cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ethical Elements of Chemical/Biological Defense Research

SUMMARY Personal and professional ethics both shape attitudes toward scientific research programs. Personal ethics are presented from the viewpoint of shared community responsibility and individual integrity combined with beliefs that guide relevant responses to defined needs. Professional ethics include personal motivation, accountability, and technical honesty as basic requirements for all research and development efforts, including defense-oriented chemical and biological research. Industrial and military research issues of safety, confidentiality, and technical quality are addressed. Specific documented research in the field of trace organic chemical analysis is cited to show how federal laboratory programs contribute to the general scientific community. Technology assessment and transfer are considered as important means to ensure productive research efforts leading to economic benefits.
Development of an Endocardial Cryoablation Catheter for Concomitant Delivery of Cryogenic Treatment and Adjuvants

This paper presents the preliminary development of a novel cryoablation catheter for the delivery of cryo-energy and complimentary pharmacological agents selected to improve lesion formation. The described prototype uses a commercially available cryoablation catheter with a deployable needle injection catheter grafted onto it. The device would be used in endocardial ablation of thick structures and would inject an adjuvant at the desired depth prior to cryotherapy delivery. Adjuvants have been investigated previously to increase the “kill zone” of an ablation lesion and can minimize the zone of incomplete death near the iceball edge. This makes visualization of the iceball via ultrasound a better predictor for lesion size and progression. Transmurality of a lesion can be essential for a clinical ablation procedure to have long-term effectiveness. The secondary goal of such a device may be to increase energy transfer via the metal needle in the myocardium, so to further aid in the creation of transmural lesions in thick tissues e.g., the ventricles. Added embodiments of such therapeutic devices would be to also have electrical pacing/ sensing capabilities and/or temperature monitoring capabilities at the tip of the needle. Such features would likely provide a physi
Seven-year experience with polytetrafluoroethylene as above-knee femoropopliteal bypass graft: Is it worthwhile to preserve the autologous saphenous vein?

Abstract A 7-year experience with 90 polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) femoropopliteal bypass grafts in the above-knee (AK) position is presented. The 5- and 7-year actuarial patency rate was 58.3%. No statistical difference was found between the patency rate of this series and that of a group of 17 AK and 77 below-knee (BK) femoropopliteal bypass grafts performed during the same period with the autologous saphenous vein (ASV). During the follow-up period (range 6 to 84 months, mean 42 months) a new bypass in a more distal location was required in 20 limbs. The ASV was available in seven of the eight PTFE graft failures and in only one of the 12 ASV failures. The 3-year patency rate of these new groups was 58.3% and 16.7%, respectively (p
Isolation and characterization of aDatura innoxia cell line resistant to ethanol

A cell line ofDatura innoxia was selected in suspension culture to be resistant to 1% (vol/vol) ethanol (EtOHR). EtOHR cells were cross-resistant to 1% (vol/vol) methanol and 1% (vol/vol) 2-propanol but not 1% (vol/vol)n-propanol orn-butanol, whereas wild type (WT) cells were resistant only to methanol. Resistance in EtOHR cells is probably a result of a very low level of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity which was only 9 to 10% of that in WT cells and was undetectable during much of the EtOHR growth cycle. In the absence of ethanol, EtOHR cells have a I50 for the toxic ethanol analog allyl alcohol, which is nearly 3 times higher than that in WT cells. In the presence of ethanol, EtOHR cells have an I50 for allyl alcohol which is 12 times more than WT cells. This difference correlated well with the decrease in ADH activity found in EtOHR cells grown on ethanol. When ethanol was removed from the suspension medium, ADH activity in EtOHR cells gradually increased to WT levels. When re-exposed to ethanol after 200 cell generations, ADH activity quickly decreased and growth resumed after a 4- to 6-day lag period. Lipid analysis showed a 37% increase in total lipid in EtOHR cells, mostly in polar lipids, di- and triglycerides. The fatty acid composition of these lipid classes was shifted toward the more polyunsaturated. These lipid changes were probably a reflection of the increased plastid number in the EtOHR cells and may be a result of growth in ethanol rather than a reason for resistance. EtOHR cells seem to be regulatory mutants able to quickly lower ADH activity in the presence of ethanol.
Leptin action through hypothalamic nitric oxide synthase-1-expressing neurons controls energy balance

Few effective measures exist to combat the worldwide obesity epidemic(1), and the identification of potential therapeutic targets requires a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that control energy balance. Leptin, an adipocyte-derived hormone that signals the long-term status of bodily energy stores, acts through multiple types of leptin receptor long isoform (LepRb)-expressing neurons (called here LepRb neurons) in the brain to control feeding, energy expenditure and endocrine function(2-4). The modest contributions to energy balance that are attributable to leptin action in many LepRb populations(5-9) suggest that other previously unidentified hypothalamic LepRb neurons have key roles in energy balance. Here we examine the role of LepRb in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS1)-expressing LebRb (LepRb(NOS1)) neurons that comprise approximately 20% of the total hypothalamic LepRb neurons. Nos1(cre)-mediated genetic ablation of LepRb (Lepr(Nos1KO)) in mice produces hyperphagic obesity, decreased energy expenditure and hyperglycemia approaching that seen in whole-body LepRb-null mice. In contrast, the endocrine functions in Lepr(Nos1KO) mice are only modestly affected by the genetic ablation of LepRb in these neurons. Thus, hypothalamic LepRb(NOS1) neurons are a key site of action of the leptin-mediated control of systemic energy balance.
The mechanical properties of polyneuronally innervated, myotomal muscle fibres isolated from a teleost fish (Myoxocephalus scorpius).

