cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
HAFNIUM ISOTOPIC COMPOSITIONS OF ZIRCON FROM ADIRONDACK AMCG SUITES: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PETROGENESIS OF ANORTHOSITES, GABBROS, AND GRANITIC MEMBERS OF THE SUITES

Zircon crystals separated from selected samples of Adirondack (New York) anorthosite, gabbro, and granitic members of the AMCG suite, previously dated by SHRIMP U–Pb methods, have been analyzed for Hf isotopic composition. The resulting calculated Hf T DM values for both granitic rocks and anorthosites are ca. 1350–1400 Ma, consistent with previously determined Nd T DM , significantly greater that the U–Pb crystallization ages of 1155–1160 Ma. They indicate involvement of older lithosphere. The range of initial e Hf for anorthosites falls within the range observed for non-anorthosite lithologies ( ca. +3 to +8) and suggests some consanguinity in their petrogenesis. On the basis of bulk compositions, it is likely that granitic members of the suite were formed by partial melting of pre-existing crust or mantle lithosphere (or both). Anorthosite may have formed from fractionation of basalt derived from previously enriched mantle lithosphere. The fact that the Hf isotopic characteristics ( e.g. , T DM ) of zircon from the charnockites, mangerites, and granites entirely overlap those of zircon from the anorthosites and gabbros suggests that the sources ( e.g. , enriched mantle and lower crust) were characterized by similar Hf isotopic compositions and a limited range of Lu/Hf at ~1100 Ma. Such a relationship might be expected if ~1350 Ma arc development produced relatively homogeneous crust and sub-arc mantle in terms of Hf isotopic composition and Lu/Hf values. This is feasible because changes of e Hf or e Nd in such a crust–mantle system in only ~150–200 Ma (difference between T DM and U–Pb ages) would be less than 1 e Hf unit.
Functional assay of antiplatelet drugs based on margination of platelets in flowing blood

A novel functional assay of antiplatelet drug efficacy was designed by utilizing the phenomena of platelet margination in flowing blood and transient platelet contacts with surface-immobilized platelet agonists. Flow margination enhances transient contacts of platelets with the walls of flow chambers covered with surface-immobilized proteins. Depending on the type and the surface density of the immobilized agonists, such transient interactions could "prime" the marginated platelet subpopulation for enhanced activation and adhesion downstream. By creating an upstream surface patch with an immobilized platelet agonist, platelet flow margination was used to test how effective antiplatelet drugs are in suppressing downstream platelet activation and adhesion. The platelet adhesion downstream was measured by a so-called "capture" patch region close to the distal end of the flow chamber. Platelet adhesion downstream was found to be dose-dependent on the upstream surface coverage of the "priming" patch, with immobilized fibrinogen acting as a platelet agonist. Several antiplatelet agents (acetylsalicylic acid, eptifibatide, and tirofiban) were evaluated for their efficacy in attenuating downstream adhesion after upstream platelet priming. The activation of the platelet population was found to be dependent on both the extent of the upstream agonist stimulus and the antiplatelet drug concentration. Such a relationship provides an opportunity to measure the efficacy of specific antiplatelet agents against the type and concentration of upstream platelet agonists.
A Research Perspective on Weather-Climate Based Health Meteorological Forecast

Weather,climate and atmospheric environment factors which influence human health,its impact approach and the weather-climate based health meteorological forecast research were introduced.Weather-climate based health early warning techniques developed through the collaboration between meteorological/climatological and public health sectors may enhance disease control and prevention.
Survey of a food poisoning in tourist group caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus

Objective To analyzed the cause of a food poisoning in tourist group.Methods Field epidemiological and hygienic survey and laboratory tests of samples were conducted and the results were analyzed.Results Totally 53 cases were reported with a prevalent rate of 67.95%(53/78).The sanitary conditions of the hotels and restaurants implicated in the events were poor.Four samples tested in laboratory were negative and Vibrio parahaemolyticus was detected from four of the five anal swabs with serotype 01.Conclusion Effective measured be adopted in safety monitoring of food and beverage industry to prevent the occurrence of food poisoning.
Experimental Results for Bending and Buckling of Rectangular Orthotropic Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Plate Structures

Solid unstiffened, sandwich, and hat-stiffened rectangular orthotropic fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) plates were tested in uniaxial in-plane compression and out-of-plane uniform pressure. The two short edges of all plates were clamped, whereas the two long edges of the unstiffened and sandwich plates were simply supported and the same edges of the hat-stiffened plate were left free. Unstiffened plates reached global buckling at about 688 kN (155 klb); however, the plates did not collapse up to the machine load limit of 1334 kN (300 klb). Sandwich plates never reached the overall elastic buckling load; they collapsed in local buckling by face sheet delamination and core shear failure at loads of about 939 kN (211 klb). Hat-stiffened plates exhibited local buckling of the outer unsupported flanges at a load of about 356 kN (80 klb). All hat-stiffened plates collapsed under uniaxial compression due to a combination of face sheet to stiffener delamination followed by hat-stiffener local buckling at loads of about 939 kN (211 klb). The stresses and deflections due to out-of-plane uniform pressure were compared between the unstiffened, sandwich, and hat-stiffened plates from pressures of 6.895 kPa (1 psi) to 34 kPa (5 psi). With the plates under uniaxial compression and out-of-plane uniform pressure simultaneously, there was a general decrease in buckling and collapse with an increase in out-of-plane uniform pressure.
El enfoque Gramática Individual, o la posibilidad de un programa basado en el idiolecto en aprendizaje de lenguas

