mechanics fundamentally determine the ecological niches that can be endured by a living organism2. While epithelial tissues provide an important barrier function in animals, they are subjected to extreme strains during day to day physiological activities, such as breathing1, feeding3, and defense response4. How-ever, failure or inability to withstand to these extreme strains can result in epithelial fractures5, 6 and associated diseases7, 8. From a materials science perspective, how properties of living cells and their interactions prescribe larger scale tissue rheology and adaptive response in dynamic force landscapes remains an important frontier9. Motivated by pushing tissues to the limits of their integrity, we carry out a multi-modal study of a simple yet highly dynamic organism, the Trichoplax Adhaerens10–12, across four orders of magnitude in length (1 µm to 10 mm), and six orders in time (0.1 sec to 10 hours). We report the discovery of abrupt, bulk epithelial tissue fractures (∼10 sec) induced by the organism’s own motility. Coupled with rapid healing (∼10 min), this discovery accounts for dramatic shape change and physiological asexual division in this early-divergent metazoan. We generalize our understanding of this phenomena by codifying it in a heuristic model, highlighting the fundamental questions underlying the debonding/bonding criterion in a soft-active-living material by evoking the concept of an ‘epithelial alloy’. Using a suite of quantitative experimental and numerical techniques, we demonstrate a force-driven ductile to brittle material transition governing the morphodynamics of tissues pushed to the edge of rupture. This work contributes to an important discussion at the core of developmental biology13–17, with important applications to an emerging paradigm in materials and tissue engineering5, 18–20, wound healing and medicine8, 21, 22.
Improving Team-Based Decision Making Using Data Analytics and Informatics: Protocol for a Collaborative Decision Support Design.

Background: According to the September 2015 Institute of Medicine report, Improving Diagnosis in Health Care, each of us is likely to experience one diagnostic error in our lifetime, often with devastating consequences. Traditionally, diagnostic decision making has been the sole responsibility of an individual clinician. However, diagnosis involves an interaction among interprofessional team members with different training, skills, cultures, knowledge, and backgrounds. Moreover, diagnostic error is prevalent in the interruption-prone environment, such as the emergency department, where the loss of information may hinder a correct diagnosis. Objective: The overall purpose of this protocol is to improve team-based diagnostic decision making by focusing on data analytics and informatics tools that improve collective information management. Methods: To achieve this goal, we will identify the factors contributing to failures in team-based diagnostic decision making (aim 1), understand the barriers of using current health information technology tools for team collaboration (aim 2), and develop and evaluate a collaborative decision-making prototype that can improve team-based diagnostic decision making (aim 3). Results: Between 2019 to 2020, we are collecting data for this study. The results are anticipated to be published between 2020 and 2021. Conclusions: The results from this study can shed light on improving diagnostic decision making by incorporating diagnostics rationale from team members. We believe a positive direction to move forward in solving diagnostic errors is by incorporating all team members, and using informatics.
Asian Values, Intergenerational Conflict, Needs, and Attachment in Asian/Asian American Women’s Disordered Eating:

I tested a path model that integrated cultural and psychological factors as predictors of disordered eating among Asian and Asian American college women. Asian values of honoring family through ach...
115 Using national vital statistics system (NVSS) mortality data to estimate county-level trends in drug–specific overdose mortality: considerations and limitations

Statement of Purpose Researchers often use National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) mortality data to examine county-level opioid-involved overdose mortality rates. Limitations such as small counts and county-level variation in reporting the specific drugs involved are not always considered. This study describes county-level death counts and variation in drug reporting, and possible implications when making county-level comparisons. Methods/Approach NVSS mortality data from 2015–2017 were analyzed. Drug overdose deaths were identified using the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision underlying cause-of-death codes X40-X44, X60-X64, X85 and Y10-Y18. Drug specificity was calculated by determining the percent of drug overdose deaths with a multiple cause code of T36-T50.8. Results Of 3,149 counties, only 1,574 (50%) had 10 or more drug overdose deaths in 3 years, 1,261 (40%) had fewer than 10, and 314 (10%) had zero. Drug specificity was 86% over all. For counties with at least one death, drug specificity was 0–50% for 469 counties (17%), 51–85% for 644 (23%), 86–99% for 730 (26%) and 100% for 992 (35%). Compared to counties with high specificity (>85%), counties with lower specificity were more likely to be rural, located in Public Health Regions 5–9, have county coroners as the state system for medicolegal death investigation, and less likely to have a state medical examiner. Conclusions Even with 3-year aggregate data, half of the counties had fewer than 10 overdose deaths, and therefore possibly unstable rate estimates. Counties with lower specificity in drug reporting differed from counties with high specificity. These differences might lead to biases when reporting county-level drug-specific overdose rates. Significance and Contributions to Injury and Violence Prevention Science Low counts and differences in specificity of drug reporting should be considered when comparing county-level drug-specific overdose rates. Aggregation, imputation, modeling and other statistical techniques to account for these limitations may be warranted.
An experimental investigation of overexpanded jets with chevrons