Single or small bundles of fibres were isolated from the abdominal myotomes of the sculpinMyoxocephalus scorpius, a teleost with a polyneuronal pattern of fast muscle innervation. Fibres responded to a supra-threshold stimulus with an all-or-none twitch. Tetanic fusion frequency at 3°C was 40–60 Hz, and the twitch tetanus ratio 0.70. Maximum isometric tension was 281 kN m−2. Similar isometric contractile properties were obtained from the focally innervated fast muscle fibres of another teleost, the eel,Anguilla anguilla. The response of sculpin fibres to stretch during tetanus was similar to that reported for frog twitch fibres. A 5% stretch of 25–50 ms duration increased force to 1.4P0 which decayed to a steady level 5–10% above that of a control tetanus. The force-velocity relationship was also studied. Maximum contraction velocity was 4.75 Ls−1. Force-velocity data were not adequately described by a simple hyperbola. Alternative methods of curve fitting have been explored and discussed.
Leading Into the Millennium Schools and Universities on the U.S.–Mexico Borderlands—An Introduction

This special issue describes and explores the complexities surrounding efforts to lead in and build educational organizations that serve the socially and culturally diverse students attending schools on the U.S.-Mexico borderlands. Examining and reflecting on the realities that educational leaders encounter as they strive to provide educational opportunities to the unique population they serve is critical–especially now, as increasingly student populations across the K-16 spectrum appear to not fit the so-called traditional mold and they are no longer predominantly White and English speaking. The cases portrayed -of regional importance and national significance-should allow educators to identify, reflect on, and ponder the complexities, challenges, and opportunities that educators may expect to encounter as they practice and lead in the ever-changing landscape of these United States.
In situ monitoring of through-thickness strain in glass fiber/epoxy composite laminates using carbon nanotube sensors

Abstract The intention of the work presented in this paper was to find a way to measure the through-thickness strain (TTS) in composite laminates. The reason for this was because there did not seem to be any effective technique for the measurement of the TTS, particularly for locations away from the free edge. In the present work, Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were added into epoxy resin to make the resin electrically conductive. The modified resin was then incorporated with long glass fibers to make glass/epoxy laminates. The laminate was subjected to a uniaxial load, while the electrical resistances across the thickness of the laminate were measured. Two different types of uniaxial loads were applied. One was along the length of the sample and the other across the thickness of the sample. For the case where lengthwise load was applied, classical lamination theory (CLT) was used to calculate the average TTS (ATTS), and to find stacking sequences that can provide the largest ATTS for a certain load. Strain gage was mounted on the edge of the laminate in order to provide another means to measure the ATTS. It was found that the electrical resistance across the laminate thickness is sensitive to the axial load along the length of the sample. The magnitude of the change in electrical resistance across the laminate thickness is proportional to the strain measured by strain gage. However, while the strain measured by strain gage shows negative strain, there was an increase in the through-thickness electrical resistance (TTER). For the case of thicknesswise load, the strain is negative and the TTER shows decrease. For the thicknesswise load, the change in TTER can be related to the ATTS. For the lengthwise load, even though the magnitude of the change in TTER is proportional to the ATTS, the change in TTER may not be completely due to the ATTS.
An experimental 5.7 GHz SSB communications system

A SSB communications system, for use in the amateur 5.7 GHz band, is described. This system as several unique features, including the successful use of microstrip circuitry printed on low-cost FR-4 substrate, a microwave complex modulator for SSB generation, and a VHF complex demodulator for SSB reception. There are no conventional narrow-band intermediate-frequency stages. The system power output is -6 dBm PEP, and the receive system-noise figure is 11 dB. An antenna system is described that provides approximately 23 dBi gain, which is appropriate for line-of-sight communication over 16 km paths.
Modeling and forecasting populations by time series: The Swedish case

Time series analysis techniques are used to model and to forecast populations. An autoregressive (AR) and a moving average (MA) model, which seem to fit the population of Sweden very well, are found. Forecasts are calculated using both models and are compared with the forecasts obtained by other methods. This comparison is very favorable for the time series models. Although our study is confined to the mid-year population of Sweden, there are good reasons to expect that the technique can be successfully applied to other population parameters.
Effects of Mesoionic Xanthine Analogs On Trypanosoma Musculi Development In Mice

