cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quantification of volumetric and geometric changes occurring during fractionated radiotherapy for head-and-neck cancer using an integrated CT/linear accelerator system.

Abstract Purpose Many patients receiving fractionated radiotherapy (RT) for head-and-neck cancer have marked anatomic changes during their course of treatment, including shrinking of the primary tumor or nodal masses, resolving postoperative changes/edema, and changes in overall body habitus/weight loss. We conducted a pilot study to quantify the magnitude of these anatomic changes with systematic CT imaging. Methods and materials Fourteen assessable patients were enrolled in this pilot study. Eligible patients had to have a pathologic diagnosis of head-and-neck cancer, be treated with definitive external beam RT, and had have gross primary and/or cervical nodal disease measuring at least 4 cm in maximal diameter. All patients were treated using a new commercial integrated CT-linear accelerator system (EXaCT) that allows CT imaging at the daily RT sessions while the patient remains immobilized in the treatment position. CT scans were acquired three times weekly during the entire course of RT, and both gross tumor volumes (GTVs: primary tumor and involved lymph nodes) and normal tissues (parotid glands, spinal canal, mandible, and external contour) were manually contoured on every axial slice. Volumetric and positional changes relative to a central bony reference (the center of mass of the C2 vertebral body) were determined for each structure. Results Gross tumor volumes decreased throughout the course of fractionated RT, at a median rate of 0.2 cm 3 per treatment day (range, 0.01–1.95 cm 3 /d). In terms of the percentage of the initial volume, the GTVs decreased at a median rate of 1.8%/treatment day (range, 0.2–3.1%/d). On the last day of treatment, this corresponded to a median total relative loss of 69.5% of the initial GTV (range, 9.9–91.9%). In addition, the center of the mass of shrinking tumors changed position with time, indicating that GTV loss was frequently asymmetric. At treatment completion, the median center of the mass displacement (after corrections for daily setup variation) was 3.3 mm (range, 0–17.3 mm). Parotid glands also decreased in volume (median, 0.19 cm 3 /d range, 0.04–0.84 cm 3 /d), and generally shifted medially (median, 3.1 mm; range, 0–9.9 mm) with time. This medial displacement of the parotid glands correlated highly with the weight loss that occurred during treatment. Conclusion Measurable anatomic changes occurred throughout fractionated external beam RT for head-and-neck cancers. These changes in the external contour, shape, and location of the target and critical structures appeared to be significant during the second half of treatment (after 3–4 weeks of treatment) and could have potential dosimetric impact when highly conformal treatment techniques are used. These data may, therefore, be useful in the development of an adaptive RT scheme (periodic adjustment of the conformal treatment plan) that takes into account such treatment-related anatomic changes. In theory, such a strategy would maximize the therapeutic ratio of RT.
Phyllosilicates in hydrothermally altered basalts from DSDP Hole 504B, Leg 83 — a TEM and AEM study

