cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Scientific visualization and data modeling of scattered sediment contaminant data in New York/New Jersey estuaries

Sediments in many parts of the New York and New Jersey estuary system are contaminated with toxic organic and inorganic compounds by different sources. Because of the potential environmental consequences, detailed information on the spatial distribution of sediment contaminants is essential in order to carry out routine shipping channel dredging in an environmentally responsible way, and to remediate hot spots cost-effectively and safely. Scientific visualization and scatter data modeling techniques have been successfully applied in analyzing the sparse sampling data of sediment contaminants in New York and New Jersey estuaries, the underlying spatial characteristics of which are otherwise difficult to comprehend. Continuous realizations of contaminant concentrations in the region were obtained by using a spectral domain-decomposition scattered data model and IBM Data Explorer which is a software package for scientific data visualization.
Monotone Finite-Difference Approximations to the Advection-Condensation Problem

Abstract We discuss herein numerical difficulties with finite-difference approximations to the thermodynamic conservation laws near sharp, cloud-environment interfaces. The Conservation laws for entropy and water substance variables are coupled through the phase change processes. This coupling of the thermodynamic equations may lead to spurious numerical oscillations that, in general, are not prevented by direct application of traditional monotone methods developed for the uncoupled equations. In order to suppress false oscillations in the solutions, we consider special techniques which derive from the flux-corrected-transport (FCT) methodology. In these, we incorporate physical information about condensation-evaporation processes directly into the limiters constraining the antidiffusive fluxes of the FCT methods. We elaborate upon two different advection-condensation schemes relevant to the two formulations of the advection-condensation problem, commonly used in cloud modeling. For the fractional-time-st...
Autonomic performance-per-watt management (APM) of cloud resources and services

With the rapid growth of data centers and clouds, the power cost and power consumption of their computing and storage resources become critically important to be managed efficiently. Several research studies have shown that data servers typically operate at a low utilization of 10% to 15%, while their power consumption is close to those at peak loads. With this significant fluctuation in the workloads, an elastic delivery of computing services with an efficient power provisioning mechanism becomes an important design goal. Live workload migrations and virtualization are important techniques to optimize power and performance in large-scale data centers [5], [25] This paper presents an application specific autonomic adaptive power and performance management system that utilizes AppFlow-based reasoning to configure dynamically datacenter resources and workload allocations. This system will continuously monitor the workload to determine the current operating point of both workloads and the virtual machines (VMs) running these workloads and then predict the next operating points for these VMs. This enables the system to allocate the appropriate amount of hardware resources that can run efficiently the VM workloads with minimum power consumption. We have experimented with and evaluated our approach to manage the VMs running RUBiS bidding application. Our experimental results showed that our approach can reduce the VMs' power consumption up to 84% compared to static resource allocation and up to 30% compared to other methods with minimum performance degradation.
Intermittent exposure to fluorescent light extends lifespan of human diploid fibroblasts in culture.

SHORT exposure (3 or 4 h) to fluorescent light one to three times weekly enhances the proliferation rate of human diploid fibroblasts in culture1. This proliferative response is reversible and is mediated through the culture medium, Dulbecco Vogt's supplemented with 10% foetal bovine serum. Conceivably, this increase in proliferation rate might also influence the lifespan of human diploid fibroblasts which undergo a limited number of population doublings (PDs) in culture2. To evaluate the long term effects of repeated light exposure on lifespan, three lines of human fibroblasts originating from adult skin (HU-274), a mince of whole foetus (HU-278), and foetal lung (WI-38), were assayed in quantitative experiments to determine the lifespan measured as cumulative cell number and total PDs.
A Mean-Value Model of Internal Combustion Engine Based on Variable Valve Phase Timing

A simplified Mean-Value Model (MVM) is developed to represent spark ignition engine functions. The model is based on variable valve phase angle over a wide range of operating conditions. Gas exchange dynamics is simulated to determine the mass air flow into the cylinder. This flow is altered by variable valve phase mechanism. In this paper, phasing the exhaust and intake valves is considered equally (dual equal) and is equipped with hydraulics Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) mechanism. The model developed reflects these modifications and uses gas exchange dynamics to capture valve phase, manifold pressure, and engine rotating speed. The values of flow rates from this simplified mathematical model is compared and validated with engine-dynamometer experimental data. The results show strong agreement in a wide range of operating points while the variation of phase angle is limited to nominal values.© 2012 ASME
The apical and basal environments of the retinal pigment epithelium regulate the maturation of tight junctions during development

