cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Equilibrium Particle Distribution

The wide variety of particle beam applications require often very specific beam characteristics in terms of say cross section, divergence, energy spread or pulse structure. To a large extend such parameters can be adjusted by particular application of focusing and other forces. In this chapter, we will discuss some of these methods of beam optimization and manipulation.
STEVE and the Citizen Scientists.

Public participation in research has yielded unanticipated discoveries in many fields, but probably no recent discovery in astronomy and physics owes more to such citizen scientists than the identification of the one-of-a-kind aurora known as STEVE. A display of purple and green lights running east to west, STEVE appears relatively high up in the nighttime sky, for about an hour at a time. People who’ve been able to photograph it, from locations as far-flung as Tasmania, Michigan, and Scotland, and especially those in the area around Calgary, Alberta, report that the purple part of the aurora resembles a ribbon, with the green part appearing in a series of lines like a picket fence—an unforgettable sight.
Interrelations Between Hypertension and Electrocardiographic Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Their Associations With Cardiovascular Mortality.

Electrocardiogram (ECG) is the most common method for assessment of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in contemporary clinical trials. However, our understanding of the relation between hypertension and LVH is based on studies used imaging to ascertain LVH. To fill this gap in knowledge, we examined the interrelationships between hypertension, ECG-LVH and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in 6,105 patients free of CVD who were followed for 14.0 years (median). The was an exponentianl ECG-LVH prevalence rates (2.40%, 4.45%, 5.75%, 8.51%, 14.38%) were exponentially increases as systolic blood pressure increases ( 160 mm Hg, respectively); trend p value <0.001. Hypertension was associated with more than double the risk of ECG-LVH (odds ratio (95% confidence interval [CI]) 2.45 [1.83, 3.30]), and each standard-deviation increase in systolic blood pressure (19 mm Hg) was associated with 49% increased odds of ECG-LVH (odds ratio [95% CI] 1.49 [1.38, 1.61]). During follow-up, 733 CVD-deaths occurred. In separate Cox models, both ECG-LVH and hypertension were associated with CVD mortality (hazard ratio [95% CI] 1.39 [1.07, 1.81] and 1.39 [1.18, 1.62], respectively). However, when ECG-LVH and hypertension were entered together in the same model, the risk of CVD mortality was essentially unchanged for hypertension after adjusting for ECG-LVH, but markedly attenuated for ECG-LVH after adjusting for hypertension. In conclusion, the relation between hypertension and ECG-LVH follows a similar pattern to that reported in literature for imaging-LVH which provides support for the current practice of using ECG for assessment of LVH in contemporary hypertension clinical trials. The inability of ECG-LVH to explain the association between hypertension and CVD mortality suggests that LVH is only one of many factors by which hypertension exerts its impact on CVD.
Direction-finding Analysis of the 2012 July 6 Type II Solar Radio Burst at Low Frequencies

The 2012 July 6 X1.1 are at S13W59 and a halo coronal mass ejection (CME) with a space speed of 1900 km s1 were associated with type III and type II radio bursts. The metric-to-decametric type II radio burst extended down to 5 MHz. Simultaneously a slowly drifting feature with a harmonic structure was observed by Wind and STEREO radio receivers around and below 1 MHz, above the strong type III radio burst at lower frequencies. The radio direction finding analysis of this lower-frequency interplanetary (IP) type II radio burst indicates that the radio source was located near the nose and possibly towards the southern flank of the CME-driven shock. These results provide an independent confirmation of the previous suggestions that when the metric and IP type II bursts are overlapping, the lower-frequency IP type II radio burst originates near the shock nose, whereas the source of the higher-frequency metric type II burst is closer to the Sun in the shock flank region. These results further support the idea that the coronal and IP type II bursts are produced by the same CME-driven shock.
Magnetic susceptibility of Mn(III) complexes of hydroxamate siderophores

The hydroxamate siderophores putrebactin, desferrioxamine B, and desferrioxamine E bind Mn(II) and promote the air oxidation of Mn(II) to Mn(III) at pH>7.1. The magnetic susceptibility of the manganese complexes were determined by the Evans method and the stoichiometry was probed with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESIMS). The room temperature magnetic moments (μeff) for the manganese complexes of desferrioxamines B and E were 4.85 BM and 4.84 BM, respectively, consistent with a high spin, d(4), Mn(III) electronic configuration. The manganese complex of putrebactin had a magnetic moment of 4.98 BM, consistent with incomplete oxidation of Mn(II), as confirmed by X band EPR spectroscopy. Mass spectra of the Mn(III) desferrioxamine B and E complexes showed complexes at m/z 613.26 and 653.26, respectively, consistent with 1:1 complexation. Mass spectral peaks for manganese putrebactin at m/z 797.31 and 1221.41 corresponds to 1:2 and 2:3 Mn:putrebactin complexation. This study directly confirms the Mn(III) oxidation state in hydroxamate siderophore complexes.
Analysis of Water Coupling in Inelastic Neutron Spectra of Uranyl Fluoride

