cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Methyl Mercury Chloride on Nude Mice of APL Model

[Objective]To study the effect of methyl mercury chloride(MMC)on nude mice of APL model.[Methods] 0.1 ml(5×107/ml)NB4 cells were given to the BALB/C nude mice by tail vein inoculation after irradiation of 3 Gy~(60)Co for 10 minutes to make APL mice model.APL mice were administrated orally with 10 mg/kg(0.1 ml/10 g)BW MMC or AT0(ATO as positive control for anti-cancer)once after two days.The effects of MMC on nude mice's leukocyte count and classification,spleen weight/body ratio and the survival time were observed.[Results]MMC could reduce nude mice's leukocyte count and spleen weight/body ratio,extent the survival time,comparing with control group,the difference was significant(P0.05).[Conclusion] MMC has a certain influence on indicators of APL nude mice,through further research,its mechanism can be explored for the treatment.
The Association of Epstein-Barr Virus With Plasma Cell Neoplasms

Plasma cell neoplasms (PCNs) refer to a group of true plasma cell disorders that include but are not limited to monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), plasmacytoma, and plasma cell myeloma (PCM). Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) expression has been reported in several hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic disorders. However, EBV expression …
Awareness and use of blood cholesterol tests in 40-74-year-olds by educational level.

Abstract Questions on awareness, use, and results of blood cholesterol tests were included in telephone surveys on cancer conducted in 1988 on random samples of persons 40-74 years of age in Long Island, NY (N = 440), and in Connecticut (N = 453). Educational level was significantly and positively associated with the proportions reporting ever having heard of blood cholesterol tests, ever having had a test done ("by a doctor"), and having a recent test, 1987-88, but not with the proportion reportedly having been told by a doctor that their cholesterol level was "high." In multivariate analyses, greater education (college graduate versus all others) and greater frequency of medical checkups (annual versus other) were significant independent predictors of ever having had a cholesterol test or having been tested in 1987 or 1988. Implications of findings were discussed with regard to monitoring changes over time in awareness and use of cholesterol tests according to educational level and to planning interventions aimed at less educated groups.
Wave Motions in a Rotating and/or Stratified Fluid

When considering wave motions in natural systems one immediately realizes that a number of important external effects need to be taken into account. In particular these motions take place in a fluid that is compressible, stratified and rotating on a spherical surface. Thus any general theory is necessarily complex and any simplifying concepts lost in the overwhelming mass of mathematical details. It therefore behooves us to make rational assumptions concerning the relative magnitudes of these effects and then study their consequences in isolation. Firstly we ignore the effects of the sphericity of the system and assume the motion takes place on a plane surface rotating at constant angular frequency. The details of this assumption are treated later but essentially restrict both the lateral or horizontal and the vertical extent of the motion. As a first approximation we ignore, also, the compressibility of the fluid, essentially requiring that the “scale-height” of the system be much larger than the vertical extent of the fluid. This is a very good approximation in the ocean but obviously much weaker in the atmosphere, where in fact we should, finally, consider the effects of compressibility in order to be completely realistic.
Human Figure Drawings and the Draw-A-Person: Screening Procedure for Emotional Disturbance

Human figure drawings (HFD) have been used for almost a century as ways to gather information about an individual’s cognitive as well as personality functioning. In 1926, Goodenough submitted one of the first scoring systems which could be used to determine mental abilities through drawings. From this early work, the use of HFD as measures of mental ability, or developmental level, has involved reviewing the content of drawings to obtain an estimate of a person’s mental abilities. When used for this purpose, an individual’s drawings are reviewed for specific content items such as represented body parts and clothes.
Combination Therapy with Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and Agents with Different Mechnisms of Actions Is Effective in a Patient with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Harboring the T315l BCR - ABL1 Mutation.

