cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Linear analysis and control of a tethered system with two rigid end bodies

Abstract A model is proposed for studying the dynamics of a tethered satellite system with identical rigid end-masses, offset tether attachment points, and a massless tether. The equations of motion are developed and linearized for use within a linear control system. A Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) paired with a reduced-order closed loop estimator is designed to control the attitude of each end-mass individually using Reaction Wheel Assemblies (RWAs), assuming measured angular rates from gyroscopes on the end-masses and tether. Modal analysis shows the existence of a slow tether libration mode and two fast modes of end-mass oscillation. The oscillation is shown to be approximated by a rigid pendulum with an accelerating pivot point. Two control methodologies are investigated: one which aligns each end-mass with the nadir vector and the other which aligns each end-mass with the tether. Results suggest that both modes of operation are controllable by a system architecture which employs LQR control and reduced-order closed loop estimation with a wide range of required control effort.
Symmetry in quantum theory: Implications for the convexity formalism, the measurement problem, and hidden variables

Symmetries are introduced into the convexity approach to physics. This allows one to make connections between classical and quantum theories by exploiting the properties of quantum mechanics on phase space. The measurement problem is discussed and many of the known no-go theorems are shown not to apply. Finally, hidden variable theories exhibiting these physical symmetries are shown to have a certain required group structure, if they exist at all.
Towards automated patient-specific optimization of deep brain stimulation for movement disorders

In this paper we present a simulation framework for automated optimization of deep brain stimulation (DBS) parameters based on the hand kinematics signal as the feedback signal, in patients with essential tremor. We used Gaussian Process regression (GPR) models to develop patient-specific models for predicting the effect of DBS on the hand kinematics using the clinical data that was recorded during DBS programming. In this framework, we characterized the performance of a Bayesian Optimization method to identify the optimal DBS parameters that maximized the clinical efficacy. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using black-box optimization methods for automated identification of optimal DBS parameters in clinical settings.
30-Day outcomes and predictors of complications after Puestow procedure

Abstract Background A lateral pancreaticojejunostomy, or a Puestow procedure, is used in chronic pancreatitis with ductal dilation and pain. The current literature on the Puestow is sparse. This study examines outcomes of Puestow procedures nationwide. Methods Using ACS-NSQIP database, patients who underwent a Puestow procedure from 2010 to 2016 were identified. Univariate analysis and multivariable regression models were used to identify predictors of mortality and morbidities. Covariates included in the regression models were chosen based on clinical significance. Results The cohort included 524 patients. The 30-day mortality rate was 1.2%(n = 6). At least one major complication occurred in 19.1% of patients including death (1.2%), major organ dysfunction (8.2%), pulmonary embolism (1.3%), and surgical site infections (13.0%). Diabetes, COPD, and transfusions were the strongest predictors of complications. Conclusions The Puestow procedure is an acceptable treatment modality with low rates of morbidity and mortality. Minimizing transfusions and optimizing pulmonary status may improve 30-day outcomes.
Predicting variability in transverse effective elastic moduli and failure initiation strengths in UD composite microstructures due to randomness in fiber location and morphology

Abstract In this study, variability in transverse mechanical properties of unidirectional (UD) composites arising from the randomness present in the geometrical descriptors of the fibers, specifically fiber location and morphology was quantified via finite element analysis of an ensemble of computer-generated microstructures. These microstructures were produced based on geometrical descriptors evaluated from the image analysis of an actual microstructure. To ensure consistency, all synthetic microstructures were modified to match both the short-range and long-range statistics of the actual microstructure. This technique enabled generation of microstructures that are statistically similar but morphologically different, i.e. they have the same statistics but different configurations. Image-based three-dimensional finite element models were developed for the microstructures based on pixel and morphology-based meshing strategies and subsequently analyzed for elastic and strength properties, respectively. Cohesive zone modeling and extended finite element method were employed to predict failure initiation strengths of the stochastic microstructures under two transverse biaxial loading scenarios: (i) transverse tension – transverse tension and (ii) transverse tension – transverse shear loading. Seven load ratio cases were investigated for each scenario, namely 0/1, 0.2679/1, 1 / 3 , 1/1, 3 / 1 , 3.7321/1, and 1/0. To demonstrate the variability existing in the investigated biaxial strengths of the UD composite microstructures, stochastic failure envelopes showing contours of three different reliability levels were developed. The results indicated that microstructural variability has little to no influence on transverse elastic moduli; however, it significantly influences transverse strengths. It was also found that the hexagonal packing microstructure provides a good estimation for the average effective elastic moduli, however, it overpredicts the strengths by a large margin.
Transit boundaries: race and the paradox of immobility within mobile systems

The central city is once again hot. Many city areas where poor minorities were left behind during the decades-long suburban growth are experiencing a revival. New high-rise condominiums and other d...
dadi.CUDA: Accelerating population genetic inference with Graphics Processing Units

