julilili42/papers huggingface dataset:
Time-resolved spectrum kernel for biosonar target classification
2007-01-31

We consider the problem of biosonar landmark classification as an example of random and non-stationary signal classification in which finding robust and structure independent features for classification is not trivial. Timefrequency domain studies show that despite the seemingly randomness of those signals, there are local temporal similarities, independent of the position of occurrence in echoes of each object that reflect the intrinsic similarities between the echoes and also a self similarity in the objects. In this paper we suggest a time resolved spectrum kernel for extracting the local similarities (subsequence similarity) in time series in general, and as an example in biosonar signals. We implemented this kernel using dynamic programming and could get accurate results using a low number of echoes needed for training compared with the methods in which finding specific features in each echo were followed.
Magnetic microtraps for ultracold atoms
2007-02-01

Trapping and manipulating ultracold atoms and degenerate quantum gases in magnetic micropotentials is reviewed. Starting with a comprehensive description of the basic concepts and fabrication techniques of microtraps together with early pioneering experiments, emphasis is placed on current experiments on degenerate quantum gases. This includes the loading of quantum gases in microtraps, coherent manipulation, and transport of condensates together with recently reported experiments on matter-wave interferometry on a chip. Theoretical approaches for describing atoms in waveguides and beam splitters are briefly summarized, and, finally, the interaction between atoms and the surface of microtraps is covered in some detail.
Superradiant Rayleigh Scattering and Collective Atomic Recoil Lasing in a Ring Cavity
2007-02-01

Collective interaction of light with an atomic gas can give rise to superradiant instabilities. We experimentally study the sudden buildup of a reverse light field in a laser-driven high-finesse ring cavity filled with ultracold thermal or Bose-Einstein condensed atoms. While superradiant Rayleigh scattering from atomic clouds is normally observed only at very low temperatures (i.e., well below 1 microK), the presence of the ring cavity enhances cooperativity and allows for superradiance with thermal clouds as hot as several 10 microK. A characterization of the superradiance at various temperatures and cooperativity parameters allows us to link it to the collective atomic recoil laser.
Soil‐aggregate formation as influenced by clay content and organic‐matter amendment
2007-02-01

Abstract Naturally occurring wetting‐and‐drying cycles often enhance aggregation and give rise to a stable soil structure. In comparatively dry regions, such as large areas of Australia, organic‐matter (OM) contents in topsoils of arable land are usually small. Therefore, the effects of wetting and drying are almost solely reliant on the clay content. To investigate the relations between wetting‐and‐drying cycles, aggregation, clay content, and OM in the Australian environment, an experiment was set up to determine the relative influence of both clay content (23%, 31%, 34%, and 38%) and OM amendments of barley straw (equivalent to 3.1 t ha –1 , 6.2 t ha –1 , and 12.4 t ha –1 ) on the development of water‐stable aggregates in agricultural soil. The aggregate stability of each of the sixteen composite soils was determined after one, three, and six wet/dry cycles and subsequent fast and slow prewetting and was then compared to the aggregate stabilities of all other composite soils. While a single wet/dry cycle initiated soil structural evolution in all composite soils, enhancing macroaggregation, the incorporation of barley straw was most effective for the development of water‐stable aggregates in those soils with 34% and 38% clay. Repeated wetting‐and‐drying events revealed that soil aggregation is primarily based on the clay content of the soil, but that large straw additions also tend to enhance soil aggregation. Relative to untreated soil, straw additions equivalent to 3.1 t ha –1 and 12.4 t ha –1 increased soil aggregation by about 100% and 250%, respectively, after three wet/dry cycles and fast prewetting, but were of less influence with subsequent wet/dry cycles. Straw additions were even more effective in aggregating soil when combined with slow prewetting; after three wet/dry cycles, the mean weight diameters of aggregates were increased by 70% and 140% with the same OM additions and by 160% and 290% after six wet/dry cycles, compared to samples without organic amendments. We suggest that in arable soils poor in OM and with a field texture grade of clay loam or finer, the addition of straw, which is often available from preceding crops, may be useful for improving aggregation. For a satisfactory degree of aggregate stability and an improved soil structural form, we found that straw additions of at least 6.2 t ha –1 were required. However, rapid wetting of straw‐amended soil will disrupt newly formed aggregates, and straw has only a limited ability to sustain structural improvement.
High Visceral Fat Mass and High Liver Fat Are Associated with Resistance to Lifestyle Intervention
2007-02-01