Abstract 4282 Mutations of BCR-ABL1 have been observed in 50% of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) who develop resistance to imatinib. The gate-keeper mutation T315I is one of the mutations with universal resistance to imatinib and to the second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) that are approved for the treatment of patients with imatinib failure. The use of new kinase inhibitors with in vitro activity against T315I mutation as well as other agents with different mechanisms of actions is being evaluated in clinical trials. We report the case of a 57-year old man that was diagnosed with CML in 2003. Patient received initial therapy with standard-dose imatinib that was subsequently increased to 800 mg daily. He did achieve a complete cytogenetic response (CCyR) 9 months post dose escalation. He was followed by RT-PCR for BCR-ABL1. . In May, 2007, the patient BCR-ABL1/ABL1 ratio increased to 16.38 but the patient remained in CCyR. BCR-ABL1 sequencing revealed the T315I mutation in 100% of cells ([Figure 1][1]). One month later the patient lost CCyR (5% Philadelphia-positive [Ph+] cells) and the BCR-ABL1/ABL1 ratio was 5.08. The patient was started on the T315I specific inhibitor KW-2449 (100 mg orally twice daily for 14 days, every 3 weeks). Patient had a progressive decline in percentage of cells with the T315I mutation ([Figure 1][1]). However, at the same time he had an increase in percentage of Ph+ cells. In September, 2007, three months after starting therapy with KW-2449, patient had no cytogenetic response (80% Ph+ cells, PCR for BCR-ABL1 ratio > 100) and the T315I mutation was undetectable. At that time, a new ABL1 sequencing revealed the F359I mutation (no quantification was done). Patient was maintained on KW-2449 for the next 6 months, without significant improvement in cytogenetic response nor BCR-ABL1 ratio, but the clone with the T315I mutation did not reappear. In February, 2008, the patient lost hematologic response and presented with an elevated white blood cell count of 22×109/L. The F359I mutation was still present. Therapy with KW-2449 was stopped and the patient started dasatinib 100 mg/day and Interferon-a 3,000,000 units. Three months later, the patient acheived CCyR with a BCR-ABL1/ABL1 ratio of 0.05. At the last evaluation, 16 months after the start of dasatinib and interferon combination, the patient was maintaining CCyR and major molecular response. In conclusion, this case illustrates the benefit of the use of combination therapy, mainly TKI and agent with different mechanism of action either sequentially (TKI followed by KW-2449) or concomitantly (TKI + interferon) in eradicating resistant disease with T315I clone. ![Figure 1][2] Figure 1 Serial Monitoring of Ph+ Cells, T315I Cells and BCR-ABL1/ABL1 Ratio Disclosures: Cortes: Novartis: Research Funding. Jabbour: Novartis: Speakers Bureau; Bristol Myers Squibb : Speakers Bureau. [1]: #F1 [2]: pending:yes
Tomato variety trials for productivity and quality in organic hoop house versus open field management

Tomatoes are a profitable direct-market crop for diversified Midwestern farmers. Unfortunately, many tomatoes with the flavor and quality characteristics consumers desire (such as heirloom varieties) lack agronomic traits important to organic farmers. Hoop-house production offers potentially higher yields and quality than field-grown tomatoes, and has become a popular option for organic farmers. This study compares 19 varieties of tomatoes in both organic hoop house and field conditions, to identify high-performing varieties for future plant breeding, and to characterize the effect of hoop houses on productivity and quality traits. We found that tomatoes grown in a hoop house had significantly higher yield, lower disease severity and higher °Brix (soluble sugars) than those grown in an adjacent field; and that management (hoop house versus field) had significantly more influence over those traits than other variables (variety, market class or year). This lack of varietal differences between management systems will simplify breeding efforts aimed at introducing varieties for hoop house production.
Thermodynamics of an aminoglycoside modifying enzyme with low substrate promiscuity: The aminoglycoside N3 acetyltransferase-VIa.

Kinetic, thermodynamic, and structural properties of the aminoglycoside N3-acetyltransferase-VIa (AAC-VIa) are determined. Among the aminoglycoside N3-acetyltransferases, AAC-VIa has one of the most limited substrate profiles. Kinetic studies showed that only five aminoglycosides are substrates for this enzyme with a range of fourfold difference in kcat values. Larger differences in KM (∼40-fold) resulted in ∼30-fold variation in kcat /KM . Binding of aminoglycosides to AAC-VIa was enthalpically favored and entropically disfavored with a net result of favorable Gibbs energy (ΔG 55% sequence similarity to the highly promiscuous aminoglycoside N3-acetyltransferase. Proteins 2017; 85:1258-1265. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Managing Early Successional Habitats for Wildlife in Novel Places

Utility rights-of-way stretch for thousands of kilometers across the North American landscape. In deciduous forests of the Central Hardwood Region, rights-of-way provide opportunities for conserving early successional species, including a broad array of songbirds and butterflies. Although the millions of hectares managed by the utility industry to provide electricity, natural gas, and other services are not usually viewed by the public as beneficial for wildlife conservation, we suggest that rights-of-way can be valuable early succession habitats in addition to more “traditionally” created areas like clearcut harvests.
Holocaust Drama: Staging the Banality of Evil

Hannah Arendt's Eichmann in Jerusalem was an ennobling treatise that changed the way Nazis were depicted on stage. This chapter explores the Nazi mentality through Arendt's concept of the “banality of evil” as depicted in Donald Freed's The White Crow: Eichmann in Jerusalem , Cecil Taylor's Good , Peter Barnes's Laughter! , and Thomas Bernhard's Vor dem Ruhestand . Adolf Eichmann was a mediocre student and subsequently a salesman for an electric company before joining the National Socialist Party and then entering the SS in 1932. He was an ambitious young man who married in 1935 and soon began to realize that the Nazi Party provided him with the means to move up in the ranks and thus to develop enough security to take care of his family fairly well. Arendt explains Eichmann's motivations in the early part of his career: “From a humdrum life without significance and consequence the wind had blown him into History, as he understood it, namely, into a Movement that always kept moving and in which somebody like him–already a failure in the eyes of his social class, of his family, and hence in his own eyes as well–could start from scratch and still make a career.” Eichmann quickly became an expert on Jewish affairs and then advanced in the Party to become the Nazis' leading authority on emigration; as such, Eichmann worked closely with Jewish leaders to achieve their mutual goal of emigrating Jews to Palestine during the 1930s.
Clinical and Psychosocial Factors Associated With Patient Experience in Pediatrics