Abstract Extracting insight from population genetic data often demands computationally intensive modeling. dadi is a popular program for fitting models of demographic history and natural selection to such data. Here, I show that running dadi on a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) can speed computation by orders of magnitude compared to the CPU implementation, with minimal user burden. This speed increase enables the analysis of more complex models, which motivated the extension of dadi to four- and five-population models. Remarkably, dadi performs almost as well on inexpensive consumer-grade GPUs as on expensive server-grade GPUs. GPU computing thus offers large and accessible benefits to the community of dadi users. This functionality is available in dadi version 2.1.0, https://bitbucket.org/gutenkunstlab/dadi/.
The “bumpy” adolescent nose: Acne associated angiofibroma‐like nasal papules

Background/objective Papular scars are a recently described clinical phenotype of acne scarring characterized by papules occurring on the nose and chin. We have observed a similar presentation of nasal papules among patients seen in our clinic for acne and sought to further characterize the clinical and histopathological characteristics of this entity. Methods In this single-site case series, a retrospective review of electronic medical records of patients with nasal papules in association with acne vulgaris between April 2018 and April 2019 was performed. Clinical and histopathologic findings were recorded. Results We identified 20 patients who presented with a similar clinical phenotype of predominantly skin-colored, dome-shaped papules concentrated on the nose and chin in association with a history of more classic facial acne vulgaris. Papular lesions were seen predominately in adolescent Hispanic males. Concomitant acne on other areas of the face was identified in 18 patients at presentation while two patients had a history of adolescent acne. Biopsies were performed for five patients. Histopathologic examination demonstrated features of fibrosis and dilated thin-walled blood vessels, typical of angiofibromas. Conclusion We present a series of adolescent patients with large, flesh-colored to erythematous papules seen predominantly on the nose. These lesions are histologically indistinguishable from angiofibromas and may represent an under-recognized yet disfiguring sequela of acne that may disproportionately affect adolescents with skin of color.
Effects of long-term vitamin D and n-3 fatty acid supplementation on inflammatory and cardiac biomarkers in patients with type 2 diabetes: secondary analyses from a randomised controlled trial.

Interventions that reduce inflammation may delay progression of microvascular and macrovascular complications in diabetes. We examined the effects of vitamin D3 and/or n-3 fatty acid supplementation vs placebo on 5 year changes in serum inflammatory and cardiac biomarkers in adults with type 2 diabetes. This study reports pre-specified secondary outcomes of the Vitamin D and Omega-3 Trial to Prevent and Treat Diabetic Kidney Disease, in which 1312 US adults with type 2 diabetes and without known cardiovascular disease, malignancy, or end-stage kidney disease were randomised using computer-generated random numbers in blocks of eight to vitamin D3 (2000 IU/day) vs placebo and n-3 fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]; 1 g/day) vs placebo in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Participants, examiners, and researchers assessing outcomes were blinded to intervention assignment. We measured serum IL-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) at baseline and after 2 and 5 years. A total of 333 participants were randomised to vitamin D3 and placebo n-3 fatty acids, 289 to n-3 fatty acids and placebo vitamin D3, 370 to vitamin D3 and n-3 fatty acids, and 320 to 2 placebos; 989 (75%) and 934 (71%) participants returned blood samples at 2 and 5 years, respectively. Participants had a mean age of 67.6 years (46% women). Overall, baseline geometric means of IL-6, hsCRP and NT-proBNP were 1.2 pg/ml, 1.9 mg/l and 262 ng/l, respectively. After 5 years, mean IL-6 and hsCRP remained within 6% of their baseline values while mean NT-proBNP increased by 55% overall. Compared with placebo, participants assigned to vitamin D3 had a 1.24-fold greater increase in NT-proBNP over 5 years (95% CI 1.09, 1.41; p = 0.003), while IL-6 and hsCRP did not have a significant difference in change. Comparing n-3 fatty acids with placebo, there was no significant difference in change in IL-6, hsCRP or NT-proBNP. No heterogeneity was observed in subgroup analyses accounting for baseline eGFR, urine albumin to creatinine ratio, initial biomarker concentration, 25-hydroxyvitamin D level or EPA+DHA index. Among adults with type 2 diabetes, supplementation with vitamin D3 or n-3 fatty acids did not reduce IL-6, hsCRP or NT-proBNP over 5 years. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01684722 The study was funded by grant R01DK088762 from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Abstract 16872: The Association of Mental Health Disorders With Heart Failure Outcomes and the Impact of Substance Abuse

Introduction: Depression is associated with adverse heart failure (HF) outcomes. Substance abuse disorders often co-occur with depression and other psychiatric disorders. It is unclear if associati...
Sports Fanship Changes Across the Lifespan

Using two studies and two theoretical perspectives—socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) and social identity theory—this article examines the intensity of sports fanship across the adult lifespan...
Premature or early bilateral oophorectomy: a 2021 update.