Abstract Results are presented for experiments investigating the impact of chevrons on overexpanded and subsonic jet plumes and associated acoustic radiation. Faceted, bi-conic convergent-divergent nozzles with design Mach numbers equal to 1.51 and 1.65 are used in the experiments. A design space of nine chevrons with a range of penetrations, lengths and widths are investigated. Low-penetration chevrons are shown to have limited impact on broadband and shock-associated noise for all jet Mach numbers investigated. High-penetration chevrons produce significant peak-noise reduction (relative to the baseline nozzle) in the peak-jet-noise direction with greater noise reduction for subsonic than for supersonic exhausts. High-penetration chevrons are found to increase broadband-shock-associated noise for the highest Mach number jet investigated. While particle image velocimetry results indicate chevrons introduce axial vorticity at all jet conditions, the associated mixing is limited for supersonic exhausts relative to that for subsonic exhausts due to the strong and periodic radial velocity components associated with the jet-shock-cell structure. The introduction of chevrons modifies the near-nozzle shock-cell structure and the impact of internally (within the nozzle) generated shocks on the shock-cell structure generated in the jet plume. The modifications in the near-nozzle shock-cell structure can lead to increased broadband-shock-associated-noise levels for some operating conditions.
Simple Paper-based Liver Cell Model for Drug Screening

Investigation of the potential adverse effects of chemicals and drugs is essential during the drug development process. In vitro cell model systems have been developed over the past years towards such toxicity investigation. 96-well plate is the common platform for screening drug toxicity due to its simplicity. However, this platform only offers 2D cell culture environment and lacks the flow of solutions, which fails to provide the suitable environment for the cells to adequately metabolize the drugs, for the media to replenish, and for the metabolites and wastes to be removed. Microfluidic chips populated with human or animal cells, known as organ-on-a-chip (OOC), can reconcile many issues of in vitro cell models, such as the lack of extracellular matrix and flow as well as the species difference. However, OOC can be complicated to fabricate and operate. To bridge this gap, we utilized paper as a primary substrate for OOC, considering its fibrous structure that can mimic natural extracellular matrix, as well as a syringe pump and filter that are commonly available in most laboratories. Paper microfluidic model was designed and fabricated by wax printing on nitrocellulose paper, seeded and proliferated with liver cells (primary rat hepatocytes and HepG2 cells), and two paper substrates were stacked together to complete the paper model. To this paper-based liver cell model, the following drugs were added: Phenacetin (pain reliever and fever reducer), Bupropion (antidepressant), Dextromethorphan (antidepressant), and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as a control, all under a physiologically relevant flow rate. The combination of these drugs with Fluconazole (antifungal drug) was also investigated. Cell count, cell morphology, protein production, and urea secretion after drug treatment confirmed that the model successfully predicted toxicity within 40 minutes. This simple, paper-based liver cell model provided enhanced and faster cell response to drug toxicity and showed comparable or better behavior than the cells cultured in conventional 2D in vitro models.
Redox-responsive nanoplatform for codelivery of miR-519c and gemcitabine for pancreatic cancer therapy