Este articulo desarrolla el concepto de facilitar la produccion lexica oral por medio de traducir las recurrencias lexico sintacticas mas frecuentes del propio idiolecto de cada aprendiente. Para ello se utilizo un diseno cuasi experimental durante veinticuatro semanas a fin de comparar los efectos del metodo sobre un grupo de aprendientes autonomos de lenguas (N = 10). Las unidades de datos fueron la recuperacion lexico sintactica en conversaciones semidirigidas y la elaboracion de traducciones interlineadas. Un analisis de tipo mixto revela que el metodo ha tenido hasta el momento un efecto positivo en la produccion oral y escrita debido a la exposicion explicita de los aprendientes a su propio idiolecto en lengua extranjera junto con estrategias metacognitivas. Se ofrecen pautas para la implementacion de un enfoque tipo gramatica individual tomando en cuenta los factores que intervienen en el aprendizaje autonomo.
Sources of unequal cognitive development of middle-school students in China’s rural–urban migration era:

This paper seeks to identify the major sources of unequal cognitive development of middle school students in China’s current rural–urban migration era. Under a framework that integrates theories of social stratification, migration, and sociology of education, we utilize data on a nationally representative sample of 9th graders and a standardized cognitive test to provide valid population patterns and explanations of cognitive development inequality. Our regression decomposition helps disentangle the sources of group disparities between the predictor levels and the predictor effects. Our analysis reveals that the old order of inequality created by household registration (hukou) has been complicated by rural–urban migration. Inequality has increased for rural-hukou students, with the most dramatic differences occurring among children of migrants, depending upon the child’s migrant status. Our regression decomposition analysis results point to the effectiveness of the school learning environment as the chief...
Abstract 061: Sex-specific Trends in Acute Myocardial Infarction Hospitalization, 2000 to 2014

Objectives: Age and sex-specific differences exist in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) prevalence, morbidity and mortality. Thus, within a diverse integrated health care delivery system of over 4 million members, we examined how sex-specific temporal trends in AMI incidence may have contributed to these differences and reflect evolving changes in AMI prevention efforts. Methods: We identified all Kaiser Permanente Southern California members (aged ≥35 years) with a primary ICD-9-CM hospital discharge diagnosis of AMI between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2014. Incident AMI hospitalization was defined as the first event documented in the electronic health record between 2000 and 2014, with no prior AMI hospitalization. Incident ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) were identified similarly. Age-standardized (using U.S. 2010 Census data) and age-specific incidence rates by sex were calculated separately for AMI, STEMI and NSTEMI events for each calendar year. Average annual percent change and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using log-linear Poisson models. Results: A total of 45,331 AMI, 16,524 STEMI and 32,552 NSTEMI incident events were identified between 2000 and 2014. Age-standardized incidence rates (per 100,000 person years) of AMI declined an average of 4.7%/year (95% CI [4.4, 4.9]) for men from 441.9 in 2000 to 223.6 in 2014 and 3.9%/year (95% CI [3.6, 4.2]) for women from 246.5 in 2000 to 146.4 in 2014. NSTEMIs declined an average of 2.8%/year (95% CI [2.5, 3.2]) for men from 268.2 in 2000 to 170.2 in 2014 and 1.9%/year (95% CI [1.5, 2.3]) for women from 156.1 in 2000 to 121.8 in 2014. Although STEMI incidence rates declined substantially from 2000 to 2014, sex differences were minimal, with an average decline of 8.0%/year (95% CI [7.6, 8.4]) for men from 205.9 in 2000 to 67.5 in 2014 and 8.9%/year (95% CI [8.3, 9.5]) for women from 107.2 in 2000 to 32.3 in 2014. Comparing 2000 to 2014, age-specific incidence rates of AMI, NSTEMI and STEMI declined in both men and women across all age groups ( Table ). Conclusions: Despite absolute differences, both men and women have experienced similar declines in hospitalized AMI, STEMI and NSTEMI incidence rates, presumably due to increased efforts in both primary and secondary AMI prevention.
A multiple level-set method for 3D inversion of magnetic data

ABSTRACTWe have developed a multiple level-set method for inverting magnetic data produced by weak induced magnetization only. The method is designed to deal with a specific class of 3D magnetic inverse problems in which the magnetic susceptibility is known and the objective of the inversion is to find the boundary or geometric shape of the causative bodies. We adopt the conceptual representation of the subsurface geologic structure by a set of magnetic bodies, each having a uniform magnetic susceptibility embedded in a nonmagnetic background. This representation enables us to reformulate the magnetic inverse problem into a domain inverse problem for those unknown domains defining the supports of the magnetic causative bodies. Because each body may take on a variety of shapes, and we may not know the number of bodies a priori either, we use multiple level-set functions to parameterize these domains so that the domain inverse problem can be further reduced to an optimization problem of multiple level-set f...
A GENEALOGY OF TODAY'S CONTRIBUTORS TO ACCOUNTING RESEARCH