A culture model has been established to study the gradual development of tight junctions during the embryogenesis of the chick retinal pigment epithelium. This study asks how closely the culture model reflects normal development and how the composition, structure and function of embryonic tight junctions are affected by the apical and basal environments. The study focused on the expression of claudins, the fine-structure of tight junctional strands and the transepithelial electrical resistance. Between embryonic days 7 and 14, patches of junctional strands gradually expanded and coalesced to form a continuous junction, in vivo. Although there was a corresponding increase in claudin expression, different claudins appeared at different times. In culture, the apical and basal environments acted synergistically to promote a continuous network of tight junctions with higher electrical resistance. Independently, pituitary extract or the secretory products of either embryonic fibroblasts or the retina promoted the formation of tight junctions. In combination, three effects were identified. With basally placed fibroblast conditioned medium, apical retinal medium increased transepithelial electrical resistance by affecting structure alone. With basally placed pituitary extract, apical retinal conditioned medium increased transepithelial electrical resistance by affecting structure and by modulating claudin expression in a manner that was consistent with development in vivo. Although embryonic day 7 and 14 cultures in retinal medium exhibited similar structure, the transepithelial electrical resistance of the embryonic day 14 cultures was higher. This higher transepithelial electrical resistance correlated with differences in claudin expression and localization. Therefore, this experimental model can isolate the effects of retinal secretions on structure and claudin expression, and can help us to determine how claudins affect function when structure is held constant.
Computational Techniques for Probabilistic Analysis of Turbomachinery

This paper reports on some advanced computational techniques for probabilistic analysis of turbomachinery. A description of the requirements for probabilistic analysis and several solution methods are summarized. The traditional probabilistic analysis method, Monte Carlo simulation, and two advanced techniques, the Advanced Mean Value (AMV) method and importance sampling, are discussed.The performance of the Monte Carlo, AMV, and importance sampling methods is explored through a forced response analysis of a two degree-of-freedom Jeffcott rotor model. Variations in rotor weight, shaft length, shaft diameter, Young’s modulus, foundation stiffness, bearing clearance, viscosity, and length are considered. The cumulative distribution function of transmitted force is computed using Monte Carlo simulation and AMV at several RPM. Also, importance sampling is used to compute the probability of transmitted force exceeding a specified limit at several RPM. In both cases, the AMV and importance sampling methods are shown to give accurate solutions with far fewer number of simulations than the Monte Carlo method. These methods enable the engineer to perform accurate and efficient probabilistic analysis of realistic complex rotor dynamic models.Copyright © 1992 by ASME
The Variable Geometry in Supersonic Compressors

A flexible inlet guide vane has been designed for an independent control of the pre- or counter-swirl condition over the blade height. This model has then been investigated with a Mach 2 supersonic rotor and proved to produce large variations of the design mass flow and pressure ratio with 6 percent loss in efficiency for the preswirl conditions.Copyright © 1977 by ASME
Changes in patterns of fatness in adult men in relation to serum indices of cardiovascular risk: the Normative Aging Study.

Changes in patterns of fatness in adult men in relation to serum indices of cardiovascular risk: the Normative Aging Study
Choral reading, an aid to teaching novice oral interpretation students

Beginning oral interpretation students reported their most pressing concerns about the class to be 1) how to deal with stage fright, 2) how to find suitable material for presentation, 3) how to analyze the literature, and 4) how to use the voice and body during performance. Choral reading is proposed as an effective means by which to deal with these concerns, since the emphasis is on group as opposed to solo performance.
Computer-Assisted Instruction in Economics: A Survey

Judging from the number of papers received on the subject of computer-assisted instruction in the teaching of college economics, there is obviously great interest in this relatively new instructional technique. Unable to publish more than a fraction of the papers, but reluctant to choose only a few from among the many interesting manuscripts on hand, we decided to commission an article summarizing the work that has come to our attention. Professor Soper kindly agreed to undertake the somewhat staggering task of reading each paper and preparing a brief summary. This article should prove interesting and valuable to anyone considering the use of CAI. Those already working in the field who have information to share with others should contact Professor Soper directly at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb.
Rescue of Diabetes-Related Impairment of Angiogenesis by Intramuscular Gene Therapy with Adeno-VEGF

Diabetes is a major risk factor for coronary and peripheral artery diseases. Although diabetic patients often present with advanced forms of these diseases, it is not known whether the compensatory mechanisms to vascular ischemia are affected in this condition. Accordingly, we sought to determine whether diabetes could: 1) impair the development of new collateral vessel formation in response to tissue ischemia and 2) inhibit cytokine-induced therapeutic neovascularization. Hindlimb ischemia was created by femoral artery ligation in nonobese diabetic mice (NOD mice, n = 20) and in control C57 mice ( n = 20). Hindlimb perfusion was evaluated by serial laser Doppler studies after the surgery. In NOD mice, measurement of the Doppler flow ratio between the ischemic and the normal limb indicated that restoration of perfusion in the ischemic hindlimb was significantly impaired. At day 14 after surgery, Doppler flow ratio in the NOD mice was 0.49 ± 0.04 versus 0.73 ± 0.06 for the C57 mice ( P ≤ 0.005). This impairment in blood flow recovery persisted throughout the duration of the study with Doppler flow ratio values at day 35 of 0.50 ± 0.05 versus 0.90 ± 0.07 in the NOD and C57 mice, respectively ( P ≤ 0.001). CD31 immunostaining confirmed the laser Doppler data by showing a significant reduction in capillary density in the NOD mice at 35 days after surgery (302 ± 4 capillaries/mm 2 versus 782 ± 78 in C57 mice ( P ≤ 0.005). The reduction in neovascularization in the NOD mice was the result of a lower level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the ischemic tissues, as assessed by Northern blot, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The central role of VEGF was confirmed by showing that normal levels of neovascularization (compared with C57) could be achieved in NOD mice that had been supplemented for this growth factor via intramuscular injection of an adenoviral vector encoding for VEGF. We conclude that 1) diabetes impairs endogenous neovascularization of ischemic tissues; 2) the impairment in new blood vessel formation results from reduced expression of VEGF; and 3) cytokine supplementation achieved by intramuscular adeno-VEGF gene transfer restores neovascularization in a mouse model of diabetes.
Oilseeds and oil in the people's Republic of China