Desmoplastic and hypoxic pancreatic cancer microenvironment induces aberrant expression of miRNAs and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) responsible for gemcitabine (GEM) resistance. We demonstrated that miR-519c was down-regulated in pancreatic cancer and transfection of miR-519c in GEM-resistant pancreatic cancer cells inhibited HIF-1α level under hypoxia. We synthesized redox-sensitive mPEG-co-P(Asp)-g-DC-g-S-S-GEM polymer, with GEM payload of 14% (w/w) and 90% GEM release upon incubation with l-glutathione. We synthesized mPEG-co-P(Asp)-g-TEPA-g-DC for complex formation with miRNA. Chemical modification of miR-519c with 2'-O-methyl phosphorothioate (OMe-PS) at 3' end enhanced its stability and activity without being immunogenic. Epidermal growth factor receptor targeting peptide GE11 decoration increased tumor accumulation of micelles after systemic administration and significantly inhibited orthotopic desmoplastic pancreatic cancer growth in NSG mice by down-regulating HIF-1α and genes responsible for glucose uptake and cancer cell metabolism. Our multifunctional nanomedicine of GEM and OMe-PS-miR-519c offers a novel therapeutic strategy to treat desmoplasia and hypoxia-induced chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer.
Math Instruction for Students with Learning Problems

Each chapter concludes with "References," "Resources" and a chapter summary. Preface. Foundations. 1. Mathematics in Today's Schools: The Context for Learning Challenges 2. Foundations of Mathematics Learning 3. Mathematics Assessment of Students with Learning Problems 4. Effective Mathematics Instruction for Students with Learning Problems 5. Problem Solving Instruction for Students with Learning Problems 6. Materials and Resources to Support Mathematics Instruction 7. Integrating Mathematics with Content Areas and Life Skills Big Ideas of Content Strands. Introduction A. Number Sense and Place Value B. Whole Number Relationships C. Spatial Sense D. Rational Numbers E. Functions Appendix I: Problem Solutions. Appendix II: Resources.
Psychological Testing: An Introduction to Tests & Measurement

An introduction to the history, philosophy and methodological foundations of psychological testing, as well as the benefits and pitfalls of its process. This textbook is accompanied by an instructor's manual, test bank on disk and student workbook.
Entorhinal cortex lesions as a model of age-related changes in hippocampal function

This study investigated unilateral entorhinal cortex lesions as a model of age-related changes in hippocampal function relative to more extensive bilateral lesions previously employed. Spatial memory and hippocampal physiology were examined in male rats (3 months) following bilateral or unilateral entorhinal cortex lesions, or in sham controls. All groups exhibited cue discrimination in a water escape task. Only control and unilaterally lesioned rats exhibited acquisition of the spatial version of the task. A probe trial administered 24 h after spatial training demonstrated impaired retention for unilaterally lesioned animals. Lesions decreased perforant path fiber potentials and synaptic responses; however, compensatory modifications of surviving perforant path afferents were observed for unilaterally lesioned animals. Behavioral and physiological changes following unilateral lesions were similar to those observed during aging, indicating that partial lesions provide a better model of aging than do bilateral lesions. In addition, the results emphasize retention as a cognitive constituent of the hippocampal-entorhinal system.
Quantifiers Are Logical Constants, but Only Ambiguously

Why is it crucial to categorize quantifiers as logical constants? After clarifying the importance of the issue in a larger context of logical theories, the paper investigates the following question: Why do we encounter a more contentious debate on the logical constancy of quantifiers than in the case of sentential connectives? Starting from the intuitive and naive rationale and moving to more complicated arguments for the well-accepted view that quantifiers are logical constants, I identify two tiers of the meanings assigned to quantifiers: At the first-level the interpretation is changing, and at the meta-level a constant meaning is assigned. I claim the tension arises from this ambiguous nature of the quantifier-semantics and illustrate the effects of the tension both in relevant literature and in a non-classical logic where the interpretation of the universal quantifier includes the empty domain. The double features of the universal quantifier – varying at one level and constant at another level – could raise skepticism toward the debate on logical constants itself, and in turn, toward the Tarskian analysis of logical consequence whose success heavily relies on the clear-cut status of logical constants.
B Lymphocytes Are Required during the Early Priming of CD4+ T Cells for Clearance of Pneumocystis Infection in Mice

B cells play a critical role in the clearance of Pneumocystis. In addition to production of Pneumocystis-specific Abs, B cells are required during the priming phase for CD4(+) T cells to expand normally and generate memory. Clearance of Pneumocystis was found to be dependent on Ag specific B cells and on the ability of B cells to secrete Pneumocystis-specific Ab, as mice with B cells defective in these functions or with a restricted BCR were unable to control Pneumocystis infection. Because Pneumocystis-specific antiserum was only able to partially protect B cell-deficient mice from infection, we hypothesized that optimal T cell priming requires fully functional B cells. Using adoptive transfer and B cell depletion strategies, we determined that optimal priming of CD4(+) T cells requires B cells during the first 2-3 d of infection and that this was independent of the production of Ab. T cells that were removed from Pneumocystis-infected mice during the priming phase were fully functional and able to clear Pneumocystis infection upon adoptive transfer into Rag1(-/-) hosts, but this effect was ablated in mice that lacked fully functional B cells. Our results indicate that T cell priming requires a complete environment of Ag presentation and activation signals to become fully functional in this model of Pneumocystis infection.
Combining multiple clustering systems

