cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Density and activity patterns of ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) in northern Peru and the impact of oil exploration activities

The western Amazon is experiencing unprecedented levels of oil and gas exploration, a trend of particular concern given the high levels of biodiversity found in this relatively pristine and unstudied region. Despite the widespread use of seismic reflection technology for exploration, no studies have investigated the response of wildlife populations to this disturbance in the tropics. We conducted a trail camera survey inside a large oil concession (Block 39) in the Peruvian Amazon near the Ecuador border with ongoing 2D seismic explorations to investigate its effects on ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) activity and abundance. The estimated size of the ocelot population within our 22 km2 study area was the same before (control period: 34 ± 6.9 ocelots) and during exploration operations (disturbance period; 34 ± 4.6 ocelots) and we detected no change in activity patterns between the two periods. Ocelot capture rate was unaffected by the presence of seismic crews, and distance to the nearest seismic line was not correlated with capture rate at individual stations. Our density estimates (ocelots/100 km2) from the control (75.2) and disturbance period (94.7) include the highest reported for the species, and represent the first ocelot density estimates from the northwest Amazon forest. These high values conform to recent research showing a positive association between ocelot density, annual rainfall, and proximity to the equator (this study: >2500 mm annual rainfall; <200 km from equator). We discuss the potential short- and long-term environmental impacts of seismic operations, particularly as they relate to large mammal populations.
Poster Abstract #13: Interactive Voice Response Diary and Objective Myotonia Measurement as Endpoints for Clinical Trials in Nondystrophic Interactive Voice Response Diary and Objective Myotonia Measurement as Endpoints for Clinical Trials in Nondystrophic Myotonia

Background Nondystrophic myotonia (NDM) is a heterogeneous group of neuromuscular disorders caused by mutations in skeletal muscle sodium and chloride channels. There are no established treatments for myotonia, despite the availability of agents that deserve careful study. An outcome measure of myotonia is important for clinical trials. Methods 45 subjects were enrolled from six academic centers across the United States, England, and Canada. Patients were categorized as myotonia congenita (MC), paramyotonia congenita (PMC), and other myotonic disorders (OMD) Three possible myotonia (symptoms/signs) measures were assessed: relaxation time after maximum voluntary isometric contraction of the finger flexors (QMA); myotonic discharges on needle EMG; an Interactive Voice Response Diary (IVR), for which participants called in once a week for up to 8 weeks to rank symptom severity on a scale of 1 to 9 (stiffness, pain, weakness, fatigue) and frequency (1–7 days). Results Initial clinical diagnosis was 20 MC; 16 PMC; 9 OMD. Myotonic discharge potentials were seen in all subjects with no difference in their degree and location among the subtypes. Of 33 participants for whom QMA test results were available, 15 showed a delay in relaxation; however, for subjects with e 2's hand grip opening on clinical exam, 14/16 showed a delay in relaxation on QMA. From IVR data, frequency of symptoms for the total population was stiffness 91%, pain 60%, weakness 56%, and fatigue 65%. Average severity for each symptom was stiffness, 4.1; pain, 4.0; weakness, 4.2; and fatigue, 4.2. Standard deviation of reported symptom severity within subject was stiffness, 1.2; pain, 1.1; weakness, 1.3; and tiredness, 0.9. For participants reporting symptoms for a given week, the average number of days they experienced symptoms was stiffness, 5.2; pain, 5.2; weakness, 4.4; and fatigue, 4.5. Conclusions The IVR data showed consistency in patient self-rated clinical symptoms related to myotonia, which makes this a potentially useful endpoint for future clinical trials. Quantitive myotonia measure is a less sensitive outcome measure, because only minority patients showed abnormal results. This project is supported by NIH grant 5U54RRO19482.
Expression of cyclin E renders cyclin D-CDK4 dispensable for inactivation of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein, activation of E2F, and G1-S phase progression.

The activation of CDK2-cyclin E in late G1 phase has been shown to play a critical role in retinoblastoma protein (pRb) inactivation and G1-S phase progression of the cell cycle. The phosphatidylinositol 3-OH-kinase inhibitor LY294002 has been shown to block cyclin D1 accumulation, CDK4 activity and, thus, G1 progression in α-thrombin-stimulated IIC9 cells (Chinese hamster embryonic fibroblasts). Our previous results show that expression of cyclin E rescues S phase progression in α-thrombin-stimulated IIC9 cells treated with LY294002, arguing that cyclin E renders CDK4 activity dispensable for G1 progression. In this work we investigate the ability of α-thrombin-induced CDK2-cyclin E activity to inactivate pRb in the absence of prior CDK4-cyclin D1 activity. We report that in the absence of CDK4-cyclin D1 activity, CDK2-cyclin E phosphorylates pRb in vivo on at least one residue and abolishes pRb binding to E2F response elements. We also find that expression of cyclin E rescues E2F activation and cyclin A expression in cyclin D kinase-inhibited, α-thrombin-stimulated cells. Furthermore, the rescue of E2F activity, cyclin A expression, and DNA synthesis by expression of E can be blocked by the expression of either CDK2(D145N) or RbΔCDK, a constitutively active mutant of pRb. However, restoring four known cyclin E-CDK2 phosphorylation sites to RbΔCDK renders it susceptible to inactivation in late G1, as assayed by E2F activation, cyclin A expression, and S phase progression. These data indicate that CDK2-cyclin E, without prior CDK4-cyclin D activity, can phosphorylate and inactivate pRb, activate E2F, and induce DNA synthesis.
Whole-body accumulation of copper predicts acute toxicity to an aquatic oligochaete (Lumbriculus variegatus) as pH and calcium are varied