Phyllosilicates occurring as replacements of olivine, clinopyroxene and interstitial materials and as veins or fracture-fillings in hydrothermally altered basalts from DSDP Hole 504B, Leg 83 have been studied using transmission and analytical electron microscopy. The parageneses of phyllosilicates generally change systematically with depth and with the degree of alteration, which in turn is related to permeability of basalts. Saponite and some mixed-layer chlorite/smectite are the dominant phyllosilicates at the top of the transition zone. Chlorite, corrensite, and mixed-layer chlorite/corrensite occur mainly in the lower transition zone and upper levels of the sheeted dike zone. Chlorite, talc, and mixed-layer talc/chlorite are the major phyllosilicates in the sheeted dike zone, although replacement of talc or ohvine by saponite is observed. The phyllosilicates consist of parallel or subparallel discrete packets of coherent layers with packet thicknesses generally ranging from< 100 A to a few hundred A. The packets of saponite layers are much smaller or less well defined than those of chlorite, corrensite and talc, indicating poorer crystal-linity of saponite. by contrast, chlorite and talc from the lower transition zone and the sheeted dike zone occur in packets up to thousands of A thick. The Si/(Si+Al) ratio of these trioctahedral phyllosilicates increases and Fe/(Fe+Mg) decreases in the order chlorite, corrensite, saponite, and talc. These relations reflect optimal solid solution consistent with minimum misfit of articulated octahedral and tetrahedral sheets. Variations in composition of hydrothermal fluids and precursor minerals, especially in Si/(Si+Al) and Fe/(Fe+Mg) ratios, are thus important factors in controlling the parageneses of phyllosilicates. The phyllosilicates are generally well crystallized discrete phases, rather than mixed-layered phases, where they have been affected by relatively high fluid/rock ratios as in high-permeability basalts, in veins, or areas adjacent to veins. Intense alteration in basalts with high permeability (indicating high fluid/rock ratios) is characterized by pervasive albitization and zeolitization. Minimal alteration in the basalts without significant albitization and zeolitization is characterized by the occurrence of saponite±mixed-layer chlorite/smectite in the low-temperature alteration zone, and mixed-layer chlorite/corrensite or mixed-layer talc/chlorite in the high-temperature alteration zone. Textural non-equilibrium for phyllosilicates is represented by mixed layering and poorly defined packets of partially incoherent layers. The approach to textural equilibrium was controlled largely by the availability of fluid or permeability.
Alkylation of Thallous Cyclopentadienide with Tropylium Ion Synthesis of 11,12-Dihydrosesquifulvalene

Abstract The alkylation of thallous cyclopentadienide (1) has been shown to give 5-substituted cyclopentadienes without the complications due to prototropic shifts which accompany alkylation of alkali metal cyclopentadienides.1 In seeking a route to the interesting (CH)12 hydrocarbon2 11,12-di-hydrosesquifulvalene (3), it appeared likely that alkylation of 1 with tropylium fluoroborate (2) would afford a ready means of access to this system.
A new name and new combinations in Campomanesia and Pimenta (Myrtaceae)

One new name is proposed and eleven new combinations are made inCampomanesia andPimenta. Lectotypes are selected forC. eugenioides var.desertorum, C. phaea, andP. racemosa var.hispaniolensis, var.ouza, and var.terebinthina.
Experimental measurements on an oscillating 70-degree delta wing in subsonic flow

A series of low-speed wind tunnel tests on a 70-degree sharp leading-edged delta wing at both static and dynamic conditions were performed to investigate the aerodynamic forces and moments. Forces and moments were obtained from a six component internal strain gauge balance. Static results compared well with the previous experimental findings. Large amplitude dynamic motion was produced by sinusoidally oscillating the model over a range of reduced frequencies. Substantial force and moment overshoots, a delay in dynamic stall, and hysteresis loops between the values of aerodynamnic loads in upstroke and downstroke motion were observed, all of which were strong functions of the reduced frequency. The aerodynamic forces and moments were influenced by the Reynolds number. Asymmetrical vortex bursting produced by nonzero sideslip angle created a complex rolling moment variations with angle of attack.
Band-theoretical study of magnetism in Sc2CuO

Self-consistent, spin-polarized calculations were performed for ${\mathrm{Sc}}_{2}$${\mathrm{CuO}}_{4}$. Both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic ground states were investigated and found to be unstable. Magnetic form factors were calculated and are discussed in view of experiments on ${\mathrm{La}}_{2}$${\mathrm{CuO}}_{4}$ and the applicability of band theory.
Candihexin Polyene Macrolide Complex: Physicochemical Characterization and Antifungal Activities of the Single Components

