cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The structural significance of a vocalization that stimulates gaping in black-capped chickadees

In a variety of avian species, vocalizations used to stimulate gaping in nestlings during feeding share similar features such as broad frequency range, multiple spectral components, and sudden onset. It is currently not understood what functional significance, if any, these acoustic features have for close-range communication. One example of such a vocalization is the “squawk” of the black-capped chickadees (Parus atricapillus). The present study analyzes the significant features of the squawk by observing the response of chickadee nestlings to field playbacks of natural and computer-modified squawks. Of the features tested, frequency range appears most critical, but responses to frequency ranges change with age, such that low frequencies are most stimulating around the time of hatching but cease to elicit gaping after 5 days posthatch. Aperiodic stimuli and computer-modified squawks with gradual onsets tend to be less stimulating than natural squawks at some ages, but these differences are not significant at any age. The functional significance of the broad frequency range of the squawk is discussed, including the possible role of accommodating shifting frequency preferences related to ontogenetic changes in auditory sensitivity and elaboration of the vocal repertoire.
Cyclic nucleotide distribution within rat striatonigral neurons

Abstract Adenosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate and guanosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate have differential immunohistochemical distributions within retrogradely-labeled striatonigral neurons of the rat. Adenosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate is localized within more than half of the striatonigral projection neurons. It is also within the cytoplasm of other neurons and oligodendroglia. Guanosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate is localized within 80% of the identified striatonigral neurons. These large percentages of cyclic nucleotide immunoreactivity within the striatonigral neurons suggest some of these efferent cells must contain both cyclic nucleotides. The immunofluorescent staining for guanosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate is almost identical to that reported for efferent neurotransmitter-containing neurons of the caudate nucleus. However, the large proportion of striatonigral neurons demonstrating guanosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate immuno-reactivity precludes the association of this cyclic nucleotide with a selective neurotransmitter agent. Adenosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate-reactive elements are very different in staining appearance from guanosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate and neurotransmitter-identified somata. The number of striatonigral cells exhibiting reaction for this cyclic nucleotide does not eliminate the possibility that adenosine cyclic 3′,5′-monophosphate might be preferentially co-localized with a specific neurotransmitter, such as γ-aminobutyrate, as has been previously suggested through biochemical experimentation.
Large fluorescence response by alcohol from a bis(benzoxazole)-zinc(II) complex: the role of excited state intramolecular proton transfer.

The formation of a bis(HBO) anion is known to turn on the fluorescence to give red emission, via controlling the excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT). The poor stability of the formed anion, however, hampered its application. The anion stability is found to be greatly improved by attaching the anion to Zn2+ cation (i.e., forming zinc complex), whose emission is at λem ≈ 550 and 760 nm. Interestingly, addition of methanol to the zinc complex induces a remarkable red fluorescence (λem ≈ 630 nm, ϕfl ≈ 0.8). With the aid of spectroscopic studies (1H NMR, UV–vis, fluorescence, and mass spectra), the structures of the zinc complexes are characterized. The emission species is identified as a dimer-like structure. The study thus reveals an effective fluorescence switching mechanism that could further advance the application of ESIPT-based sensors.
Identifying tools and strategies to provide quality oncology care.

This session of the ASCO Quality Symposium provided an opportunity to examine a variety of research and quality improvement strategies aimed at improving the quality of cancer care along the continuum.
Do molecular weight determinations of coal-derived materials give meaningful answers?

Abstract The relation between number-average (Mn) and weight-average (Mw) molecular weights has been examined, and it was demonstrated how this can be employed to determine the self-consistency of results obtained for calculating molecular weights of chemically treated coals. The present method of calculation was calibrated against data of Katz et al., then applied to the data of Sun and Burk for g.p.c. fractions of alkylated coals. The newly calculated value for Mw (3300) did not agree with Sun and Burk's value of 7882.
Twisted Frobenius-Schur indicators for Hopf algebras

Abstract The classical Frobenius–Schur indicators for finite groups are character sums defined for any representation and any integer m ⩾ 2 . In the familiar case m = 2 , the Frobenius–Schur indicator partitions the irreducible representations over the complex numbers into real, complex, and quaternionic representations. In recent years, several generalizations of these invariants have been introduced. Bump and Ginzburg, building on earlier work of Mackey, have defined versions of these indicators which are twisted by an automorphism of the group. In another direction, Linchenko and Montgomery have defined Frobenius–Schur indicators for semisimple Hopf algebras. In this paper, the authors construct twisted Frobenius–Schur indicators for semisimple Hopf algebras; these include all of the above indicators as special cases and have similar properties.
The identity of the EPR A-center and the self-activated luminescence center in ZnS: Cl

Abstract Generation and bleaching with polarized light of the EPR signal associated with the zinc vacancy-chlorine donor pair (A-center) in ZnS : Cl are described. Excitation bands at 3550 and 3300A and bleaching bands at 9000 and 13,000A are revealed and their polarization properties determined. The close correlation with the polarized luminescence studies of Koda and Shionoya on the ‘self-activated’ luminescence center confirms that the luminescence arises from the zinc vacancy-chlorine pair.
Diffuse radiation configuration view factors between two spheres, and their limits