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that whole-body accumulation of Cu at 50% mortality (i.e. the median lethal accumulation, LA50 value) in a freshwater oligochaete ( Lumbriculus variegatus ) is constant across a wide range of water quality, whereas the LC50 values of Cu total and the cupric ion (Cu 2+ ) in solution are not. We exposed the worms in intermittent-flow, water-only chambers to a series of Cu concentrations at a variety of combinations of pH and water hardness (pH 6.5, 7.5 and 8.5 crossed with hardnesses of 0.5, 2, 4, 6 and 15 mEq l −1 ) at 17–20 °C. In addition to monitoring mortality at 48 h, we determined whole-body Cu uptake in half of the replicate chambers at 6 h. LC50 values of Cu total and Cu 2+ increased as water hardness increased, as expected from traditional LC50 vs. hardness regressions. Moreover, LC50 values of Cu total remained approximately constant and LC50 values of Cu 2+ decreased considerably as pH increased, as expected from principles of cation competition and binding by inorganic ligands. However, LA50 values of Cu body remained approximately constant (0.17–0.34 μmol Cu g −1 dry wt.) in all pH×hardness combinations. Thus, consistent with the biotic-ligand model, Cu accumulation might be a constant predictor of acute mortality to L. variegatus whereas aqueous Cu concentrations are not.
The doctor-patient tie in Plato's Laws: a backdrop for reflection.

The merit of Plato’s Laws remains largely untapped by those seeking genuinely collaborative models of the doctor–patient tie as alternatives to paternalism and autonomy. A persistent difficulty confronting proposed alternatives has been surpassing the notion of pronounced intellectual and values asymmetry favoring the doctor. Having discussed two prominent proposals, both of which evince marked paternalism, I argue that reflection on Plato yields four criteria that a genuinely collaborative model must meet and suggest how the Laws addresses them. In the process, the Laws’ doctor–patient tie is shown to be far more nuanced than interpreters have previously observed. Although Plato’s account will not solve our own quandaries, it illustrates how one might retain asymmetry of a kind without capitulating to familiar oppositional modalities. Through this account, I hope to show that the Laws merits fuller inclusion in contemporary discussions than it has heretofore received.
Applications of high-performance liquid chromatography to quantitation of metabolites and enzymes of the patulin pathway from Penicillium patulum

Abstract Conditions for extraction and high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) analysis for fourteen of the patulin pathway metabolites from Penicillium patulum are described which allow quantitation of the metabolite content of cultures at hourly intervals. The HPLC analysis is more sensitive than gas—liquid chromatographic analysis and is more quantitative than thin-layer chromatographic analysis. Separations on a preparative column allow for the collection and identification of new metabolites. The column elution program can be varied to optimize analysis time for individual metabolites, allowing individual enzymes of the pathway to be assayed by following the conversion of substrate to product. Analysis of product formation in crude enzyme mixtures can be used to assay an enzyme in the presence of subsequent enzymes of the pathway and to establish the pathway reaction sequence.
Radiation Oncologists in the United States

Purpose To provide an extensive and detailed portrait of radiation oncologists, their professional activities, and the practices in which they work. Methods and Materials We analyzed non-individually identified data from the American College of Radiology's 2003 Survey of Radiation Oncologists, a stratified random sample survey that guaranteed respondents' confidentiality and achieved a 68% response rate, with a total of 472 responses. Responses were weighted to make them representative of all radiation oncologists in the United States. We use two-tailed z tests of percentages and means to compare information from the current survey with those from a similar 1995 survey. Results The number of posttraining, professionally active radiation oncologists grew from nearly 2900 in 1995 to nearly 3500 in 2003, an increase of approximately 21%. Twenty-three percent of posttraining, professionally active radiation oncologists were women. Among posttraining, professionally active radiation oncologists, 95% were board-certified. Forty-eight percent of radiation oncologists were in nonacademic, radiation-oncology-only private practices; 20% in academic practice; 14% in nonacademic, multispecialty practices; and 11% in solo practice. The largest percentage of radiation oncologists worked in the South (34%). The average annual number of patients treated (curative and palliative) per radiation oncologist was 264. On average, radiation oncologists preferred a 4% increase in their workload. The proportion of radiation oncologists planning a career change decreased from 8% in 1995 to 4% in 2003, and in 2003 34% said they were enjoying radiation oncology more than 5 years earlier, compared with 21% in 1995. Conclusion Despite concerns in 2003 about lower-than-optimal workload, professional satisfaction, if anything, increased since 1995.
Cutaneous manifestations of Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease which may have distinctive mucocutaneous manifestations. Included in this group are perianal, peristomal, and perifistular ulceration, as well as granulomatous cutaneous inflammation separate from gastrointestinal tract openings (metastatic Crohn's disease). In the oral cavity, both ulcerations and granulomatous nodules may occur. Malabsorption of nutrients may lead to several changes, including an acrodermatitis enteropathica–like syndrome secondary to zinc deficiency. Patients with Crohn's disease may also have pyoderma gangrenosum, erythema nodosum, cutaneous vasculitis, and other less specific changes.
Frontal imaging of a human using two microstrip leaky wave antennas