In this invited review, we discuss some unresolved and controversial issues concerning premature (<40 years) or early (40–45 years) bilateral oophorectomy. First, we clarify the terminology. Second...
Detection and modeling of recent tectonic deformation using of GIS and geomorphometric index along the watersheds of northern Tunisia

In order to understand on a regional scale the large watershed of Oued Medjerda conditions and history evolution, a neotectonic analysis was published using remote sensing techniques and geographic information system (GIS). In this study, the tectonic activity analysis and its implication in the development of the relief and the flow characteristics were carried out following (1) the extraction of geomorphometric index such as integral hypsometry (HI), the sinuosity of the mountain fronts (Smf), and the index of the width of the valley (Vf), and (2) the extraction of drainage anomalies by de-defining the asymmetry factor (Af) and the topographic factor (T). The results obtained from the extracted index were combined and integrated into a GIS to determine a neo-index, which is the Relative Tectonic Activity Index (IRAT). The average of these measured geomorphometric index was used to assess the distribution of relative tectonic activity in the study area. Thus, we have defined four classes to define the degree of IRAT: class 1__very high (1 2). In view of the relevant results of this approach, we were able to identify the strongly deformed zones associated with active tectonic anomalies and to conclude that the migration of the hydrographic networks of the sub-basins in two dominant directions is influenced by the reactivation of the underground faults, which coincides in space with the faults mapped in outcrops that are activated since the Miocene. This interpretation is corroborated by the spatial correspondence between these faults with the geometry of the sub-basins, by the change in sinuosity of the river when crossing these limits and by a high concentration of tectonic lineaments along these limits. Consequently, this study allowed (1) to determine the morphotectonic evolution of the region and the parallelism between the increase in this index and the degree of accentuated deformation of the rugged terrain, (2) provide geometric details for some already known tectonic structures, and (3) present a new diagram on the spatial evolution of morphostructural structures in close relation to recent tectonic activity in the region.
Zoledronic acid-associated symmetrical drug-related intertriginous and flexural exanthema (SDRIFE): report of baboon syndrome in a woman with recurrent metastatic breast cancer after receiving zoledronic acid.

Background: Baboon syndrome is a distinctive skin reaction in which the patient typically develops erythematous buttocks that appear similar to those of a baboon. The non-contact allergenic variant of baboon syndrome is also referred to as symmetrical drug-related intertriginous and flexural exanthema (SDRIFE). Zoledronic acid is a bisphosphonate that is used in patients with metastatic cancer to prevent bone complications. Purpose: Zoledronic acid-associated baboon syndrome is described in a woman with recurrent metastatic breast cancer. Methods: PubMed was used to search the following terms, separately and in combination: baboon syndrome, breast cancer, symmetrical drug-related intertriginous and flexural exanthema, and zoledronic acid. All papers were reviewed and relevant manuscripts, along with their reference citations, were evaluated. Results: Zoledronic acid has infrequently been associated with mucocutaneous adverse reactions. However, baboon syndrome has not previously been observed in patients receiving zoledronic acid. The reported woman developed baboon syndrome after her initial exposure to zoledronic acid. Conclusions: Non-contact allergenic drug-induced baboon syndrome has most commonly been associated with antibiotics such as beta-lactams and penicillins. Zoledronic acid-associated baboon syndrome has not previously been observed in cancer patients. Baboon syndrome (SDRIFE variant) was observed in a woman with recurrent metastatic breast cancer after her first exposure to zoledronic acid. In summary, SDRIFE can occur in oncology patients receiving zoledronic acid and zoledronic acid should be added to the list of medications associated with the potential to cause non-contact allergenic drug-induced baboon syndrome.
Opportunities and challenges in high-rate wireless sensor networking

Summary form only given. The first wave of embedded wireless sensor networks has generally been characterized by applications whose data rate requirements are quite low, usually less than tens of kilobits per second. The author believes that the next wave, characterized by applications in industrial process control, fabrication plants, structural health monitoring, fluid pipelining monitoring, and hydrology, will involve substantially higher data rates and will require new techniques for data delivery and for integrating computing and networking in sensor networks. This paper discusses these challenges at both the architectural and protocol levels, and suggests some research directions for the networking community. Many of these issues are also applicable in the context of Internet access over wireless "mesh" networks.
The Myth/Fact Message Frame and Persuasion in Advertising: Enhancing Attitudes Toward the Mentally Ill

This article examines the information processing implications of the myth/fact message frame (MFMF), where a widely held yet incorrect belief (i.e., a myth) is stated then countered with a correcting fact. We demonstrate in two studies that recipients of the MFMF tend to assess message content using peripheral processing, calling into question its persuasiveness in changing misconceptions about mental illness. More persuasive messaging can occur by removing the myth and presenting the message in a fact-only frame. In Study 2, we optimize the processing of the MFMF by including rhetorical questions, which increases elaboration of the message content, thus enhancing the likelihood of forming strong, positive attitudes toward the mentally ill.
Sex differences in formalin-evoked primary afferent release of substance P.