Objective. To identify clinical and psychosocial factors associated with patient experience with care. Methods. We analyzed patient experience surveys, corresponding clinical and psychosocial the d...
Dehn Surgery on Knots in the 3-Sphere

The Dehn surgery construction is a way of obtaining a closed 3-manifold from a knot in the 3-sphere. The construction depends on two parameters, the knot and the surgery slope, and this article discusses theorems and conjectures describing the way the topology and geometry of the 3-manifold constructed depend on these knots in arbitrary 3-manifolds and the Dehn surgery construction there. Most of the theorems discussed here apply in that context as well. [Go1] is an excellent survey at this level and I recommend it as a companion to this article. My intent here is to update some of the issues in [Go1] as well as to draw attention to some tantalizing aspects of specializing to knots in the 3-sphere.
Serologic Tests for Cytomegalovirus Infections

In this chapter we consider the various serologic tests that have been described for the diagnosis of CMV infection. The principles and background of each test are presented along with its utility. The technical details of each procedure are not described, as they have been admirably updated elsewhere (Lennette and Schmidt, 1979; Schmidt and Emmons, 1989). Tests for cellular immunity against CMV and their changes during and after various infections are described in Chapter 7.
A note on Dani Rodrik, “Populism and the economics of globalization”

As far as trade as a cause of anti-globalism is concerned, Dani Rodrik’s analysis is built on the Stolper–Samuelson theorem, which shows only a wage decline through static equilibrium analysis. Although this distributional effect on labor welfare is one focal point of populist anti-globalism, other globalization-related issues – notably, obstinate joblessness and “rusted-out” towns – for which trade liberalization is partially accountable, are serious causes (as reflected in the Trump revolution). To explain these vexing issues, this commentary introduces three additional angles: the Rybczynski theorem, Schumpeterian structuralist perspective, and multinationals-driven globalization. These perspectives can help us to understand the dynamic, structural forces generated under the liberal world order, the forces that often impinge on national interests. Some new research agenda, especially a focus on MNEs’ supra-firm and supra-national ecosystems and their capacity to adapt to the currently disrupted global ecosystem, is suggested for international business scholars.
Some factors influencing byssus thread production in mytilus edulis (mollusca: Bivalvia) Linnaeus, 1758

A study was conducted to consider how certain rhythmic patterns influence byssus thread production in Mytilus edulis. The factors considered were proximity to other M. edulis, circadian rhythms, and tidal rhythms. More M. edulis produce byssus threads when clumped with other M. edulis than M. edulis maintained in separate containers, and more mussels produce byssus threads during the night than during the day. Tidal fluctuations had no influence on byssus thread production. However, it should be noted that the experimental animals were collected from a floating dock so that the results may be different if animals were collected from a stationary intertidal habitat. The results show rhythmic patterns in the animal's behavior must be considered when interpreting data concerning byssus thread production in M. edulis. Considerable variability was recorded in the number of byssus threads produced by individual animals under the same conditions. Where the effects of these factors are not taken into account, this study strongly suggests that the use of average number of byssus threads produced/animal/hour as a measure of sublethal effects of pollutants is probably invalid.
Abstract P1-08-17: Pharmacy refill synchronization and oral endocrine therapy adherence

Background : One-third to one-half of patients prescribed adjuvant endocrine therapy with tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor either discontinue early or skip a substantial number of pills. Research to improve this has been disappointing. We investigated whether poor pharmacy synchronization of medications is an unrecognized barrier to adherence. Methods : A cohort of women aged 66-90 years old with Stage 0-3 hormone receptor-positive breast cancer were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Result (SEER)-Medicare claims-linked cancer registry. Women with Medicare pharmacy claims documenting at least one endocrine therapy prescription fill and at least one other medication fill were identified, and the 3-month synchronization of their medication fills was calculated as the quotient of the number of pharmacy visits and the number of filled medications subtracted from one. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between synchronization stratified by the number of medications and adherence to endocrine therapy (defined as medication possession ratio >80%) over the subsequent year. Results: The study cohort included 3,112 women treated with endocrine therapy for breast cancer (Table 1) . Over 31% were age 70 or younger, and 38.0% had stage 2 or 3 disease. During the three months after the first endocrine therapy prescription, the mean number of unique medications was 8.0 (S.D. 6.0) and the mean number of pharmacy visits was 8.6 S.D. 4.7) for a mean synchronization of 0.3 ( (S.D. 0.2) . In adjusted model, compared with the highest synchronization, those in the lowest synchronization quantile were less likely to be adherent (MPR >=80%) (Odds Ratio 0.71 (95% CI 0.57, 0.88)) as were those in the second-lowest (0.81 (0.65, 0.99). Neither age nor race/ethnicity were associated with adherence, and results were unchanged with inclusion of information about duration of fills (30 vs 90 days). Conclusions: Prescription fill synchronization is strongly associated with adherence to endocrine therapy. Research into interventions to improve adherence should include prescription synchronization and other health systems barriers. Citation Format: Neuner JM, Fergestrom N, Nattinger AB, Laud PW, Pezzin L. Pharmacy refill synchronization and oral endocrine therapy adherence [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-08-17.
Small molecule inhibitors of a human recombination-associated ATPase, RAD54