Summary form only given. Sensing of humans using radar is a topic of current interest. Range-azimuth tracking of one or more human subjects in a scene has been widely studied. The frontal imaging of a human, which can provide more detailed information on the human being imaged, has received relatively less attention. Previously, the frontal imaging of a human was explored by using a three-element interferometric system and a Doppler radar (A. Lin and H. Ling, Electronic Lett., 660-661, 2006). Three antennas were placed in an L-shape to derive the elevation and azimuth bearings using interferometry, after the various body parts were first resolved in the Doppler domain. A blurry image could be obtained under highly idealized conditions, but the result was not robust. In order to reliably generate the frontal image of a human, a two-dimensional physical aperture is required. Synthetic aperture is not feasible due to the time-varying nature of human movements. However, the high cost and complexity of realizing a full two-dimensional aperture are undesirable. In this work, we investigate a simple, low-cost concept to achieve the frontal image of a human by using the frequency-scanned beam of a microstrip leaky wave antenna (LWA). The various body parts of a moving human are resolved through the combination of the antenna beamwidth in the elevation dimension and Doppler processing. Two such microstrip LWAs are then placed in parallel to serve as an interferometer to derive the azimuth bearings of the body parts. This concept is simulated by combining the antenna design with a radar simulator capable of simulating the dynamic motions of a human (S. S. Ram and H. Ling, IEEE Radar Conf., 2008). In the simulation, different human body parts are modeled with ellipsoids and individual scattering contributions are summed to generate the received radar signal. Different antenna designs, radar waveforms and processing algorithms are studied using the simulator to refine the frontal imaging performance. It is shown that the frontal image of a walking human can be obtained using the proposed concept.
Characterization of a novel Src-like adapter protein that associates with the Eck receptor tyrosine kinase

Abstract The Eph family of receptor protein tyrosine kinases (RPTKs) is the largest family of RPTKs. The signal transduction pathways initiated by this family have only recently begun to be explored. Using a yeast two-hybrid screen to identify molecules that interact with the cytoplasmic domain of Eck, it was previously shown that activated Eck RPTK bound to and stimulated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (Pandey, A., Lazar, D. F., Saltiel, A. R., and Dixit, V. M. (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 30154-30157). Also isolated [Abstract] from this same screen was a novel protein containing SH3 and SH2 adapter modules that had striking homology to those found in the Src family of non-receptor tyrosine kinases. However, unlike other Src family members, it lacked a catalytic tyrosine kinase domain. Hence, this protein was designated SLAP for Src-like adapter protein. Using glutathione S-transferase fusion proteins, it was demonstrated that SLAP bound to activated Eck receptor tyrosine kinase. Therefore, SLAP is a novel candidate downstream signaling intermediate and the first member of the Src family that resembles an adapter molecule.
The first year of Infectious Disease Reports.

It is exciting to note that within our first year IDR has published original studies, review articles, and case reports from Australia, Brazil, Cuba, Italy, Thailand, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Uganda, the UK, and the USA. The first two volumes of IDR have touched upon major problems in our field, including HIV, influenza, Clostridium difficile, neglected tropical diseases, and infections in transplant recipients.
Mycobacterial HSP70 as an adjuvant in the design of an idiotype vaccine against a murine lymphoma.