Two derivatives of the mesoionic thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine-5,7-diones 1 were prepared and examined for in vivo antiprotozoan activity to study structure-activity relationships that might lead us to more active derivatives. Mesoionic compounds 1A and 1B were inoculated into Swiss Webster male mice with Trypanosoma musculi infection. The effects were measured by studying parasite populations during the course of patent period (days 9 through 15 post-infection). The injection of 200 micrograms of compound 1A along with 5 x 10(4) trypanosomes affected the level of parasitemia at both the peak and during days 9 to 13 post infection. Experimental animals that received drug 1A prior to and after infection with T. musculi developed significantly lower parasitemia as compared to the control animals at the height of parasite populations (day 11 of observation). The group that received the drug simultaneously with trypanosome infection had significantly lower parasitemias on day 11 and 13 of infection compared to the controls. The injection of 200 micrograms of mesoionic compound 1B along with 5 x 10(4) trypanosomes resulted in lower parasitemic levels in the prior treated and post inoculated groups on days 9 and 13 post-infection. Swiss Webster male mice treated with the test drug, compound 1B, simultaneously with an inoculation of parasites developed significant resistance against infection on days 9 and 11 post-infection. This trend was reversed for the rest of the observation period.
Neonatal immunization with insulinoma-released exosomes induces humoral immune response that protects islets from autoimmune pathogenesis (THER5P.835)

Exosomes (EXOs) are immunostimulatory microvesicles that can activate both innate and adaptive immunity. We have demonstrated that autoreactive B and T cells in prediabetic non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice can recognize EXOs released by insulinoma. In this study, we examined EXO-specific humoral immune response and its contribution to the islet-specific autoimmunity. We immunized NOD neonates with EXOs, in which mature T cells are rare, and then monitored antibody and B cell responses to EXOs in 4- or 8-week-old mice. At 4 weeks, the immunized mice showed increased B cells in pancreatic lymph nodes but not in spleen as compared with untreated mice. EXO-specific serum Ig titers remained higher than the controls. At 8 weeks, the immunized group had higher IgG1 but lower IgG2a and increased expression of FoxP3 and PD1 on Th cells, suggesting a Th1/Th2 shift and induction of regulatory T cells. As a result, the neonatal-immunized mice remained insulitis-free till 8-week old, whereas, age/gender-matched control mice developed insulitis. This effect can be partially explained by the induction of protective, EXO-specific antibodies, since the immunized sera were inhibitory for CD86 expression on activated B cells, more efficient than control sera and in vivo, the sera protected islets from insulitis caused by diabetogenic T cells. Thus, EXOs may contain unique antigen(s) that could be used as neonatal vaccine to prevent autoimmunity.
A Rho family GTPase controls actin dynamics and tip growth via two counteracting downstream pathways in pollen tubes

Tip growth in neuronal cells, plant cells, and fungal hyphae is known to require tip-localized Rho GTPase, calcium, and filamentous actin (F-actin), but how they interact with each other is unclear. The pollen tube is an exciting model to study spatiotemporal regulation of tip growth and F-actin dynamics. An Arabidopsis thaliana Rho family GTPase, ROP1, controls pollen tube growth by regulating apical F-actin dynamics. This paper shows that ROP1 activates two counteracting pathways involving the direct targets of tip-localized ROP1: RIC3 and RIC4. RIC4 promotes F-actin assembly, whereas RIC3 activates Ca2+ signaling that leads to F-actin disassembly. Overproduction or depletion of either RIC4 or RIC3 causes tip growth defects that are rescued by overproduction or depletion of RIC3 or RIC4, respectively. Thus, ROP1 controls actin dynamics and tip growth through a check and balance between the two pathways. The dual and antagonistic roles of this GTPase may provide a unifying mechanism by which Rho modulates various processes dependent on actin dynamics in eukaryotic cells.
Accuracy of several alternative forms of the operator expansion solution for scattering from 1-D randomly rough Dirichlet surfaces

We have examined the operator expansion (OE) method in computing scattering over a wide range of scattering regimes, for l-D Dirichlet surfaces with Gaussian spectra, and with Pierson-Moskowitz spectra (used to model the ocean surface). We give a brief review of a derivation of the standard OE solution, and show how the short series are obtained. Numerical examples are presented illustrating the rapid convergence and wide accuracy of the various forms of the OE solution in several scattering regimes. Our results indicate that the short series provide efficient and accurate alternatives to the standard solution, a finding which is of significant practical value in treating scattering from 2-D surfaces. In general, our results for scattering from l-D surfaces suggest that the OE is a very attractive method for computing scattering from a wide range of realistic 2-D rough surfaces with a Dirichlet boundary condition. We also present the alternative forms of the OE solution and give one example for scattering from surfaces with a Gaussian spectrum. >
PBS: a unified priority-based scheduler