ABSTRACT Homologous recombination (HR) is a principal support pathway for DNA replication and for recovery from DNA breaks and interstrand crosslinks, making it a rational target for inhibition in cancer therapy. The ATPase RAD54 functions in molecular events that promote DNA sequence-preservation during HR-mediated damage repair, including homology search, DNA strand exchange, and transition to DNA repair synthesis within a displacement loop intermediate. We developed a high-throughput biochemical screen to identify small-molecule inhibitors of human RAD54, using a phosphate detection assay to monitor RAD54 ATPase activity in the presence of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). After filtering potential DNA intercalators and ‘frequent hitters,’ we identified two chemotypes that reproducibly inhibited RAD54 ATPase in vitro. We evaluated these chemotypes for inhibition of RAD54-dsDNA binding and cancer cell survival. A halogenated carbazole/dihydroacridine scaffold inhibited a panel of SWI2/SNF2-related ATPases but not VCP/p97, an unrelated ATPase. Small molecules that interfere with key steps in HR— such as inhibitors of RAD54—may expose DNA repair-dependent vulnerabilities in cancer cells.
Salivary protein biomarkers associated with orthodontic tooth movement: A systematic review.

Objective Saliva can provide a non-invasive approach to indicate changes in the oral and systemic conditions. Salivary proteomics allows the discovery of new protein biomarkers associated with certain conditions. The effectiveness and physiological effects of orthodontic tooth movement in theory can be measured using salivary protein biomarkers. Setting and sample population This study applied a systematic review to analyse current literature to define and summarize salivary biomarkers associated with orthodontic tooth movement identified by mass spectrometry proteomics and other protein detection techniques. Materials and methods Peer-reviewed articles published through the 15th of November 2018 via the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Dentistry & Oral Sciences databases were reviewed. Only studies analysing protein biomarkers in saliva samples collected from human subjects associated with orthodontic treatments were included. Results Out of 482 articles, 7 studies were selected. Sample size ranged from 3 to 72 subjects. Minor variations of unstimulated whole saliva sample collection protocol were noted. Mass spectrometry proteomics and ELISA represented the majority of biomarker discovery and targeting, respectively. Twenty biomarkers were identified or chosen as target biomarkers. Conclusion Salivary proteins may be used to indicate effectiveness of orthodontic treatment and orthognathic treatment as well as adverse treatment consequence, such as root resorption.
Mapping a Nation: Daniel Carter Beard’s Time as a Surveyor for the Sanborn Map Company

Abstract. Fire insurance maps produced by the American firm the Sanborn Map Company have long served as cartographic guides to understanding the history of urban America. Primarily used by cultural and historical geographers, historians, historic preservationists, and environmental consultants; historians of cartography have little explored the history of this company. While this scholarship has addressed various facets of Sanborn’s history (Ristow, 1968), no scholarly piece has explored the lived experience of being a Sanborn surveyor. This lack of scholarship comes not from any significant oversight but rather from the fact that the contributions of most Sanborn surveyors were anonymous and little recorded on the maps themselves. Moreover, the company itself has done little to save its own history, thus little is known of their individual stories and experiences. The exception to this is perhaps the most famous Sanborn surveyor of all: Daniel Carter Beard. Over the course of his nine-decade life, Daniel Carter Beard held several prominent positions including the co-founder of the Boy Scouts of America and the lead illustrator for many of Mark Twain’s novels. However, he got his start as a surveyor for the Sanborn Map Company in the 1870s, just a few years after its founding. His papers, housed at the Manuscript Division of the Library of Congress, includes a variety of ephemera from his time with the Sanborn Map Company. Trained in civil engineering, Beard got his start as a surveyor for the Cincinnati (Ohio) Office of Platting Commission, creating the first official plat map for the city. He was hired by Sanborn in 1874 and served as a surveyor until 1878, traveling extensively over the eastern half of the United States, parlaying his skills into creating fire insurance maps for Sanborn. Thus, this paper speaks to two main themes. The first theme traces the route of Beard during his early years with the company across the eastern half of the United States, documenting both the places he visited and the challenges he faced as a Sanborn surveyor. The second theme, interwoven through the paper, is an analysis of the innerworkings of Sanborn’s administrative structure and its relationship with the larger fire insurance market during the 1870s. Altogether, these documents present unique insight into the organization of the Sanborn Map Company and how it produced its maps during the second-half of the 19th century.
Comparing the Mutual Interchangeability of ECOM, FloTrac/Vigileo, 3D-TEE, and ITD-PAC Cardiac Output Measuring Systems in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