Abstract The candihexin complex produced by a natural mutant of Streptomyces viridoflavus has been resolved into eight components. At least six of them, having hexaene chromophores, can be separated directly by thin-layer chromatography. The four major components, candihexins A, B, E, and F, account for about 90% of the total complex. They have been isolated and purified to homogeneity. All the major components were found to have macrolide lactone rings with all-trans hexaene chromophores. Candihexins A and B have compositions and molecular weights similar to candidin, the heptaene polyene macrolide produced by the parent S. viridoflavus, whereas candihexins E and F show smaller molecular weights and rather different elementary compositions. Candihexins A and B yield the amino sugar mycosamine upon hydrolysis, but no sugar was found in hydrolysates of candihexins E and F. Candihexins A and B have high antifungal activity against yeasts and filamentous fungi. The amino sugar-lacking candihexins E and F show no antifungal activity at levels of 100 μg/ml.
Whole-body vibration training reduces arterial stiffness, blood pressure and sympathovagal balance in young overweight/obese women

Obesity is associated with early cardiovascular dysfunction and reduced muscle strength. Whole-body vibration (WBV) training may improve arterial function and muscle strength. The effects of WBV training on arterial stiffness (brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity, baPWV), wave reflection (augmentation index, AIx), brachial systolic blood pressure (bSBP), aortic systolic blood pressure (aSBP), heart rate variability, and muscle strength (one-repetition maximum, 1RM) were examined in 10 young (21 ± 2 year) overweight/obese women (body mass index, BMI = 29.9 ± 0.8 kg m(-2)). Participants were randomized to a 6-week WBV training or non-exercising control (CON) period in a crossover design. WBV training (3 days × week) consisted of static and dynamic squats and calf raises with vibration intensity at 25-30 Hz and 1-2 mm amplitude (2.83-4.86 G). There were significant (P<0.05) decreases in baPWV (-0.9 ± 0.3 m s(-1)), AIx (-8.0 ± 2.2 %), bSBP (-5.3 ± 1.5 mm Hg), aSBP (-5.2 ± 2.1 mm Hg), low-frequency power (-0.13 ± 0.05 nu) and sympathovagal balance (LF/HF, -0.42 ± 0.16) after WBV training compared with CON. Significant (P<0.05) increases in high-frequency power (HF, 0.19 ± 0.04 nu) and leg extension 1RM (8.2 ± 2.3 kg) occurred after WBV training compared with CON. Six weeks of WBV training decreased systemic arterial stiffness and aSBP via improvements in wave reflection and sympathovagal balance in young overweight/obese normotensive women. WBV training may benefit arterial function and muscle strength in deconditioned individuals who cannot perform conventional exercise.
ACOUSTIC ORIENTATION BY FISH-CATCHING BATS.

Captive Noctilio leporinus were unable to detect pieces of fish tissue or small air-filled balloons mounted a few millimeters below the surface of the water. An up-welling of water and small wires projecting vertically above the water surface were readily detected and dipped at, however. Single wires 0.21 mm in diameter extending 5 mm out of the water were regularly detected and 1 mm lengths of this same diameter wire were dipped at well above chance levels. One or 2 cm2 cubes of fish muscle mounted above the water surface were detected at average distances of 148 and 132 cm as judged by the distances at which pulse duration and interval, respectively, first began to decrease. The average distance of detection of 5 mm lengths of 0.21 mm diameter wire was 59 cm as estimated by decreases in pulse interval. Several bats learned to distinguish between a single wire 1.3 mm in diameter extending 5 mm above the surface and a pair of wires 0.9 mm in diameter extending 5 mm above the surface and spaced 2 cm apart. Experienced bats made about 80% of their dips at whichever of these two targets marked the position of the submerged food. A pair of identical wires sloping in opposite directions were not distinguished. Detection and discrimination are independent of vision and olfaction, being accomplished entirely by echolocation. Two well defined pulse types are emitted: an almost constant frequency one at 60 kc/s and one with an initial portion of constant frequency followed by a downward frequency sweep of about one octave. Entirely frequency followed by a downward frequency sweep of about one octave. Entirely frequency modulated pulses are emitted only during difficult maneuvers which require high pulse repetition rates, such as when catching food or landing. When bats flying low over the water approach each other on a collision course, the downward frequency sweep is lengthened to cover about tow octaves. This serves as a warning allowing the bats to swerve off their collision course.
Mesh generation by a sequence of transformations