This article reviews some experiences and information gathered by the author on agricluture, cereal grains, oilseeds and oilseed production, oil and fat consumption, foreign trade, and oil extraction in the People's Republic of China.
CONTROL OF BERYLLIUM FIRE HAZARDS IN A FIRE TEST SERIES.

Abstract As part of the SNAP-10A (Space Nuclear Auxiliary Power) project, beryllium hazards were measured in four controlled fires. Over 125 air samples and swipe samples were taken during the tests; only eight samples showed concentrations of Be above the minimum detectable level. Controls and procedures described insured safe test conditions. Areas needing further study are noted.
Shear band formation due to a thermal flux inhomogeneity

The one-dimensional model for the unidirectional shearing of a slab is investigated for the situation in which localized plastic deformation is induced by an inhomogeneity in the thermal flux. The problem is treated as a perturbation of the elastic solution, which persists until plastic deformation becomes significant. The analysis utilizes singular perturbation techniques, with the thin zone of shear localization identified as a boundary layer. It is found that the evolution of the temperature and stress perturbations are governed by only one parameter, which involves the various material constants. Numerical results indicate that the magnitude of this parameter plays an essential role in the growth of the perturbations and hence in the formation of a shear band.
Epithelial VEGF signaling is required in the mouse liver for proper sinusoid endothelial cell identity and hepatocyte zonation in vivo

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is crucial for vascular development in several organs. However, the specific contribution of epithelial-VEGF signaling in the liver has not been tested. We used a mouse model to specifically delete Vegf from the liver epithelial lineages during midgestational development and assessed the cell identities and architectures of epithelial and endothelial tissues. We find that without epithelial-derived VEGF, the zonal endothelial and hepatocyte cell identities are altered. We also find decreased portal vein and hepatic artery branching coincident with an increase in hepatic hypoxia postnatally. Together, these data indicate that VEGF secreted from the hepatic epithelium is required for normal differentiation of cells and establishment of three-dimensional vascular branching and zonal architectures in both epithelial and endothelial hepatic tissues.
Wear of visible light-cured restorative materials and removable partial denture direct retainers.

Purpose This study measured the in vitro wear of visible light-cured restorative materials and removable partial denture direct retainers. Materials and methods An aluminum test die was produced by replicating the facial contours of an extracted human molar (model). The replica's cervical contour was modified by placement of a restorable Class V cavity preparation. The test die became a fixed component of a testing apparatus. The restorative materials tested were Z100 (fine particle filled resin composite), Silux Plus (microfilled resin composite), and Photac-Fil (hybrid glass ionomer). Cast round, half round, I bar, and wrought-wire retainers were designed to engage a 0.254-mm undercut. Caliper measurements of the wear of restorative materials were made at intervals during testing, and after 7,500 retainer placements and removals. The measurements of material- and retainer-wear were subjected to ANOVA and Tukey tests. Results Generally, retainers with round profiles caused less wear of the restorative materials than those featuring flat contact surfaces. Wear of the materials ranged from 14 +/- 5.5 microns (Silux Plus by cast round) to 70 +/- 10.0 microns (Photac-Fil by cast half round). Mean wear of retainers, however, ranged only from 2 +/- 4.5 microns for six of 12 possible retainer-material pairings up to 12 +/- 4.5 microns (cast half round by Z100). Conclusions Regardless of their design features, the direct retainers of this study exhibited little wear when paired with any of the restorative materials. Overall, material wear appeared to be greater than retainer wear by a factor of five. When paired with practically any retainer type, the hybrid glass ionomer (Photac-Fil) exhibited more wear than either of the two resin composites (Z100 or Silux Plus). Although not established clearly, retainers with round profiles (wrought-wire and cast round) appeared to produce less wear of restorative materials than their I bar and cast half round counterparts.
From glycine to glutamic acid: analysis of the proton-binding isotherm of glutamic acid.