Abstract Objective: High visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and high liver fat (LF) are associated with the metabolic syndrome and diabetes. We studied changes in these two fat depots during weight loss and analyzed whether VAT and LF at baseline predict the response to lifestyle intervention. Research Methods and Procedures: One hundred twelve subjects (48 men and 64 women; age, 46 ± 11 years; BMI, 29.2 ± 4.4 kg/m 2 ) were studied after a follow up‐time of 264 ± 60 (SD) days. Insulin sensitivity was estimated from the oral glucose tolerance test. Body fat depots were quantified using magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy. Results: Cross‐sectionally high VAT ( r = −0.22, p = 0.02) and high LF ( r = −0.36, p &lt; 0.0001) were independently associated with low insulin sensitivity. With intervention, BMI (−3.0%), VAT (−12.0%), and LF (−33.0%) were reduced (all p &lt; 0.001). Insulin sensitivity was improved (+17%, p &lt; 0.01). The changes in BMI ( r = −0.41), VAT ( r = −0.28), and LF ( r = −0.39) were associated with the increase in insulin sensitivity (all p &lt; 0.01). High VAT ( r = −0.28, p = 0.01) and high LF ( r = −0.38, p &lt; 0.01) at baseline were associated with a lesser increase in insulin sensitivity. Discussion: Baseline values and changes in BMI, VAT, and LF are related to changes in insulin sensitivity during lifestyle intervention. Subjects with high VAT and LF have a lower chance of profiting from lifestyle intervention and may require intensified lifestyle prevention strategies or even pharmacological approaches to improve insulin sensitivity.
Bevacizumab, a humanized anti-angiogenic monoclonal antibody for the treatment of colorectal cancer
2007-02-01

Angiogenesis is the process by which new blood vessels are created from pre-existing vessels. It is essential for the growth and development of normal cells and tissues during embryonic and neonatal development and of tumour cells. Solid tumours rely on having an extensive network of blood vessels for growth and survival. The key mediator of angiogenesis, vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), is critical for the growth of tumours and their subsequent metastasis and is known to initiate angiogenesis. Bevacizumab is a humanized immunoglobulin G monoclonal antibody that binds to VEGF with high specificity, thereby blocking VEGF-mediated signalling pathways and thus angiogenesis. Clinical trials have shown that bevacizumab is effective in prolonging survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) when combined with standard chemotherapy. Consequently, bevacizumab has been approved in combination with 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy for first-line treatment of patients with metastatic CRC. Bevacizumab is generally well tolerated in most patients and does not exacerbate the adverse events associated with conventional chemotherapy. Bevacizumab-related side effects are generally manageable; however, monitoring for hypertension, gastrointestinal perforation, bleeding, proteinuria and thromboembolism is advised, especially in patients with predisposing factors. In addition to demonstrated survival benefits, the convenient dosing schedule and lack of interactions should ensure the successful integration of this novel agent into clinical practice.
An Overview on the Toxic Morphological Changes in the Retinal Pigment Epithelium after Systemic Compound Administration
2007-02-01