This paper explores the “intellectual roots” of some of today's major contributors to accounting research. Specifically, twenty-four present-day contributors were identified through their publication records and editorial service. For each of these contributors, the dissertation chairman was identified and assumed to be the primary mentor; in turn, dissertation chairmen for these individuals were also identified. Several iterations of this process produced four generations of accounting genealogy. The intellectual roots depicted in this paper highlight noteworthy linkages with members of the Accounting Hall of Fame, recipients of the Outstanding Educators Award, and with education in the discipline of economics.
Can accelerometry data improve estimates of heart rate variability from wrist pulse PPG sensors

A key prerequisite for precision medicine is the ability to assess metrics of human behavior objectively, unobtrusively and continuously. This capability serves as a framework for the optimization of tailored, just-in-time precision health interventions. Mobile unobtrusive physiological sensors, an important prerequisite for realizing this vision, show promise in implementing this quality of physiological data collection. However, first we must trust the collected data. In this paper, we present a novel approach to improving heart rate estimates from wrist pulse photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors. We also discuss the impact of sensor movement on the veracity of collected heart rate data.
Dehydrohalogenation of proton responsive complexes: versatile aggregation via pyrazolate pincer ligand arms

The behavior of the complex (H2L)CoCl2, where H2L is a bis-(pyrazol-3-yl)pyridine, towards Bronsted bases is studied, to evaluate peripheral NH deprotonation as a route to a dianionic pincer ligand on a d7 center. Deprotonation is found to also remove chloride from cobalt, and the decreased metal coordination number is then satisfied by bimolecular reaction of the newly formed peripheral deprotonated pyrazolate nitrogen, leading to Co2 units bridged by some of the pyrazolates, in the analogous species [Co2(L)(LH)]2(L) and [Co2(L)(HL)]2[Co(L)2], but also occasionally by chloride retention, in LiCo2L2Cl. Reacting LiCo2L2Cl with tBuNC, yields monomeric LCo(tBuNC)2, shown to be a 17 valence electron species. Use of excess LiN(SiMe3)2 in deprotonation of (H2L)CoCl2 leads to a product containing a Co[N(SiMe3)2]2 substructure, which illustrates opening of the Co2L2 dimer in response to an attacking nucleophile.
Unpacking Pretrial Detention: An Examination of Patterns and Predictors of Readmissions:

Pretrial detention makes up the majority of jail admissions, but little is known about this high-volume population. The current study fills this gap by examining the pretrial detention population i...
Prader-Willi Syndrome: Genetic, Behavioral, and Treatment Issues

Prader-Willi syndrome is a complex developmental disorder caused in most cases by absence of paternally derived genes on chromosome 15. Although best known for causing hyperphagia and increased risks of obesity, Prader-Willi syndrome actually involves a wide range of physical and behavioral problems. This article reviews genetic and physical features of Prader-Willi syndrome as well as the syndrome’s significant behavioral and psychiatric vulnerabilities. Treatment recommendations also are made.
Toric Subschemes in a Split Formal Torus

In this chapter, we prove a rigidity result of C.-L. Chai, which generalizes earlier lemmas (for example, Lemma 3.12). After proving the result, we gather facts from commutative/noncommutative/Lie algebra theory used in the proof.
Review of Three Studies of African Americans and Cultural Politics

A decade into the new century results in much greater precision about social racialization. The talk about racialization is not simply a matter of debunking the concept of race. Writers adequately did this during the twentieth century at least; scientists adequately did it. The new century literatures extend the historical interrogation of racialization by remembering the uses of race. Therefore, their task is immediately twofold. On one hand, the powerful used race in particularly insidious ways. On the other hand, those targeted for subordination used power in unique ways. Baker, Wagner, and Grandt each contribute lucid studies to our understanding of the uses of racialization in their respective foci on the microphysics of cultural power vis-a-vis racialization. Baker produced a critique of academic anthropology from the position of "smartass belligerency" (p. xi). His primary act of belligerency is to complicate racialization by insisting on comparative textual analyses of race within subordina-
DETERMINATION OF DISULFIRAM AND METABOLITES IN PLASMA AND TISSUE

Using S35 disulfiram, a quantitative analytical method was developed for the in vivo determination of S35 DSF, S35 diethyldithiocarbamate (DDTC), S35 diethyldithiocarbamate-methyl ester (DDTC-Me), S35 sulfate, a S35 protein bound fraction, and an S35 water soluble fraction. Blood and DMSO tissue homogenates were diluted with EDTA buffer and centrifuged. Extraction with pentane removed DSF and DDTC-Me, which were separated by TLC and eluted for counting. Sulfate and protein bound are precipitated with BaCl2 and TCA respectively, and counted differentially. Total aqueous counts after methylation and extraction are referred to as the water soluble metabolites. S35 DSF and its metabolites were determined in plasma, brain, lung, kidney and liver. One hour after i.p. DSF administration to mice the level of radioactivity for DSF and the various metabolites in the following tissues were: DSF: kidney > liver > lung > brain > plasma; DDTC: liver > lung > plasma > kidney > brain; DDTC-Me: liver > kidney > brain > lung > plasma; Water Soluble Metabolites: kidney > liver > plasma > lung > brain. After i.v. DSF to dogs, plasma DSF, DDTC and DDTC-Me exhibited biexponential decay. DDTC and DDTC-Me also exhibited biexponential decay after i.v. DDTC to dogs. except that the plasma elimination phase for DDTC and DDTC-Me was more rapid than that found after DSF administration. A small fraction of DDTC was converted to S35 DSF in plasma.
Report from an Underdeveloped Country: Toward Linguistic Competence in the United States