Background Sex differences in pain have been well documented; however, the mechanisms involved remain to be elucidated. The present study examined whether sex differences exist in the functioning of primary afferent fibres by assessing formalin-evoked release of substance P by way of neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1r) internalization. The study also investigated whether the observed effects would be oestradiol-sensitive. Methods Intact and gonadectomized male and female rats were given intraplantar formalin and then euthanized either 5 or 30 min later, representing phase 1 or 2 of the formalin response, respectively. In a subsequent experiment, ovariectomized females received oestradiol prior to formalin administration. Lastly, formalin-evoked NK1r internalization was assessed across the female oestrous cycle. Results Intraplantar formalin evoked significant NK1r internalization, during phase 1 and 2, in both males and females. During phase 1, no differences in NK1r internalization were detected between males or females, regardless of the gonadal status. In contrast, during phase 2, intact females exhibited greater NK1r internalization than intact males. Moreover, ovariectomy reduced NK1r internalization as compared to intact females, whereas castration had no effect as compared to intact males. Oestradiol supplementation in ovariectomized females increased NK1r internalization to levels observed in intact females. Formalin-evoked NK1r internalization did not differ across the oestrous cycle. Conclusions These findings suggest that oestradiol mediates sex differences in formalin-evoked substance P release, which may contribute to a differential development of central sensitization and pain behaviours in males and females.
Genetics of Preterm Birth

The control of normal birth timing in mammals and the fundamental signals that initiate preterm birth in humans are critical areas of scientific investigation. Preterm birth is the leading cause of infant mortality throughout the world, and the single greatest challenge in women's and children's health today. Despite the recognised importance of this area of investigation, relatively limited advances have been made. In part, this limited success in revealing mechanisms results from divergence in the endocrine physiology of pregnancy between species. To have an effect on these biological and medical gaps in knowledge, new genetic studies in humans and comparative genomic investigations across species have been undertaken. In this article, the authors summarise the current status of genetic and genomic approaches to elucidate the control of birth timing. Key Concepts: Genetic factors, primarily in the maternal genome, contribute to preterm birth risk. The physiology of human pregnancy differs from other species except for other higher primates. Humans have unique constraints for birth timing related to foetal size and/or metabolism. Candidate gene association studies have not been generally informative. New data emerging from non-biased genome-wide approaches have suggested new pathways for birth timing and preterm birth risk. Keywords: pregnancy; genomics; evolution; comparative biology; progesterone
Paralytic activity of (des-Glu1)conotoxin GI analogs in the mouse diaphragm

A series of 20 peptide analogs of (des-Glu1)conotoxin GI were prepared by solid phase synthesis. The peptides were tested for their abilities to inhibit contractions in the mouse-diaphragm-with-phrenic-nerve assay. (Des-Glu1)conotoxin has an IC50 of 2.7 x 10(-7) M in this assay. Results from this assay show that total loss of paralytic activity occurs when Pro is replaced by Gly, Tyr by D-Tyr, or Gly by D-Phe. In most cases loss or change in length of one of the disulfide rings eliminates paralytic activity except with compound 17, which is weakly active, IC50 = 7.0 x 10(-5) M. Replacement of the Cys1-Cys6 disulfide bond with an amide bond (compound 9) greatly lowers paralytic activity, IC50 = 3.7 x 10(-5) M.
Holocene pedoenvironmental situations in the eastern Sierra Morena region (Andújar, Spain)

Abstract Analysis of soils and vegetational changes during the Holocene period in the eastern Sierra Morena region (Spain) indicates that Mediterranean soils with argillaceous horizons have replaced leptosols. Genesis of regosols has favoured development of mesophytic species.
Terrace Development along the Front of the Beartooth Mountains, Southern Montana

Each major stream rising in the Bear-tooth Mountains in southern Montana and flowing from the east flank of the mountains to the adjacent portions of the Great Plains formed five distinct, well-developed terrace levels during the Pleistocene Epoch. The terraces are capped by coarse gravel derived from the crystalline rocks of the high-standing mountains; all deposits are fundamentally the same, regardless of elevation above the present stream. The gravel may represent valley fills deposited as the result of stream captures or as outwash during periods of glaciation in the mountains. The origin of any terrace gravel may, therefore, be partly fluvial and partly glaciofluvial. Piracy of the major rivers by tributary streams heading in the plains would initiate aggradation because the coarse loads of the mountain-bred rivers cannot be transported on the low gradients of the capturing tributaries. Some of the terrace gravels can be traced into and partially through moraines of late Wisconsin age. During deposition of the highest terrace gravels the rivers in the area drained to the northeast. Before deposition of the gravel capping the next lower terraces, each major river was diverted to a more northerly position. Terraces in any one valley are seldom matched, indicating that downcutting usually occurred in the nonresistant bedrock along the edge of the valley rather than through the coarse gravel deposits. Much of the downcutting may have been accomplished by headwardly eroding tributary streams which subsequently captured the main rivers. Excavation of the Big Horn Basin began in the late Tertiary, ending a long period of basin filling. This downcutting trend has continued to the present except for intervals of valley filling represented by the terrace deposits.
Rapid three-dimensional surface reconstruction of magnetic resonance images of large arteries and veins: A preliminary evaluation of clinical utility

We have implemented a computerized system for relatively rapid (<1 h) three-dimensional (3D) surface rendering of flow-sensitive (gradient refocused) magnetic resonance images. The method has been applied in 8 patients with six different clinical problems and was found to enhance understanding of normal and abnormal aortic, caval, and portosystemic venous anatomy. 3D images are useful for communicating complex anatomic information and may help with difficult diagnoses. Advantages and limitations of the present system are discussed.
Modulation of the thalamocortical motor system by sensory information.