Many medications that are administered systemically for nonocular conditions may evoke ocular toxicological complications. Therefore, the eye is routinely investigated histopathologically in preclinical in vivo toxicity studies. The retinal pigment epithelium is a likely target for systemically administered compounds, since the underlying choroid is highly vascularized. The specialized pigment epithelium has numerous functions that all maintain the integrity and function of photoreceptors. Consequently, toxic effects on the pigment epithelium will eventually affect the neural retina. The potential of pigment epithelial cells to respond to toxic injury is limited, but a standardized terminology to describe its morphological changes does not exist in the scientific literature. Detailed morphologic analysis, however, might allow early detection of retinotoxicity and may provide evidence on the underlying pathomechanism. We here review toxic effects on the pigment epithelium focusing in particular on the morphology of toxic cell injury. Morphological changes comprise hypertrophy, intracytoplasmic accumulation of cellular components, loss of cell polarity, degeneration, metaplasia, and formation of subretinal membranes. Some of these changes are reversible whereas others are permanent, leading to impaired function of the pigment epithelium and eventually to photoreceptor loss and retinal atrophy.
Chasing the Heart
2007-02-01

With the latest generations of multidetector row computed tomography (CT) scanners, CT of the heart is about to fulfill its promise to become the premier noninvasive imaging modality for the cardiac assessment. The performance of this modality has been continuously improved to a point where CT, beyond mere feasibility studies, is firmly establishing its role in the diagnostic work-up of patients with suspected cardiac disease. This has been enabled by ongoing technical refinements, which are the topic of this contribution. This review traces the evolution of CT for cardiac applications, describes the current status of scanner technology with special emphasis on dual-source CT, and provides insights into potential future developments for further refinement of this technique.
Optimization of concentration control by evolution strategies: Formulation, application, and assessment of remedial solutions
2007-02-01

The uniqueness and mathematical complexity of typical groundwater remediation or control problems involving numerical models necessitate appropriate solvers that find optimal solutions reliably and within reasonable computational time. The aim of this paper is to introduce an innovative evolutionary algorithm, the evolution strategies with covariance matrix adaptation and rank μ update (CMA‐ES), used as an external solver in combination with groundwater transport models. A broad range of hypothetical pump‐and‐treat design problems is set up to derive recommendations for a robust CMA‐ES configuration. One‐ and five‐well cases are distinguished, for which both extraction rates and well positions have to be optimized in order to partly capture a contaminant plume. Intrinsic natural attenuation of the contaminant that emanates from a continuous source is considered. During this study, it is revealed that when pumping rates are minimized, well positions should be focused close to the source. In contrast, when contaminant mass extraction is minimized, positions distant from the source close to the plume fringes prove to be preferable.
Monitoring of Thiopurine Methyltransferase Activity in Postsurgical Patients With Crohn's Disease During 1 Year of Treatment With Azathioprine or Mesalazine
2007-02-01

Thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) activity determines biotransformation of azathioprine and, thereby, drug efficacy and safety. Evaluation of a possible long-term effect of mesalazine or azathioprine on TPMT activity is of particular clinical importance because both drugs can to be given for several years in inflammatory bowel disease. Monitoring of TPMT activity and three thiopurine metabolites was performed prospectively during a 1 year postoperative period in 21 patients with Crohn's disease randomly assigned to azathioprine (2.0-2.5 mg/kg per day) or mesalazine (4 g/day). TPMT activity did not change significantly within each treatment group during 52 weeks. At any study visit, TPMT activity was not different between 13 patients on azathioprine and eight patients on mesalazine. Concentrations of 6-thioguanine nucleotides (6-TGN, active moiety of azathioprine) and 6-methyl-mercaptopurine ribonucleotides (6-MMPR) did not alter significantly during the observation period, except for a slight decrease in 6-TGN levels when comparing the first with the last visit. In this first report of serial monitoring of 6-methyl-thioguanine nucleotides (6-MTGN) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease taking azathioprine, high levels of 6-TGN were correlated with high levels of 6-MTGN, with the mean 6-TGN:6-MTGN ratio being 2.4. In a well-standardized clinical setting of inflammatory bowel disease, neither mesalazine nor azathioprine significantly affected TPMT activity during a whole year of treatment.
Treatment Outcome in People with Subthreshold Compared with Full‐Syndrome Binge Eating Disorder
2007-02-01