There is nothing new in the goal of understanding language as a part of social life. What is new, as we near the end of the century, is the proliferation of activity toward that goal. Thirty years ago a paper on the meanings of kinship terms could count as a bridge between formal linguistics and social life and have a special designation, “ethnolinguistic,” in its title. Today the scholarly world abounds with bridges and designations—“sociolinguistics,” “ethnography of speaking,” “pragmatics,” “conversational analysis,” “sociology of language,” and relevant aspects of “semiotics,” “ethnomethodology,” “philosophy of language,” and others. Yet work that has a useful bearing on the situation of a particular community or group is not common, and work that builds a truly social study of language, one that is concrete, yet comparative, cumulative, yet critical, is hard to find indeed. More of such work is beginning to appear; nonetheless, with regard to knowledge of itself in terms of language, the United States is indeed an underdeveloped country. There is a great deal of authority about language, both in linguistics and among savants of the media, but little knowledge directed toward the explanation, and even transformation, of the role that language has in our lives.
Optimizing the Ocular Surface for Regenerative Surgery: What Is Important and What Is Essential for the Outcome

The preoperative planning for regenerative surgery requires the optimization of patients’ ocular surface health. A dry and hostile surface environment will lead to failure of regenerative surgery. In this chapter, we outline several important approaches the surgeon should take to maximize the ocular surface health of patients. These approaches include optimization of the tear film, control of local and systemic inflammation, and repair of eyelid abnormalities.
MP45-06 THE INCIDENCE OF URETHRAL COMPLICATIONS WITH USING 26-FRENCH VERSUS 28-FRENCH RESECTOSCOPE SHEATHS IN HOLMIUM LASER ENUCLEATION OF THE PROSTATE (HOLEP)

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES:HoLEP is gaining popularity for management BPH. Long-term complications of HoLEP include urethral strictures (US) and bladder neck contracture (BNC). Studies report rate...
Nucleocytoplasmic O-glycosylation in protists

O-Glycosylation is an increasingly recognized modification of intracellular proteins in all kingdoms of life, and its occurrence in protists has been investigated to understand its evolution and its roles in the virulence of unicellular pathogens. We focus here on two kinds of glycoregulation found in unicellular eukaryotes: one is a simple O-fucose modification of dozens if not hundreds of Ser/Thr-rich proteins, and the other a complex pentasaccharide devoted to a single protein associated with oxygen sensing and the assembly of polyubiquitin chains. These modifications are not required for life but contingently modulate biological processes in the social amoeba Dictyostelium and the human pathogen Toxoplasma gondii, and likely occur in diverse unicellular protists. O-Glycosylation that is co-localized in the cytoplasm allows for glycoregulation over the entire life of the protein, contrary to the secretory pathway where glycosylation usually occurs before its delivery to its site of function. Here, we interpret cellular roles of nucleocytoplasmic glycans in terms of current evidence for their effects on the conformation and dynamics of protist proteins, to serve as a guide for future studies to examine their broader significance.
Decreasing Heart Failure Readmission's among Elderly Patients with Cognitive Impairment by Engaging Family

Background Higher 30-day readmission rates have been documented in older patients with cognitive impairment (CI) and heart failure (HF). Objective To determine whether readmission rates are related primarily to HF severity or may be modified by inclusion of caregivers in nursing discharge education. Methods Prospective QI program of cognitive testing and inclusion of caregivers in discharge education. Retrospective chart review for outcomes. Setting: Academic tertiary care hospital, two cardiovascular units with enhanced discharge education program. PARTICIPANTS: 232 patients age greater than 70 with diagnosis of HF screened for CI with documentation whether education included caregivers. Individuals with ventricular assist devices, transplant, or hospice excluded. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were screened for CI using Mini-Cog, if score Results No differences in measures of HF severity between those with normal and abnormal Mini-Cog ( Conclusions Patients age greater than 70 with HF and CI had two-fold reduction in 30-day readmission rates when caregivers were involved in discharge education. No differences in HF severity were found in this group of HF patients with normal vs abnormal screens for CI using Mini-Cog. Identification of CI and targeted caregiver engagement appear to be critical in reduction of readmission rates for older HF patients.
Frogs give new insights into vertebrate novelties.