Abstract A linear approximation of the input-output relationship between ventrolateral (VL) nucleus and sensorimotor cortex (MC) in the cat has been employed. The slope of the transfer function has been termed the central rate sensitivity (R). It has been shown that the system parameter R can be controlled by the time interval between a central thalamic stimulus and a peripheral stimulus, either auditory, visual or somesthetic. The response profile of the system, plotting central rate sensitivity (R) as a function of the peripheral-central time difference (X) indicates that the VL-MC system can perform as a null detector, with minimum R values occurring in the vicinity of peripheral-central signal correspondence. The system shows considerable hysteresis in the region of X= 0 with the value for R(X= 0) determined by the direction of approach toward X= 0, where the term direction implies a lead or lag relationship between the peripheral and central stimulus.
Estimation of the Molar Heat Capacity Change on Melting of Organic Compounds

A simple equation to predict the differential molar heat capacity (ΔCpm) of the solid and liquid forms for the organic compounds at their melting point (Tm) is developed. Only three parameters are ...
Silicon microbench heater elements for packaging optoelectronic devices

Examples are presented of the application of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory`s expertise in photonics packaging. Several examples of packaged devices will be described. Particular attention is given to silicon microbenches incorporating heaters and their use in semiconductor optical amplifier fiber pigtailing and packaging.
A Six-hour Pregnancy Test

The work reported here had its origin in a series of studies designed to determine how soon after the administration of gonadotropic hormone, gonadatropic effects could be detected in the immature rat ovary. In a study of the time factor relationship of follicle stimulation to luteinization in the immature rat, several years ago, it was noted that “in somea cses the immature rat ovary will respond to gonadotropic hormone with a follicle-Stimulating reaction as early as 26 hours after the first injection” (1). In subsequent studies an attempt was made to determine whether it was possible, by increasing the dosage of the gonadotropin, adding hypophyseal synergist or using older animals, to accelerate the gonadotropic action of the extracts. Two observations were made during these studies which suggested their utilization as a test for human pregnancy. These observations are that, a), as early as 6 hours after the administration of pregnancy urine to immature rats, one can detect marked hyperemia of the ovar...
Interactive graphic consoles: environment and software

The usual software support for graphic consoles does not provide system services designed for the console user who is a production-oriented application expert. This paper describes a console environment and high-level language with a supporting operating system designed for the application expert.
Inflammation and leptin

Owing to the general elevation of cytokines and inflammatory markers, obesity is considered a chronic inflammatory disease. As a member of the adipokine family, leptin is an indispensable hormone in the physiological control of energy balance. However, recent evidence suggests that the proportional increase of blood leptin with adiposity also plays important roles in the regulation of immunity. The primary goal of this review is to summarize current perspectives on leptin and inflammation.
New Limits on Local Lorentz Invariance from Hg and Cs Magnetometers

The relative frequency of Hg and Cs mgnetometers is monitored as a function of the orientation of the applied magnetic field with respect to the fixed stars. The observed stability of the relative frequency limits electron and nucleon local Lorentz invariance violating effects to less than 200 \ensuremath{\mu}Hz and 110 nHz, respectively. These results represent an improvement over the best published results by an order of magnitude for electron effects and by a factor of 240 for nuclear effects. The result also sets an upper limit of 200 eV on the Fermi level of a degenerate remnant neutrino background.
The effect of total-body irradiation on catabolism of urea in the rat.

Abstract There is a reduction in the amount of urea catabolized to carbon dioxide. Information based upon this study and other sources leads us to believe that there is a much greater reduction in the glycogen synthesized from urea in the total-body irradiated rat than one would expect. These observations would seem to be related to an increased barrier of the liver cell to plasma urea after total body irradiation or, in our opinion, more likely to a disturbance in the carbon dioxide pool of the hepatic cells or a transcarbonation mechanism.
Symmetry tests in slow neutron interactions

Abstract After briefly mentioning searches for violations of the Pauli principle for neutrons and the search for n - n transitions, conditions for testing time-reversal invariance in the interaction of polarized neutrons with spin-ordered targets are discussed and analyzed.
Integrated psychiatric treatment of a dying patient