Abstract A numerical procedure was used to calculate the diffuse radiation configuration view factor between two spheres for a separation greater than or equal to zero and various radius ratios. Results are presented for the view factor as a function of the spacing ratio (1 ≤ c/R ≤ 7) for various radius ratios, (0 ≤ r/R ≤ 5). All values of the view factor, F12 lie within a narrow region bound by the curves for zero separation and spherical point sources (r/R = 0). Curves are presented that show the percentage difference between the numerically obtained view factor and the one obtained by replacing the finite sphere with a spherical point source.
Two-dimensional analysis of the interdigited back-contact solar cell

Abstract Using two-dimensional computer analysis, the interdigited back contact silicon solar cell (IBC) was analyzed at high illumination levels and the results were compared with the conventional Front Junction cell. The change of effectiveness of Chockley-Read-Hall bulk and surface recombination centers at high currents as well as the induced internal electric field are argued to explain the improved efficiency predicted for IBC cells at high illumination levels. For a 100 μm cell thickness and lifetime τ p 0 = 10 μ sec the efficiency is indicated to increase from 7.5% at 1 sun to 14.0% at 100 suns AMO, when a surface recombination velocity ( s 0 ) equal to 1000 cm/sec is assumed. The substrate thickness to provide maximum efficiency was found to be approximately 50 μm. It is confirmed that the surface lifetime is a significant factor in determining the device conversion efficiency. Since surface recombination dominates the efficiency, a new IBC cell design with a front doping gradient has been introduced to suppress the surface recombination. The IBC cell with 10 18 /cm 3 front surface n + -doping concentration is optimum for an impurity diffusion depth of 10 μm, s 0 = 1000 cm/sec, τ p 0 = 10 μ sec, for which an efficiency of 12% is computed at 1 sum AMO. A useful efficiency of about 8% at 1 sun AMO, even with s 0 = 10 5 cm/sec, is predicted with front doping.
Management of Tracheostomal Stenosis

Background: Tracheostomal stenosis following laryngectomy is a distressing complication with major effects on patient rehabilitation. Management ranges from stenting with a prosthetic device to surgical revision. The goal is a widely patent stoma that is amenable to tracheoesophageal puncture. Objective : Review the long-term results of different methods of tracheostomal revision. Methods: Review of 43 patients with symptomatic tracheostomal stenosis. End point was ability to function with no artificial stenting of their stoma. Results: Forty-three patients underwent 55 revisions. The male-to-female ratio was 1.3:1.0. The age range was from 38 to 81 years (mean age, 59.5 y). Median time to revision was 11 months following the initial surgical procedure (range, 1-150 mo). Thirty-three patients underwent one revision; eight patients, two revisions; and two patients, three revisions. In 40 of 43 patients (93%) revision was successful. Of the last 21 patients who underwent revision, 18 had tracheoesophageal punctures placed. Fifteen developed excellent tracheoesophageal speech. The initial rates of success for these procedures were as follows: advancement flaps, 8 of 9; Z-plasty, 13 of 15 ; V-Y inset, 8 of 8; other procedures, 2 of 4; and dilation, 2 of 7 (P <.05 for dilation vs. all others). The ultimate success rates for these procedures were as follows: advancement flaps, 8 of 11; Z-plasty, 15 of 18; V-Y inset, 12 of 13; other procedures, 3 of 6; and dilation, 2 of 7. Other procedures and dilation were inferior (P <.05) compared with advancement flap, Z-plasty, and V-Y insets. Conclusion: Tracheostomal stenosis can be successfully managed in a multitude of ways.
Advising on publication.

Donald Kennedy's Editorial “Better never than late” (14 Oct. 2005, p. [195][1]) appears to misunderstand the role of the National Science Advisory Board on Biosecurity (NSABB), as well as Secretary Leavitt's decision to ask the NSABB to review the Tumpey manuscript (“Characterization of the reconstructed 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic virus,” T. M. Tumpey et al. , Research Articles, 7 Oct. 2005, p. [77][2]). When briefed on this manuscript authored by CDC staff and others, the Secretary noted the dual-use nature of the work and wanted additional expert advice on the position the Department should take concerning publication. The NSABB was specifically created to provide advice on dual-use research and its communication. The charter states that the NSABB is to “advise on national policies governing publication, public communication, and dissemination of dual-use research methodologies and results.” The Editorial asserts that the NSABB's “charter makes clear that it does not screen individual papers.” As one of the drafters of that charter, I take issue with this statement. While it was never the Department's intention to screen all dual-use papers, it was understood that special cases would occur from time to time and that the Secretary would need to seek advice on individual papers. Indeed, the charter provides that the NSABB shall “address any other issues as directed by the Secretary.” Out of an abundance of caution, Secretary Leavitt sought the NSABB's advice on publication of this manuscript and a companion manuscript planned for publication in Nature . The Department expedited the NSABB review process. NSABB members and staff worked long hours to ensure that any disruptions caused by this additional layer of review were minimized. In the end, the NSABB recommended that the Department support publication. Given the significance of the 1918 virus, it was both reasonable and appropriate for the Secretary to seek the advice of the NSABB. It might have caused some concern among the Editorial staffs at the two publications, but under the circumstances I say, “Better safe than sorry.” [1]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.310.5746.195 [2]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.1119392
The mode of operation of porous diffusion electrodes—I. Simple redox systems☆