Abstract The process of the analysis of the protonation of glycine is extended to the three-site molecule of glutamic acid with its amino and two carboxyl groups. Detailed data on the binding of protons to glutamic acid are available not only for protonation of the three groups simultaneously but also for derivatives in which the α and β carboxyl groups are esterified. These data plus data on the protonation of glutaric acid provide the necessary information for a complete description of the protonation process with a limited number of reasonable assumptions. The assumptions lead to the conclusion that stabilization of the molecule of glutamic acid occurs on all steps of the protonation with the predominant stabilization occurring in the early steps of the reaction. An Appendix is included showing that the experimental data for both glycine and glutamic acid can be generated with hypothetical molecules. For glycine, identical experimental isotherms can result from protonation of two different nitrogen groups as well as two different negative groups. With glutamic acid three hypothetical molecules are capable of generating the identical experimental isotherms. They are (i) three nitrogen groups, (ii) three negative groups, and (iii) two nitrogen groups combined with one negative group. Interpretation of binding data requires explicit assumptions defining both the interactions and the nature of the binding sites.
Spectroscopic imaging using concentrically circular echo-planar trajectories in vivo.

An alternative to the standard echo-planar spectroscopic imaging technique is presented, spectroscopic imaging using concentrically circular echo-planar trajectories (SI-CONCEPT). In contrast to the conventional chemical shift imaging data, the sampled data from each set of concentric rings were regridded into Cartesian space. Usage of concentric k-space trajectories has the advantage of requiring significantly reduced slew rates than echo-planar spectroscopic imaging, allowing for the collection of higher spectral bandwidths and opening the door for high-bandwidth echo-planar styled spectroscopic imaging at higher magnetic fields. Before two-dimensional spatial and one-dimensional spectral encoding, the volume of interest was localized using the standard point-resolved spectroscopy sequence. The feasibility of using concentric k-space trajectories is demonstrated, and the spatial profiles and representative spectra are compared with the standard echo-planar spectroscopic imaging technique in a gray matter phantom containing metabolites at physiological concentrations and healthy human brain in vivo. The symmetric nature of the concentric circles also reduces the number of required excitations for a given resolution by a factor of two. Possible artifacts and limitations are discussed. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Personnel Preparation in Early Childhood Special Education: A Southern Perspective

(1991). Personnel Preparation in Early Childhood Special Education: A Southern Perspective. Journal of Early Childhood Teacher Education: Vol. 12, No. 3, pp. 3-8.
A Multistage Procedure for Decentralized Sequential Multi-Hypothesis Testing Problems

Abstract We studied the problem of sequentially testing M ≥ 2 hypotheses with a decentralized sensor network system. In such a system, the local sensors observe raw data and then send quantized observations to a fusion center, which makes a final decision regarding hypothesis is true. Motivated by the two-stage tests in Wang and Mei (2011), we propose a multistage decentralized sequential test that provides multiple opportunities for the local sensors to adjust to the optimal local quantizers. It is demonstrated that when the hypothesis testing problem is asymmetric, the multistage test is second-order asymptotically optimal. Even though this result constitutes an interesting theoretical improvement over two-stage tests that can enjoy only first-order asymptotic optimality, the corresponding practical merits seem to be only marginal. Indeed, performance gains over two-stage procedures with carefully selected thresholds are small.
Biochemical and morphological properties of membranes of unsaturated fatty acid auxotrophs of Salmonella typhimurium: effects of fluorinated myristic acids.

Abstract In order to investigate the utility of the fluorine-19 nucleus as a spectroscopic probe, a fluorinated analog of myristic acid has been incorporated into the membrane lipids of an unsaturated fatty acid auxotroph of Salmonella typhimurium . It is capable of supporting limited growth at temperatures above 37°C. Freeze-fracture electron microscopic examinations of the membrane ultrastructure show a temperature and fatty acid supplement-dependent segregation of intramembranous protein particles into distinct patches in the auxotrophic membrane leaving intramembranous protein-denuded areas. The occurrence of these patches seems to be related to the phase separation of membrane lipids. Corresponding changes in the transport and accumulation of methyl thio-β- d -galactopyranoside and tetracycline are observed. However, transport of histidine does not appear to be dependent on the physical state of the membrane lipids. The auxotroph shows differences in growth and morphological characteristics from those of the wild type. Functions of both inner and outer membranes are shown to be affected as a response to the fatty acid chain composition of the lipids.
Morphology of GABAergic neurons in the inferior colliculus of the cat.

The goal of the present study was to provide a comprehensive and quantitative description of neurons immunoreactive for γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the inferior colliculus (IC) of the cat. Neurons were investigated with two different antisera and two different incubation methods. Free-floating frozen or vibratome-cut sections were incubated either with an antiserum to glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) or to GABA conjugated to protein with glutaraldehyde. Additional 1.5-μm-thick sections were incubated with the GABA antiserum after embedding and removal of the plastic. Quantitative data were obtained from much of this material. Despite the use of these different antisera and reaction methods, the results obtained were remarkably similar. The results show that GAD- or GABA-positive neurons represent a significant population of cells in the central nucleus of the IC, up to 20% of the neurons. Most of these neurons have large or medium-sized perikarya. In contrast, immunonegative neurons are medium-sized or small. Many GABA-positive neurons had proximal dendrites or somata oriented in parallel to the fibrodendritic laminae of the central nucleus and are presumed to be disc-shaped neurons. Others have an orthogonal orientation and are presumed to be stellate cells. Large GABA-positive neurons form two groups, those with many axosomatic endings and those with few. Collectively, these observations suggest that there are several types of GABAergic neuron in the central nucleus and, by extension, that these may participate in many types of inhibitory circuits. © Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Eric Voegelin's order in history: A review