Abstract A sequence of transformations is used to map a three-dimensional aerodynamic shape into a simplified configuration. Coordinate surfaces are generated in the mapped space and the transformation sequence is inverted to produce a three-dimensional mesh that conforms with solid boundaries. The method has been used to generate meshes about typical aircraft shapes consisting of a wing, body, tail and fin.
Fundamental limits of scintillator performance

Abstract In this paper we consider the basic physical processes involved in the scintillation process and discuss the limitations imposed on two important performance parameters, namely efficiency (light output) and speed. Light output is determined by the product of efficiencies of energy conversion, energy transfer and luminescence processes. We propose a procedure by which these partial efficiencies can be obtained for any scintillator and use it to evaluate some known materials. Limits of speed are set by the value of the Einstein coefficient A for the luminescent emission and by transfer rates. The singular significance of the transfer step is illustrated by some Ce-based scintillators. A figure of merit and an “efficiency-speed” diagram are introduced in order to compare different scintillators.
Prediction of formation constants of metal-ammonia complexes in aqueous solution using density functional theory calculations.

Density functional theory calculation of gas-phase ΔG of replacement of a water molecule by NH3 on [M(H2O)6]n+(g) for 19 different metal ions correlates well with ΔG of formation of mono NH3 complexes of these ions in water, suggesting this approach will permit prediction of formation constants in aqueous solution, and produce insights into theories of metal complex formation reactions.
Defect energy calculations of alkali chlorides using Ab initio potentials

We report the results of a simulation study using shell-model pair-wise potentials describing polarization effects and interactions in alkali halides. The simulation technique used is the HADES procedure, and the potentials applied are based on ab initio quantum mechanical calculations of atoms in crystals. The study of point defects, including formation energy and diffusion process is in good agreement with experimental data, as well with other calculations indicating the accuracy and reliability of ab initio potentials.
Engineering Circular Multiple Light Scattering For Polarization-Insensitive Planar Diffraction

Plasmonic aperiodic spirals, which are shown to support structural resonances carrying orbital angular momentum, are investigated by dark-field imaging with analytical multi-particle calculations in the framework of the Generalized Mie Theory.
An extrapolation of the Dryden Projections for the future of REBT

Further analysis of the Dryden Projections suggests that there will be six subsequent name changes beyond 2031 to what is now known as Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). The last name change will take place in 2555, which will coincide with the 600th anniversary of Ellis's first practicing Rational Therapy. The data suggests that Ellis will have an epiphany of near religious proportions. Gematria was deemed the best system to convert ordinal to equal interval data and was therefore selected for use in this study.
Failure mechanisms governing reinforcement length of geogrid reinforced soil retaining walls

Current design practice of reinforced soil retaining walls is based on the limit equilibrium approach. The walls are designed for both external and internal stability criteria. Design reinforcement length should be such that minimum required safety factors are fulfilled for all failure modes. Most agencies require minimum reinforcement length equal to 70 percent of wall height. However, it is not always possible to have enough space behind a wall to accommodate these required reinforcement lengths due to an existing natural rock formation, man-made shoring system, or the presence of another reinforced soil retaining wall. This study was performed to investigate governing failure mode in determining the required minimum reinforcement length and also to investigate the possibility of shortening the specified minimum reinforcement lengths. Effect of different parameters involved in the design of reinforced soil retaining walls on the required minimum reinforcement length and the governing failure mode were studied. Parameters considered included wall height, surcharge, reinforcement vertical spacing, reinforced soil properties, backfill/retained soil properties, and foundation soil properties. Results indicated that both external and internal failure modes can be governing criteria in determining the required minimum reinforcement length depending on the parameters involved for a specific wall. In addition, it may be possible to use reinforcement lengths as low as almost 50 percent of the wall height, instead of 70 percent as required by many agencies around the world. This paper presents the results of parametric studies conducted, including the effect of different parameters on the required minimum reinforcement length and the governing failure criteria.
External detection of β-adrenoreceptors with 125I-hydroxybenzylpindolol in isolated perfused hearts