Three methods for combining multiple clustering systems are presented and evaluated, focusing on the problem of finding the correspondence between clusters of different systems. In this work, the clusters of individual systems are represented in a common space and their correspondence estimated by either clustering clusters or with Singular Value Decomposition. The approaches are evaluated for the task of topic discovery on three major corpora and eight different clustering algorithms and it is shown experimentally that combination schemes almost always offer gains compared to single systems, but gains from using a combination scheme depend on the underlying clustering systems.
Angiotensin sensitivity in experimental uteroplacental ischemia

Abstract 1. 1. Angiotensin sensitivity determinations were studied in the rabbit and compared with those of human pregnancy. The sensitivity of the rabbit, as measured by pressor response, was found to be the same in the pregnant and nonpregnant state. This is not similar to human pregnancy which is characterized by a significant decrease in pressor response to infused angiotensin. 2. 2. Surgically induced uteroplacental ischemia in the rabbit was not found to result in a decreased sensitivity to angiotensin over and above that produced by a sham operation. 3. 3. In this study, surgically induced uteroplacental ischemia in the rabbit was not found to result in a rise in blood pressure. 4. 4. The suggestion is made that future work in experimental toxemia be oriented more toward a study of mechanism of response rather than attempting to simulate the human condition in the experimental animal.
Multiple mechanisms of PAHs toxicity in Daphnia magna: effects of an AhR agonist and competitor on genes involved in toxicant pathways (1138.11)

Understanding the mechanistic pathways underlying the toxicity of chemicals can provide more biologically relevant models to extrapolate adverse outcomes. Mechanistically based models should provide more efficient means to screen untested compounds and predict exposure to untested species. We evaluated the relationship between reproductive outcomes in Daphnia magna and expression of biomarkers after exposure to polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These biomarkers include Daphnia magna homologs of ARNT (aryl hydrocarbon nuclear translator), CYP4 (Cytochrome P450 Family 4), COX (cyclooxygenase), retinoid-X-receptor (RXR), and juvenile hormone esterase (JHE). To assess physiological endpoints we monitored reproductive changes in a 14-day chronic exposure. Exposure to benzo(a)pyrene resulted in altered reproduction and was correlated with increases in RXR and decreases in VTG and CYP4 genes. We then conducted exposures with a known cytochrome P450 inhibitor, PBO (piperonyl butoxide and phenanthrene. PBO alone i...
Structure and function of the B-lymphocyte Epstein-Barr virus/C3d receptor.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the structure of the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)/C3d receptor (CR2) with the functions of the molecule in terms of its ability to initiate EBV infection and its involvement in the B-lymphocyte activation and other immunomodulatory reactions. Three types of exons are present in the CR2 gene. These include exons that encode single repeat elements, those that encode two elements, and those that are split to encode parts of two separate repeats. The order of exons in the CR2 gene is in a repeated array of four. The human complement component C3 plays a central role in the humoral immunity to infectious microorganisms. Cleavage of C3 by either the classical (antibody-mediated) and alternative (properdin) complement pathways generates two major activated fragments, the anaphylatoxin C3a, and C3b, an opsonin that is the ligand for the C3b/C4b receptor, CR1. C3b itself is susceptible to cleavage by factors H and I to yield iC3b.
HOW "GOOD" IS YOUR INSTITUTION'S RETENTION RATE?