Blind scheduling policies schedule tasks without knowledge of the tasks' remaining processing times. Existing blind policies, such as FCFS, PS, and LAS, have proven useful in network and operating system applications, but each policy has a separate, vastly differing description, leading to separate and distinct implementations. This paper presents the design and implementation of a configurable blind scheduler that contains a continuous, tunable parameter. By merely changing the value of this parameter, the scheduler's policy exactly emulates or closely approximates several existing standard policies. Other settings enable policies whose behavior is a hybrid of these standards. We demonstrate the practical benefits of such a configurable scheduler by implementing it into the Linux operating system. We show that we can emulate the behavior of Linux's existing, more complex scheduler with a single (hybrid) setting of the parameter. We also show, using synthetic workloads, that the best value for the tunable parameter is not unique, but depends on distribution of the size of tasks arriving to the system. Finally, we use our formulation of the configurable scheduler to contrast the behavior of various blind schedulers by exploring how various properties of the scheduler change as we vary our scheduler's tunable parameter.
WellBabies: mothers' perspectives on an innovative model of group well-child care.

Background and Objectives: Typical well-child visits are often unsatisfactory both to providers and patients. Group visits have been shown effective in some settings but have not been recently assessed for well-child care. Here we describe a model for infant well-child visits, WellBabies, along with participating mothers’ perspectives and comparisons of quality outcomes. Methods: We invited mothers receiving prenatal care in our practice to participate in WellBabies after delivery. Thirteen women participated, and 11 were available for individual interviews. We identified and summarized com mon themes in interview transcripts and compared quality outcomes with babies who had standard individual well-child visits. Results: Participants expressed largely positive reactions to WellBabies, identifying mutual support, information sharing, parental involvement in care, and time spent in the visit as particularly valuable. One participant expressed concern about lack of individual time with a provider. Quality outcomes were similar to those in the comparison group. Conclusions: Group well-child visits can effectively address important issues in children’s health care and are wellreceived by participants.
Exponentiating in Pairing Groups

We study exponentiations in pairing groups for the most common security levels and show that, although the Weierstrass model is preferable for pairing computation, it can be worthwhile to map to alternative curve representations for the non-pairing group operations in protocols.
Feedforward neural structures in binary hypothesis testing

Two feedforward neural structures intended for binary hypothesis testing are considered. The first structure, FFS1, is a tandem structure, while the second structure, FFS2, involves cumulative feedforward feedback. Both parametric and robust designs for the two structures are considered and analyzed in terms of induced false alarm and power probabilities. The inferiority of the FFS1 is rigorously proved in terms of the rate with which the induced power probability increases with respect to the number of the neural elements. Asymptotic results are presented, as well as numerical results, with emphasis on the Gaussian and location parameter nominal hypotheses model. Learning algorithms for the parameter involved in the robust network designs are discussed as well. >
A New Perspective Concerning Experiments on Semantic Intuitions

Machery, Mallon, Nichols, and Stich [2004; forthcoming] use experimental methods to raise a spectre of doubt about reliance on intuitions in developing theories of reference which are then deployed in philosophical arguments outside the philosophy of language. Machery et al. ran a cross-cultural survey asking Western and East Asian participants about a famous case from the philosophical literature on reference (Kripke's Godel example). They interpret their results as indicating that there is significant variation in participants' intuitions about semantic reference for that case. We argue that this interpretation is mistaken. We detail a type of ambiguity found in Machery et al.'s probe but not yet noted in the response literature. We argue that this epistemic ambiguity could have affected their results. We do not stop there, however: Rather than rest content with a possibility claim, we ran four studies to test the impact of this ambiguity on participants' responses. We found that this accounts for much ...
Charge and Potential Distributions in Shielded Striplines

A new method is presented for calculating the charge and potential distribution in shielded microstrip lines with stratified dielectric fillings. The boundary value problem associated with this structure is formulated in a rigorous manner and the solution is constructed by an extension of the function-theoretic technique. Several advantages of this method are pointed out. The most important of these is its numerical efficiency. Numerical results are presented for charge and potential distributions for several choices of design parameters. The characteristic impedance and the guide wavelength are obtained from the knowledge of the charge distribution. Comparisons are made with the published data and the agreement is found to be very satisfactory.
THE RESOLUTE ZOTAROLIMUS-ELUTING STENT IN PATIENTS WIH DIABETES MELLITUS: TWO YEAR OUTCOMES

Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) undergoing percutaneous cardiovascular intervention (PCI) represent a challenging population at higher risk for adverse events including late mortality following drug–eluting stent treatment. Long–term outcomes in patients with DM following PCI with
A comparison of the accuracy and safety of vertebral body pin placement using a fluoroscopically guided versus an open surgical approach: an in vitro study.