To assess the feasibility of characterizing beta-adrenoreceptors externally with ligands labeled with gamma-emitting radionuclides, we infused 125I-hydroxybenzylpindolol (125I-HYP) a potent, high affinity, beta-adrenoreceptor ligand into isolated perfused hearts and monitored uptake and release of the label externally with a gamma probe. Perfusion with specific beta-adrenergic displacing significantly increased the turnover rate constant of 125I-HYP in comparison to that obtained with non-specific displacing agents. After modifying beta-adrenoreceptor density by pretreatment of animals with thyroid hormone, an increase in 125I-HYP uptake was observed. Thus, beta-adrenoreceptor occupancy and increases in beta-adrenoreceptor density can be detected externally with an approach which may offer promise for their characterization in vivo with radiolabeled adrenergic ligands.
Abstract 2917: Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of two chemical classes as novel small molecule Mcl-1 inhibitors

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL The anti-apoptotic myeloid cell leukemia protein Mcl-1, a member of the Bcl-2 family proteins, has a critical and distinct role(s) in maintaining cell survival and is emerging as an independent and promising therapeutic target. Using structure-based design, two classes of small molecule Mcl-1 inhibitors were developed with IC50 values ranging from 50 nM to 75 μM, based on the lead compounds identified from high throughput screening. The structure-activity relationships (SAR) of these compounds were analyzed and chemical features of both series that are important for potency and selectivity on Mcl-1 were identified. The HSQC-NMR spectroscopy studies combined with molecular docking and dynamics simulations demonstrated that both classes of compounds occupy the BH3 binding site in Mcl-1 protein mimicking two conserved hydrophobic residues from BH3 binding motif. The most potent analogues antagonize Mcl-1 on the functional level and they induce release of cytochrome c, inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis in Bax/Bak-dependent manner in pancreatic and melanoma cancer cells with high levels of Mcl-1. The knowledge gained through these studies provides promise for future design and expansion of these series towards development of potent small-molecule Mcl-1 inhibitors. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2917. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2917
Autoradiographic and ultrastructural observations on the frog's olfactory mucosa

Autoradiographic techniques have been employed to study the cell turnover in the olfactory mucosa of frog. It has been established that basal cells of the olfactory epithelium divide and differentiate into mature neurons in adult animals. These findings prove that the olfactory neurons are replaced during the adult life. Supporting cells were also found to undergo turnover. The basal cells are indicated as the stem elements of both supporting and sensory cells as they undergo division and maturation processes leading to the replacement of both supporting and sensory cells.
Creating Constituencies: Presidential Campaigns, the Scope of Conflict, and Selective Mobilization

We investigate how material and symbolic campaign appeals may motivate segments of the electorate to be more engaged with the unfolding presidential campaign; this engagement is a first step toward bringing these populations into an electoral coalition. We pair two massive new data collections—the National Annenberg Election Study capturing public opinion across an entire campaign and The Wisconsin Advertising Project recording and cataloging the political commercials aired by campaigns—to examine how the candidates’ choice of issues affects who gets into the game. We find evidence that appeals to symbolic interests are more likely than appeals to material interest to selectively engage targeted groups.
High Pressure Structure of Half-Metallic CrO2