Abstract The complete rate equation for the electrochemical reaction of a redox system at a porous diffusion electrode is obtained by considering the combined effects of the charge-transfer and mass-transport processes. It is shown that the correction of diffusion coefficients using transport numbers is an over-simplification, but that a constant diffusion coefficient can be assumed. For the case where the concentration of reactant approaches zero at some penetration in the electrode, and the reaction is irreversible, the complete rate equation reduces to a simple form with a Tafel slope double the normal slope and an apparent exchange current density of √(ioSnFDRb), where io is the true exchange current density, S the specific internal area of the electrode, D the effective diffusion coefficient of reactant in the electrode and Rb the concentration of reactant in the free electrolyte. The case where mass-transport effects in the electrode are negligible compared to ohmic voltage gradients is also treated and again it is predicted that for an irreversible reaction a Tafel plot will be obtained with double the normal slope. In this case the apparent exchange current density is √[2ioS( RT α nF )/ϱ], where ϱ is the effective resistivity of the electrolyte in the electrode. An analysis of the relationship between ohmic gradients and mass-transport gradients shows that mass-transport effects will normally outweigh ohmic effects. Experimental verification of the effect of internal mass-transport has been obtained for the system Sn2+/Sn4+ in HCl, at pressed porous electrodes of pure carbon.
System-level power/performance analysis for embedded systems design

This paper presents a formal technique for system-level power/performance analysis that can help the designer to select the right platform starting from a set of target applications. By platform we mean a family of heterogeneous architectures that satisfy a set of architectural constraints imposed to allow re-use of hardware and software components. More precisely, we introduce the Stochastic Automata Networks (SANs) as an effective formalism for average-case analysis that can be used early in the design cycle to identify the best power/performance figure among several appli-cation-architecture combinations. This information not only helps avoid lengthy profiling simulations, but also enables efficient map-pings of the applications onto the chosen platform. We illustrate the features of our technique through the design of an MPEG-2 video decoder application.
Cellular remodeling in heart failure disrupts KATP channel‐dependent stress tolerance

ATP-sensitive potassium (K(ATP)) channels are required for maintenance of homeostasis during the metabolically demanding adaptive response to stress. However, in disease, the effect of cellular remodeling on K(ATP) channel behavior and associated tolerance to metabolic insult is unknown. Here, transgenic expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha induced heart failure with typical cardiac structural and energetic alterations. In this paradigm of disease remodeling, K(ATP) channels responded aberrantly to metabolic signals despite intact intrinsic channel properties, implicating defects proximal to the channel. Indeed, cardiomyocytes from failing hearts exhibited mitochondrial and creatine kinase deficits, and thus a reduced potential for metabolic signal generation and transmission. Consequently, K(ATP) channels failed to properly translate cellular distress under metabolic challenge into a protective membrane response. Failing hearts were excessively vulnerable to metabolic insult, demonstrating cardiomyocyte calcium loading and myofibrillar contraction banding, with tolerance improved by K(ATP) channel openers. Thus, disease-induced K(ATP) channel metabolic dysregulation is a contributor to the pathobiology of heart failure, illustrating a mechanism for acquired channelopathy.
Old-Age Interfer(on)ing

Proper immunity against pathogens, although essential for human life, can exhibit a dark side when the powers of immune cells become detrimental to the host. The tight control of these destructive immune powers is particularly important in the brain, in which neuronal function depends on the careful regulation of potentially harmful microglia (brain macrophages) and durability of the blood-brain barrier, which shields neurons from immediate exposure to chemicals and pathogens in the blood. Recent findings from Baruch et al . show that cells in the choroid plexus (CP)—which separates the human brain from the circulation, and thus the rest of our body—could damage neurons during aging. Among various mediators of immune responses, polypeptides of the interferon family play a chief role in balancing the precarious act of destroying pathogens while leaving the inner sanctum of the body largely intact. Baruch et al. found an age-related perversion in the CP barrier function that shifts from an interferon type II (IFN-II) protective response to an IFN-I response. The latter is injurious to neurons. Cognitive-function analysis in mice that are deficient for IFN-II signaling revealed that IFN-II–dependent processes are crucial for maintaining normal brain function during aging. Activation of IFN-I, on the other hand, leads to a decrease in CP production of neurotrophic factor, which is essential for neuronal proliferation and survival during aging. Moreover, the authors were able to reverse age-associated cognitive impairments in mice by specifically blocking IFN-I signaling within the brain. Restored cognitive function in the new object recognition task in these mice was associated with increased anti-inflammatory gene expression, enhanced neurogenesis, and a reduction in glial activation (a sign of neuroinflammation frequently associated with neurodegeneration) in the hippocampus. These data suggest that the ability to neutralize IFN-I responses in the aging brain might provide a powerful tool to curb age-associated cognitive decline in humans. Last, because the mechanisms that govern type II versus type I IFN regulation are well known and numerous genetic variants in the human population have been associated with abnormal IFN responses, these regulatory variants could be used to determine the underlying mechanisms of age-associated cognitive changes in humans. K. Baruch et al ., Aging-induced type I interferon response at the choroid plexus negatively affects brain function. Science , published online 21 August 2014 (10.1126/science.1252945). [[Abstract]][1] [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/content/early/2014/08/20/science.1252945.abstract
Operational characteristics of wind plants and windfarms