Abstract Mycobacterial HSP70 protein coupled with ovalbumin is known to elicit antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell response. We investigated whether anti-idiotype immunity can likewise be enhanced using a conjugate of recombinant mycHSP70 and the Ig Id in a murine lymphoma model, A20. Plasmids were constructed of A20 tumor to generate A20Id-HSP70 (scFv-H), unconjugated A20Id (scFv), and mycHSP70 (H) recombinant proteins. We evaluated their relative efficacy in activating anti-tumor immunity that can reduce the mortality of tumor-challenged BALB/c mice; significantly, a longer term protection (>50% of the population) was observed in mice vaccinated with scFv-H compared to those receiving the scFv or H proteins. Concomitantly a much higher-level activation in anti-A20 cytotoxic T-cell activity, IFN-γ secretion and predominantly anti-A20 IgG2a response was also observed with the scFv-H group. Thus, conjugating HSP70 with the A20Id renders the latter significantly immunogenic and affords longer protection against A20 tumor progression.
Privatizing the Internet: Competing Visions and Chaotic Events, 1987&#x2013;1995

The US National Science Foundation played a key role in the history of the Internet by overseeing its transition from government to private operation. In the process, NSF was forced to balance the competing visions of scientists, politicians, and private industry. This article describes the conflicts, trade-offs, and unexpected events that led to a technical and social transformation of the Internet.
Research on Wide Range and Assembled Slide Rheostat for Electrical Engineering Based on Auto Control

In view of the risk to use the traditional rheostat Slide Rheostat and the contradiction between its range and accuracy, in this paper, designed automatically adjust the rheostat of resistance based on the traditional rheostat, and further study on combination relationship between different range and precision resistor. The host controller and the under controller was designed too. The slide rheostat can solve the existing problems between range and resistance and operational safety, and improve the safety and adjusting speed during operation.
Etiology of late free flap failures occurring after hospital discharge

Objectives: Vascular compromise of free flaps most commonly occurs in the immediate postoperative period in association with failure of the microvascular anastomosis. Rarely do flaps fail in the late postoperative period. It is not well understood why free flaps can fail after 7 postoperative days. We undertook a case review series to assess possible causes of late free flap failure. Study Design: Retrospective review at two tertiary referral centers: Oregon Health Sciences University and University of Alabama at Birmingham. Methods: A review of 1,530 flaps performed in 1,592 patients between 1998 and 2006 were evaluated to identify late flap failure. Late flap failure was defined as failure occurring after postoperative day 7 or on follow-up visits after hospital discharge. A prospective database with the following variables was examined: age, medical comorbidities, postreconstructive complications (fistula or infection), hematoma, seroma, previous surgery, radiation therapy, intraoperative findings at the time of debridement, nutrition, and, possibly, etiologies. Results: A total of 13 patients with late graft failure were identified in this study population of 1,530 (less than 1%) flaps; 6 radial forearm fasciocutaneous flaps, 2 rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps, 4 fibular flaps, and 1 latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap underwent late failure. The time to necrosis was a median of 21 (range, 7–90) days. Etiology was believed to possibly be pressure on the pedicle in the postoperative period in four patients (no sign of local wound issues at the pedicle), infection (abscess formation) in three patients, and regrowth of residual tumor in six patients. Loss occurring within 1 month was more common in radial forearm flaps and was presented in the context of a normal appearing wound at the anastomotic site, as opposed to loss occurring after 1 month, which happened more commonly in fibula flaps secondary to recurrence. Conclusion: Although late free flap failure is rare, local factors such as infection and possibly pressure on the pedicle can be contributing factors. Patients presenting with late flap failure should be evaluated for residual tumor growth.
Transmission Electron Microscopic Investigations of Grain Boundary Beta Phase Precipitation in Al 5083 Aged at 373 K (100 °C)

The fine-scale microstructure of an Al 5083 alloy sensitized at 373 K (100 °C) for 3, 7, 14, 30, 45, and 90 days has been investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study the evolution of the β phase (Al3Mg2) at grain boundaries. In fully sensitized Al 5083, the β phase (Al3Mg2) mostly forms heterogeneously at grain boundaries. TEM observations showed that the grain boundary precipitation of β phase was discrete up to 14 days of aging, and grain boundaries were fully covered by the β phase after 30 to 45 days of aging. The early stages of β growth on the grain boundaries are consistent with the collector-plate mechanism. We find no evidence of either Mg depletion or segregation at the grain boundaries. The initial growth rates as well as the thicknesses after long aging times are greater than can be accounted for by bulk diffusion of Mg to the grain boundaries. We suggest that dislocation pipe diffusion is necessary to account for the β growth rates.
Chemotherapy for bladder cancer.

Abstract Systemic therapy for bladder neoplasms has thus far been ineffective and toxicity has outweighed benefits. Topical therapy by bladder instillations of Thiotepa and Epodyl has been effective for treatment of multiple superficial bladder tumors and appears to be helpful as a prophylactive measure to reduce recurrences of such tumors. Topical therapy is not recommended for invasive tumors. Careful attention to dosage regimens and adjustment of doses as indicated by white blood cell and platelet counts minimizes toxic effects from treatment.
The crush behavior of pultruded tubes at high strain rates