Abstract Objective: There is a controversial discussion in the literature as to whether individuals with subthreshold binge eating disorder (subBED) differ clinically significantly from individuals with full‐syndrome binge eating disorder (BED). This study was designed to compare eating‐related and general psychopathology at baseline and in response to a multimodal treatment program in obese people with subBED compared with BED. Research Methods and Procedures: A total of 96 obese participants (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2 ) were assessed for eating‐related and general psychopathology at baseline. Thirty‐nine participants meeting criteria for BED and 19 participants meeting criteria for subBED attended a 15‐session outpatient group therapy including cognitive behavioral therapy extended by interpersonal therapy, nutritional counseling, and a supervised walking exercise. Participants with eating disorders were reassessed at the end of treatment and at 3‐month follow‐up. The obese control group without an eating disorder ( n = 38) was assessed once. This was not a randomized controlled trial. Results: Intent‐to‐treat analyses revealed no differences between subBED and full‐syndrome BED participants with regard to eating‐related and general psychopathology at baseline and with regard to treatment outcome. All participants experienced substantial improvements, and the results remained stable during follow‐up (except for dietary restraint). At follow‐up, participants with subBED and BED remained different from non‐eating disorder controls in eating‐related but not general psychopathology. Discussion: The findings indicate that our multimodal treatment program is equally effective in obese subBED and BED participants, suggesting that a differentiation currently seems not to be of clinical significance.
Whole cell profiling and identification of galectin‐1 as a potential marker of renal cell carcinoma
2007-02-01

Abstract For most cancers, the patient's prognosis improves dramatically if the disease is detected at an early stage. Although advancements in imaging technology have improved early detection, many cancers remain undetected until it is too late for curative intervention. We have established, for the first time, expression difference mapping analysis of whole cell proteins from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell lines using ProteinChip technology. A total of 20 different RCC cell lines were cultured in vitro directly on ProteinChip arrays for 24 h. Direct MS analysis of proteins from the attached cells showed identical protein profiles by all analysed RCC lines. Comparative on‐chip analysis of isolated malignant cells from native tumour specimens revealed protein patterns highly similar to those from the continuous RCC lines. However, cultured primary cortex cells showed specific protein differences. Differential protein profiling of isolated cytosolic and enriched membrane fractions from the RCC lines revealed that the protein pattern of the membrane proteins included or were identical to those of the entire cells. Proteomics analysis of the chip‐binding membrane fractions allowed the identification of three forms of galectin‐1 as potential RCC marker. ProteinChip analysis with a bound‐specific antibody certified that galectin‐1 could be an RCC marker. Immunostaining methods confirmed the overexpression of galectin‐1 in renal carcinoma in comparison to healthy tissue.
Wavelet Analysis of Skin Perfusion in Healthy Volunteers
2007-02-01

ABSTRACT Objective: Rhythmical changes in microvascular perfusion of the skin depend on various influences, which appear continuously but not in a predictable manner. For identifying and quantifying different physiological influences the authors used wavelet transformation, analyzing continuously and simultaneously measured data. Methods: A total of 34 healthy volunteers were included in the study. At the dorsum of the left hand, skin perfusion was measured by laser Doppler fluxmetry (LDF) and skin temperature was measured. Simultaneously, the electrocardiogram and the respiration were recorded. The recorded time series were analyzed with wavelet transformation and scale correlation (S‐correlation). Results: Semilinear analysis with wavelet transformation allowed a visualization of temporal changes in LDF frequency and amplitude in a color‐coded quasi three‐dimensional diagram. The authors found that tissue perfusion over an observation period of 327.68 s is governed by 6 closely connected, overlying waves with different degrees of freedom. The major determinants are low frequencies in LDF, which correlates with changes in skin temperature, responsible for 68.5% of the influence. Surprisingly, though indispensable for blood flow, respiration and heartbeat contributed to less then 2.5% of the rhythmic changes. Conclusions: When wavelet transformation is used in analyzing LDF time series, the different rhythms of cutaneous blood flow are made visible and quantifiable and can be assigned to different physiological origins. The application of this novel analysis method allows identifying mechanisms regulating skin perfusion, which will greatly facilitate the diagnosis of a variety of important vascular diseases, such as chronic venous insufficiency, diabetes, or neurotrophic disorders.
Strong CP violation and the neutron electric dipole form factor
2007-02-01