Attempts to assess institutional performance by means of retention rates, student performance on standardized tests, and other raw outcome measures are seriously flawed because such measures fail to take into account the powerful effect of student inputs. In this study, national longitudinal retention data on 52,898 students attending 365 baccalaureate-granting colleges and universities are used to generate formulas for estimating any institution's expected retention rate based on its students' high school grades, admission test scores, and racial and gender composition. Separate formulas are provided for computing estimated degree completion rates four, six, and nine years after freshmen entry. Institutions that wish to assess their effectiveness in retaining students can compare these estimated rates with actual degree completion rates.
Cache-oblivious algorithms

Computers with multiple levels of caching have traditionally required techniques such as data blocking in order for algorithms to exploit the cache hierarchy effectively. These "cache-aware" algorithms must be properly tuned to achieve good performance using so-called "voodoo" parameters which depend on hardware properties, such as cache size and cache-line length. Surprisingly, however, for a variety of problems - including matrix multiplication, FFT, and sorting - asymptotically optimal "cache-oblivious" algorithms do exist that contain no voodoo parameters. They perform an optimal amount of work and move data optimally among multiple levels of cache. Since they need not be tuned, cache-oblivious algorithms are more portable than traditional cache-aware algorithms. We employ an "ideal-cache" model to analyze these algorithms. We prove that an optimal cache-oblivious algorithm designed for two levels of memory is also optimal across a multilevel cache hierarchy. We also show that the assumption of optimal replacement made by the ideal-cache model can be simulated efficiently by LRU replacement. We also provide some empirical results on the effectiveness of cache-oblivious algorithms in practice.
A stable aberrant immunophenotype characterizes nearly all cases of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma in blood and can be used to monitor response to therapy.

Abnormal variations in the expression level of some commonly expressed T-cell antigens are a feature of many T-cell malignancies. We sought to assess the frequency of such abnormal antigen expression by flow cytometry in peripheral blood (PB) samples from patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sezary syndrome (SS). We correlated presence of morphologically identifiable tumor cells on PB smear with the frequency of abnormalities in the level of expression of CD3, CD4, CD7, CD8 and CD26. We also examined the degree of stability of these abnormal findings in tumor cells over the course of disease. The flow cytometric findings in 100 PB samples from 44 patients, including 38 who had multiple sequential PB samples (2–8 samples each), were assessed. Abnormalities were seen in the expression level of one or more T-cell markers in 41 cases (93%) including CD3 in 34% of patients, CD4 in 54%, CD26 in 86% and CD 45 in 40% (10 cases tested). In all but 2 cases, the abnormal T-cell immunophenotype remained similar over the course of treatment and correlated with the relative numbers of tumor cells counted on PB smear. Using a standard T-cell panel, stable phenotypically aberrant T-cell populations representing the tumor are detected in the vast majority of involved PB samples in MF/SS and can be used to monitor response to therapy.
Composite terrain clutter modelling

This paper looks at a generic algorithm for characterising the statistical properties of non-stationary and non-homogeneous terrain backscattering signals of airborne and ground based radar systems. The backscattered signal from the terrain can be modelled as a sum of complex backscatter signals from a number of scattering targets which have random phase, amplitude and density variations. The compound density function for any terrain can be generated as a function of: (1) the radar range resolution cell area; (2) number of scatterer types in the range cell; and (3) for each scatterer type, the mean radar cross section coefficient (normalised), mean number of scatters, and spatial density. The result show that the composite terrain clutter algorithm accurately models data for cultivated land obtained with an X-band radar system.
In-Situ Weld Metal Continuous Cooling Transformation Diagrams

A new methodology for studying of weld metal phase transformations is presented that is based on a single sensor differential thermal analysis technique. This methodology is applied for in-situ measurement of phase transformations and construction of continuous cooling transformation diagrams for as-solidifying E11018-MR and E6010/C-Mn steel weld metals. Valuable information is obtained about the evolution of microstructure in these weld metals. The ranges of welding conditions which provide an optimal combination of microstructural constituents with respect to weldability and mechanical properties are determined. This paper demonstrates the application potential of the new methodology in studying weld metal phase transformations, development of welding consumables and development/testing of welding procedures.
Measuring welfare effects of “unbundling” financial innovations: The case of collateralized mortgage obligations

Abstract The proposition that market-extending financial innovations enhance welfare has strong theoretical support. However, quantification of these welfare benefits has previously been unavailable. In this paper, we demonstrate that such quantification is possible for market-extending innovations that “unbundle” an existing asset by selling its cash flows in two or more parts. We apply this approach to a prominent recent example of an unbundling innovation—collateralized mortgage obligations—and find the benefits to have been substantial.
Amplification in the apical turn of the cochlea with negative feedback.