The effect of fiber diameter, trigger geometry and section geometry on the crush response of pultruded glass fiber reinforced plastic tubes, made with either polyester or vinyl ester resin, was determined at crush rates from 2.1 x 10-4 m/s to — 15 m/s. The rate dependence of the specific energy for the polyester resin tubes was positive, whereas that for the vinyl resin tubes could be either positive or negative, depending upon the par ticular tube geometry. Increases in the specific energy absorption, previously observed in quasi-static loading, caused by changes in the crush trigger geometry, were found also for dynamic loading. Reductions in the fiber diameter by one half (nominal), for the same glass content, decreased the specific energy by up to ∼20%. Differences in the resin affect the quasi-static crush resistance, the vinyl ester resin tubes having a significantly higher specific energy than that of the polyester resin tubes. These differences tend to diminish for dynamic crush. Fiber delaminatio...
A general information quality based approach for satisfying sensor constraints in multirobot tasks

Many architectures have been proposed to solve tightly-coupled multirobot tasks (MT) through coalitions of heterogeneous robots. However, several issues remain unaddressed. As coalitions are formed, sensor constraints among robots are also established. For example, in a leader-follower task, follower robots must keep leader robots within their sights, while in a box-pushing task, a supervisor robot needs to track the moving direction of the box and monitor the pushing path to the goal for obstacle avoidance. The question of how to keep these constraints satisfied during the entire execution, from initial configurations to completeness of the task, remains an open issue. In addition, environmental factors, both static and dynamic, can influence the maintenance of the constraints. Moreover, problems arise when the constraints are unsatisfiable given the current circumstances. For example, the sight of the leader might be blocked or there might be obstacles blocking the view of the box. This paper proposes a general method to address these issues for various applications with sensors having certain characteristics. Our approach combines the use of sensor models, environment sampling, measures of information quality, a motion model with sampling, and a constraint model. We believe that this approach offers the first generic formulation of robotic sensor constraints that can be applied to a wide variety of applications. To illustrate this method, we apply the approach to solve robot tracking and navigation tasks both in simulation and with physical robots. Experimental results illustrate the flexibility and robustness of the approach.
Temperature measurement from perturbations

The notion of configuration temperature is extended to discontinuous systems by identifying the temperature as the nontrivial root of several integral equations regarding the distribution of the energy change upon configuration perturbations. The relations are generalized to pressure and a distribution mean force.
Landauer Approach to Time-Dependent Transport

Based upon the nonequilibrium Green's function formalism, we present a time-dependent Landauer approach to transport through a mesoscopic system under an ac bias voltage. The system is modeled as an elastic scatterer coupled to large electron reservoirs through perfect conducting wires (leads). The chemical potentials of the reservoirs are driven apart by the bias and, consequently, current flows through the leads from one reservoir to another. We examine the nonequilibrium statistical processes of electrons in the leads. The electronic waves are quantized on the basis of orthonormal wave packets moving along the leads, scattered by the scatterer, and coupled to the reservoirs. The time for an electron to traverse the leads between the source and the drain reservoirs plus the phase delay time caused by the scatterer is found to be the relevant time scale in the time-dependent transport. The frequency dependence of the admittance is fully investigated.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging: Overview and methods for psychological research

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) allows noninvasive imaging of hemodynamic changes related to neural activity. This technique can be used in single-subject designs and can provide millimeter spatial resolution and temporal resolution in the range of 5–10 sec. This paper provides a brief introduction to MRI techniques and their application to functional neuroimaging, focusing on methodological issues that are of particular concern to psychologists, including methods for presenting computerized stimuli to subjects without disrupting the scanner, experimental design issues, and statistical analysis and image processing procedures. To illustrate methodological issues, recent results from a series of studies looking at the topographic organization of visual cortex are presented. General issues concerning limitations in this technique, future directions in its development, its relationship to other neuroimaging techniques, and the role of functional neuroimaging in psychological research are addressed in the Discussion.
Hazards courses in North American geography programs

Natural hazards courses are now taught in over forty percent of the geography departments of North American colleges and universities. Tremendous variation in course content and orientation exists, with lower level hazards courses typically emphasizing physical manifestations of hazards, while upper level and graduate courses are more likely to study human aspects of hazards, including various models of human responses to them. Course instructors whose doctoral dissertations dealt with hazards are significantly more likely to describe in detail, the human responses to hazards and to mention various hazard models and paradigms in their teaching. Given the content of many courses, concerns are raised about whether students are appropriately taught about the interaction of physical and human systems that create hazards.
WE‐E‐201C‐01: Evaluation of a Small‐Field Prototype Imager Based on a Fiber Optic Scintillation Glass Array (FOSGA): An Emerging Technology for Low Dose Megavoltage Cone‐Beam CT