The following case presents a 22-year-old woman with relapsing polychondritis and depression treated in liaison, consultation, and outpatient settings by one psychiatrist using a variety of techniques. The discussion focuses on the implications of the case for integrated medical model and psychotherapeutic care, and for technical aspects of the treatment of the dying patient.
Changing trends: An overview of breast cancer incidence and mortality

The incidence of breast cancer rose about 1% per year between 1940 and 1980 according to data in the Connecticut Tumor Registry. A sharp increase of 32% was reported between 1980 and 1987 in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program of the National Cancer Institute. Data from this program shows that the increase in incidence was due to localized cases and cancers of less than 2 cm in greatest dimension. In addition, a sharp increase in carcinoma in situ was observed. The increase in breast cancer incidence coincides with an increased use of mammography in asymptomatic women in the 1980s. Mortality from breast cancer has changed little since the 1930s, but the increases in localized and small-size tumors and decreases in the rate of tumors of 3 cm or larger at diagnosis indicates that breast cancer mortality may start to decrease. Evidence from provisional breast cancer monthly mortality data suggests that there was a 3–6% drop in 1991 compared to 1990.
Mass spectral studies on mesoionic imidazo [1,2‐a] pyrid‐2 and ‐3‐one derivatives

The mass spectral fragmentation patterns for 1-substituted derivatives of anhydro (3-chloroacetyl-2-hydroxyimidazo[1,2-a]pyridinium hydroxide) (Ia to Ie) and 2-acyl substituted derivatives of anhydro(1-benzyl-3-hydroxyimidazo[1,2-a]pyridinium hydroxide) (IIa and IIb) are reported. In all cases the mass spectra may be interpreted on the basis of initial cleavage of the ‘carbonyl-heteroatom’ bond of the mesoionic system, followed by fragmentation.
Differences between Kallawaya-Andean and Greek-European humoral theory

Abstract Kallawaya Andeans and Classic Greeks have a humoral epistemology based on analogical thinking and systems of correspondence, but they are culturally different systems. This does not imply that the latter system derived from the earlier but rather that Andeans and Greeks emphasized the relationship of body and humors to climate and land. Ethnographic data indicates that Kallawaya Andeans have a topographical-hydraulic model for understanding the physiology of their bodies. This differs from Greek-European humoral theory, which scholars consider the basis of Latin American folk medicine, in that Greeks try to balance their body fluids, whereas Kallawayas understand their fluids in centripetal and centrifugal motion. Kallawayas conceive of the body in more holistic concepts than Greeks and Europeans who distinguish between thought and matter, body and soul, and inner and outer. The fact that Kallawayas employ hot/cold, and wet/dry categories suggest either that they adopted this from Greek European humoral theory from the Spaniards or that these categories were pre-Columbian. Epistemological similarities facilitate the adoption into Kallawaya ethnophysiology of foods, medicines, and illnesses classified as hot/cold, and wet/dry in Spanish herbal books, which were used in the Andes after the Conquest.
Cell wall composition throughout development for the model grass Brachypodium distachyon.

Temperate perennial grasses are important worldwide as a livestock nutritive energy source and a potential feedstock for lignocellulosic biofuel production. The annual temperate grass Brachypodium distanchyon has been championed as a useful model system to facilitate biological research in agriculturally important temperate forage grasses based on phylogenetic relationships. To physically corroborate genetic predictions, we determined the chemical composition profiles of organ-specific cell walls throughout the development of two common diploid accessions of Brachypodium distanchyon, Bd21-3 and Bd21. Chemical analysis was performed on cell walls isolated from distinct organs (i.e. leaves, sheaths, stems and roots) at three developmental stages of 1) 12-day seedling, 2) vegetative-to-reproductive transition, and 3) mature seed-fill. In addition, we have included cell wall analysis of embryonic callus used for genetic transformations. Composition of cell walls based on components lignin, hydroxycinnamates, uronosyls, neutral sugars, and protein suggests that Brachypodium distanchyon is similar chemically to agriculturally important forage grasses. There were modest compositional differences in hydroxycinnamate profiles between accessions Bd21-3 and Bd21. In addition, when compared to agronomical important C3 grasses, more mature Brachypodium stem cell walls have a relative increase in glucose of 48% and a decrease in lignin of 36%. Though differences exists between Brachypodium and agronomical important C3 grasses, Brachypodium distanchyon should be still a useful model system for genetic manipulation of cell wall composition to determine the impact upon functional characteristics such as rumen digestibility or energy conversion efficiency for bioenergy production.
Satellite-Image-derived Gulf Stream Currents Compared with Numerical Model Results

Abstract Sequential infrared satellite imagery is used to objectively compute surface currents in the Gulf Stream region using the maximum correlation (MCC) method. The infrared images, filtered for cloud cover, are used to find the displacement of surface temperature patterns by locating the maximum cross correlation in windowed portions of the image pair. Statistical significance and next-neighbor filter techniques are applied to remove fictitious surface current vectors due to the presence of residual cloud or other nonadvective processes. The core of the Gulf Stream is found to require special treatment due to the high local velocities and the weak sea surface temperature gradients. For the central Gulf Stream, currents are inferred by the MCC tracking of features along the northern edge of the stream. Other special MCC techniques are applied to the strong rotational motions in the Gulf Stream rings. To test the validity of the MCC technique in this geographic region where no in situ measurements were...
Dynamin and PTP-PEST cooperatively regulate Pyk2 dephosphorylation in osteoclasts