Abstract The apical turn of the anesthetized guinea pig cochlea was opened to examine the basilar membrane optically through the intact Reissner’s membrane. Vibrations of the outer Hensen’s cell and the basilar membrane (BM) adjacent to and about 130 μm below the level of the Hensen’s cell were measured. Outer Hensen’s cell vibration at the characteristic frequency was up to 900 times higher compared to the BM amplitude. After sacrifice BM vibration increased while Hensen’s cell vibration decreased. The magnitude and sequence of change after sacrifice can best be explained by the presence of negative feedback between reticular lamina and BM. In other experiments using ototoxic drugs that damage outer hair cells, similar changes in Hensen’s cell and BM vibration were observed. These results show that the apical turn behavior is different from that observed by other investigators in the basal turn. The potential benefits of the negative feedback are discussed. The presence of negative feedback would explain the linearity at the fundamental frequency observed in the apical turn of cochlea.
CXCL13 as a cerebrospinal fluid marker for neurosyphilis in HIV-infected patients with syphilis.

Background Asymptomatic neurosyphilis is more difficult to diagnose in HIV-infected patients because HIV itself can cause cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis. The proportion of CSF lymphocytes that are B cells is elevated in neurosyphilis, suggesting that the CSF concentration of the B cell chemoattractant, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 13 (CXCL13) concentration may also be elevated.
Building information modeling

Using digital design models has been a common practice in the manufacturing industry for decades. Project teams at companies such as Boeing and Toyota have placed digital models at the core of their collaborative, concurrent engineering processes. The same approach, called building information modeling (BIM), is increasingly being adopted by architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) service providers for building and infrastructure projects. Unlike CAD, which uses software tools to generate digital 2D and/or 3D drawings, BIM facilitates a new way of working: creating designs with intelligent objects that enables cross-functional project teams in the building and infrastructure industries to collaborate in a way that gives all stakeholders a clearer vision of the project. Models created using software for BIM are intelligent because of the relationships and information that are automatically built into the model. Components within the model know how to act and interact with one another. BIM not only enables engineers architects and construction firms to work more efficiently, but creates a foundation for sustainable design, enabling designers to optimize the environmental footprint of a structure during the design phase. Convergence is breaking down the barriers between technical disciplines. The integration of BIM, geospatial, physical modeling and 3D visualization provides a framework of interoperability that enables an intelligent synthetic model of entire urban environments.
Single phase, single orientation Cu2O (1 0 0) and (1 1 0) thin films grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy

Epitaxial growth of cuprous oxide (Cu_2O) has been achieved on (1 0 0) and (1 1 0) orientations of MgO by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. Growth was investigated using a pure oxygen plasma as well as a 90%Ar/10%O_2 plasma. Cu_2O films grown using pure oxygen on MgO (1 0 0) have a limited growth window and typically exhibit multiple phases and orientations. Films grown on MgO (1 1 0) using pure oxygen are phase stable and predominantly (1 1 0) oriented, with some (2 0 0) orientation present. Films grown using an Ar/O_2 plasma on MgO (1 0 0) have improved phase stability and a single (1 1 0) orientation. Growth on MgO (1 1 0) using an Ar/O_2 plasma yields highly reproducible (1 1 0) oriented single phase Cu_2O films with a much wider growth window, suggesting that this substrate orientation is preferable for Cu_2O phase stability.
GPFARM modeling of corn yield and residual soil nitrate-N

US agriculture is facing low commodity prices to farmers because of foreign competition, environmental concerns, and weather fluctuations such as droughts. Producers need to quickly evaluate the marketplace and select appropriate management systems for their farms and ranches. The Great Plains Framework for Agricultural Resource Management (GPFARM) decision support system was developed to assist farmers and ranchers with key strategic management decisions, but requires additional testing before general adoption by the agricultural community. This paper evaluated GPFARM simulation of continuous corn (Zea mays L.) yields and soil residual nitrates under irrigated and partially irrigated conditions, fertilized and non-fertilized applications, and high and low planting densities. Validation results for a 3-year field study indicated the model could simulate corn yields and soil residual NO3-N without bias at the P<0.05 level with R2 values for predicted versus observed corn yields and soil residual NO3-N of 0.830 and 0.383, respectively. Mean extended modeling error (EME), a measure of modeling error extending outside the error range of the validation measurements was 168 and 25.2 kg/ha for corn grain yields and soil residual NO3-N, respectively. The EME results further showed that the scatter around the simulated versus observed 1:1 lines for soil residual NO3-N versus corn yields was 53.5 and 19.9% of the mean sum of the absolute residuals, respectively, suggesting higher modeling error with the residual NO3-N. The EME method also effectively separated modeling error from error that could be accounted for by uncertainty in the experimental validation data set. Agricultural producers, consultants, and action agencies should consider these validation results and potential errors when using the model to predict corn yields and related soil NO3-N estimates in strategic management planning and environmental assessment studies.
Next generation ROADM technology and applications