A wide range of power generation technologies exist today, whose characteristics can vary significantly. Additionally, a diverse range of wind turbines are available in the market. With experienced wind developers taking the charge in installing multi-megawatt-size windfarms at a rapid pace, the role of wind power in electricity generation is bound to grow in significance in the coming years. This panel takes a critical look at the operating characteristics of existing and planned wind power generation systems and their relationship to interconnection requirements and performance standards.
Hyperbilirubinemia in the Newborn Infant ≥35 Weeks’ Gestation: An Update With Clarifications

In July 2004, the Subcommittee on Hyperbilirubinemia of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published its clinical practice guideline on the management of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infant ≥35 weeks of gestation,1 and a similar guideline was published in 2007 by the Canadian Paediatric Society.2 Experience with implementation of the AAP guideline suggests that some areas require clarification. The 2004 AAP guideline also expressed hope that its implementation would “reduce the incidence of severe hyperbilirubinemia and bilirubin encephalopathy… .” We do not know how many practitioners are following the guideline, nor do we know the current incidence of bilirubin encephalopathy in the United States. We do know, however, that kernicterus is still occurring in the United States, Canada, and Western Europe.3–7 In 2002, the National Quality Forum suggested that kernicterus should be classified as a “serious reportable event,”8 sometimes termed a “never event,”9 implying that with appropriate monitoring, surveillance, and intervention, this devastating condition can, or should, be eliminated. Although this is certainly a desirable objective, it is highly unlikely that it can be achieved given our current state of knowledge and practice.10 In certain circumstances (notably, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase [G6PD] deficiency, sepsis, genetic predisposition, or other unknown stressors), acute, severe hyperbilirubinemia can occur and can produce brain damage despite appropriate monitoring and intervention. In addition to clarifying certain items in the 2004 AAP guideline, we recommend universal predischarge bilirubin screening using total serum bilirubin (TSB) or transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurements, which help to assess the risk of subsequent severe hyperbilirubinemia. We also recommend a more structured approach to management and follow-up according to the predischarge TSB/TcB, gestational age, and other risk factors for hyperbilirubinemia. These recommendations represent a consensus of expert opinion based on the available evidence, and they are supported by … Address correspondence to M. Jeffrey Maisels, MB, BCh, DSc, Beaumont Children's Hospital, 3601 W. 13 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48073. E-mail: JMaisels{at}beaumont.edu
Robotic deployment of electromagnetic sensors for meteorite search

This paper describes the development and implementation of a combined metal and magnetic sensor suite for the detection of meteorites from a mobile robot. The relative disposition of the sensors and the overall configuration of the sensor suite with respect to the rover are such that clean measurements are achieved and interference is minimized. We validated the combined electromagnetic sensors in laboratory and field tests on a variety of stony and iron meteorites. Experiments show that both sensing modalities (eddy current and magnetic) are necessary to achieve comprehensive readings from meteorites. The sensors have detected meteorites smaller than 2 cm in size. The sensor suite is configured to allow in-situ, autonomous calibration of the sensors and to mitigate noise from the electrical components of the robot that deploys them.
Business: Conceptualizations of Organizational Change Viewed Through the Lens of Power: A Tutorial for the Speech-Language Pathologist/Audiologist Administrator

Both educational and health care organizations are in a constant state of change, whether triggered by national, regional, local, or organization-level policy. The speech-language pathologist/audio...
Immigrant Generation, Assimilation, and Adolescent Psychological Well-Being

Utilizing data on adolescents in secondary school from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), this article examines the link between immigrant generation and adolescent psychological well-being. I find that first-generation immigrants experience less depression and greater positive well-being than their native-born agemates of similar demographic and family backgrounds. Second-generation immigrants, however, do not differ significantly from native-born youth in terms of psychological well-being. A number of family influences serve as "protective" factors that enable first-generation immigrants to maintain their higher levels of well-being. These factors include parental supervision, lack of parent-child conflict, religious practices, and social support. Assimilation among first-generation immigrants, as measured by age at arrival in the U.S., does not significantly affect their positive well-being.
BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERIC NANOPARTICLES FOR TUMOR-SELECTIVE TAMOXIFEN DELIVERY: IN VITRO AND IN VIVO STUDIES