Objective The aim of this study was to compare the mutual interchangeability of 4 cardiac output measuring devices by comparing their accuracy, precision, and trending ability. Design A single-center prospective observational study. Design Nonuniversity teaching hospital, single center. Participants Forty-four consecutive patients scheduled for elective, nonemergent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Interventions The cardiac output was measured for each participant using 4 methods: intermittent thermodilution via pulmonary artery catheter (ITD-PAC), Endotracheal Cardiac Output Monitor (ECOM), FloTrac/Vigileo System (FLOTRAC), and 3-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D-TEE). Measurements and Main Results Measurements were performed simultaneously at 5 time points: presternotomy, poststernotomy, before cardiopulmonary bypass, after cardiopulmonary bypass, and after sternal closure. A series of statistical and comparison analyses including ANOVA, Pearson correlation, Bland-Altman plots, quadrant plots, and polar plots were performed, and inherent precision for each method and percent errors for mutual interchangeability were calculated. For the 6 two-by-two comparisons of the methods, the Pearson correlation coefficients (r), the percentage errors (% error), and concordance ratios (CR) were as follows: ECOM_versus_ITD-PAC (r = 0.611, % error = 53%, CR = 75%); FLOTRAC_versus_ITD-PAC (r = 0.676, % error = 49%, CR = 77%); 3D-TEE versus ITD-PAC (r = 0.538, % error = 64%, CR = 67%); FLOTRAC_versus_ECOM (r = 0.627, % error = 51%, CR = 75%); 3D-TEE_versus ECOM (r = 0.423, % error = 70%, CR = 60%), and 3D-TEE_versus_FLOTRAC (r = 0.602, % error = 59%, CR = 61%). Conclusions Based on the recommended statistical measures of interchangeability, ECOM, FLOTRAC, and 3D-TEE are not interchangeable with each other or to the reference standard invasive ITD-PAC method in patients undergoing nonemergent cardiac bypass surgery. Despite the negative result in this study and the majority of previous studies, these less-invasive methods of CO have continued to be used in the hemodynamic management of patients. Each device has its own distinct technical features and inherent limitations; it is clear that no single device can be used universally for all patients. Therefore, different methods or devices should be chosen based on individual patient conditions, including the degree of invasiveness, measurement performance, and the ability to provide real-time, continuous CO readings.
Serving the Underserved? Student Characteristics and Staffing Patterns in California Charter Schools

Building from the existing knowledge of charter school spending and staffing, and with a lens toward better understanding the fiscal flexibility afforded charter schools, this study examines staffi...
Large-scale controls of propagation of the Madden-Julian Oscillation

With widespread influence on global climate and weather extremes, the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) plays a crucial role in subseasonal prediction. Our latest global climate models (GCMs), however, have great difficulty in realistically simulating the MJO. This model inability is largely due to problems in representation of MJO’s cumulus organization. This study, based on a series of idealized aqua-planet model experiments using an atmospheric-only GCM, clearly demonstrates that MJO propagation is strongly modulated by the large-scale background state in which the lower-tropospheric mean moisture gradient and zonal winds are critical. Therefore, when tuning climate models to achieve improved MJO simulations, particular attention needs to be placed on the model large-scale mean state that is also significantly affected by cumulus parameterizations. This study indicates that model biases in representing MJO propagation may be related to the widely reported double-ITCZ (intertropical convergence zone) problem in climate models.
The genetic composition of wild recruits in a recovering lake trout population in Lake Michigan

Strain performance evaluations are vital for developing successful fishery management and restoration strategies. Here, we utilized genotypes from 36 microsatellites to investigate hatchery strain ...
Bottom Reflooding of Pressurized Water Reactors—Part I: Forced Reflooding and Core Thermal Hydraulics

An engineering model was developed to simulate the thermal-hydraulic phenomena in pressurized water reactor cores during bottom reflooding. The model couples the fluid thermal hydraulics and radial heat transfer in the fuel rods. The system dynamics were formulated in terms of a set of ordinary differential equations, which were integrated using the Gear integration package. A dynamic nodal scheme, which moves with the quench-front location, was utilized to predict the fuel rod temperatures. Model predictions and comparisons with full-scale experiments are provided, and show good agreement with the FLECHT-SEASET and Slab Core Test Facility data. The proposed methodology was found to be computationally fast when compared with previous approaches, and can be readily integrated with other modules to simulate the complete reactor coolant system.
Uneven innovation: The work of smart cities, by Jennifer Clark: New York, Columbia University Press, 2020

The “smart city” is one of the most pervasive—and seductive—themes of 21st century urbanism. Variously describing an array of tech-enabled activities and applications as a strategy for increased ec...
Dielectric properties of conductively loaded polyimides in the far infrared

The dielectric properties of selected conductively-loaded polyimide samples are characterized in the microwave through far-infrared wavebands. These materials, belonging to the Vespel family, are more readily formed by direct machining than their ceramic-loaded epoxy counterparts and present an interesting solution for realizing absorptive optical control structures. Measurements spanning a spectral range from 1 to 600 cm−1 (0.03–18 THz) were performed and used in parametrization of the media’s dielectric function at frequencies below ≈3 THz.
Magnetic excitation and thermodynamics of BaFe2As2

Magnetic excitation of the iron-based superconductor parent compound BaFe2As2 at finite temperature are addressed with a first-principles formulation of the Helmholtz energy, which can account for the finite temperature mixture of many magnetic configurations. We find that it is the spin exchange coupling in the interplane c direction that dictates the spin density wave ordering. We have also quantitatively predicted the pressure dependence of the spin density wave ordering temperature, the Schottky anomaly, and the temperature dependence of thermal populations of several low-energy spin configurations, all in agreement with available experimental data. V C 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem 111: 3565-3570, 2011
Massive spontaneous subconjunctival hemorrhage in a patient on therapeutic warfarin: A case report.