ORDER IN HISTORY, Vol. I, ISREAL AND REVELATION. By Eric Voegelin. Baton Rouge: Louisiana State University Press, 1956; pp. xxvi + 534. $19.95. ORDER IN HISTORY, Vol. II, THE WORLD OF THE POLIS. By Eric Voegelin. Baton Rouge: Louisiana State University Press, 1957; pp. xvii + 390. $19.95. ORDER IN HISTORY, Vol. III, PLATO AND ARISTOTLE. By Eric Voegelin. Baton Rouge: Louisiana State University Press, 1957; pp. xvii + 384. $19.95. ORDER IN HISTORY, Vol. IV, THE ECUMENIC AGE. By Eric Voegelin. Baton Rouge: Louisiana State University Press, 1974; $19.95. THE NEW SCIENCE OF POLITICS. By Eric Voegelin. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1952; $3.95 paper. SCIENCE, POLITICS AND GNOSTICISM. By Eric Voegelin. South Bend, Indiana: Gateway Editions, 1968; $2.95 paper. FROM ENLIGHTENMENT TO REVOLUTION. By Eric Voegelin, John H. Hallowell, ed. Durham, North Carolina: Duke University Press, 1975; pp. ix 4–307. $16.75. ANAMNESIS. By Eric Voegelin, Gerhart Niemeyer, trans. & ed. Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame P...
Characterization of endothelial thromboxane receptors in rabbit aorta.

Abstract An increased synthesis of thromboxane (TX) A2 is associated with a number of cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis, unstable angina and hypertension. We previously identified a subgroup of NZW rabbits in which isolated arteries failed to contract to the TX agonists, U46619 or I-BOP. In vascular smooth muscle membranes, there was a significant decrease in TX receptors, termed TP. These rabbits are referred to as vTP− and those with the TP receptor are called vTP+. Because TP receptors are expressed in some types of endothelial cells, the present study was designed to determine whether functional TP receptors are present in endothelial cells cultured from aortas of vTP+ and vTP− rabbits. Radioligand binding studies were performed with 125I-BOP. Aortic endothelial cells from vTP+ rabbits exhibited specific and saturable binding. In contrast, in endothelial preparations from vTP− rabbit aortas, no measurable binding to 125I-BOP was detected. Using an anti-TP receptor antibody, we compared the amount of receptor expressed in endothelial cell lysates obtained from vTP+ and vTP− rabbits. Consistent with the results observed radioligand binding assays, the expression of TP receptor protein was decreased in vTP− compared to vTP+ endothelial cells. An in vitro wound healing assay was used on confluent monolayers of endothelial cells. In the untreated vTP+ cells, the area of the scratch was completely closed by 30 h. In the vTP+ cells treated with U46619 (3 μM), the rate of closure of the scratch area was reduced with approximately 12% of the scratch area remaining at 30 h. Pretreatment with the TP receptor antagonist, SQ 29548 (10 μM) prevented the inhibitory effect of U46619. The rate of closure of the scratch in the vTP− was not altered by U46619. In a separate study, U46619 (3 μM) increased the release of 6-keto PGF1α, the stable metabolite of prostacyclin, in vTP+ but not vTP− endothelial cells. Pretreatment with SQ29548 (10 μM) or the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (10 μM) blocked the increase in vTP+ endothelial cells. In vascular reactivity studies in aortas from vTP+ rabbits, removal of the endothelium enhanced the vasoconstrictor response to U46619 indicating that activation of endothelial TP receptors may modulate vascular tone via the release of the vasodilator, prostacyclin. The results of this study suggest an important role for endothelial TP receptors in modulating vascular function.
Do Personal Growth Laboratories Represent an Alternative Culture

The rhetoric of personal growth programs represents, as Shepard suggests (J.A.B.S. 6 (3), 259-266), an alternative culture. However, when one attempts to study the actual behavior of participants in a laboratory, preliminary research suggests that it may bb closer to the established culture than to a "clearer vision of a better life." A theoretical framework is here proposed in an attempt to explain the apparent discrepancy between the actual behavior of participants and what they say they experienced and learned in personal growth programs.
Storage of purified plant viruses in the unfrozen state free of microbial contamination.