Inelastic neutron scattering (INS) is uniquely sensitive to hydrogen due to its comparatively large thermal neutron scattering cross-section (82 b). Consequently, the inclusion of water in real samples presents significant challenges to INS data analysis due directly to the scattering strength of hydrogen. Here, we investigate uranyl fluoride (UO2F2) with inelastic neutron scattering. UO2F2 is the hydrolysis product of uranium hexafluoride (UF6), and is a hygroscopic, uranyl-ion containing particulate. Raman spectral signatures are commonly used for inferential understanding of the chemical environment for the uranyl ion in UO2F2, but no direct measurement of the influence of absorbed water molecules on the overall lattice dynamics has been performed until now. To deconvolute the influence of waters on the observed INS spectra, we use density functional theory with full spectral modeling to separate lattice motion from water coupling. In particular, we present a careful and novel analysis of the Q-dependent Debye–Waller factor, allowing us to separate spectral contributions by mass, which reveals preferential water coupling to the uranyl stretching vibrations. Coupled with the detailed partial phonon densities of states calculated via DFT, we infer the probable adsorption locations of interlayer waters. We explain that a common spectral feature in Raman spectra of uranyl fluoride originates from the interaction of water molecules with the uranyl ion based on this analysis. The Debye–Waller analysis is applicable to all INS spectra and could be used to identify light element contributions in other systems.
BPA interferes with StAR-mediated mitochondrial cholesterol transport to induce germline dysfunctions

Bisphenol A is an endocrine disruptor associated with hormone synthesis and reproduction alterations. However, the initiating events underpinning these dysfunctions are still unclear. Here, we address the hypothesis that BPA interferes with the highly evolutionary conserved process of mitochondrial cholesterol transport, a crucial step in steroid hormone biosynthesis, by using the model organism C. elegans. We observed that embryonic lethality and germline apoptosis, hallmarks of BPA's reproductive toxicity in C. elegans, are fully rescued by low exogenous cholesterol supplementation. We also observed that increasing BPA concentrations proportionally reduced mitochondrial cholesterol levels. Mutants for strl-1 (ortholog of StAR), but not C41G7.9 (ortholog of TSPO), show reproductive defects similar to BPA's while BPA exposure in a strl-1 background did not worsen these effects. Finally, cholesterol supplementation rescued these defects for all strl-1 genotype/BPA combinations assessed. Together, these results uncover a novel mechanism underlying BPA's germline toxicity through the alteration of cholesterol transport.
Why we should take care of the competing risk bias in survival analysis: A phase II trial on the toxicity profile of radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

Abstract Aim The aim of the present study is to evaluate and quantify the bias of competing risks in an Italian oncologic cohort comparing results from different statistical analysis methods. Background Competing risks are very common in randomized clinical trials and observational studies, in particular oncology and radiotherapy ones, and their inappropriate management causes results distortions widely present in clinical scientific articles. Materials and methods This is a single-institution phase II trial including 41 patients affected by prostate cancer and undergoing radiotherapy (IMRT-SIB) at the University Hospital of Udine. Different outcomes were considered: late toxicities, relapse, death. Death in the absence of relapse or late toxicity was considered as a competing event. Results The Kaplan Meier method, compared to cumulative incidence function method, overestimated the probability of the event of interest (toxicity and biochemical relapse) and of the competing event (death without toxicity/relapse) by 9.36%. The log-rank test, compared to Gray's test, overestimated the probability of the event of interest by 5.26%. The Hazard Ratio's and cause specific hazard's Cox regression are not directly comparable to subdistribution hazard's Fine and Gray's modified Cox regression; nonetheless, the FG model, the best choice for prognostic studies with competing risks, found significant associations not emerging with Cox regression. Conclusions This study confirms that using inappropriate statistical methods produces a 10% overestimation in results, as described in the literature, and highlights the importance of taking into account the competing risks bias.
230 Referral patterns and uptake of risk reducing surgery for non-brca genes associated with increased risk of epithelial ovarian cancer

Objectives To identify referral patterns and uptake of risk reducing surgery (RRS) in patients with non-BRCA genes associated with an increased risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Methods A chart review of patients with mutations in MLH1, MSH2, EPCAM, MSH6, PMS2, RAD51C/D, BRIP1 was conducted from 2015–2018. Patients with BRCA1/2 and variants of uncertain significance were excluded; MSH6 and PMS2 were included (though recent change to insufficient evidence). Primary outcomes of interest were referral to a gynecologic oncologist and the uptake of RRS. Results Of 78 patients, 18 had undergone surgical management for treatment of cancer prior to genetic testing and were excluded. The majority of the patients (41 of 60, 68%) with non-BRCA actionable mutations were associated with Lynch Syndrome (LS). Of these patients, 23 of 60 (56%) were seen by gynecologic oncologists. Twenty of 41 (49%) underwent RRS. Excluding the MSH6 and PMS2 patients, 9 of 21 (43%) of patients with LS underwent RRS. Among patients with the non-BRCA and non-LS associated genes (RAD51C, RAD51D, BRIP1) the most common reason for testing was family history of cancer (10 of 19). Fifteen of 19 were referred to a gynecologic oncologist; all patients with BRIP1 mutation were referred, while 70% of those with RAD51/D were referred. Among this subset of patients, 9/19 (47%) patients underwent RRS; the remaining patients were screened with surveillance ultrasounds and/or CA-125. Conclusions Two-thirds of patients with non-BRCA genes associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer were referred to gynecologic oncologists, with a 48% of uptake or RRS.
Discovery of Antifungal and Biofilm Preventative Compounds from Mycelial Cultures of a Unique North American Hericium sp. Fungus