Abstract Purpose To describe a case of massive spontaneous subconjunctival hemorrhage in a patient taking warfarin with a therapeutic international normalized ratio (INR). Observations Massive circumferential hemorrhagic chemosis, extensive periorbital and facial ecchymosis, and active arterial extravasation in the subconjunctiva which required cessation and reversal of anticoagulation. Findings gradually resolved over several months after discharge. Conclusions and importance While subconjunctival hemorrhage, even in anticoagulated patients, is usually benign, rare examples of severe presentations exist. We present, to our knowledge, the first documented case of a subconjunctival hemorrhage necessitating cessation and reversal of anticoagulation in the setting of a therapeutic INR.
Impact of medical scribes on physician and patient satisfaction in dermatology.

Physician burnout and its association with the use of electronic health records (EHRs) is well known. The impact of scribes for academic dermatologists and their patients needs to be explored. As physician burnout increases, system-based solutions are needed. To assess the impact of a scribe on physician and patient satisfaction at an academic dermatology clinic. Prospective, pre-post-pilot intervention study. During the pilot intervention, clinicians had clinic sessions with and without a scribe. We assessed changes in (1) clinician satisfaction and burnout, (2) time spent on EHR, and (3) patient satisfaction. An electronic 7-item baseline survey, 23-item mid-study survey, and a 22-item end-of-study survey to assess clinician burnout and feedback on satisfaction with medical scribes. A 19-item post visit satisfaction survey was given to patients. EHR was queried to compare amount of time spent on EHR, closure of charts, and number of patients seen during scribe coverage and at baseline. Of the six clinicians, 100% felt that there was value to scribe support. Physician burnout was low at baseline and did not change post-pilot. Active documentation time, on average, decreased by 67% per patient with a 28% increase in patients seen per clinic. Over 88% of patients disagreed with the statement, “I was uncomfortable disclosing personal information when a scribe was present” (p < 0.001). In an academic dermatology and Mohs surgery setting, medical scribes increased clinician satisfaction without compromising patient satisfaction.
Pilot evaluation of changes in motor control after wearable robotic resistance training in children with cerebral palsy.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is characterized by deficits in motor function due to reduced neuromuscular control. We leveraged the guiding principles of motor learning theory to design a wearable robotic intervention intended to improve neuromuscular control of the ankle. The goal of this study was to determine the neuromuscular and biomechanical response to four weeks of exoskeleton ankle resistance therapy (exo-therapy) in children with CP. Five children with CP (12 - 17 years, GMFCS I - II, two diplegic and three hemiplegic, four males and one female) were recruited for ten 20-minute sessions of exo-therapy. Surface electromyography, three-dimensional kinematics, and metabolic data were collected at baseline and after training was complete. After completion of training and with no device on, participants walked with decreased co-contraction between the plantar flexors and dorsiflexors (-29 ± 11%, p = 0.02), a more typical plantar flexor activation profile (33 ± 13% stronger correlation to a typical soleus activation profile, p = 0.01), and increased neural control complexity (7 ± 3%, p < 0.01 measured via muscle synergy analysis). These improvements in neuromuscular control led to a more mechanically efficient gait pattern (58 ± 34%, p < 0.05) with a reduced metabolic cost of transport (-29 ± 15%, p = 0.02). The findings from this study suggest that ankle exoskeleton resistance therapy shows promise for rapidly improving neuromuscular control for children with CP, and may serve as a meaningful rehabilitative complement to common surgical procedures.
Seismic Performance of ±800 kV Ultra-High Voltage Converter Transformer-Bushing System

Large transformers were often seriously damaged due to earthquakes and there is less study on their seismic behavior. In this paper, FEM analysis is carried out to study the seismic behavior of a ±800kV Ultra-high voltage (UHV) converter transformer and displacements, stresses and accelerations of the critical parts were output. The influence on bushings' frequency reducing and amplification factors of different parts on the transformer was analyzed. The results indicated that the vertical response of the transformer was larger than the response at horizontal direction. The amplification factors of the stress and the acceleration at the bottom and the displacement at the top of the bushing was different. The amplification factor of the acceleration response spectra was larger than the value recommended by standards and the peak of the factors were at the first 2 nature frequencies associated with the bushing
An interpretation of identity-based cryptography