Evidence for a structural phase transition from rutile {alpha}-CrO{sub 2} phase I (P4{sub 2}/mnm) to orthorhombic {beta}-CrO{sub 2} phase II (CaCl{sub 2}-like, Pnnm) is presented using angle-resolved synchrotron x-ray diffraction and high sensitivity confocal Raman spectroscopy. The transition to the CaCl{sub 2} structure, which appears to be second-order, occurs at 12 {+-} 3 GPa without any measurable discontinuity in volume, but is accompanied by an apparent increase in compressibility. Raman data are also presented to show further evidence for a second-order structural phase transition as well to demonstrate soft-mode behavior of the B{sub 1g} phonon mode.
The effect of intraocular 6‐hydroxydopamine on retinal processing of primates

In previous studies, we showed that in the monkey, systemically administered N-methyl, 4-phenyl, 1-2-3-6 tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) produces a chronic parkinsonian syndrome accompanied by spatial frequency-dependent abnormalities in both the pattern electroretinogram and visual evoked potential. We describe the effect of intravitreally administered 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OH-DA) on the pattern electroretinogram and pattern visual evoked potential of 3 aphakic monkeys. Because of the aphake condition, several complexities of intravitreal injection of 6-OH-DA could be avoided. Nevertheless, following 6-OH-DA treatment, both the phase and the amplitude of pattern electroretinogram and pattern visual evoked potential became abnormal. This abnormality was most pronounced for the higher spatial frequencies (2.5 and 3.5 cycles per degree), whereas lower spatial frequencies (0.5 and 1.2 cycles per degree) were less impaired. The effects of systemically administered MPTP on pattern electroretinogram and pattern visual evoked potential are similar to the effects of intravitreal injections of 6-OH-DA, suggesting that a retinal catecholaminergic system plays an important role in pattern vision of primates.
Needle exchange use among a cohort of injecting drug users

Objective:To study prospectively injection behavior of injecting drug users (IDU) who did and did not utilize a local needle exchange in the Bronx, New York City.Design:Since 1985, IDU attending a methadone maintenance program have been enrolled in a prospective study of HIV-related risk behaviors.
Mitochondrial replacement therapy in reproductive medicine

Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in disease and age-related infertility. Mitochondrial replacement therapies (MRT) in oocytes or zygotes, such as pronuclear (PNT), spindle (ST), or polar body (PBT) transfer, could prevent second-generation transmission of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) defects. PNT, associated with high levels of mtDNA carryover in mice but low levels in human embryos, carries ethical issues secondary to donor embryo destruction. ST, developed in primates, supports normal development to adults and low mtDNA carryover. PBT in mice, coupled with PN or ST, may increase the yield of reconstructed embryos with low mtDNA carryover. MRT also offers replacement of the deficient cytoplasm in oocytes from older patients, with the expectation of high pregnancy rates following in vitro fertilization.
Skeltonic prosody in Basil Bunting's Briggflatts

As arguably the most important long poem of the latter half of the twentieth century, Basil Bunting's Briggflatts has invited no small number of critical considerations, investigations, and explications. It is, in fact, a poem whose very substance would seem to call out for some form of elucidation, despite – or perhaps in part because of – its author's staunch refusal to reveal much more about the structure and meaning of his magnum opus than that its composition was informed by some combination of Scarlatti's B minor fugato and the illuminations of the obscure Lindisfarne Gospels, and that Briggflatts’ text, moreover, could best and only properly be understood for its ‘music’. Just what Bunting's ‘music' was, and exactly how that music should be heard, has remained something of a mystery. A close consideration of Bunting's strong ties to sixteenth-century music and poetics, however, reveals a prosodic agenda both whose substance and whose yield in Bunting's practice uncannily resemble those of the Tudor...
Oral contraceptive pills are associated with artifacts in ThinPrep Pap smears that mimic low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions.