We recognize a frog largely because of its shape—short body, long legs, and absence of a tail. These features are modifications of the “vertebrate body plan,” a head, a body, four appendages, and a tail. However, evolving lineages of vertebrates have modified that theme in incredibly diverse ways. Research by Senevirathne et al. (1) shows that there are exciting ways to explore the origin of vertebrate novelties. The features that characterize vertebrates are innovations, new structures. The head is “new,” a product of the inception of neural crest cells streaming into the “head” region and forming new structures (e.g., jaws, gill bars, teeth, and the like) (2, 3); vertebrae—the fundamental postcranial segmental units for which the subphylum is named—are new, because bone is “new” and restricted to vertebrates, invented by the inception of mineralization in specific mesodermal sites (4). Modifying the body plan is the stuff of evolution and the great biodiversity of vertebrate animals. Concepts about developmental processes, adaptation, and many other features emerged as consequences of the study of body plan diversification. Vertebrate animals have been the foci of study for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Aristotle (5, 6) referred to many vertebrates, including frogs, in his discussions of both animal structure and the essence of life, from which diversity arose. The evolution of the first terrestrial vertebrates (class Amphibia, subphylum Vertebrata) has therefore received considerable attention! The closest relatives to frogs (Anura, “no tail”) are salamanders (Caudata, “tailed”), which have followed more closely the ancestral vertebrate (tetrapod) plan of having a moderately long body, four relatively short limbs of nearly the same length, and a tail, and caecilians (Gymnophiona, “naked snake”), elongate, limbless, and usually tailless amphibians. The oldest known salamander, frog, and caecilian fossils are Jurassic (some 200 Ma) (7⇓–9 … [↵][1]1Email: mhwake{at}berkeley.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Interview 3 Mary C. Waters

She specializes in the study of immigration, inter-group relations, the formation of racial and ethnic identity among the children of immigrants, the challenges of measuring race and ethnicity, and the longitudinal impact of natural disasters.
Characterization of a Josephson Junction Comb Generator

We present a new type of microwave frequency combs with a potentially calculable pulse shape. The device is an array of 1500 Josephson junctions (JJs) connected in series along a transmission line. The pulse generation is based on the nonlinearity of the JJs. A large-signal network analyzer and a cryogenic probe station are used to characterize the pulses in the frequency domain up to 50 GHz. We compare the measured data to simulations that use the resistively and capacitively shunted JJ model. The amplitude stability of the demonstrated comb generator is better than 0.5 dB per 0.1 dB input drive variation within the operating range. Finally, we observe qualitative agreement between the measured and simulated power spectrum dependence on the input power, and discuss possible improvements to the system model.
Heterozygous recurrent HNF4A variant p.Arg85Trp causes Fanconi renotubular syndrome 4 with maturity onset diabetes of the young, an autosomal dominant phenocopy of Fanconi Bickel syndrome with colobomas

Heterozygous pathogenic variants in HNF4A cause hyperinsulinism, maturity onset diabetes of the young type 1, and more rarely Fanconi renotubular syndrome. Specifically, the recurrent missense pathogenic variant c.253C>T (p.Arg85Trp) has been associated with a syndromic form of hyperinsulinism with additional features of macrosomia, renal tubular nephropathy, hypophosphatemic rickets, and liver involvement. We present an affected mother, who had been previously diagnosed clinically with the autosomal recessive Fanconi Bickel Syndrome, and her affected son. The son's presentation expands the clinical phenotype to include multiple congenital anomalies, including penile chordee with hypospadias and coloboma. This specific pathogenic variant should be considered in the differential diagnosis of Fanconi Bickel Syndrome when genetics are negative or the family history is suggestive of autosomal dominant inheritance. The inclusion of hyperinsulinism and maturity onset of the diabetes of the young changes the management of this syndrome and the recurrence risk is distinct. Additionally, this family also emphasizes the importance of genetic confirmation of clinical diagnoses, especially in adults who grew up in the premolecular era that are now coming to childbearing age. Finally, the expansion of the phenotype to include multiple congenital anomalies suggests that the full spectrum of HNF4A is likely unknown.
Outcomes of intraoperative ultrasound for endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal pituitary surgery in adenomas with parasellar extension

Abstract Background Pituitary adenomas with parasellar extension present a technical challenge for adequate visualization and gross total resection (GTR). The endoscope improves identification of parasellar extension, however, additional intraoperative imaging adjuncts can further augment visualization. Intraoperative ultrasound (iUS) may provide a viable and cost-effective solution for intraoperative imaging. We sought to assess the ability of intraoperative ultrasound to predict extent of resection on 3-month postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in pituitary adenomas with parasellar extension. Methods Twenty consecutive patients undergoing endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenomas with the assistance of intraoperative ultrasound were prospectively collected. Intraoperative ultrasound findings were recorded during each case. 3-month postoperative MRI studies were reviewed in a blinded fashion to assess for residual tumor and compared with the intraoperative ultrasound findings. Results Median preoperative Knosp grade was 2. Cavernous sinus invasion was encountered intraoperatively in 3 patients, all of whom were Knosp grade 3 preoperatively. Median operative time was 152 min. Based on iUS findings, 17 patients were expected to have a GTR while 3 patients underwent subtotal resection. 18 patients completed a 3-month postoperative MRI. The iUS and MRI findings were concordant in 16 cases (88.9%) with only two instances of discordance. Conclusion Intraoperative ultrasound can reliably predict tumor resection as assessed by 3-month postoperative MRI in pituitary adenomas with parasellar extension. Image capture and interpretation may vary based on operator experience. Ultrasound provides reliable immediate assessment of extent of resection, identification of normal pituitary gland and other important neurovascular structures.
Inferring SARS-CoV-2 RNA shedding into wastewater relative to time of infection