Edible mushrooms are an important source of nutraceuticals and for the discovery of bioactive metabolites as pharmaceuticals. In this work, the OSMAC (One Strain, Many Active Compounds) approach was used to isolate two new compounds (1 and 2) along with seven known compounds (3-9) from a mycelial culture of a unique North American edible mushroom Hericium sp. The fruiting body was collected in Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota (USA), and mycelial cultures were grown on four different solid and liquid media. Extracts from the mycelial cultures were screened for antimicrobial activity and only the extract from the Cheerios substrate culture exhibited antifungal activity. Bioassay guided fractionation and HPLC analysis were used to isolate nine pure compounds and the structures of the known compounds were established by analysis of the NMR and mass spectrometry data and comparison to published reports. Compound 1 is a new erinacerin alkaloid and 2 is an aldehyde derivative of 4-hydroxy chroman. Four chlorinated orcinol derivatives (3-6), a pyran (7), erinaceolactone (8), and erinacine (9) were identified. Compound 4 showed antifungal activity against C. albicans and C. neoformans (MIC = 31.3-62.5 μg/mL, respectively). Compound 4 also inhibited biofilm formation of C. albicans and C. neoformans at 7.8 μg/mL. These results suggest that mycelial cultures of edible fungi may provide useful, bioactive compounds.
A Spiral Radial Line Slot Array Antenna for NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART)

A spiral Radial Line Slot Array (RLSA) Qualification Model (QM) High Gain Antenna (HGA) was designed, fabricated and tested for the DART spacecraft. The antenna operated at the X-band Deep Space Network (DSN) frequencies of 7.2 and 8.4 GHz. The fabricated antenna exceeds the given requirements, agrees well simulations, and has been tested through environments resulting in a TRL-6 design.
In-Vehicle Networking Technology for 2010 and Beyond (2010-01-0687)

This paper is an overview of the current state (calendar year 2010) of in-vehicle multiplexing and what pertinent technologies are emerging. Usage and trends of in-vehicle networking protocols will be presented and categorized. The past few years have seen a large growth in the number and type of communication buses used in automobiles, trucks, construction equipment, and military, among others. Development continues even into boating and recreation vehicles. Areas for discussion will include SAE Class A, B, C, Diagnostics, SafetyBus, Mobile Media, Wireless, and Xby-Wire. All existing mainstream vehicular multiplex protocols (approximately 40) are categorized using the SAE convention as well as categories previously proposed by this author. Top contenders will be pointed out along with a discussion of the protocol in the best position to become the industry standard in each category.
Classification of Time-Series Data Using Boosted Decision Trees.

Time-series data classification is central to the analysis and control of autonomous systems, such as robots and self-driving cars. Temporal logic-based learning algorithms have been proposed recently as classifiers of such data. However, current frameworks are either inaccurate for real-world applications, such as autonomous driving, or they generate long and complicated formulae that lack interpretability. To address these limitations, we introduce a novel learning method, called Boosted Concise Decision Trees (BCDTs), to generate binary classifiers that are represented as Signal Temporal Logic (STL) formulae. Our algorithm leverages an ensemble of Concise Decision Trees (CDTs) to improve the classification performance, where each CDT is a decision tree that is empowered by a set of techniques to generate simpler formulae and improve interpretability. The effectiveness and classification performance of our algorithm are evaluated on naval surveillance and urban-driving case studies.
Detection of cancer markers or marker surrogates by infrared spectral histopathology (SHP): PD-L1 and Her2/neu

Abstract In this contribution, data will be presented that suggest that certain cancer markers or their surrogates can be detected by infrared spectral imaging methodology. In particular, the co-localization of certain regions in spectral images with PD-L1-postive immunohistochemical response suggests that either the PD-L1 protein or a surrogate associated with its presence are detectable. In the case of Her2/neu, an analysis of mean spectral signatures of over forty thousand individual spectra revealed small, but statistically significant spectral differences between cancer marker positive and negative tissues in spectral regions associated with protein phosphorylation.
Five Days of Antibiotic Therapy Is Comparable with 10 Days in Children with Community-Acquired Pneumonia

In a limited study, children with community-acquired pneumonia who were treated with five days of high-dose amoxicillin had cure rates comparable with those who were treated for 10 days.
The Asymptotic Solution of the Stimulated Raman-Scattering Equation