On decrit une methode d'accumulation des virus vegetaux. Elle ne comprend pas la congelation ou la conservation chimique. La contamination microbienne est evitee par filtration a travers un microfiltre aseptique place dans un reservoir egalement aseptique.
PATHOLOGY OF PREINVASIVE AND EXCELLENT-PROGNOSIS BREAST CANCER

Little has been added in the past year to our knowledge of the premalignant lesions that have implications of increased subsequent cancer risk. However, studies of molecular biologic associations of these lesions are proceeding. The heterogeneous nature of ductal carcinoma in situ and its clinical implications continues to evolve. Several studies of ductal carcinoma in situ have confirmed that this entity extends in continuity within the breast whether associated with invasive carcinoma or not. Therapeutic stratification of ductal carcinoma in situ lesions depending on their grade and size is widely accepted, however, formal larger cooperative studies are necessary. Therapeutic use of histologic grading and recognizing special histologic subtypes continues to gain importance. Studies detailing the the use of grading as an additive measure of the predictiveness of staging, as well as documentation of interobserver agreement when fostered by rule-structured agreement, dominate the current literature on this subject. The use of stereotactically guided needle biopsy is rapidly gaining a broad consensus. Precise guidelines for management of borderline diagnoses are under development.
A compact multi-resolution index for variable length queries in time series databases

We study the problem of searching similar patterns in time series data for variable length queries. Recently, a multi-resolution indexing technique (MRI) was proposed in (Kahveci and Singh, in proceedings of the international conference on data engineering, pp. 273–282, 2001; Kahveci and Singh, IEEE Trans Knowl Data Eng 16(4):418–433, 2004) to address this problem, which uses compression as an additional step to reduce the index size. In this paper, we propose an alternative technique, called compact MRI (CMRI), which uses adaptive piecewise constant approximation (APCA) representation as dimensionality reduction technique, and which occupies much less space without requiring compression. We implemented both MRI and CMRI, and conducted extensive experiments to evaluate and compare their performance on real stock data as well as synthetic. Our results indicate that CMRI provides a much better precision ranging from 0.75 to 0.89 on real data, and from 0.80 to 0.95 on synthetic data, while for MRI, these ranges are from 0.16 to 0.34, and from 0.03 to 0.65, respectively. Compared to sequential scan, we found that CMRI is 4–30 times faster and the number of disk I/Os it required is close to minimal. In terms of storage utilization, CMRI occupies 1% of the memory occupied by MRI. These results and analysis show CMRI to be an efficient and scalable indexing technique for large time series databases.
Speaking of Hunger and Coping with Food Insecurity: Experiences in the Afro-Ecuadorian Highlands

Using examples from an Afro-Ecuadorian community, we analyze indicators of household food insecurity and discuss them in terms of household structure and different time frames. We found that perceptions of hunger vary independently over time and are expressed differently in different types of households. We also found that definitions, although variable within the population, can be framed in five conceptual categories: a) an experience filled with anguish or despair; b) hunger as an economic issue; c) a concern over child welfare; d) an experience of the physical body; e) hunger as the experience of not having any food rather than not having variety in what is eaten; and f) those individuals who indicated they had never experienced hunger. We also learned that individuals act and react in a variety of ways to food insecurity. Our study highlights the way people attempt to adjust to fluctuations in food and resources, how they can feel helpless and alienated, and how they attempt to do the best they can w...
Porphyrin dimers: A theoretical understanding of the impact of electronic coupling strength on the two-photon absorption properties

Many porphyrin oligomers exhibit large two-photon absorptions (TPA) at fundamental photon energies around 1.5 eV, while the corresponding monomers have negligible TPA cross-sections in that energy range. In general, our understanding of nonlinear absorption in these compounds is rather limited compared to that of linear absorption. Here, we seek to provide insight into this issue by examining various structural aspects of porphyrin dimers and analyzing how they lead to either “pure” or double resonance-enhanced TPA cross-sections. To do so, we have carried out highly correlated quantum-chemical calculations on model chromophores which differ by their central π-conjugated bridges or acceptor moieties. In a number of such dimers, the calculated energies of the lowest two-photon active states are stabilized and display significant cross-sections as the electronic coupling strength between the two porphyrin moieties becomes significant; in these instances, the lowest electronic TPA-active state is located in an energy range preventing contributions from double resonance effects. On the other hand, in dimers in which the porphyrin moieties are either very strongly or very weakly electronically coupled, the TPA cross-sections are mainly due to double resonance effects.
Disjoint directed quadrilaterals in a directed graph

Let D be a directed graph of order 4k, where k is a positive integer. Suppose that the minimum degree of D is at least 6k - 2. We show that D contains k disjoint directed quadrilaterals with only one exception. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory
Computational assessment of subcritical and delayed onset in spiral Poiseuille flow experiments