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been interest in using wastewater monitoring as an approach for disease surveillance. A significant uncertainty that would improve interpretation of wastewater monitoring data is the intensity and timing with which individuals shed RNA from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) into wastewater. By combining wastewater and case surveillance data sets from a university campus during a period of heightened surveillance, we inferred that individual shedding of RNA into wastewater peaks on average six days (50% uncertainty interval (UI): 6 - 7; 95% UI: 4 - 8) following infection, and that wastewater measurements are highly overdispersed (negative binomial dispersion parameter, k = 0.39 (95% credible interval: 0.32 - 0.48)). This limits the utility of wastewater surveillance as a leading indicator of secular trends in SARS-CoV-2 transmission during an epidemic, and implies that it could be most useful as an early warning of rising transmission in areas where transmission is low or clinical testing is delayed or of limited capacity.
The Amendability Paradox: Could an Unamendable Amendment Be Amended?

Imagine an America in which there was enough support for a policy to pass a constitutional amendment to that end. Further, imagine that the drafters of this amendment wanted to ensure that no future generation could revoke the policy. Therefore, the drafters of this amendment included the following provision: “This amendment shall be unamendable. Any attempt to amend this amendment will, therefore, be unconstitutional.” If such an amendment were duly proposed and ratified based on Article V requirements, would the purportedly unamendable amendment truly be unamendable? This Article examines the evidence for and against the enforceability of such an amendment. Topics covered include issues of amendability generally, existing unamendable provisions in the U.S. Constitution, the near passage of the Corwin Amendment — which purported to be unamendable, relevant Supreme Court precedent, informal unamendability, pragmatism, the option for a second constitutional convention, whether unamendability violates democratic principles, the analogy of Congress being prohibited from binding future Congresses, and less extreme alternatives with similar effects. This Article then concludes by considering the related issues of how pragmatic such an amendment would be and the likelihood of a Supreme Court enforcing it.
The way I remember it

Part I.: Prologue Earliest memories The family Schools Inventions Vacations A bit of history Outlaws Switzerland Paris and Parame Intemments Escape Vichy France De Gaulle's army Pioneer Corps Navy Avignon War's end Duke University M.I.T. Rochester Epilogue Map and photographs Part II.: Interchanging limit processes Function algebras Misteaks $\beta\mathbb N$ and $CH$ and all that Idempotent measures Riemann sums Power series with gaps Trigonometric series with gaps Function theory in polydiscs Function theory in balls Holomorphic maps from $\mathbb C^n$ to $\mathbb C^n$.
The Transfer Function of a Rocket-Type Guided Missile with Consideration of Its Structural Elasticity

Assuming that the pitching or yawing motion of a rockes type guided missile under the influence of thrust and air forces normal to its longitudinal axis can be described by the motion of an elastic free-free beam with given mass distribution and given stiffness distribution, the transfer function of the missile is de­ duced. It relates the deflection angle 5 of the control agent to the angle 0o measured by a displacement gyro at any point xg on the longitudinal axis of the missile. This transfer function is to be used in future investigations to replace the simple transfer func­ tion of a rigid body in the block diagram of the overall missile control loop.
Methods of Assessment of Pollutant-Induced Health Effects

There are three primary research fields that provide data of interest to the area of the health effects of air pollution. They are animal toxicology and in vitro systems, controlled laboratory studies, and epidemiology. The three fields of endeavor in air pollution health effects research employ some of the same methods of assessment. For many years almost all the controlled human experiments with air pollutants relied on pulmonary function data as the outcome measure. However, there is increasing use of assessments that may detect more subtle effects of exposures. Also traditional studies of the health effects of air pollution were designed to detect adverse effects in the respiratory system as the lungs were assumed to be the primary target organ. As epidemiologic studies increasingly identified increased morbidity and mortality in persons with pre-existing cardiac disease, studies now are employing methods to detect adverse cardiac effects as well. A list of important assessment tools is given in Table 7–1.
Purification and Characterization of the Catalytic Subunit of Human DNA Polymerase δ Expressed in Baculovirus-infected Insect Cells

The catalytic subunit of human DNA polymerase δ has been overexpressed in insect cells by a recombinant baculovirus. The recombinant protein has a Mr = ~125,000 and is recognized by polyclonal antisera against N-terminal and C-terminal peptides of the catalytic subunit of human DNA polymerase δ. The recombinant protein was purified to near homogeneity (approximately 1200-fold) from insect cells by chromatography on DEAE-cellulose, phosphocellulose, heparin-agarose, and single-stranded DNA-cellulose. The purified protein had both DNA polymerase and 3′-5′ exonuclease activities. The properties of the recombinant catalytic subunit were compared with those of the native heterodimeric DNA polymerase δ isolated from fetal calf thymus, and the enzymes were found to differ in several respects. Although the native heterodimer is equally active with either Mn2+ or Mg2+ as divalent cation activator, the recombinant catalytic subunit is approximately 5-fold more active in Mn2+ than in Mg2+. The most striking difference between the two proteins is the response to the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The activity and processivity of native DNA polymerase δ are markedly stimulated by PCNA whereas it has no effect on the recombinant catalytic subunit. These results suggest that the small subunit of DNA polymerase δ is essential for functional interaction with PCNA.
Distributed Fault Tolerant Embedding of Binary Trees and Rings in Hypercubes