Bone loss is caused by the dysregulated activity of osteoclasts which degrade the extracellular bone matrix. The tyrosine kinase Pyk2 is highly expressed in osteoclasts, and mice lacking Pyk2 exhibit an increase in bone mass, in part due to impairment of osteoclast function. Pyk2 is activated by phosphorylation at Y402 following integrin activation, but the mechanisms leading to Pyk2 dephosphorylation are poorly understood. In the current study, we examined the mechanism of action of the dynamin GTPase on Pyk2 dephosphorylation. Our studies reveal a novel mechanism for the interaction of Pyk2 with dynamin, which involves the binding of Pyk2's FERM domain with dynamin's plextrin homology domain. In addition, we demonstrate that the dephosphorylation of Pyk2 requires dynamin's GTPase activity and is mediated by the tyrosine phosphatase PTP-PEST. The dephosphorylation of Pyk2 by dynamin and PTP-PEST may be critical for terminating outside-in integrin signaling, and for stabilizing cytoskeletal reorganization during osteoclast bone resorption.
Infantile hypophosphatasia fibroblasts proliferate normally in culture: Evidence against a role for alkaline phosphatase (tissue nonspecific isoenzyme) in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation

To explore the hypothesis that alkaline phosphatase (ALP) functions in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation, we examined in tissue culture several parameters of cell proliferation demonstrated by dermal fibroblasts from patients with infantile hypophosphatasia—a heritable form of rickets/osteomalacia which is characterized biochemically by marked deficiency of activity of the “tissue nonspecific” (bone/liver/kidney) ALP isoenzyme. Methylumbelliferyl phosphate was used as the fluorogenic substrate to assay ALP activity in cell homogenates from patients and age-, sex-, and passage-matched control cells. The nature of the enzymatic defect in the patient fibroblasts involved their failure to increase the specific activity of ALP during growth to confluency. Patient cell monolayers contained, on average, about 2–3% of control ALP activity (several lines consistently demonstrated less than 1%). Nevertheless, patient cells grew normally both in early and late passage, and in either serum-containing or defined medium. Contact inhibition appeared to be intact in the patient fibroblasts, since the protein and DNA content of their culture dishes were similar to controls just as the cells became visually confluent, and when examined 1 week after they reached monolayer. Light and phase-contrast microscopy revealed no abnormalities in the appearance of patient cells during growth or at confluency. The mean volume of proliferating patient cells was also normal. Despite profound deficiency of constitutive ALP activity, dermal fibroblasts from infants with hypophosphatasia exhibit normal growth parameters in cell culture. Although the precise biochemical defect(s) in hypophosphatasia is unknown, these findings fail to support a role for tissue nonspecific ALP in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation.
Software-defined radio for undergraduate projects

Software-defined radio (SDR) is a self-contained, embedded software system with hardware components and real-time constraints. SDR is the basis for many of today's wireless communications systems. Because SDR combines basic digital signal processing, circuitry, and software elements, it is the perfect project for multi-disciplinary, undergraduate teams. This paper explains both the SDR system created by computer science and engineering undergraduates at Grove City College and how SDR projects can help undergraduates acquire the skills to succeed on multidisciplinary teams.
Differential expression of genes involved with apoptosis, cell cycle, connective tissue proteins, fuel substrate utilization, inflammation and mitochondrial biogenesis in copper-deficient rat hearts: implication of a role for Nfκb1

We hypothesized that the increase in mitochondrial proliferation in hearts from copper-deficient rats is due to an increase in expression of the transcriptional factor peroxisomal-like proliferating related coactivator 1alpha (Ppargc1a), which regulates transcriptional activity for many of the genes that encode for mitochondrial proteins. In addition to several transcriptional factors implicated in mitochondrial biogenesis, we also looked at a number of genes involved in cell cycle regulation and fuel substrate utilization. Long-Evans rats were placed on either a copper-adequate (n=4) or copper-deficient (n=4) diet 3 days post weaning and remained on the diet for 5 weeks; their copper deficiency status was confirmed using previously established assays. Custom oligo arrays spotted with genes pertinent to mitochondrial biogenesis were hybridized with cRNA probes synthesized from the collected heart tissue. Chemiluminescent array images from both groups were analyzed for gene spot intensities and differential gene expression. Our results did not demonstrate any significant increase in Ppargc1a or its implicated targets, as we had predicted. However, consistent with previous data, an up-regulation of genes that encode for collagen type 3, fibronectin and elastin were found. Interestingly, there was also a significant increase in the expression of the transcriptional factor nuclear factor kappaB1 (Nfkappab1) in the copper-deficient treatment animals, compared to the control group, and this was confirmed by real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The results of this study merit the further investigation of the role of reactive oxidative species with regard to Nfkappab1 in the copper deficient rat heart.
Modulated molecular beam scattering of disilane on silicon