Identity-based cryptography (IBC) is an asymmetric key cryptographic technology with a special feature, in which a user's public key can be an identifier of the user and the corresponding private key is created by binding the identifier with a system master secret. This paper is based on the author's lecture notes in this area. In this paper, we introduce the concept of IBC by explaining some basic cryptographic primitives, such as identity-based encryption, signatures, combined encryption/ signing and key-agreement. We also introduce two types of implementation techniques, which are based on integer factorization and discrete logarithm from pairings respectively. In order to make the technology easier to understand, we describe a small number of mechanisms in each primitive. Some of the mechanisms have been adopted by international standard bodies. At the end of the paper, we briefly cover the key escrow issue and a few well-known security models for these primitives.
Installation of the Tritium Purification System

This paper describes and details the design, the tasks, and the considerations for the mechanical and electrical installation of the TFTR Tritium Purification System (TPS) at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL). Canadian Fusion Fuels Technology Project (CFFTP) designed, fabricated, assembled and tested the Tritium Purification System in Ontario, Canada. After system tests were accepted by Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, the assembled components were disassembled into a set of subassemblies and were shipped to PPPL. The subassemblies were reassembled at PPPL and installed primarily in the Decon Facility. The original site selection was within the TFTR tritium processing area and that selection impacted the column design. The Decon Facility was later chosen to permit a better layout of equipment and improved access for installation personnel. Selection of the Decon Facility site resulted in longer line runs for most of the process streams including the tritium product line. The initial review of the proposed installation was conducted during September of 1994 and the System Integrated Test began during April 1995, subsequent to a successful Operational Readiness Assessment conducted during March of 1995.
Designing and Implementing an Assessment Plan for a Virtual Engineering Lab

72 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE This article describes the process of creating, implementing, and assessing an innovative learning tool. The game based laboratory simulation, “Gaming for Applied Materials Engineering” (GAME), incorporated into the Engineering curriculum at a large public university, is intended to facilitate the same learning previously taught in a traditional hands-on laboratory. Through this technological tool, researchers hope to extend an integral learning opportunity to students currently unable to access physical labs, as well as, to augment and reinforce the material taught to those currently enrolled in physical lab courses. Throughout the article, the research team discusses the assessment methodology, describes several challenges overcome, and offers recommendations for others interested in utilizing game-based technology in educational settings.
Modeling strongly non-Gaussian non-stationary stochastic processes using the Iterative Translation Approximation Method and Karhunen-Loève expansion

A new model for non-stationary and non-Gaussian stochastic processes is presented.The model improves the ITAM by upgrading directly the autocorrelation function.KL-ITAM improves the accuracy/efficiency of non-Gaussian stochastic process modeling.Utilizes the K-L expansion for simulation of general non-Gaussian random processes. A method is proposed for modeling non-Gaussian and non-stationary random processes using the Karhunen-Loeve expansion and translation process theory that builds upon an existing family of procedures called the Iterative Translation Approximation Method (ITAM). The new method improves the ITAM by iterating directly on the non-stationary autocorrelation function. The existing ITAM requires estimation of the evolutionary spectrum from the autocorrelation function for which no unique relation exists. Consequently, computationally expensive estimates or simplifying assumptions/approximations reduced the ITAM performance for non-stationary processes. The proposed method improves the accuracy of the resulting process while maintaining computational efficiency. Several examples are provided.
Fast neutron radiotherapy for primary mucosal melanomas of the head and neck.

Background Primary head and neck mucosal melanomas (HNMMs) are rare tumors managed with surgery and/or radiotherapy and associated with poor outcomes. Given their radioresistance, high linear energy transfer radiotherapy with neutrons may improve local control. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 14 patients with HNMM treated with neutrons at the University of Washington from 1990 to 2012. Five patients had T3 disease, 9 had T4 disease, 3 had regional nodal disease, and 4 had distant metastases at diagnosis. Primary sites were sinonasal (n=10), lip (n=2), and palate (n=2). Ten patients had initial surgical resection/debulking. Results Nine patients had gross residual disease, 6 had complete response, and 3 had partial response. Local control was achieved in 79% until death or last follow-up, and 50% developed distant metastases. Kaplan–Meier 5-year local control was 66% and overall survival was 21%. Conclusion High rates of locoregional control were achieved with neutrons, despite the presence of gross disease. Survival was limited by early distant metastases. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 1162–1167, 2014
The Removal of Protein-Bound Solutes by Dialysis

Protein-bound solutes that accumulate in plasma when the kidneys fail are poorly cleared by conventional dialysis. Means have been developed to reduce the levels of such solutes, either by modifying the dialysis procedure to increase their clearance or by limiting their production. A trial testing whether reducing bound solute levels clinically benefits dialysis patients is required to determine whether these measures should be adopted in routine clinical practice.
Use of a free bladder mucosal graft for simple repair of vesicovaginal fistulae