It is shown that the asymptotic solution of the Stimulated Raman Scattering equations approaches the similarity solution of the Sine-Gordon equation which is also the third Painleve transcendent. We also give a method for constructing the physical solutions of this third Painleve transcendent by means of integral inverse scattering equations expanded about the singular point z = 0, in contrast to other methods which invaribly expand the solution about z = ±∞. Moreover, since our method of solution is based on inverse scattering, it is now feasible to directly relate the physical solution near the singular point z = 0 to the physical solution near the irregular singular points z = ±∞.
An empirical study of the 4-valued Kripke-Kleene and 4-valued well-founded semantics in random propositional logic programs

We empirically investigated the difficulty of finding stable models for logic programs using backtracking, by trying to identify what makes random instances easy or hard. Additionally, we empirically investigated the effectiveness of the 4dvalued Kripke–Kleene semantics (4KK) and the 4dvalued welldfounded semantics (4WF) in the Niemela and Simons’ backtracking algorithm, smodels, for finding stable models. We studied the behavior of 4KK and 4WF in a parameterized distribution of random propositional logic programs of fixed ruledlength k. In all of our experiments, 4KK and 4WF (both modified to extend an input partial truth assignment) were computed with respect to a fixed percentage of proposition letters (randomly chosen) initially assigned TRUE and a fixed percentage (randomly chosen) initially assigned FALSE. There exists a region, R, in the parameter space of our distribution where smodels required a large number of recursive calls to determine if programs generated in this region have any stable models. Hence, the “hardest” programs for smodels to determine if a stable model exists lie in R. Additionally, there exists a subregion of R where smodels made significantly fewer recursive calls when using 4WF as a pruning technique than when using 4KK. To gain a deeper insight into the causes for the “hardness” of programs in R and the differences between 4WF and 4KK as pruning techniques in smodels, we examined more closely the behavior of 4KK and 4WF. There exists a region in which a very small percentage of inconsistent models were produced by both 4KK and 4WF, thereby providing very little information useful for smodels to immediately backtrack. This region roughly corresponded to the above region where smodels required a large number of recursive calls. Also, there exists a region in which both 4KK and 4WF produced a high percentage of inconsistent models, thereby providing information useful for smodels to immediately backtrack.
Touching Like a State

This paper offers a theorization of how the state touches. Through an analysis of the extensive 2011 protests over Wisconsin Senate Bill 11, we interrogate the relatively non-violent interactions between police and protesters during the 17-day occupation of the Wisconsin State Capitol building. On display there were diverse police deployments of “soft” force and haptic touching, technologies that enabled officers to subtly affect the movements and relations of protester crowds without resorting to familiar coercion- and consent-based politics. We offer a pair of concepts, cathexis and l'esprit de l'escalier, to diagram how statist touches were mobilized to catch individuals unawares and momentarily co-opt their bodily affects. These modes of control suggest much greater savvy regarding touch, force, and affect than is often granted in representations of the state apparatus. In light of this, we close with a reflection on the changing tactical grounds for struggle.
Confronting Gender-Based Violence with International Instruments: Is a Solution to the Pandemic Within Reach?

Within the past two decades, international actors have devoted increasing attention to the crisis of gender-based violence.2 Spurred in part by the gaining momentum of the global feminist movement, the United Nations (UN) and numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have developed strategies intended to end violence against women. Perhaps most fundamental in these developments is the recognition of women's rights as human rights. This Note explores the present and future of the global epidemic of violence against women. Through the comparison of four international documents, never grouped together previously, this Note examines whether these instruments can accomplish an evolution in the discourse surrounding gender-based violence. After establishing that such an evolution has occurred to a limited extent, this Note considers whether these four instruments hold the key to ending gender-based violence or whether more substantive steps must be taken. Finally, this Note argues that although the discussion surrounding violence against women has matured significantly, the continued male
The critical densities for some emission lines

The critical densities for some emission lines of astronomical interest, especially in the UV range, are calculated on the basis of recent atomic data. Many lines can be used to estimate the densities between 100,000-100 million/cu cm. It is suggested that the intensity ratios of forbidden ArIV 2869/2854 A and forbidden NeIV 2425/2422 A line pairs are good density indicators.
Development of 14 multiplexed microsatellite loci for raccoons Procyon lotor

In order to complement ecological information with genetic data we isolated and characterized 14 polymorphic microsatellite markers from raccoons (Procyon lotor). Three multiplexed panels comprising the loci were developed and 29 individuals from a contiguous habitat patch in northern Indiana, USA were genotyped. The number of alleles per locus ranged from four to 18, and overall heterozygosities ranged from 0.31 to 1.00. One locus was identified as possibly being X-linked, since males appeared to be hemizygous. Data generated using these markers will be used to further our understanding of small-scale raccoon population dynamics in a highly fragmented landscape.
Effects of display configurations on document triage