Abstract Decomposition and scattering of disilane on Si(111) has been studied by modulated molecular beam spectrometry over the temperature range of 50–850°C and with beam fluxes from 10 15 −10 16 cm −2 s −1 . Disilane exhibits a surface residence time as an intact molecule of ∼ 50 micros at room temperature, which we attribute to a molecular precursor (physisorbed) state. The residence time decreases with increasing temperature and cannot be experimentally observed ( T s ) from 0% at room temperature on a surface passivated with SiH x species (no reactivity) to 30% at 850 °C. Rapid evolution of monosilane occurs for T s > 500 °C. Unusually slow desorption of H 2 is observed (time constant ∼ 1 s) at temperatures as high as 850 ° C. The rate of hydrogen evolution increases with the incident disilane flux and the substrate temperature. A model is used to fit the experimental data. The model is based on a surface reaction mechanism developed in the next paper (S.K. Kulkarni et al., Surf. Sci. 239 (1990) 26, ref. [1]). According to this model, adsorbed disilane decomposes producing SiH 4 and chemisorbed SiH. The SiH migrates to active sites on the surface where hydrogen is produced by a second-order mechanism which has an activation energy of about 20 kcal/mol. Si film growth rates are predicted from the proposed model and these agree reasonably well with experimental growth rate data in the literature. The main channel of Si growth from Si 2 H 6 at high T s (500–900 °C) is predicted to be by decomposition of disilane emitting SiH 4 and chemisorbing SiH 2 , which rapidly decomposes to SiH . The chemisorbed SiH can react with incident disilane emitting SiH 4 . This process is more active at H removal from the surface than is the recombination of 2 SiH to desorb H 2 . Both SiH species and bare Si sites are proposed to be active sites for Si 2 H 6 decomposition.
The Impact of Severe Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension on Single Lung Transplantation in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: An Analysis of the UNOS Database

Purpose Although double lung transplantation may offer a small survival advantage in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), single lung transplantation allows two patients to receive a life-saving intervention with excellent long-term results. However, there remains substantial hesitation to single lung transplantation in patients that also have severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and outcomes in this population based on diagnosis have yet to be well described. Methods and Materials We retrospectively reviewed the United Network of Organ Sharing database for all single lung transplants between 1996 and 2011 performed for COPD or IPF. Demographic data, pre- and post-transplant characteristics, and outcomes were compared for this population based on the presence or absence of severe PAH by right heart catheterization (PASP >50mmHg). The primary outcome analyzed was all-cause mortality. Results 5,982 patients were identified (COPD, N=3,580; IPF, N=2,402). Severe PAH was present in 838 (23%) and 538 (22%) patients with COPD and IPF, respectively. For COPD, survival at 30 days, 1 year and 3 years was 94%, 80% and 60% in patients with severe PAH, and 97%, 85% and 67% without severe PAH (p=0.264). For IPF, survival at 30 days, 1 year and 3 years was 91%, 70% and 51% in patients with severe PAH, and 95%, 79% and 61% without severe PAH (p=0.001). Using a Cox proportional-hazards regression, severe PAH was an independent predictor of mortality in patients with IPF (HR=1.29, p Conclusions In this study, the presence of severe PAH was associated with an increased risk of mortality in patients with IPF, but not COPD. These results suggest that acceptable outcomes for single lung transplantation may be achieved in this population with COPD, but should be considered with caution in patients with IPF.
Ignition of low‐density polyethylene slabs by a small flame

Slabs of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were exposed to the wake of a lean hydrogen-oxygen flat flame. The ignition delay and initial flame velocity after the ignition were measured at several gas-air equivalence ratios and distances from the igniting flame. When ignition occurred, the surface temperature was far lower than that required for pyrolysis in the absence of oxygen. Small amounts of char formed on the polymer surface during the delay, consistent with the involvement of oxygen in solid-phase preignition processes. Plots of ln(delay) versus l/(absolute temperature) were linear and the activation energy was derived from the Arrhenius equation, 64 + or - 10 kJ/mol. Initial rates of flame development decreased with increased separation between the polymer and the igniting flame, but unlike those reported for poly(methyl methacrylate), they were independent of the duration of the preceding delay except when the polymer was very close to the flame. The results are explained by a model in which both the ignition delay and the subsequent rate of flame development depend on the concentration of species associated with the chain- propagation steps of the combustion process.
Early Onset Sarcoidosis with Pulmonary Function Abnormalities

A four-year-old boy with sarcoidosis is described. His clinical features led to the diagnosis of cutaneous and synovial sarcoidosis and tissue biopsies confirmed the clinical impression. Pulmonary involvement was documented by pulmonary function studies. Treatment with adrenocorticosteroids resulted in regression of the disease process.