Objective— To compare the safety and accuracy of Steinmann pin placement in vertebral bodies T10 through L7 using either an open or closed fluoroscopic method. Study design— In vitro radiographic and anatomic study. Animals— Ten medium-sized canine cadavers. Methods— Cadavers were randomly assigned to 2 groups: open and closed. Steinmann pins were placed in vertebral bodies through a standard dorsal incision in the open group and percutaneously with the aid of fluoroscopy in the closed group. Pins were placed bilaterally in vertebral bodies T10 through L7 at approximately 30° from horizontal and driven to a uniform depth. Necropsies were performed to examine potential pulmonary, vascular, or neurological trauma as a result of pin placement. Spines were cross-sectioned through intervertebral disc spaces, and radiographs were performed to evaluate accuracy of pin placement. Descriptive statistics were determined for pin angle, percentage of bone purchase, and penetration length. Means of interest between groups were compared using a Student t test. Complication incidence was compared using χ2 analysis. Significance was P < .05. Results— Mean pin insertion angle was significantly different than 30° for the open group in thoracic and lumbar vertebrae and for the closed group in thoracic vertebrae. Mean pin insertion angle for all vertebrae was significantly greater than 30° for the open group. Mean pin penetration distance in each vertebra was significantly different between groups with the closed group having less penetration and lower variance. Both groups were significantly different from the ideal penetration distance. The mean percentage of bone purchase was greater in the closed group for all vertebrae except T10 and T11. The complication incidence was significantly greater in the open group for thoracic vertebrae. Conclusion and clinical relevance— The results of this study suggest that a closed technique for placement of Steinmann pins in lumbar vertebrae for use in external skeletal fixation is a reasonable and safer alternative to the traditional open technique. Use of either technique in thoracic vertebrae should be avoided.
Adoption data and two g-related hypotheses

Abstract Data on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised (WISC-R) from a now classic adoption study (Capron & Duyme, 1989, 1996) were used to examine the hypothesized relationship between diverse cognitive tests' g loadings and the degree to which the scores on each of the tests is influenced by the socioeconomic status (SES) of the biological parents of the adopted children (a genetic effect) as contrasted with the SES of the adoptive parents (an environmental effect). The analysis shows that the genetic effect is reflected by psychometric g to a greater degree than is the environmental effect, a finding consistent with the hypothesis that the g factor largely reflects the genetic component of variance in cognitive tests. These data also extend previous findings on Spearman's hypothesis that the standardized mean white-black (W-B) difference on various tests is directly related to the tests' g loadings. It was found that the profile of the mean W-B differences on various subtests of the WISC-R (in the U.S. standardization sample) is more similar to the profile of genetic effects on the subtest scores than to the profile of environmental effects, as measured in the adoption study.
Assessing Candidate Quality Lessons From Ethnography (and Accountants)

This essay examines how we as academics assess the quality of our colleagues through the lens of how we hire them. I begin by reviewing some critiques that have arisen regarding the use of largely quantitative critieria for assessment, and suggest that we might learn something about assessing quality by viewing it as a cultural issue. Building on insights from ethnograpy, I then offer some suggestions for how to build upon, and hopefully improve, our current practices.
Linking experimental characterization and computational modeling of grain growth in Al-foil

Experimental results on grain boundary properties and grain growth obtained using the Electron Backscattered Diffraction (EBSD) technique are compared with the Finite Element simulation results of an Al- foil with a columnar grain structure. The starting microstructure and grain boundary properties are implemented as an input for the three-dimensional grain growth simulation. In the computational model, minimization of the interface energy is the driving force for the grain boundary motion. The computed evolved microstructure is com- pared with the final experimental microstructure, after annealing at 550 ◦ C. Good agreement is observed between the experimentally obtained microstructure and the simulated microstructure. The constitutive description of the grain boundary properties was based on a 1-parameter characterization of the variation in mobility with misorientation angle.
The prevalence of sleepiness and the risk of sleep-disordered breathing in children with positive allergy test.

Background: We evaluated the prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and sleepiness in children with allergy and compared sleep-specific quality of life measures to those of children without allergy. Methods: A prospective case-control study was done at a tertiary care academic center. The parents of 21 pediatric patients with positive environmental allergy testing completed questionnaires including the Obstructive Sleep Apnea-18 (OSA18), the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ), and the Pediatric Daytime Sleepiness Scale (PDSS). Comparisons were made to 113 children without allergy who had undergone cochlear implantation (CI) who served as controls. Results: SDB was suggested in 19% of children with allergy using the OSA18 and in 29% using the PSQ vs 6% and 7% of controls (p = 0.029; p = 0.003), respectively. In addition, daytime sleepiness was suggested in 45% to 48% of children with allergy using the PSQ and PDSS vs 17% to 25% of controls (p = 0.015; p = 0.025), respectively. Patients with allergy had SDB and sleepiness scores higher than population normal values: OSA-18 of 41.7 vs 34.0, PSQ-SDB of 0.25 vs 0.14, PSQ-Sleepy of 0.34 vs 0.15, and PDSS of 14.2 vs 11.4. The difference between cases and controls was significant for all measures of sleepiness and SDB. Conclusion: Children with allergy have higher SDB and sleepiness scores than controls. This suggests that children with allergic rhinitis are at increased risk for SDB and screening should be considered in this population. In addition, studies with a larger sample size are important to fully understand this relationship. © 2011 ARS-AAOA, LLC.
Stream Discharge in Tropical Headwater Catchments as a Result of Forest Clearing and Soil Degradation