For spiral Poiseuille flow with radius ratios η ≡ R i /R o = 0.77 and 0.95, we have computed complete linear stability boundaries, where R i and R o are the inner and outer cylinder radii, respectively. The analysis accounts for arbitrary disturbances of infinitesimal amplitude over the entire range of Reynolds numbers Re for which the flow is stable for some range of Taylor number Ta, and extends previous work to several non-zero rotation rate ratios μ ≡ Ω o /Ω i , where Ω i and Ω o are the (signed) angular speeds. For each combination of μ and η, there is a wide range of Re for which the critical Ta is nearly independent of Re, followed by a precipitous drop to Ta = 0 at the Re at which non-rotating annular Poiseuille flow becomes unstable with respect to a Tollmien-Schlichting-like disturbance. Comparison is also made to a wealth of experimental data for the onset of instability
Primary High-Dose Murine Norovirus 1 Infection Fails To Protect from Secondary Challenge with Homologous Virus

Human noroviruses in the Caliciviridae family are the major cause of nonbacterial epidemic gastroenteritis worldwide. Primary human norovirus infection does not elicit lasting protective immunity, a fact that could greatly affect the efficacy of vaccination strategies. Little is known regarding the pathogenesis of human noroviruses or the immune responses that control them because there has previously been no small-animal model or cell culture system of infection. Using the only available small-animal model of norovirus infection, we found that primary high-dose murine norovirus 1 (MNV-1) infection fails to afford protection against a rechallenge with a homologous virus. Thus, MNV-1 represents a valuable model with which to dissect the pathophysiological basis for the lack of lasting protection against human norovirus infection. Interestingly, the magnitude of protection afforded by a primary MNV-1 infection inversely correlates with the inoculum dose. Future studies will elucidate the mechanisms by which noroviruses avoid the induction of protective immunity and the role played by the inoculum dose in this process, ultimately translating this knowledge into successful vaccination approaches.
Knowledge and Use of Music Therapy Among Pediatric Practitioners in Michigan

Objective Increasingly, music therapy is being used, in combination with conventional treatment modalities, as part of the health care treatment plan. The objective of our study was to determine the awareness, knowledge and use of music therapy by members of the Michigan chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (Michigan AAP) in their health care practice.Methods Members of the Michigan AAP were asked to participate in a survey designed to assess their knowledge and use of music therapy in their health care practice.Results Although the majority of respondents were aware of the use of music therapy in health care settings, very few had referred their own patients for music therapy services.Conclusion Music therapy is an inexpensive and noninvasive treatment modality being used increasingly, especially to alleviate pain, stress, and anxiety among patients in a variety of conditions. Pediatric practitioners in Michigan, who responded to our survey, expressed a strong interest in learning more about mus...
DNA adduct profiles: chemical approaches to addressing the biological impact of DNA damage from small molecules

Diverse small molecules alkylate DNA and form covalently linked adducts that can influence crucial biological processes, contributing to toxicity and mutation. Understanding the chemical reactivity dictating DNA alkylation and interactions of adducts with biological pathways can impact disease prevention and treatment. The ambident reactivity of DNA-alkylating small molecules, and of DNA itself, often results in formation of multiple adducts. Determining which structures impart biological responses is important for understanding the underlying relationships between small-molecule structure and biology. With application of sensitive and structure-specific experimental and analytical methodology, such as heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, there are increasing numbers of studies that evaluate DNA alkylation from the perspective of resulting adduct profiles. DNA adduct profiles have been examined for both exogenous and endogenous reactive small molecules. Examples of recent findings are in the areas of tobacco-specific carcinogens, lipid peroxidation products, environmental and dietary chlorophenols, and natural-product-derived antitumor therapies. As more profile data are obtained, correlations with biological impact are being observed that would not be identified by a simplified single agent/single adduct approach.
Differential Acoustical Resonance Spectroscopy: An Experimental Method For Estimating Acoustic Attenuation of Porous Media

A new acoustic method of estimating attenuation in rocks is presented. This method, called Differential Acoustic Resonance Spectroscopy or DARS, uses the perturbation in the Q and resonant frequency of a fluid-filled cavity resonator caused by the introduction of a small sample of rock. The changes in the resonant frequency and the quality factor are used to characterize the velocity and attenuation properties of the rock sample. The frequency of DARS operation is determined by the size of the fluid-filled cavity, not the size of the rock sample; therefore, DARS can be used to measure an acoustically small sample in the laboratory at low frequencies. This paper describes the DARS concept, theory of operation, and some attenuation results for small porous samples at a frequency near 1 kHz.
Granulocytic ehrlichiosis in mice deficient in phagocyte oxidase or inducible nitric oxide synthase.

Mice deficient in phox (gp91phox−/−) or NOS2 (NOS2−/−) were infected with the agent of human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) to evaluate the importance of these pathways in the eradication of HGE bacteria. NOS2−/− mice had delayed clearance of the HGE agent in comparison to control or gp91phox−/− mice, suggesting that reactive nitrogen intermediates play a role in the early control of HGE.
Uniformity of Leaf Shelter Construction by Larvae of Epargyreus clarus (Hesperiidae), the Silver-Spotted Skipper