Purpose: To evaluate a small‐field prototype megavoltage x‐ray imager based on a fiber optic scintillation glass array (FOSGA) being developed for low dose megavoltage cone‐beam CT.Method and Materials: FOSGA is an emerging technology for superior megavoltage imaging based on high quantum efficiency scintillation glass fibers inserted into a tungsten‐polymer septal grid and coupled to a‐Si flat‐panels. Recent theoretical studies showed that it can provide an order‐of‐magnitude improvement in image quality compared to current phosphor screen flat‐panels based on modulation transfer function(MTF) and detectivequantum efficiency (DQE) models. A prototype FOSGA detector (8 cm × 8 cm, 9 mm thickness) was constructed using 0.9 mm diameter scintillation glass fibers (1.1 mm pitch, 0.1 mm septa). Detector components were obtained and assembled using patented technology for grid fabrication (tomoltihographic molding), fiber drawing, and mechanized fiber insertion. Preliminary imaging was performed with 6 MV x‐rays to evaluate detector performance and image quality via measurements of pixel sensitivity and uniformity, MTF, and DQE. Results: The structural accuracy of the detector assembly was validated using optical scans and uniformity measurements (< 50 ⌈ m fabrication accuracy, 100% fiber insertion). The prototype FOSGA imager provided good image quality (theoretical DQE limit ∼ 0.07 at 0 cy/mm for this geometry), indicating significant improvement over current megavoltage imagers (DQE < 0.02). Conclusion: The successful construction and implementation of our prototype detector demonstrated the feasibility of accurately fabricating structured scintillator arrays. The image quality measurements will be used as a benchmark for a future large‐field imaging system using thicker scintillator arrays with finer sampling (DQE ∼ 0.25 at 0 cy/mm expected). The superior imaging properties of FOSGA supported by viable mechanisms for cost effective fabrication make it a strong candidate for low dose megavoltage cone‐beam CT with soft‐tissue contrast visualization.
Synthesis and characterization of tantalum silyl and disilyl imido complexes that do not contain anionic π-ligands

Tantalum disilyl and silyl complexes [(Me3Si)2N](Me3SiN)Ta(SiPh2But)2 (1) and [(Me3Si)2N](Me2N)(Me3SiN)Ta(SiPh2But) (2) have been prepared and characterized. They are, to our knowledge, the first k...
An Organizational Learning Model of Convergence and Reorientation

A critical challenge facing organizations is the dilemma of maintaining the capabilities of both efficiency and flexibility. Recent evolutionary perspectives have suggested that patterns of organizational stability and change can be characterized as punctuated equilibria Tushman and Romanelli 1985. This paper argues that a learning model of organizational change can account for a pattern of punctuated equilibria and uses a learning framework to model the tension between organizational stability and change. A simulation methodology is used to create a population of organizations whose activities are governed by a process of experiential learning. A set of propositions is examined that predict how patterns of organizational change are affected by environmental conditions, levels of ambiguity, organizational size, search rules, and organizational performance. Implications of this learning model of convergence and reorientation for theory and research are discussed.
A method for the calculation of frequency-dependent transmission line transformation matrices

A stable and efficient method for evaluating the transformation matrices of both overhead transmission lines and underground cables as smooth functions of frequency is presented. The proposed method is based on the postprocessing of the eigenvectors obtained by the conventional methods where optimization is employed to maximize the smoothness of the transformation matrices. Even in the case of the underground cable systems composed of several identical single core coaxial cables, where some of the eigenvalues become arbitrarily close at high frequencies, it is capable of producing smooth transformation matrices that can be accurately fitted with rational functions.
Geological evidence for prior earthquakes near Tokyo

In 1923 a magnitude 7.9 earthquake devastated the Tokyo area, resulting in more than 100,000 deaths. About 200 years earlier, in 1703, a magnitude 8.2 earthquake struck the same region, causing more than 10,000 deaths. These earthquakes, which occurred just south of the area hit by the March 2011 Tohoku earthquake, were produced by slip on the boundary between the subducting Philippine Sea plate and the overlying plate. To estimate the average recurrence time between earthquakes in this region, and thus learn more about earthquake hazard, scientists need to know when earthquakes occurred before 1703. There are few historical documents describing earlier earthquakes, though some records indicate that earthquakes occurred in 1293 and 1433.
Kinetic evidence for interdigitation in model lipid bilayers

Pseudoglyceryl ammonium ion coliposomes constructed from an arachidoyl probe lipid and either stearoyl or palmitoyl host lipids display unusually slow transverse bilayer migration (‘flip-flop’) of the arachidoyl probe molecule compared with the behavior of shorter probe lipids in similar colipsomes. This phenomenon is probably associated with interdigitation of the arachidoyl lipid across the bilayer's midplane.
A dependence of transparency in high pt quasi-free proton scattering

Abstract The measured A dependence of the high momentum transfer quasi-elastic scattering cross section in nuclei is shown to be consistent with normal “Glauber model” expectations. The transparency, T , which is the probability that there is no initial or final state scattering accompanying the high momentum (p, 2p) interaction, shows no evidence for the enhancement expected were there are appreciable effects due to “color screening”.
Sounds good: Phonetic sound patterns in top brand names

Recent research has demonstrated that brand name sounds can influence consumer behavior. Sound symbolism, the link between sound and meaning, can convey product information, enhance affinity, and increase purchase intentions. This study examines sound patterns of Interbrand top 100 brand names, including three previously unexamined sound categories. Results show that top brand names have different sound patterns than general brand names. The pattern of differences suggests that sound symbolism may be one factor contributing to brand performance. Sounds more frequent among top brand names have potentially brand enhancing properties, while sounds less frequent may have the opposite effect. These findings should inform best naming practices and strategies.
Response to Mehtälä and Vuorisalo: Changing values or wishful thinking?