AbstractTropical Africa is affected by intense land-use change, particularly forest conversion to agricultural land. In this study, the stream discharge of four small headwater catchments located within an area of 6 km2 in western Kenya was examined for 2 years (2007 and 2008). The four catchments cover a degradation gradient ranging from intact forest to agricultural land under maize cultivation for 5, 10, and 50 years. The runoff ratio (e.g., annual catchment discharge expressed as a percentage of rainfall) increased with increasing duration of cultivation from an average of 16.0% in the forest to 32.4% in the 50-yr-old agricultural catchment. Similarly, the average runoff ratio due to the stormflow component was 0.033 in the forest and increased gradually to 0.095 with increasing duration of cultivation. The conversion from forest to agricultural land in the first 5 years caused about half of the total observed increases in runoff ratio (46.3%) and discharge in relation to rainfall (50.6%). The other h...
Evidence for the chiral anomaly in the Dirac semimetal Na3Bi

In a Dirac semimetal, each Dirac node is resolved into two Weyl nodes with opposite "handedness" or chirality. The two chiral populations do not mix. However, in parallel electric and magnetic fields ( E: || B: ), charge is predicted to flow between the Weyl nodes, leading to negative magnetoresistance. This "axial" current is the chiral (Adler-Bell-Jackiw) anomaly investigated in quantum field theory. We report the observation of a large, negative longitudinal magnetoresistance in the Dirac semimetal Na3Bi. The negative magnetoresistance is acutely sensitive to deviations of the direction of B: from E: and is incompatible with conventional transport. By rotating E: (as well as B: ), we show that it is consistent with the prediction of the chiral anomaly.
A relaxation technique for the parabolized Navier-Stokes (PNS) equations

A rapidly converging relaxation technique for the parabolized Navier-Stokes equations has been devised. The scheme is applicable in both supersonic and subsonic flows, but it is discussed here in the context of supersonic flows. The upstream propagating acoustic influence in the subsonic part of the flow is introduced semi-implicitly through the streamwise momentum equation applied on the body, and through a forward-differencing on the streamwise pressure gradient term in the interior. This procedure yields a new boundary condition on the energy in the total energy equation. The pressure-velocity system in the subsonic layer is coupled, but the positive time-like marching characteristic of the governing equations is still maintained. The relaxation technique is demontrated to work for a three-dimensional flow over a cone-flare in supersonic flight.
Optimal duration of therapy with trastuzumab.

One of the primary objectives of early clinical drug development is to determine the optimal dose and schedule of administration of the drug under study. If this objective is accomplished, subsequent clinical trials can truly evaluate the antitumor efficacy, tolerability, and safety of the new drug, and the appropriate assessment of benefit/risk can be made. A full understanding of the mechanisms not only of antitumor activity but also of side effects and toxicity is critical to select the optimal schedule of administration. In this regard, preclinical (in vitro and in vivo) studies are often helpful before clinical studies are initiated. However, no preclinical model is fully predictive of the outcome of human clinical trials. Therefore, while preclinical studies can point to potentially fruitful directions in clinical investigation, only after fairly substantial clinical experience does the medical community reach agreement and understanding of the optimal dose and schedule of administration of an agent. For some agents, these conclusions are reached early in the development of the drug (eg, cyclophosphamide, docetaxel). For others (eg, fluorouracil, cytosine arabinoside) the definition of optimal dose and schedule of administration is a never-ending story. The optimal duration of administration for trastuzumab is not known and is currently under active investigation.
Design of loudspeaker grilles

Describes the special features and technology of loudspeaker grilles. Explains the design methodolgy used to build these grilles and explains their communications applications.
FAILURES OF NICKEL-COPPER BOLTS IN SUBSEA APPLICATIONS

Slow strain rate tests in ASTM seawater using specimens prepared from a failed nickel-copper alloy bolt have shown that precipitation hardened UNS N05500 (MONEL K-500) is embrittled by cathodic protection with sacrificial aluminium anodes. Some loss of ductility also occurred when annealed UNS N05500 was coupled to aluminium anodes and when the hardened alloy was coupled to steel. Brittle fractures produced by slow strain rate tests were intergranular and were very similar in appearance to the field fractures. While the slow strain rate tests were conducted on an alloy from only one source, there is no reason to assume that UNS N05500 alloy from other sources would resist hydrogen embrittlement from standard cathodic protection systems.
Morphogenetic Effect of L-cysteine on Pseudogymnoascus destructans and Related Species