In this paper we first present fault tolerance techniques based on distributed algorithms for embedding binary trees in hypercubes. Starting with the root (invoked in some cube node by a host), each node is responsible for determining the addresses of its children, and for invoking the embedding algorithm for the subtree rooted at each child in the proper cube node. This distributed embedding, along with the wealth of communication links in the hypercube, leads to a high potential for fault tolerance. We demonstrate the fault tolerance capability by introducing restructuring techniques which may be used to tolerate faults during the initial embedding, as well as to remap nodes that fail at run-time. The distributed nature of the embeddings eliminates the need for global knowledge of faulty nodes; each node must only know the status of its neighbors.
Progress on Ultrasonic Flaw Sizing in Turbine Engine Rotor Components: Bore and Web Geometries

The application of generic flaw sizing techniques to specific components generally involves difficulties associated with geometrical complexity and simplifications arising from a knowledge of the expected flaw distribution. This paper is concerned with the case of ultrasonic flaw sizing in turbine engine rotor components. The sizing of flat penny shaped cracks in the web geometry will be discussed and new crack sizing algorithms based on the Born and Kirchhoff approximations will be introduced. Additionally we propose a simple method for finding the size of a flat, penny shaped crack given only the magnitude of the scattering amplitude. The bore geometry is discussed with primary emphasis on the cylindrical focussing of the incident beam. Important questions which are addressed include the effects of diffraction and the position of the flaw with respect to the focal line. The appropriate deconvolution procedures to account for these effects will be introduced. Generic features of the theory will be compared with experiment. Finally, the effects of focused transducers on the Born inversion algorithm are discussed.
The Influence of Breaking at the Ocean Surface on Oceanic Radiance and Imaging

Abstract : The long-term goals of the work are to measure the influence of surface wave breaking on imaging across the surface and develop measurements and models of breaking statistics as input to the interpretation and modeling of oceanic radiance measurements. Image transmission across breaking surfaces will be measured in both the laboratory and the field. Field measurements of breaking and breaking statistics will be used to quantify the degradation and recovery of image fidelity by surface and subsurface processes associated with breaking, including surface turbulence and bubble entrainment. The PI will collaborate with other PIs in the use of breaking measurements and models to interpret measurements and develop models of oceanic radiance.
A graphical model-based reliability estimation tool and failure mode and effects simulator

A new graphical reliability estimation tool, Reliability Performance Module (RPM), is described. RPM combines the features of a powerful reliability tool, Reliability Estimation System Testbed (REST), developed at NASA Langley, with the convenient graphical modelling and simulation capabilities of an off-the-shelf commercial software package, Block Oriented Network Simulator (BONeS), from the Alta Group of Cadence Design Systems. In order to estimate the reliability of a system, the built-in BONeS graphics capabilities are used to describe the system, and the embedded REST execution engine produces a reliability analysis automatically. An additional benefit of this approach is that a detailed failure modes and effects analysis can be derived by using the simulation capabilities of the tool. The usage of and output from RPM is demonstrated with an example system. As compared to our current design process, RPM promises to reduce overall modelling and analysis time, provide better documentation, make trade studies easier, create reusable modelling components and subsystems, and provide the integration of reliability and timing analysis necessary to guarantee the safety of critical real-time systems. Future work will concentrate on producing a more seamless integration of the reliability and timing analyses. Additional planned enhancements include a distributed (parallel) processing mode, and availability and phased-mission analysis capabilities.
Portable digital microfluidics platform with active but disposable Lab-On-Chip

This paper reports successful development of a stand-alone microfluidics platform based on our electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD) droplet technologies. Four new major developments that empowered us to achieve the portable digital microfluidic system are presented: (1) time-multiplexed driving scheme that enables simultaneous driving of a large number of droplets; (2) electric sensing mechanism of droplet positions, opening the door for feedback control and Lab-On-Chip (LOG) performance monitoring; (3) fabrication of disposable and sealed LOC capable of full droplet manipulation; and (4) completion of stand-alone portable electronics board. Leaving the issue of biofluids manipulation to other reports, this paper will focus on the technology developments.
ECONOMIC FRAMEWORK FOR DECISION MAKING IN BIOLOGICAL CONTROL

Abstract Economic analyses are a valuable input into the decision-making process for biological control programs. The challenge though is how to incorporate qualitative risk assessments of biological control programs, or the risk of nontargeted effects into mathematical economic models. A technique known as threshold cost/benefit analysis is presented and an example on how to apply this method is illustrated using the yellow starthistle biological control program. The results show that incorporating uncertainty into the analysis can have a significant impact on the decision to undertake a biological control program.
The essential role of C-terminal residues in regulating the activity of hepatitis C virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase.