I thank Mehtala and Vuorisalo for their letter [1] in response to my recent article in TREE [2] in which they discuss my argument that a disconnect between people and nature in urban areas tends to erode support for biodiversity conservation [2]. They suggest instead that attitudes toward conservation among city dwellers in many industrialized countries are becoming increasingly positive. To support this assertion, they cite studies showing growing concern among Europeans regarding environmental degradation, high levels of support for wildlife preservation among urban residents relative to those in rural areas, and a shift in values that has resulted in urbanites favoring higher biodiversity where they live.
Extraction of selected tervalent lanthanides with N-phenylacylhydroxamic acids

Abstract the extraction behavior of certain tervalent lanthanides into chloroform solutions containing various N-phenylacylhydroxamic acids is reported. The ligands include N-o-methylphenyl-m-trifluoromethylbenzohydroxamic acid (MPFBHA), N-m-trifuloromethylphenyl-o-methylbenzohydroxamic acid (FPMBHA), N-o-methylphenylbenzohydroxamic acid (MPBHA), N-phenyl-o-methylbenzohydroxamic acid (PMBHA), N-o-methylphenyl-p-tertbutylbenzohydroxamic acid (MPBBHA), and N-phenyl-p-tert-butylbenzohydroxamic acid (PBBHA). Of the N-phenylacylhydroxamic acids mentioned, only PBBHA was found suitable to extract the lanthanides under the experimental conditions used. The selected lanthanides, namely La, Pr, Eu, Ho, and Yb, were all found to extract with PBBHA as self-adducts of the form LnL3 · 2 HL, where L and HL denote the ligand anion and neutral ligand, respectively. The extraction constants and separation factors for the lanthanides with PBBHA were evaluated. It is possible that steric hindrance prevents the lanthanides from extracting with MPFBHA, FPMBHA, MPBHA, PMBHA, or MPBBHA.
“Direct analysis” or “finite element analysis” in biology: A new computer approach

Abstract A new computer approach to handling large numbers of variables in biological systems is introduced. The method, called “Direct Analysis” or “Finite Element Analysis”, reduces the need for closed form solutions, or deriving solutions based on differential or integral equations. Rather, fundamental laws are allowed to interact via computer program in incremental form and can be merged by combining programs to form, in the ultimate, a “bio” system. An overview of the “Method” and “Concepts” underlying this approach is followed by a listing and description of its applications to physical, chemical and biological properties. Its significance and contribution to evolving computer techniques in the life sciences is evaluated.
Maximum-Likelihood Detection of Unresolved Radar Targets and Multipath

Interference in the form of multipath or uncooperative targets can seriously degrade the angle-of-arrival estimation accuracy of mutiplebeam processors. In this paper, the generalized likelihood ratio test is used to derive a test to detect the presence of interference for multiple beam processors. The detector performance is then analyzed in detail with respect to its dependence on signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), signal-to-interference ration (SIR), and on the relative phase between the target and interfering signals. It is shown that good detection performance can be obtained unless the phase difference between the target and interference signals is either in or out of phase.
Phase Inversion Dynamics of PLGA Solutions Related to Drug Delivery

Dark ground optical microscopy, electron microscopy, and protein release rate studies have been used to quantify the effects of formulation changes on the phase inversion dynamics and in vitro drug release properties of an injectable PLGA-based drug delivery system. Gel growth rates and water influx rates are determined from plots of the square of the respective front with time. Results show that additives that increase the solution gelation rate and produce finger-like void morphologies result in higher initial release rates. Conversely, additives that slow the rate of gelation dramatically reduce the initial drug release rate and lead to a more dense sponge-like morphology.
Chemosensors in the Nose: Guardians of the Airways

The G-protein-coupled receptor molecules and downstream effectors that are used by taste buds to detect sweet, bitter, and savory tastes are also utilized by chemoresponsive cells of the airways to detect irritants. Here, we describe the different cell types in the airways that utilize taste-receptor signaling to trigger protective epithelial and neural responses to potentially dangerous toxins and bacterial infection.
Suspended Sediment Discharge of the Susquehanna River at Havre de Grace, Maryland, during the Period 1 April 1966 through 31 March 1967'