Document triage is the practice of quickly determining the merit and disposition of relevant documents. This practice involves selection of documents from a document overview and quick forms of reading: skimming, reading short portions of a longer document, and navigating through headings, indices, and tables of contents. Earlier studies of document triage practice showed considerable overhead related to window management during transitions between the document overview and reading interfaces. This study examines the impact of multiple display configurations on document triage practice. In particular, it compares (1) configurations with same and different size displays, and (2) configurations with and without user control over which activity is performed on which display. Results show a significant increase in the number of transitions between activities when a multi-display configuration is introduced although there is no significant difference between the different multiple display configurations. Additionally, user activity with a document was positively correlated with an overall assessment of document value.
The centennial of avionics: Our 100-year trek to performance-based navigation

In order to claim a century of avionics we must declare a birth date. In 2003 it was easy to declare the first century of fight based on the Wright brothers' 1903 fight. A birth date would also include a birth place. Since the Wright's epic fight took place in North Carolina and the aircraft was constructed in Ohio, both states lay claim to a birth place. The Wrights were not the first to fly. Certainly man had been flying balloons and gliders and even some powered fights that ended in crashes rather than successful landings. But what the Wrights did, take off, fly a distance and land in a manned, powered, heavier-than-air craft, was the right combination to launch a successful aviation industry.
Selective growth and electrical properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes

In this paper, we have studied selective area chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) on substrates patterened with catalyst films consisting of an ultra-thin transition metal layer supported by an Al under-layer.
Screening for Asymptomatic Atrial Fibrillation While Monitoring the Blood Pressure at Home: Trial of Regular Versus Irregular Pulse for Prevention of Stroke (TRIPPS 2.0)

Asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cause of strokes. Physician screening for AF has been recommended. Home screening for AF may increase the likelihood of detecting asymptomatic AF in patients at risk for stroke because of AF. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and accuracy of screening for AF when taking home blood pressure (BP) measurements using an automatic AF-detecting BP monitor. Subjects aged >64 years or those with hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, or previous stroke were enrolled by their primary physicians and given the AF-BP monitor and an electrocardiographic event monitor to use at home for 30 days. The AF-BP monitor reading was compared with the electrocardiographic reading to calculate the sensitivity and specificity of the device for detecting AF. A total of 160 subjects were enrolled, with 10 withdrawing, 1 excluded, and 10 with no AF-BP monitor logs or electrocardiographic recordings. Of the 139 subjects included, 14 had known AF. There was a total of 3,316 days with AF-BP monitor readings and electrocardiographic readings. On the basis of the initial daily AF-BP monitor readings, the AF-BP monitor demonstrated sensitivity of 99.2% and specificity of 92.9% for detecting AF. Two subjects with no histories of AF had AF-BP monitor readings of AF that were confirmed by the electrocardiographic monitor. One of these subjects was started on warfarin. In conclusion, home screening for asymptomatic AF while taking BP measurements can be performed accurately. This can be used to detect new AF, allowing treatment with anticoagulation to reduce the future risk for stroke.
In vitro fertilization pregnancy rates in levothyroxine-treated women with hypothyroidism compared to women without thyroid dysfunction disorders.

This is a copy of an article published in the Thyroid © 2012 Copyright Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.; Thyroid is available online at: http://www.liebertonline.com.
Simulation of Q-Band ESR spectra of immobilized spin labels

Abstract Simulations of second and first derivative Q-band ESR spectra of various nitroxide radical spin labels in frozen solutions of sec-butylbenzene and of glycerol have been performed using 15 input parameters: three principal values of A, three principal values of g, and three values of the linewidth for each of the three quantum numbers. The linewidth anisotropy is about 20%. Extra absorption peaks occurring at Q band are analyzed. Because of the good resolution and large number of spectral features, Q-band second derivative spectra are particularly suitable for obtaining values of the magnetic parameters. Magnetic parameters for the azethoxyl moiety are given. Traces of the g tensors show excellent agreement with isotropic values obtained in solution. Traces of the A tensors are 0.27 ± 0.09 G greater than isotropic hyperfine coupling. The primary effect of solvent polarity, expressed as a percentage change, is on gx and Ax. The high quality of the fits provides a bench mark to estimate improvements that might be obtainable by further refinement of the simulation.
Review of patient outcomes of aspergillus prophylaxis with voriconazole after lung transplantation