Larvae of the silver-spotted skipper, Epargyreus clarus (Hesperiidae), construct shelters from leaves of their leguminous host plants, making four distinct shelter types that change predictably over larval ontogeny. Shelters built by first-instar larvae are located on the apical half of the leaflet and are almost invariant in size, shape, and orientation, suggesting a stereotypical process of shelter location and construction. We have determined that the regularity of these shelters results from a prescribed pattern of larval movements and behaviors, in which larvae use their body length as a “ruler” and employ silk not only as a building material but also as a template to guide the location of cuts in the leaf. Though lepidopteran larvae lack the sensitive antennae, long jointed appendages, and other measurement devices used by structure-building bees, wasps, and caddis flies, they can nonetheless use simple tools and behavioral patterns to produce characteristic and regular shelters.
Chondrocyte apoptosis in development, aging and disease

There is increasing evidence that chondrocyte apoptosis plays an important role in cartilage development, aging and disease. A variety of morphological and biochemical studies have identified apoptotic chondrocytes in both growth plate and articular cartilage of a variety of species. In addition, there is an ever increasing list of diverse stimuli that can induce chondrocyte apoptosis in vitro. A feedback loop regulating chondrocyte apoptosis in the growth plate has been described that includes Indian Hedgehog, parathyroid hormone-related protein and Bcl-2. The molecular mechanism regulating apoptosis in articular cartilage is still under investigation. Future studies should elucidate more fully how abnormal regulation of chondrocyte apoptosis may contribute to the development of chondrodysplasias and chondrosarcomas. Also, it will be of importance to define the relationship between chondrocyte apoptosis and the regulation of chondrocyte-specific gene expression.
Ginseng and Diabetes

Ginseng is a well-known medicinal plant used in traditional Oriental medicine. In recent decades, ginseng root has gained popularity as a dietary supplement in the United States. Ginseng has also been commonly used in Oriental medicine to treat diabetes-like conditions. The present review discusses the research on the anti-diabetic effects of ginseng and the possible mechanisms of its anti-diabetic actions.
Pseudoporphyria induced by voriconazole

Pseudoporphyria is an uncommon blistering disorder with clinical and histologic similarities to porphyria cutanea tarda but which lacks urine and serum porphyrin elevations. Pseudoporphyria has been linked with numerous causes including chronic renal failure, ultraviolet radiation, and numerous medications. We report a case of pseudoporphyria attributed to the relatively new triazole antifungal agent voriconazole. This medication has not been previously identified as a cause of pseudoporphyria.
How vascular surgeons use noninvasive testing

Abstract A questionnaire was used to determine the patterns of use of noninvasive testing by vascular surgeons. The 494 respondents had been in practice an average of 18 years. Many of the examinations were done outside the office; 85% of laboratories used were hospital facilities. In the area of cerebrovascular testing the ocular pneumoplethysmographic techniques and the periorbital Doppler test continued to be used extensively; however, the acceptance of new technology was confirmed by the finding that 71% used some form of imaging. Arterial insufficiency of the legs was most commonly evaluated with segmental Doppler pressures and stress testing was used only in selected cases. Noninvasive tests were widely used postoperatively for the follow-up of patients. Most venous testing was aimed at the detection of acute deep venous thrombosis, and venous Doppler examination and impedance phlebography were the most widely used techniques. The data from this study document the patterns of use of the vascular laboratory. Unexpected findings included the widespread use of imaging (especially duplex scanning) and the frequent use of multiple tests for cerebrovascular evaluation. (J VASC SURG 1986;4:272-6.)
Feeding behavior analysis of the soybean aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on resistant soybean 'Dowling'.

Soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), is an exotic pest of soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr., in North America. Plant resistance to the soybean aphid was recently discovered in ‘Dowling’ soybean in 2005. Dowling exhibits strong antibiotic effects on the soybean aphid by limiting colonization and effectively controlling aphid population development during all soybean growth stages. In addition, aphids feeding on Dowling experienced significantly reduced survival, longevity, and fecundity and increased developmental times. An assessment of soybean aphid feeding behavior was compared on Dowling and the susceptible check ‘Glenwood’ by using the electrical penetration graph technique. The effects of plant resistance on aphid feeding behavior were analyzed by comparing the amount of time soybean aphid spent feeding on various plant tissues on resistant and susceptible plants. There was no significant difference in the initial time for the aphid to begin probing on resistant and susceptible plants indicating no adverse effect of plant exterior on the soybean aphid attempting to feed. However the time from the beginning of plant penetration by the stylets to the first phloem sieve element phase was significantly different. In aphids that successfully reached phloem on Dowling, the time taken to reach this phase was triple the time of aphids reaching the phloem sieve element on the susceptible line. In addition, the total number of probing events and the duration of nonprobing were not significantly different between Dowling and Glenwood. When comparing feeding between lines, a greater proportion of aphids showed ingestion of xylem when feeding on Dowling, whereas successful feeding on phloem on Dowling was significantly shorter than when feeding on the susceptible line. Therefore, the antibiotic effect of Dowling resistance seems to reside at the level of the phloem sieve element, prohibiting the aphid from successfully exploiting phloem, and as a consequence the aphid abandons the Dowling plant or dies of inadequate nutritional intake.