We calculate the neutron electric dipole form factor induced by the CP violating theta-term of QCD, within a perturbative chiral quark model which includes pion and kaon clouds. On this basis we derive the neutron electric dipole moment and the electron-neutron Schiff moment. From the existing experimental upper limits on the neutron electric dipole moment we extract constraints on the theta-parameter and compare our results with other approaches.
ANGULAR MOMENTA OF NEAR-SPHERICAL FISSION FRAGMENTS
2007-02-01

Angular momenta of fission fragments are sometimes exceeding 10 ħ for thermal neutron induced and spontaneous fission. This is surprising since in the latter case the mother nucleus may have zero spin (e.g. 252 Cf). In theory fragment spins are explained as a quantum mechanical effect. It is argued that they are due to zero-point oscillations of fragments being deformed at scission. In contrast to current theory it is shown that, for the specific case of near-magic 132 Te, a large spin is generated by thermal excitation of single-particle states.
Modulated Hexatic-B* with giant electroclinic effect rather than anticlinic Hexatic-I A * —A novel mechanism for stabilizing antiferroelectricity below Smectic-C A *
2007-02-01

The antiferroelectric hexatic phase observed below antiferroelectric SmCA* has so far been considered to have the same anticlinic structure as in SmCA*. The orientational order parameter determined by infrared spectroscopy distinctively disproves the previous view and concludes that molecular long axes are not tilted from the SmA layer normal. The phase can be identified as non-tilted modulated HxB* and the electric-field–induced phase transition from this phase to tilted ferroelectric HxI* can be considered as the giant electroclinic effect due to the opening of closed modulation loops.
Placing connected components of disconnected graphs
2007-02-01

A problem arising when drawing disconnected graphs, is the placement of the connected components. The problem corresponds to finding an appropriate two-dimensional, non-overlapping placement of given objects. Most layout algorithms assume a connected graph and do not deal with connected components. Thus, each component is laid out separately which requires an additional step to arrange these components. There are only few approaches in literature which address this task. We review some of them and present new methods that improve existing results. Our approach is based on a classical greedy approach described by Freivalds et al. which uses a polyomino representation of the objects. We introduce new quality measures to evaluate a two-dimensional placement which yield more compact layouts. Our approach particularly eliminates most cases in which previous approaches returned poor results.
Diagnostic accuracy ofin vitropanoramic radiographs depending on the exposure
2007-02-01

The medium intensifying screen can be used at high tube potential settings instead of low tube potential settings, or the regular intensifying screen can be used at low tube potential settings with the same diagnostic value. A dose reduction of about 40% is possible. The storage phosphor plates should be exposed at least like a regular film-screen system and at a low tube potential level.
Labeling collinear sites
2007-02-01

We consider a map labeling problem, where the sites to be labeled are restricted on a line L. This is quite common e.g. in schematized maps for road or subway networks. Each site si is associated with an axis-parallel wi × hi label li, which can be placed anywhere on the "boundary" of the input line L. The main task is to place the labels in distinct positions, so that they do not overlap and do not obscure the site set, and to connect each label with its associated site through a leader, such that no two leaders intersect. We propose several variations of this problem and we investigate their computational complexity under certain optimization criteria. © 2007 IEEE.
Stock prices and the dissemination of second-hand information–new evidence from Germany
2007-02-01

We analyse a large sample of second-hand information published in the Tendenzen & Tips column of the prominent German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), which is free of any contamination from first-hand information. We find strong evidence for the price-pressure hypothesis because we observe a highly significant abnormal return of 0.19% for buy recommendations on the publication day. Additionally, our data supports the attention hypothesis, since the market reaction is more pronounced when relatively few stocks are recommended in the column.