I introduce next generation ROADM technologies and application. A combination of PLC technology and free space optics will be the key to realizing simple CD/CDC ROADM. The defragmentation and re-grooming of optical paths will be important for utilizing network resources.
Using 360 Degree Evaluation to Improve Clinical Skill Development by First Line Child Protective Services Supervisors

SUMMARY Didactic skill training in clinical practice techniques is insufficient to assist first line child protective supervisors in the difficult task of changing a child welfare organization's culture to emphasize the therapeutic aspects of intervention. Supervisors need assistance in personal growth based on accurate feedback from performance. When such feedback is coupled with targeted individual development plans, evidence from a two year intervention demonstrates that significant behavioral changes do occur and these can be linked to organizational outcomes.
ACUTE LEFT SIDED NUMBNESS AND WEAKNESS IN A WEIGHTLIFTER

Background Dietary supplements unregulated by the USFDA carry a risk not only of unintentional doping but of other health disturbances as well. Objective To describe a case of neurological dysfunction following prolonged supplement consumption. Design Case study. Setting Outpatient clinic and tertiary hospital. Patient An 18-yr male with a history of multiple concussions presented with acute progressive left-sided numbness and paresthesias while weight-lifting. Within the hour, he noted numbness and paresthesias in the left lower limb and left face. Past history was significant for a sustained weight loss of 23 kg over the past two years, coincident with dietary supplementation, and dedicated weight-lifting. He had developed symptoms of acrocyanosis over this interval. He took no prescribed medications. On exam he was sleepy and minimally confused. He demonstrated subtle motor weakness in both the left upper and lower limbs. There was no hyperreflexia. Light touch was subjectively diminished on the left. Intervention He was admitted for observation with the following differential diagnosis: 1) Right hemispheric stroke, 2) Thoracic outlet syndrome, 3) Cervical radiculopathy/myelopathy. Results MRI of the cervical spine and brain were unremarkable. Delayed MRA of the brain also proved benign, as did 2D Echocardiograpy. Serology for hypercoaguable state was unremarkable. Subsequent testing revealed a toxic B6 level, (3×the upper limit of the normal reference range). Clinical outcome The majority of symptoms resolved within 18 hours. He was advised to discontinue all nutritional supplements. His cognitive symptoms steadily improved. Three months post-incident he continued to complain of acrocyanosis. Final diagnosis: 1) Sequelae of probable cerebral vasospasm, possibly due to valsalva, 2) Hypervitaminosis B6. Conclusion Practitioners should be aware of the potential adverse nutritional consequences of supplement consumption. The extent to which this case was influenced by the history of concussions is unknown, but should not be dismissed.
Design of an integrated data retrieval, analysis, and visualization system: Application in the hydrology domain

Abstract In this paper, we present a prototype system, an integrated data management system, which is capable of querying, retrieving, and visualizing datasets with heterogeneous formats and large sizes without requiring users to have any knowledge of any other specific software. Our system has three distinguished characteristics: (1) modular structure and simple architecture which make it easy and feasible for users to add new functions and features to the system, (2) a new search concept and method based on the bounding box and on dynamically delineated watershed boundary from GIS (Geographic Information System), and (3) no requirement on having any knowledge about or installation of any other complicated software. The architecture of our integrated data management system is based on a metadata approach, which consists of four components including a metadata mechanism and a Java-based application engine. The metadata mechanism in conjunction with the Java-based application engine allows users to access and retrieve diverse data formats and structures from many heterogeneous hydrological data sources. The visualization component of the system makes it possible for users to view their queried data first before spending time retrieving them. The extensible and integrative characteristics of our system are illustrated by an example in which new and unique functions for data merging and GIS-based data querying are added to the system. Although the data sources and applications shown in this prototype system are related to the field of hydrology, the ideas, approaches, and system architecture are not domain-specific, and can be used/applied to other fields as well.