Abstract We have previously determined the crystal structure of a non-structural 5B (NS5B) protein, an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of hepatitis C virus (HCV). NS5B protein with the hydrophobic C-terminal 21 amino acid residues truncated, designated NS5B 570 , shows a typical nucleotide polymerase structure resembling a right-hand shape. In the crystal structure, a C-terminal region between Leu545 and His562 occupies a putative RNA-binding cleft of this polymerase and seems to inhibit the polymerase activity. Varieties of recombinant NS5B proteins (NS5B 552 , NS5B 544 , NS5B 536 or NS5B 531 , with C-terminal 39, 47, 55 or 60 amino acid residues truncated, respectively) were systematically constructed to elucidate effects of the region on the polymerase activity. NS5B 544 , NS5B 536 and NS5B 531 showed markedly higher RdRp activities compared to the activities of NS5B 570 or NS5B 552 . Furthermore, when the hydrophobic amino acid residues Leu547, Trp550 and Phe551 (LWF) in NS5B 570 and NS5B 552 were changed to alanine, their activities were higher than that of the original NS5B 570 . The crystal structures of the various recombinant NS5B proteins were also determined. Structural comparison of the NS5B proteins indicates that the activation was caused by elimination of a unique hydrophobic interaction between the three C-terminal residues and a shallowly concave pocket consisting of thumb and palm domains.
A Tale of Two Precursors: UHV-CVD of TiO2 From Titanium Nitrate and Titanium Isopropoxide

A side-by-side comparison of the TiO2 deposition kinetics and the corresponding film microstructures using titanium(IV) isopropoxide and anhydrous titanium(IV) nitrate was conducted at low pressures (< 10−4 Torr) in an ultrahigh vacuum chemical vapor deposition reactor. Titanium(IV) nitrate exhibited a lower activation energy of reaction (Er= 98 kJ/mol) which allowed deposition at lower temperatures compared to titanium(IV) isopropoxide (Er= 135 kJ/mol). Comparison of the microstructures of films deposited at similar temperatures revealed significant differences in the reaction rate limited kinetic regime. As the growth rates of the two precursors converged in the flux-limited regime, the respective microstructures became indistinguishable.
Power-SLAM: a linear-complexity, anytime algorithm for SLAM

In this paper, we present an extended Kalman filter (EKF)-based estimator for simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) with processing requirements that are linear in the number of features in the map. The proposed algorithm, called the Power-SLAM, is based on three key ideas. Firstly, by introducing the Global Map Postponement method, approximations necessary for ensuring linear computational complexity of EKF-based SLAM are delayed over multiple time steps. Then by employing the Power Method, only the most informative of the Kalman vectors, generated during the postponement phase, are retained for updating the covariance matrix. This ensures that the information loss during each approximation epoch is minimized. Next, linear-complexity, rank-2 updates, that minimize the trace of the covariance matrix, are employed to increase the speed of convergence of the estimator. The resulting estimator, in addition to being conservative as compared to the standard EKF, has processing requirements that can be adjusted depending on the availability of computational resources. Lastly, simulation and experimental results are presented that demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed algorithm (Power-SLAM) when compared to the standard EKF-based SLAM with quadratic computational cost and two linear-complexity competing alternatives.
Kinetics and distribution of tritiated putrescine in the domestic cat.

Abstract ( 3 H ) putrescine (25.4 nmole) was administered as an i.v. bolus to each of 8 cats. Plasma samples obtained at times up to 5 hr post injection were analyzed for total ( 3 H ), non-volatile ( 3 H ) and ( 3 H ) putrescine, spermidine and spermine. Tissue, urine and cerebrospinal fluid samples obtained after sacrifice of the animals were similarly analyzed and used to calculate tissue/plasma ratios for ( 3 H ) putrescine. Non-linear iterative analysis of the decrease in plasma concentration of ( 3 H ) putrescine with time showed a three-phase decay with half-times of 1, 7 and 117 min . respectively. Slopes and intercepts from the computer-generated fits of the data were used to calculate the steady-state volume of distribution for putrescine in the cat ( 0.542 ± 0.107 1/kg ). No ( 3 H ) spermine or spermidine was found in any of the plasma samples, but liver, spleen and kidney samples had substantial fractions of ( 3 H ) spermidine, as well as some ( 3 H ) spermine. The fraction of ( 3 H ) present in plasma as ( 3 H ) putrescine declined from 95% at 1 min to 25% at 10 min and 2% at 240 min post injection. Incubation of ( 3 H ) putrescine with whole blood, serum, and plasma in vitro showed that catabolism of exogenous putrescine took place in the peripheral tissues, rather than in the blood.
Female-headed households in Latin America and the Caribbean.

"Twenty-five Caribbean and Latin American nations were examined to determine the relationship between potential female headed families and other social indicators. Regression analysis reveals that women's labor market participation is associated with the proportion of families potentially headed by women. The share of girls in secondary school is also associated with the dependent variable. Social indicators of modernization and dependency were regressed on potential female-headed households. Neither approach alone explains the formation of female-headed families in the region."