The aim of this paper is to describe a simple, fast, and effective method for repair of difficult vesicovaginal fistulae by means of a free bladder mucosal graft. Six patients with high, large, multiple, or recurrent vesicovaginal fistulae were treated using a free bladder mucosal graft. Three patients underwent "early" repair (less than 3 months from time of injury) and 3 "late" repair (more than 6 months from time of injury). Via a suprapubic cystotomy, the mucosa of the fistulous tract was debrided without any attempt to excise the tract or close the bladder or vaginal defects. A free bladder mucosal graft was harvested from an unaffected portion of the bladder and placed over the fistulous tract, and mucosal approximation was made using interrupted 5-0 chromic stay sutures. The donor urothelial defect was allowed to re-epithelialize. A Foley catheter, suprapubic tube, and vaginal packing were left in place. Five patients noted an immediate result, with no evidence of leakage, and the suprapubic tube was removed by week 3. One patient required prolonged catheter drainage, and the tube was successfully removed by week 6. This patient had undergone irradiation. All patients remain dry at follow-up, which ranges from 2 to 6 years. We describe a simple and effective method for transabdominal vesicovaginal fistula repair, involving minimal mobilization, decreased dissection, and no need for rotational or interposition flaps, obviating the need to open the peritoneum. A free bladder mucosal graft can be used regardless of the individual anatomy or proximity to the ureteral orifices, because it can easily be tailored. This technique represents an important repair of difficult, recurrent, or multiple vesicovaginal fistulae.
Assessments of DNA inhomogeneities in yeast chromosome III.

With the sequencing of the first complete eukaryotic chromosome, III of yeast (YCIII) of length 315 kb, several types of questions concerning chromosomal organization and the heterogeneity of eukaryotic DNA sequences can be approached. We have undertaken extensive analysis of YCIII with the goals of: (1) discerning patterns and anomalies in the occurrences of short oligonucleotides; (2) characterizing the nature and locations of significant direct and inverted repeats; (3) delimiting regions unusually rich in particular base types (e.g., G+C, purines); and (4) analyzing the distributions of markers of interest, e.g., delta (delta) elements, ARS (autonomous replicating sequences), special oligonucleotides, close repeats and close dyad pairings, and gene sequences. YCIII reveals several distinctive sequence features, including: (i) a relative abundance of significant local and global repeats highlighting five genes containing substantial close or tandem DNA repeats; (ii) an anomalous distribution of delta elements involving two clusters and a long gap; (iii) a significantly even distribution of ARS; (iv) a relative increase in the frequency of T runs and AT iterations downstream of genes and A runs upstream of genes; and (v) two regions of complex repetitive sequences and anomalous DNA composition, 29000-31000 and 291000-295000, the latter centered at the HMRa locus. Interpretations of these findings for chromosomal organization and implications for regulation of gene expression are discussed.
New Roles for a Key Glycine and Its Neighboring Residue in Potassium Channel Gating

Potassium channel activation regulates cellular excitability in cells such as neurons and heart. Ion channel activity relies on a switching mechanism between two conformations, the open and closed states, known as gating. It has been suggested that potassium channels are gated via a pivoted mechanism of the pore-lining helix. Our analysis suggests that hinging occurs at the residue immediately preceding the central glycine of the inner helix. Furthermore, we show that the highly conserved central glycine is necessary to prevent constraining interactions with critical residues in its vicinity, including those located in the selectivity filter. We show that such interactions can impair channel function, and that upon their removal channel activity can be restored.
Biodegradation of Compostable Plastics in Green Yard-Waste Compost Environment

Compostable plastic materials, produced from polylactic acid (PLA), corn starch, or sugarcane, degraded in a green yard-waste compost environment. The compostable plastics claim to meet ASTM D6400 standards for biodegradation, sustainable plant growth, and eco-toxicity. Biodegradation was measured by disintegration studies over 20 weeks. The commercially available compostable products, made from PLA, sugarcane, or corn starch, biodegraded while in a commercial compost facility with other common yard waste compostable items. The PLA container, cup, and knife completely degraded in 7 weeks at a rate similar to the Avicell micro-cellulose control. The corn starch-based trash bag and sugarcane plate degraded at a similar rate as the Kraft paper control. The three materials degraded between 80% and 90% after 20 weeks.
Adsorption and Diffusion of Gallium Adatoms on the Si(100)-2 × 1 Reconstructed Surface: A Multiconfiguration Self-Consistent Field Study Utilizing Molecular Surface Clusters

Ab initio electronic structure theory was used to model systems that depict Ga and Ga2 adsorbed on the Si(100)-2 × 1 reconstructed surface. The prototypical Si15H16 molecular cluster based on quantum mechanics (QM) was used to model the Si(100)-2 × 1 reconstructed surface. A larger Si199H92 molecular cluster based on a hybrid quantum mechanics molecular mechanics (QM/MM) methodology was used to incorporate bulk substrate effects on the adsorbed species. Since the Si(100)-2 × 1 reconstructed surface is comprised of Si dimers that exhibit significant diradical character, multiconfiguration self-consistent field (MCSCF) methodology was used to treat the relevant potential energy surfaces. Hessian calculations were used to characterize all structures, while intrinsic reaction coordinate (minimum energy path) computations were performed to validate the potential energy surface. Dynamic correlation effects were computed at MCSCF optimized structures by multireference second-order perturbation theory. Results fr...