The addition of L-cysteine to culture media is shown to cause a morphogenetic effect on Pseudogymnoascus (Geomyces) destructans, the causal agent of bat white-nose syndrome, and on several North American Pseudogymnoascus species in vitro. Under elevated levels of L-cysteine, seven P. destructans isolates from various geographical localities produced yeast-like cells on amended Sabouraud’s dextrose agar within 30 days at 7–10 °C. The yeast-like cells appear in semisolid, black, pigmented masses composed of ellipsoidal to obtuse cells that average 13 × 5.5 µm and demonstrate blastic development easily differentiating them from the typical curved conidia which average 6 × 3 µm. The yeast-like cells were shown to revert to filamentous form when cultured on non-amended Sabouraud’s dextrose agar. No yeast-like cells were visualized in four other isolates within the Pseudogymnoascus roseus complex or in two additional, distantly-related Pseudogymnoascus isolates when exposed to the same elevated levels of L-cysteine. The sensitivity of P. destructans to L-cysteine is believed to be a response to the reduced oxidation-reduction potential of the amended medium, but further research is needed to understand the biochemical mechanisms.
Femtosecond studies of intervalley scattering in Al x Ga 1-x As

Excited carrier dynamics in GaAs and AIGaAs directly affect the characteristics and performance of optical and electronic devices fabricated from these materials. Previous investigators have examined intervalley scattering using pump-probe, transient mobility, and luminescence measurements.1-3 We describe femtosecond pump-probe studies of excited carrier dynamics in AlxGa1-xAs using a tunable laser system.
Electrosynthesis and Structural Characterization of Two (C6H5CH2)4C60 Isomers

The structural, spectral, and electrochemical properties of two (C6H5CH2)4C60 isomers are reported. One is designated as the 1,4;1,4-(C6H5CH2)4C60 isomer and the other as the 1,4;1,2-isomer of (C6H5CH2)4C60. The two isomers were isolated by HPLC from the products obtained by a reaction between [(C6H5CH2)2C60]2- and C6H5CH2Br. X-ray data show that the two (C6H5CH2)4C60 isomers differ from one another by the position of only one benzyl group and that, in each compound, the four benzyl addends are in close proximity. Both (C6H5CH2)4C60 isomers undergo three one-electron reductions in PhCN containing 0.1 M tetra-n-butylammonium perchlorate (TBAP) and have E1/2 values which are more negative than values for either C60 or 1,4-(C6H5CH2)2C60. The monoanions of 1,4;1,4- and 1,4;1,2-(C6H5CH2)4C60 were electrogenerated by bulk controlled-potential electrolysis in PhCN containing 0.2 M TBAP and characterized as to their spectral properties in both the visible and near-infrared regions.
Personalized therapy of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

Lung cancer remains the most common cause of cancer related deaths in both men and women in the United States and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for over 85 % of all lung cancers. Survival of these patients has not significantly altered in over 30 years. This chapter initially discusses the clinical presentation of lung cancer patients. Most patients diagnosed with lung cancer due to symptoms have advanced stage cancer. Once diagnosed, lung cancer patients need imaging studies to assess the stage of the disease before decisions regarding therapy are finalized. The most important prognostic factors are stage of the disease and performance status and these factors also determine therapy. The chapter subsequently discusses management of each stage of the disease and the impact of several pathologic, clinical factors in personalizing therapy for each individual patient. Transition from chemotherapy for every patient to a more personalized approach based on histology and molecular markers has occurred in the management of advanced stage NSCLC. It is expected that such a personalized approach will extend to all stages of NSCLC and will likely improve the outcomes of all NSCLC patients.
Nucleation and growth of chimney pores during electron-beam additive manufacturing

The nucleation and growth of chimney pores during powder-bed electron-beam additive manufacturing is investigated using in situ infrared thermography and micro-computed tomography. The chimney pores are found to nucleate heterogeneously at dimples on the side surfaces of additively manufactured components, and to grow through a molten-film rupture process. Further, these nucleation and growth processes are found to be strongly influenced by the beam diameter. Several strategies for suppressing the formation of chimney pores are discussed in light of these results.
Political instability, ethnic fractionalization and economic growth

A number of developing countries have been experiencing high rates of ethnic fragmentation, corruption and political instability. The persistent poverty in many of these countries has led to an increased interest among both researchers and policy makers as to how these factors impact a country’s economic growth. Previous research has found mixed results as to whether ethnic fragmentation, corruption and political instability affect economic growth. However, this research has been focused on the direct impact of these variables on growth. This paper innovates by empirically modelling the impact of ethnic fractionalization and corruption on economic growth, both directly and indirectly through their role in affecting political stability. The analyses also add to the literature by testing a new data set with both fixed effects and GMM estimators. Results from a large panel data set of 157 countries from 1996–2014 finds that ethnic fractionalization and corruption negatively impact economic growth indirectly by increasing political instability, which has a negative direct effect on economic growth. Once the indirect effects are accounted for, ethnic fractionalization has no significant direct effect on growth. There is weak evidence to suggest that corruption may, in some countries, actually have a positive direct effect on growth by enabling firms to circumvent bureaucratic red tape, consistent with the “greasing the wheels” hypothesis. These results emphasize the importance of establishing strong institutions which are able to accommodate diverse groups and maintain political stability. Additional results find these implications to be particularly relevant for low-income and/or sub-Saharan African countries. The results also suggest that a country having a wide diversity of languages and religions need not be a hindrance to economic growth if a robust political system is in place.
Negotiating Voice Construction Between Writers and Readers in College Writing: A Case Study of an L2 Writer