1. ABSTRACT This study was performed to evaluate the in-vitro and in-vivo tumor-cellular uptake and biodistribution pattern of tamoxifen when administered intravenously as a simple solution and upon encapsulation into biodegradable, surface-modified poly(E-caprolactone) (PCL) nanoparticles. PCL (MW - 15,000) nanoparticles were prepared by the solvent displacement method and characterized for particle size/charge and surface morphology (by scanning electron microscopy). We investigated the nanoparticle-surface modification potential of the hydrophilic stabilizer (Pluronic ® F-68 and F-108) employed during the preparation by electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). Quantitative in-vitro cellular uptake of tritiated ( 3 H) tamoxifen in solution form and as nanoparticulate formulation was assessed in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. In-vivo biodistribution studies for the same formulations were carried out in Nu/Nu mice bearing MDA-MB-231 human breast carcinoma xenograft. Spherical nanoparticles having positive zeta potential (-25 mV) were obtained in the size range of 200-300 nm. Pluronics (both F-68 and F-108), the triblock copolymers of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(propylene oxide) induced surface hydrophilization of the nanoparticles via adsorption as evident by ESCA. Nanoparticulate formulations of tamoxifen achieved higher intracellular concentrations when exposed at therapeutic concentrations to tumor cells in-vitro compared to solutions. The in-vivo biodistribution studies carried out in nude mice bearing experimental breast tumor suggested increased tumor concentrations for the drug administered as nanoparticulate formulations besides longer retention times within tumor mass. This type of delivery system is expected to provide better therapeutic benefit by dual means: preferential concentration within the tumor mass via enhanced permeation and retention pathway, and; subsequent controlled release, thus maintaining the local drug concentration for longer periods of time to achieve maximal cell
Ground and surface temperature variability for remote sensing of soil moisture in a heterogeneous landscape

summary At the Little River Watershed (LRW) heterogeneous landscape near Tifton Georgia US an in situ network of stations operated by the US Department of Agriculture–Agriculture Research Service-Southeast Watershed Research Lab (USDA–ARS-SEWRL) was established in 2003 for the long term study of climatic and soil biophysical processes. To develop an accurate interpolation of the in situ readings that can be used to produce distributed representations of soil moisture (SM) and energy balances at the landscape scale for remote sensing studies, we studied (1) the temporal and spatial variations of ground temperature (GT) and infra red temperature (IRT) within 30 by 30 m plots around selected network stations; (2) the relationship between the readings from the eight 30 by 30 m plots and the point reading of the network stations for the variables SM, GT and IRT; and (3) the spatial and temporal variation of GT and IRT within agriculture landuses: grass, orchard, peanuts, cotton and bare soil in the surrounding landscape. The results showed high correlations between the station readings and the adjacent 30 by 30 m plot average value for SM; high seasonal independent variation in the GT and IRT behavior among the eight 30 by 30 m plots; and site specific, in-field homogeneity in each 30 by 30 m plot. We found statistical differences in the GT and IRT between the different landuses as well as high correlations between GT and IRT regardless of the landuse. Greater standard deviations for IRT than for GT (in the range of 2–4) were found within the 30 by 30 m, suggesting that when a single point reading for this variable is selected for the validation of either remote sensing data or water-energy models, errors may occur. The results confirmed that in this landscape homogeneous 30 by 30 m plots can be used as landscape spatial units for soil moisture and ground temperature studies. Under this landscape conditions small plots can account for local expressions of environmental processes, decreasing the errors and uncertainties in remote sensing estimates caused by landscape heterogeneity. Published by Elsevier B.V.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Assessment in the Schools

Abstract The purpose of this article is to review augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) assessment issues in the schools. Initially, the article discusses the role and responsibilities o...
Elasticity-based three dimensional ultrasound real-time volume rendering

Volumetric ultrasound imaging has not gained wide recognition, despite the availability of real-time 3D ultrasound scanners and the anticipated potential of 3D ultrasound imaging in diagnostic and interventional radiology. Their use, however, has been hindered by the lack of real-time visualization methods that are capable of producing high quality 3D rendering of the target/surface of interest. Volume rendering is a known visualization method, which can display clear surfaces out of the acquired volumetric data, and has an increasing number of applications utilizing CT and MRI data. The key element of any volume rendering pipeline is the ability to classify the target/surface of interest by setting an appropriate opacity function. Practical and successful real-time 3D ultrasound volume rendering can be achieved in Obstetrics and Angio applications where setting these opacity functions can be done rapidly, and reliably. Unfortunately, 3D ultrasound volume rendering of soft tissues is a challenging task due to the presence of significant amount of noise and speckle. Recently, several research groups have shown the feasibility of producing 3D elasticity volume from two consecutive 3D ultrasound scans. This report describes a novel volume rendering pipeline utilizing elasticity information. The basic idea is to compute B-mode voxel opacity from the rapidly calculated strain values, which can also be mixed with conventional gradient based opacity function. We have implemented the volume renderer using GPU unit, which gives an update rate of 40 volume/sec.
High spatial resolution Kelvin probe force microscopy with coaxial probes.

Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) is a widely used technique to measure the local contact potential difference (CPD) between an AFM probe and the sample surface via the electrostatic force. The spatial resolution of KPFM is intrinsically limited by the long range of the electrostatic interaction, which includes contributions from the macroscopic cantilever and the conical tip. Here, we present coaxial AFM probes in which the cantilever and cone are shielded by a conducting shell, confining the tip–sample electrostatic interaction to a small region near the end of the tip. We have developed a technique to measure the true CPD despite the presence of the shell electrode. We find that the behavior of these probes agrees with an electrostatic model of the force, and we observe a factor of five improvement in spatial resolution relative to unshielded probes. Our discussion centers on KPFM, but the field confinement offered by these probes may improve any variant of electrostatic force microscopy.
Dynamic analysis of an accelerator-driven fluid-fueled subcritical radioactive waste burning system

The recent revival of interest in accelerator-driven subcritical fluid-fueled systems is documented. Several important applications of these systems are mentioned, and this is used to motivate the need for dynamic analysis of the nuclear kinetics of such systems. A physical description of the Los alamos National Laboratory accelerator-based conversion (ABC) concept is provided. This system is used as the basis for the kinetics study in this research. The current approach to the dynamic simulation of an accelerator-driven subcritical fluid-fueled system includes four functional elements: a discrete ordinates model is used to calculate the flux distribution for the source-driven system; a nodal convection model is used to calculate time-dependent isotope and temperature distributions that impact reactivity; a nodal importance weighting model is used to calculate the reactivity impact of temperature and isotope distributions and to feed this information back to the time-dependent nodal convection model; and a transient driver is used to simulate transients, model the balance of plant, and record simulation data. Specific transients that have been analyzed with the current modeling system are discussed. These transients include loss-of-flow and loss-of-cooling accidents, xenon and samarium transients, and cold-plug and overfueling events. The results of various transients have uncovered unpredictable behavior,more » unresolved design issues, and the need for active control. The need for the development of a nodal-coupling spatial kinetics model is mentioned.« less
Effect of genetic sectoring on vehicle routing problems with time windows

In vehicle routing problems with time windows (VRPTW), a set of vehicles with limited capacity and travel time, are to routed from a central depot to a set of geographically dispersed customers with known demands within specified time windows. The VRSPTW is an NP-hard problem. That is, the time taken to solve it optimally increases exponentially with respect to the size of the problem. Genetic sectoring is a partitioning method that uses a genetic algorithm to find feasible solutions for the VRPTW. The genetic sectoring method was tested on a standard set of VRPTW problems. The solutions obtained using genetic sectoring gave better solutions than known conventional methods. The authors carry out a statistical analysis of the solutions obtained using genetic sectoring, to ascertain the kind of problems in which it would be advantageous to use the genetic sectoring method. >
Robust control of a class of MIMO minimum-phase nonlinear systems

Studies robust control of a class of multi-input multi-output uncertain minimum-phase nonlinear systems :q which are input/output invertible but do not have well defined relative degree. It is known that this class of MIMO nonlinear systems cannot be transformed, via a change of coordinates and a state feedback, into a lower dimensional subsystem (which is the zero dynamics of the original system) driven by a set of chains of integrators, but more complicated interconnected structures. Sufficient conditions are presented for the existence of a nonlinear robust controller that achieves global asymptotic stability, uniformly on the unknown time-varying disturbances d(t) whose bound is known. The state feedback control law is explicitly constructed by using a Lyapunov-based recursive design procedure, i.e., the backstepping method. In the case when d(t) represents an unknown constant vector parameter and appears linearly in the nonlinear system, an adaptive controller is also developed, achieving global stability with state regulation.
Functional fluorescent nanocapsules for molecular imaging and potential targeted therapy

Dual-functional nanocapsules are developed using FDA approved materials for translational fluorescence molecular imaging and potential targeted therapy. In intro and in vivo experiments were conducted to test the performance of the functional nanocapsules.
The Kinematics of Orographic Airflow During Sierra Storms

Abstract Two case studies of the kinematics of the airflow over the Sierra barrier are presented. The observations consisted of rawinsondes and single Doppler RHI and velocity azimuth display (VAD) analysis of PPI scans. The RHI scans were made orthogonal to the nearly two-dimensional Sierra barrier. The cloud in the first case study contained a strong stable layer at 0°C while the second storm was highly unstable. The radar bright band and soundings near the radar indicated that an ∼250 m thick 0°C isothermal layer was present in response to the diabatic process of melting. When the bright band was impinging upon the barrier, the associated 0°C isothermal layer was inferred to expand until it finally reached the ground. At that point it was ∼1 km in depth. Direct thermodynamic soundings am presented for a similar situation which agrees with the modified soundings inferred for this study. The resulting effects on the airflow and precipitation are discussed. The unstable case contained a line of deep conve...
Large-scale advanced propeller blade pressure distributions: Prediction and data