The suspended sediment discharged by the Susquehanna River at Havre de Grace, Maryland, during the year 1 April 1966 through 31 March 1967 is estimated to be about 0.60×106 metric tons. This estimate is based on daily river discharge records from the Conowingo Hydroelectric Plant, and on 34 determinations of the depth distribution of suspended sediment at a station in the Susquehanna River off Havre de Grace. Approximately 70% of this total of 0.60×106 tons, or about 0.42×106 tons, was discharged during the period of peak river flow in February and March.
272: Risk factors for placenta previa-accreta from a prior delivery: A pilot study

STUDY CHAVI KARKOWSKY, HILLARY KEENAN, B. SCOTT SEGAL, DANIELA CARUSI, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, Massachusetts, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, CCI Biostatistical Consulting Service, Boston, Massachusetts, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts OBJECTIVE: A placenta previa in the setting of a prior uterine incision is the strongest risk factor for placenta accreta. However, no studies have examined how the environment in which that incision is created can affect the risk of developing a placenta previa-accreta. We undertook this study to evaluate the association of placenta previa-accreta after prior cesarean with characteristics of the prior delivery. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a retrospective cohort study over a 12-year period at a single institution. The cohort consisted of all women undergoing delivery for a placenta previa who had one prior cesarean, and whose one prior cesarean was at the same institution. Our outcome variable was pathologic or clinical diagnosis of placenta accreta. Medical records were reviewed for details of the prior delivery, including whether the patient labored and presence of fever. Demographic details were also collected. The variables were analyzed in a logistic regression model. Power analysis showed that we would need 450 patients in order to reach 80% power at a 95% confidence level. RESULTS: There were 75 subjects who met eligibility criteria over the 12-year period; 19% of these were diagnosed with placenta previa-accreta. No association was found between demographic variables and the presence of accreta. Subjects with a placenta accreta were twice as likely to have labored prior to their first cesarean section (odds ratio 2.1, 95% CI 0.7 7.0) though the study was insufficiently powered to find a significant result. The odds ratio for fever at prior cesarean section was 1.2 (95% CI 0.3 5.3). CONCLUSION: In this pilot study, we found a trend towards placenta previaaccreta at repeat cesarean section when the patient had labored at the primary cesarean delivery. A larger study is warranted to confirm this association, as it may aid patient counseling and prediction of this serious outcome
Inhomogeneous broadening of electronic spectra at liquid interfaces

Abstract Molecular dynamics simulations of the electronic spectrum of a chromophore at the liquid/vapor interface of a non-polar solvent are used to investigate the factors that contribute to the spectral linewidth in the limit of inhomogeneous broadening. The interface spectra are broader than in the bulk due to an increase in heterogeneity on the scale of a single solvation shell and, to a greater degree, due to the spectral shift across the entire interface region. Insight into the broadening mechanism is obtained by considering the temperature effect and by calculating the spectra in layers defined both relative to the simulation box and relative to the intrinsic interface.
Comparing saphenous nerve conduction study techniques at the knee and at the ankle and their relationship to body mass index.

Abstract Chiodo A, Spiegelberg T, Tong HC. Comparing saphenous nerve conduction study techniques at the knee and at the ankle and their relationship to body mass index. Objective To evaluate the saphenous sensory response by 2 methods and the correlation of obtaining responses bilaterally with body mass index (BMI). Design Twenty patients evaluated by 1 electromyographer and 10 patients evaluated by 2 blinded electromyographers. Setting University electromyography laboratory. Participants Thirty healthy adult volunteers. Interventions Saphenous sensory response with the recording electrode at the level of the medial malleolus, saphenous sensory response with the recording electrode at the level of the proximal tibia, and sural sensory response with the recording electrode posterior to the lateral malleolus. Main Outcome Measures Sensory-evoked amplitude and distal latency. Results The saphenous sensory response was obtained bilaterally at the knee in 77% of subjects, whereas it was obtained bilaterally at the ankle in only 50% of subjects ( P 2 resulted in more difficulty in obtaining the saphenous sensory response at the ankle compared with the response at the knee ( P Conclusions The saphenous sensory response at the knee is more consistently obtained than the saphenous sensory response at the ankle, and it is not affected by BMI.
The growth of hematite by oxidation of iron-bearing olivine

Abstract The controlled oxidation of iron-bearing olivine has been performed by the repeated annealing and re-examination of thin TEM specimens. With an annealing temperature of ≈900°C, particles of hematite are formed on the surface, leaving an iron-depleted olivine. Thin olivine TEM specimens with a [010] foil normal produce hematite islands with an orientation relationship determined by (100) 0 ‖(0001) h :[001] 0 ‖[10 1 0] h or (100) 0 ‖(0001) h :[001] 0 ‖[ 1 010] h . The hematite particles show strong faceting parallel to the {0001}, {10 1 0} and {10 1 2: planes and, with prolonged annealing, may grow together to produce twin boundaries which are parallel to {0001} or {10 1 0} planes. Neglecting the small lattice mismatch, the “close-packed” planes are continuous across all of these interfaces.