Voice is co-constructed, a result of the “text-mediated interaction between the writer and the reader.” The present study, using the context of U.S. college writing, explores the complicated proces...
Comment on 2018 American Academy of Neurology guidelines on disease-modifying therapies in MS

The American Academy of Neurology has published a comprehensive review and guidelines for the use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in multiple sclerosis (MS) for the first time since 2002. These guidelines represent the work of MS experts, patients, and guideline experts and are based on their review of randomized controlled trials and observational evidence that addresses a set of prespecified questions related to starting, switching, and potentially discontinuing DMTs. Many of the recommendations address decision-making regarding the use of DMTs and incorporate the perspective of patients. Modified Delphi methods were used to establish consensus recommendations that were assigned a level of clinical obligation (actions a clinician must [A], should [B], or may [C] do). Most guideline recommendations are level B. Few reached level A, and several achieved only level C, primarily because of lack of evidence. The guidelines eschew formal treatment algorithms and do not address financial considerations and a variety of other controversies. We identify remaining uncertainties, the most important of which is the choice of available DMTs for the average newly diagnosed patient. We reiterate a number of research needs identified in the guidelines that could affect the use of DMTs, including improved definition of breakthrough disease requiring change in therapy, development of better and universally accepted definitions of both benign and aggressive MS, more and longer-duration comparative effectiveness trials, discovery and validation of biomarkers of disease activity and response to therapy, and development of treatment strategies focused on neuroprotection, remyelination, and neural repair.
An S = 1/2 Iron Complex Featuring N2, Thiolate, and Hydride Ligands: Reductive Elimination of H2 and Relevant Thermochemical Fe–H Parameters

Believed to accumulate on the Fe sites of the FeMo-cofactor (FeMoco) of MoFe-nitrogenase under turnover, strongly donating hydrides have been proposed to facilitate N2 binding to Fe and may also participate in the hydrogen evolution process concomitant to nitrogen fixation. Here, we report the synthesis and characterization of a thiolate-coordinated FeIII(H)(N2) complex, which releases H2 upon warming to yield an FeII–N2–FeII complex. Bimolecular reductive elimination of H2 from metal hydrides is pertinent to the hydrogen evolution processes of both enzymes and electrocatalysts, but well-defined examples are uncommon and usually observed from diamagnetic second- and third-row transition metals. Kinetic data obtained on the HER of this ferric hydride species are consistent with a bimolecular reductive elimination pathway, arising from cleavage of the Fe–H bond with a computationally determined BDFE of 55.6 kcal/mol.
Conventions and The Foundations of Law

According to Jules Coleman, “law is made possible by an interdependent convergence of behavior and attitude: what we might think of as an ‘agreement’ among individuals expressed in a social or conventional rule” (Coleman 1998a, 383). Some version of this “conventionality thesis” has been a key component of Hart’s jurisprudential legacy since the 1980s. Few Anglo-American legal philosophers at end of the century denied that law has social foundations or that it is intimately linked to social practice. The conventionality thesis in its refined post-Hartian form, however, makes a stronger and more sharply focused claim: that essential to law is a social practice, primarily among officials, regarding law’s formal foundations (its “rule of recognition”), that is distinctively conventional, and in this fact lies a full explanation of the conditions of the existence and the distinctive normativity of law. This complex claim has been the focus of debate for nearly three decades in Anglo-American legal philosophy. This chapter chronicles this debate.
Thermal Wave and Raman Characterization of Diamond Films

Diamond films possess many of the attractive properties of bulk diamond such as hardness, thermal conductivity and wide band transparency. This fact plus the recent progress in making these films inexpensively[1,2] has attracted much renewed interest in using them in many different applications which include coatings to machine tools and optical components, heat sinks for high power semiconductor devices. The challenge is then placed on material characterization techniques intended to measure their electrical, optical, thermal, and elastic properties. The challenge on the measurement of thermal properties is especially acute because none of the conventional techniques are appropriate for thin films. The films are usually very thin (of the order of a few to tens of microns) and in intimate thermal contact with the substrate. Even though the diamond films are supposed to have superb thermal conductivity, their contribution to the thermal conductivity of the combined film/substrate composite may still be too small to be detectable by conventional methods. Lifting the film from its substrate and measuring its thermal properties in isolation is not sufficient, because not only is this a destructive procedure, but also it misses the main point. For many applications, it is the in situ thermal properties, together with the coupling to the substrate, which constitute the main focus of interest. The thermal wave mirage method of measuring the thermal diffusivities of solid materials[3,4] meets this challenge very well. In this method a thermal wave is launched at the surface of the sample by a periodic, focused laser beam. The amplitude and phase of the gradient of the temperature field in the surrounding area are then measured with the mirage technique. The thermal properties of the sample/substrate are then deduced by comparing measured values with theoretical model predictions.