Two Euler analyses techniques, finite difference and finite volume, were employed to predict the blade surface pressure distributions of a large scale advanced propeller. The predicted pressure distributions were compared with wind tunnel data. Both techniques produced blade pressure distributions that are in fairly good agreement with the data over the range of test Mach numbers of 0.2 to 0.78. However, the numerical simulations fail to predict correctly the measured pressure distributions for the low Mach number, high power case. The data indicate the presence of a leading edge vortex for this case. A discussion of the compressibility effects is also presented.
In Search of the Marketing Imagination: Factors Affecting the Creativity of Marketing Programs for Mature Products:

The profitability of established products is affected greatly by the extent to which they are meaningfully differentiated from competing alternatives. Maintaining meaningful differentiation, in tur...
Aircraft Turbofan Noise

Turbofan noise generation and suppression in aircraft engines are reviewed. The chain of physical processes which connect unsteady flow interactions with fan blades to far field noise is addressed. Mechanism identification and description, duct propagation, radiation and acoustic suppression are discussed. The experimental technique of fan inflow static tests are discussed. Rotor blade surface pressure and wake velocity measurements aid in the determination of the types and strengths of the generation mechanisms. Approaches to predicting or measuring acoustic mode content, optimizing treatment impedance to maximize attenuation, translating impedance into porous wall structure and interpreting far field directivity patterns are illustrated by comparisons of analytical and experimental results. The interdependence of source and acoustic treatment design to minimize far field noise is emphasized. Area requiring further research are discussed and the relevance of aircraft turbofan results to quieting other turbomachinery installations is addressed.
Abstract 3096: CDK4/6 as a therapeutic target in malignant melanoma

Proceedings: AACR 106th Annual Meeting 2015; April 18-22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer and FDA-approved therapies such as vemurafenib and ipilimumab are associated with short-term responses and/or severe toxicities for patients. Recent favorable clinical data with cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitor, palbociclib (PD’991) in ER+ breast cancer has rekindled an interest in targeting cell cycle progression to stop aberrant cell growth. Thus, we set out to analyze the potential use of CDK4/6 inhibitors in melanoma. Due to the inability of CDK4/6 inhibitors to induce apoptosis as a single agent, we explored viable combinatorial strategies that will trigger both pro-senescent and pro-apoptotic pathways that may lead to an effective treatment modality for melanoma patients. Here, we demonstrate the benefit of combining a MEK inhibitor, trametinib (GSK’212) with PD’991 both in vitro and in vivo. We did not observe any enhanced effects of combining both GSK’212 and PD’991 in cells that are wild-type for BRAF and NRAS or an RB1-null BRAF mutant line. However, B-RAF and N-RAS mutant cells exhibited an enhanced response to the combinatorial agents as compared to single agents. Furthermore, we observed a dramatic increase in apoptosis in cell lines that are sensitive to combined GSK’212 and PD’991 treatment. Expression of Inhibitor-of-Apoptosis (IAP) protein, survivin, was associated with response. Finally, because it is important to understand how resistance develops, we have validated a novel E2F reporter system in vivo to quantitatively and temporally measure the efficacy of CDK4/6 inhibitors and possible re-activation of the pathway during acquired drug resistance. Citation Format: Jessica L. Teh, Andrew Aplin. CDK4/6 as a therapeutic target in malignant melanoma. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 3096. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-3096
Focused ultrasound and metrics of diffusion of disruptive medical innovation

Innovation, as a concept in healthcare, has broad implications ranging from diagnosis to treatment of disease. The advent of new surgical modalities and medical devices continues to refine and reshape the provision of care for millions of patients across the world. Despite the tangible promise of such innovation, there remains a dearth of frameworks to understand how and how much progress has been made, particularly with regard to early-stage, non-invasive therapeutic technologies that have the potential to transform the treatment of medical disorders. A chief example of this is provided by MR-guided Focused Ultrasound. To the best of our knowledge, there are no prior reviews of the factors affecting adoption and diffusion of MR-guided Focused Ultrasound as a proxy for disruptive medical technologies. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive set of metrics to measure the factors affecting the rate of adoption and diffusion of these medical technologies with special focus on MR-guided Focused Ultrasound, Gamma Knife radiosurgery, and the da Vinci system. The authors review background information and literature regarding innovation in medical technology, and what constitutes disruptive innovation in the medical field. Metrics of adoption and diffusion are evaluated and applied to MR-guided Focused Ultrasound. Gamma Knife radiosurgery and the da Vinci system provide reasonable proxy technologies to understand the factors affecting the adoption and diffusion of MR-guided Focused Ultrasound. With a more comprehensive set of metrics to measure the rate of uptake and use of disruptive technology, we might move towards a better understanding of the limitations of new and potentially beneficial therapeutic modalities.
On the transport of a suspended particle in flow through the entrance region of a tube