Purpose: At the time of lung transplant, we routinely perform bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of the recipient lungs, prior to explantation, for bacterial and fungal culture. We reviewed the outcome of those recipients proven to be colonised with filamentous fungi. Method: We retrospectively reviewed 470 cadaveric lung transplants (215 bilateral lung, 186 single lung, 69 heart-lung) performed over 17 years. Results: 43 recipients (9%) grew fungi from the transplant BAL, 19 of these filamentous fungi, 22 yeasts and 2 mixed filamentous fungi and yeasts. Of the 21 patients with filamentous fungi, 18 had Aspergillus fumigatus, 1 grew Aspergillus species and 2 had Scedosporium apiospermum. Only 7 of these 21 patients were previously noted to have sputum colonisation. All of the 21 patients received bilateral lung transplants, 17 (81%) of these for cystic fibrosis, 2 (9%) for fibrotic lung disease, 1 (5%) for bronchiectasis and 1 (5%) for emphysema. 18 of the 21 (86%) received a systemic antifungal as a result of the BAL culture, 9 received voriconazole and 9 itraconazole. 6 (28%) received a nebulised antifungal in addition (5 of these taurolene and 1 amphotericin). Relapse of infection occurred in 5 of the 21 (24%), 4 of whom had had prophylaxis with itraconazole and 1 of whom had no prophylaxis. 4 of the 5 were successfully treated with further systemic antifungals. Of the 21 patients 5 have subsequently died, however, only one death was attributable to fungal infection, which was due to disseminated Aspergillus fumigatus infection involving the central nervous system occurring at 11 days post transplant despite prophylactic itraconazole. The remaining 16 patients remain under active follow up. Conclusion: We conclude that time of transplant lavage provides invaluable information about colonisation with fungi allowing systemic prophylaxis to be administered at an early stage.
A multidisciplinary model for M&S graduate education

Modeling and simulation (M&S) is an increasingly important aspect of scientific investigation in numerous disciplines. In recent years, M&S also has gained considerable acceptance as a discipline in its own right. As a result, there is growing demand for at least two different approaches to M&S graduate education, one path for users of M&S and another path for developers of M&S. For universities, this means that the traditional departmental approach, the one-size-fits-all approach, is no longer adequate for M&S education. The focus of this paper is the development of a new multidisciplinary approach to M&S graduate education being implemented at Old Dominion University. The approach encourages development of a number of M&S programs or tracks, coordinated by university-level oversight, in which all academic colleges participate.
Impact of education on smoking cessation counseling by surgical residents.

Abstract Background Surgeons infrequently provide smoking cessation counseling for patients, in part because they lack training to do so. We investigated the efficacy of 2 methods of teaching smoking cessation counseling to surgical residents. Methods Residents’ knowledge and attitude toward smoking cessation counseling were assessed by written test. Counseling skills were assessed with standardized patients. Residents were randomized for smoking cessation education: a “Role-play” group received a 1-hour lecture plus an hour of role-playing. An evidence-based medicine (EBM) group attended a 1- hour EBM journal club on related articles. Changes in residents’ knowledge, attitude, and skills were assessed after education. Results Sixteen residents completed the study. After either form of education, residents demonstrated significant improvements in knowledge, attitude, and skills in smoking cessation counseling. There was no significant difference in improvement between the EBM and Role-play groups. Conclusions A brief educational intervention can significantly improve residents’ knowledge, attitude, and counseling skills for smoking cessation.
Reconstruction of electron trajectories in high-resolution Si devices for advanced Compton imaging

Abstract Compton imaging has been demonstrated to provide excellent detection and localization capabilities in the search and characterization of radiation sources. However, the currently achievable sensitivity is limited by the Compton cone, which is backprojected. By measuring the initial trajectory of the Compton electron, the cone may be reduced to a cone segment with a corresponding increase in sensitivity. We have demonstrated the ability to measure electron trajectories (tracks) in thick ( 650 μ m ), fully depleted silicon scientific CCDs, with a spatial resolution of 10 μ m in 2D. These measured tracks have been used to benchmark simulations of electron physics and detector response. We have developed an electron track algorithm to measure the initial electron direction in 3D from the CCD image, and utilized the modeled electron tracks to evaluate the angular resolution as a function of energy and initial direction for electrons up to ∼ 500 keV . For electrons above 150 keV and 30° out-of-plane, we have achieved an in-plane angular uncertainty of σ α ≲ 40 ∘ , and an out-of-plane uncertainty of σ β ≲ 30 ∘ in each hemisphere.
Ultrastructural characterization of glial cells in the rat pineal gland with special reference to the pineal stalk

In the present study the "interstitial" cells of the superficial pineal gland and the nonparenchymal cells of the pineal stalk in Sprague-Dawley rats were examined ultrastructurally with the aim of defining the cells more closely. The "interstitial" cells of the superficial pineal gland do not represent a homogeneous cell population. The most abundant cell type is the mononuclear phagocyte, most easily recognized by its dark appearance and its content of primary and conspicuous secondary lysosomes. Astrocytes can be distinguished by the typical appearance of their nuclei (i.e., a thin continuous rim of heterochromatin adjacent to the nuclear membrane), identical to that of astrocytes in the CNS. Depending on the absence or presence of glial filaments and their amount, a spectrum of astrocytic cells is present. Mature astrocytes with filaments throughout their cytoplasm are rare. Immature glial cells with few or no filaments predominate. In the vicinity of blood vessels pericytes are present. In view of the fact that the "interstitial" cells could generally be identified it is suggested to abandon the term interstitial for the cells in question. In the pineal stalk mature astrocytes predominate; they have some features in common with pinealocytes, i.e., the presence of intergrade endoplasmic reticulum and grumose bodies (lysosomes). Other unusual features are a relative abundance of coated pits and vesicles. Oligodendrocytes are restricted to the proximal part of the stalk, near the deep pineal, where myelinated axons are abundant. More distally a few Schwann cells were seen.
Mr. Reagan and the oceans

The Reagan administration has been unusually successful in shaping the direction of public policy through a dual strategy of shifts and reductions in the federal budget and the staffing of government with those loyal to Mr. Reagan and his conservative ideas. The consequences for the oceans have been a massive shift of support away from civilian to military ocean activities. In addition to this major reorientation of ocean policy, the Reagan approach has been characterized by continuing conflict between different branches and levels of government, a strong preference for symbols over substantive ocean decisions, and the absence of any long-term vision of the role the oceans might play in the nation's future.
Amazonian exploitation revisited: ecological asymmetry and the policy pendulum

The influence of pre-Columbian human populations on Amazonian ecosystems is being actively debated. The longstanding view that Amazonia was only minimally impacted by human actions has been challenged, and a new paradigm of Amazonia as a “manufactured landscape” is emerging. If such disturbance was the norm until just 500 years ago, Amazonian ecosystems could be far more ecologically resilient to disturbance than previously supposed. Alternatively, if the “manufactured landscape” label is an overstatement, then policy that assumes such resilience may cause substantial and long-lasting ecological damage. We present paleoecological data suggesting a middle path, in which some areas were heavily modified, but most of Amazonia was minimally impacted. Bluffs adjacent to main river channels and highly seasonal areas appear to have been the most extensively settled locations. Away from areas where humans lived, their influence on ecosystems was very local. Consequently, we see no evidence suggesting that large a...
Marginal iodide deficiency and thyroid function: dose-response analysis for quantitative pharmacokinetic modeling.

Abstract Severe iodine deficiency (ID) results in adverse health outcomes and remains a benchmark for understanding the effects of developmental hypothyroidism. The implications of marginal ID, however, remain less well known. The current study examined the relationship between graded levels of ID in rats and serum thyroid hormones, thyroid iodine content, and urinary iodide excretion. The goals of this study were to provide parametric and dose–response information for development of a quantitative model of the thyroid axis. Female Long Evans rats were fed casein-based diets containing varying iodine (I) concentrations for 8 weeks. Diets were created by adding 975, 200, 125, 25, or 0 μg/kg I to the base diet (∼25 μg I/kg chow) to produce 5 nominal I levels, ranging from excess (basal + added I, Treatment 1: 1000 μg I/kg chow) to deficient (Treatment 5: 25 μg I/kg chow). Food intake and body weight were monitored throughout and on 2 consecutive days each week over the 8-week exposure period, animals were placed in metabolism cages to capture urine. Food, water intake, and body weight gain did not differ among treatment groups. Serum T4 was dose-dependently reduced relative to Treatment 1 with significant declines (19 and 48%) at the two lowest I groups, and no significant changes in serum T3 or TSH were detected. Increases in thyroid weight and decreases in thyroidal and urinary iodide content were observed as a function of decreasing I in the diet. Data were compared with predictions from a recently published biologically based dose–response (BBDR) model for ID. Relative to model predictions, female Long Evans rats under the conditions of this study appeared more resilient to low I intake. These results challenge existing models and provide essential information for development of quantitative BBDR models for ID during pregnancy and lactation.
Rabbit immunization to xenogeneic red blood cells following anterior eye chamber inoculation.

Inoculation of human red blood cells (HRBC) into the anterior chamber of the eye (AC) of rabbits effectively stimulazed systemic antibody production. Intraocular (i.o.) inoculation was observed to be more effective a route of immunization than i.v. or i.m. inoculation of antigen. These results contradict the accepted belief that the AC is an immunologically privileged site in the body.
Evidence‐Based Practice and Its Implications for Culturally Sensitive Treatment

The author discusses the adherence of culturally sensitive treatment (CST) to evidence-based practice. CST is distinguished from empirically supported treatment. Therapists are advancing CST by designing and evaluating interventions and evolving their understanding of what makes CST work. La autora discute la adherencia del tratamiento culturalmente sensible (CST, por sus siglas en ingles) a la practica basada en evidencias. El CST se distingue del tratamiento empiricamente sostenido. Los terapeutas estan desarrollando el CST disenando y evaluando intervenciones y evolucionando en su comprension de los factores que hacen del CST un tratamiento eficaz.
Are CT scans obtained at referring institutions justified prior to transfer to a pediatric trauma center

Abstract Purpose To assess whether pediatric trauma patients initially evaluated at referring institutions met Massachusetts statewide trauma field triage criteria for stabilization and immediate transfer to a Pediatric Trauma Center (PTC) without pre-transfer CT imaging. Methods A 3-year retrospective cohort study was completed at our level 1 PTC. Patients with CT imaging at referring institutions were classified according to a triage scheme based on Massachusetts statewide trauma field triage criteria. Demographic data and injury profile characteristics were abstracted from patient medical records and our pediatric trauma registry. Results A total of 262 patients with 413 CT scans were reviewed from 2008 to 2011. 172 patients scanned (66%, 95% CI: 60%, 71%) met criteria for immediate transfer to a pediatric trauma center. Notably, 110 scans (27% of the total performed at referring institutions) were duplicated within four hours upon arrival to our PTC. GCS score Conclusion The majority of pediatric trauma patients were subjected to CT scans at referring institutions despite meeting Massachusetts trauma triage guidelines that call for stabilization and immediate transfer to a pediatric trauma center without any CT imaging.
Excitation of high-spin unnatural parity states in 208Pb from the (p, p′) reaction at 135 MeV