The motion of a single, spherical particle, released at different radial positions at the inlet of the entrance region of a straight circular laminar flow tube (Re = 260), was studied theoretically. Radial migration of the particle, either toward the tube center or toward the tube wall, was predicted. Based on the hypothesis that the particle experienced a lift force which was produced by the vorticity in the boundary layer and a velocity difference between the center of the suspended particle and the fluid medium, an inertia-vorticity fluid dynamic model was formulated to analyze the particle radial motions. Computational flow dynamics (CFD) solutions obtained from a 9.8 mm diameter tube model included the resulting particle loci for three particle radii (a = 0.1 cm, 0.085 cm, 0.050 cm), with the particle entry at various radial positions. The computation also covered a range of different particle entry speeds. The results showed that the particle migrates toward the tube center if it lags behind the medium in the core region; otherwise, it migrates toward the tube wall. Additional flow experiments were conducted in a circular (2R = 10.2 mm), 300 mm long straight tube. A small polystyrene sphere (2a = 1.72 mm, density rho p = 1.014 g.cm-3) was released at the inlet (X = 0, eta/R = 0.48) with two dimesionless release velocities (omega p = 0, and omega p > 1.0). The recorded particle traces agree well with the computational model.
Laboratory diagnosis of structural hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias by capillary isoelectric focusing.

Structural hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias are congenital hemoglobin (Hb) disorders that cause anemia, morbidity, and mortality resulting from abnormal Hb function. Structurally different normal Hb variants include HbA(2), HbF (fetal hemoglobin), and HbA (adult hemoglobin). Each is a protein tetramer consisting of two α-globins, and either two δ-, γ-, or β-globins, respectively. Fetal Hb (α(2)γ(2)) predominates in neonates (60-95% of total Hb), but declines to <1% in older children and adults. HbA(2) (α(2)δ(2)) is a minor constituent with apparently normal function that is not detected in neonates, but increases to about 2-3% of HbA (α(2)β(2)) in older children and adults. Mutations in the genes that regulate the structure and synthesis of α-, β-, γ- and δ-globins produce abnormal and often dysfunctional Hb variants (structural hemoglobinopathy), or cause decreased synthesis of normal Hb variants (thalassemia) (1,2). DNA mutations that cause structural hemoglobinopathies are most commonly diagnosed by indirect assays that identify abnormal gene products (i.e., Hb variants) rather than abnormal genes. Over 600 abnormal structural Hb variants have been reported (3), most of which (95%) differ from normal HbA by replacement of a single amino acid (2). Although some structural mutations are benign, many (50% of β-variants and 20% of α-variants) alter Hb solubility, stability, or oxygen affinity in ways that adversely affect Hb function. In contrast, thalassemia syndromes are caused either by deletions of entire genes or by mutations that affect the production or processing of normal globin mRNAs.
WE-DE-BRC-04: Fault-Tree Analysis

This SAMs Therapy Educational Course will introduce participants to the tools recommended by TG 100 for use in the development of a risk-based Quality Management Program. The Course will start with an Overview of the background and rationale behind the TG 100 initiative, from which its charge was developed. After setting the scene, four 15 minute presentations will introduce the principal components of the soon to be published Report of TG 100. These are Process Mapping, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis, Fault Tree Analysis and the development of a QA/QM risk-based Program. There will be time for two short exercises based on Failure Modes and Effects Analysis and a Discussion before the SAMs questions which will conclude the session. Learning Objectives: 1. To appreciate the underlying philosophy of the TG 100 initiative. 2. To gain a brief overview of the principal risk-based tools recommended by TG 100. 3. In an informal workshop format, to explore, at an introductory level, the use of risk analysis as proposed by TG 100 as a prelude to the development of a Quality Management Program.
Introducing Second Language Acquisition: Answer guide to questions for self-study

Chapter 1 1-B, 2-C, 3-D, 4-A competence performance Chapter 2 Page 8 of Chapter 2 lists seven possible reasons. phonemes 1-C, 2-A, 3-B L1-innate capacity L2-L1, world knowledge, interaction skills, possibly innate capacity Input is necessary for both L1 and L2; social interaction is necessary for L1. […]
Immunological Assay of Serum Ribonuclease as a Marker for Pancreatic Cancer

Abstract Antibodies to human pancreatic ribonuclease were used to quantitate pancreatic-like enzyme in the serum of patients with pancreatic and other types of cancer, as well as healthy volunteers and individuals with diseases other than cancer. Serum RNase levels are normally age and sex related. In cancer patients the RNase level is frequently above the expected value, but not always so; pancreatic cancer patients showed elevated RNase in about half of our cases. But kidney and bladder cancer patients almost always showed elevated serum RNase, and non-cancerous kidney diseases also resulted in high enzyme levels. We conclude that serum pancreatic-like RNase is a poor marker for pancreatic cancer or any other specific disease, but its level may be a sensitive measure of kidney function.