Abstract Differential cross sections for the excitation of states at 6.42, 6.73 and 7.04 MeV in 208 Pb by 135 MeV protons are reported. Both the excitation energies and the backward peaked angular distributions observed in this experiment and in a recent (e, e′) experiment strongly suggest that these states are predominantly one-particle-one-hole excitations with J π = 12 − , 14 − and 12 − , respectively. The present (p, p′) data are interpreted using a distorted wave impluse approximation and the effect of configuration mixing between the two 12 − states is investigated.
Remote focusing for programmable multi-layer differential multiphoton microscopy

We present the application of remote focusing to multiphoton laser scanning microscopy and utilize this technology to demonstrate simultaneous, programmable multi-layer imaging. Remote focusing is used to independently control the axial location of multiple focal planes that can be simultaneously imaged with single element detection. This facilitates volumetric multiphoton imaging in scattering specimens and can be practically scaled to a large number of focal planes. Further, it is demonstrated that the remote focusing control can be synchronized with the lateral scan directions, enabling imaging in orthogonal scan planes.
Acoustic communication in the Asian elephant, Elephas maximus maximus

Summary Existing knowledge of acoustic communication in elephants is based primarily on African species (Loxodonta africana and Loxodonta cyclotis). There has been comparatively less study of communication in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). In order to provide a basis for understanding the evolution and function of acoustic communication in proboscideans, I present a quantitative description of vocal communication in wild Asian elephants. I classify calls by acoustic features into 8 ‘single’ calls, 5 ‘combination’ calls and one possibly unique male call for a total of at least 14 distinct call types. Some of these vocalizations have never before been described. Certain low-frequency calls are individually distinct. Acoustic signals occur in a wide range of social contexts, with some differences in call production among age and sex classes.
The data family

A family in Massachusetts has become the most recorded in history. As children grow and learn, as parents tend and teach, cameras store every detail of their interactions and conversations. Julian Champkin heard Deb Roy talk about his family database and the insights it brings into how we learn language, not in a laboratory but in a real home.
Suppression of Gluconeogenesis and Endogenous Glucose Production by Exogenous Insulin Administration in the Newborn Lamb

Summary: Persistent endogenous hepatic glucose production is characteristic of the newborn lamb in response to exogenous glucose infusion. The hypothesis that decreased hepatic sensitivity for insulin may be a major mechanism accounting for the imprecision in glucose homeostasis was tested in 28 unanesthetized, mixed breed, term lambs. Either 0, 5.7, 6.2, or 12.5 mg glucose/kg/min was infused for a period of 2 hr after which simultaneous infusion of 0, 1.25, or 6.25 mU porcine insulin/kg/min was administered for 4 hr to produce a euglycemic, hyperinsulinemic steady state. Gluconeogenesis from lactate was measured by determining the ratio of 14C to 3H in plasma glucose during the simultaneous infusion of 14Cu-lactate and 3H6-glucose. Endogenous hepatic glucose production was determined by the prime-constant infusion technique of Steele using 3H6 radio-labeled glucose during a 50-min turnover period after the infusions. All animals maintained a constant plasma glucose concentration and glucose specific activity during the turnover period. Gluconeogenesis was significantly suppressed when insulin levels were in the 49–61 μU/ml range although endogenous glucose production was not affected. When plasma insulin concentrations were above 200 μU/ml, both gluconeogenesis and endogenous glucose production were significantly suppressed. These changes were observed irrespective of the steady state blood glucose concentration. Plasma glucagon concentrations were the same in all experimental groups and were not affected by glucose and insulin infusion nor were they responsive to differences in plasma glucose or insulin concentrations. Our data indicates that insulin may be the major hormone for the control of glucose homeostasis in the neonatal lamb and that there is a quantitative difference in the response of the various glucose homeostatic mechanisms to insulin. Speculation: Regardless of the plasma glucose concentration and the resultant counter-regulatory responses that may occur during prolonged continuous glucose infusion, endogenous glucose production in the neonatal lamb may be primarily controlled by insulin.
The changing concentration of the older nonmetropolitan population, 1960-90

Changes in the absolute and relative size of the elderly population since 1960 are decomposed into the underlying demographic components for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas and for nonmetropolitan subregions of the United States. Specifically we examine the components of net migration and natural increase for those aged 0-64 and those 65 or older....In general the aging of the nonmetropolitan population was predominantly due to elderly migration during the 1970-80 decade and to the loss of young people both before and afterward. Recent trends give little support for the view that the 1970s was the beginning of a new phase of deconcentrated settlement even for elderly persons. (EXCERPT)