BACKGROUND The authors noted a significant increase in the diagnosis of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) in premenopausal women using oral contraceptive pills (OCP) (9%) versus women not on OCP (4%) using ThinPrep Pap smears (P = 0.02). The purpose of this study was to correlate these morphologic changes with human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA detection by in situ hybridization and clinical follow-up. METHODS Eighty-four ThinPrep Pap smears diagnosed as ASCUS or ASCUS favor low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LGSIL) in young women receiving OCP were studied by HPV in situ hybridization. This information was correlated with colposcopic follow-up and AutoCyte Pap smear results. The authors also studied 80 ThinPreps from young women with a Pap smear diagnosis of unequivocal LGSIL where there was a corresponding biopsy (positive controls) and 40 ThinPreps diagnosed as within normal limits and that rescreened as such (negative controls). RESULTS The detection rate of HPV DNA by in situ hybridization was 33% (28 of 84) in ASCUS cases versus 90% (72 of 80) for cases of unequivocal LGSIL. A blinded review of the 29 ASCUS Pap smears performed by AutoCyte showed that 66% (19 of 29) were diagnosed as within normal limits. The majority of the cervical biopsies in the women with ASCUS by ThinPrep Pap smears were negative for dysplasia (29 of 39 [74%]) whereas 71 of 80 biopsies (88%) showed dysplasia in women with Pap smears diagnosed as unequivocal LGSIL. The periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) stain demonstrated that many of the cells with halos in the ThinPrep Pap smears that mimicked LGSIL contained glycogen. CONCLUSION The ThinPrep induces changes that mimic LGSIL in young women on OCP. These artifacts may reflect pressure-induced alteration of glycogen. PAS analysis and, more directly, HPV testing by in situ hybridization can help differentiate this mimicking from actual LGSILs. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2003;99:75–82. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Unrestricted Quantification and Reality: Reply to Kim

In my book, Worlds and Individuals, Possible and Otherwise, I use the novel idea of modal tense to respond to a number of arguments against modal realism. Peter van Inwagen’s million-carat-diamond objection is one of them. It targets the version of modal realism by David Lewis and exploits the fact that Lewis accepts absolutely unrestricted quantification. The crux of my response is to use modal tense to neutralize absolutely unrestricted quantification. Seahwa Kim says that even when equipped with modal tense, I am unsuccessful, given my view of reality and the proper use of modal tense in speaking of reality. I counter her attempt at resurrecting van Inwagen’s objection and clarify how we should use modal tense and how we should talk about reality.
Seizures Associated With Hypocalcemia in a Yorkshire Terrier With Protein-Losing Enteropathy

A 7 yr old, male, castrated, Yorkshire terrier was presented on emergency for an acute onset of seizure activity. The owner also reported that the dog had previously exhibited other symptoms, including intermittent vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia for several yr. The initial workup revealed a marked decrease in ionized calcium and total protein. Further diagnostics revealed decreases in magnesium, 25 hydroxyvitamin D, albumin, and globulins, and an increased parathyroid hormone level. Intestinal biopsies revealed inflammatory bowel disease and lymphangiectasia. The dog received intravenous calcium gluconate for treatment of hypocalcemia followed by oral calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Seizure activity ceased once calcium levels approached the normal range. Medical and dietary therapy for lymphangiectasia and inflammatory bowel disease consisted of prednisone, rutin, and a low-fat diet. Decreased serum total ionized calcium levels have been reported previously in dogs with protein-losing enteropathies. Typically, the hypocalcemia is not associated with clinical signs. Severe clinical signs of hypocalcemia are rarely reported in dogs with protein-losing enteropathy, but seizures, facial twitching, and tremors can occur. When presented with a dog with a history of seizure activity, panhypoproteinemia, and hypocalcemia, protein-losing enteropathy should be included on the list of differential diagnoses.
Dispersal, spatial scale, and species diversity in a hierarchically structured experimental landscape

Although there has been growing interest in the effect of dispersal on species diversity, much remains unknown about how dispersal occurring at multiple scales influences diversity. We used an experimental microbial landscape to determine whether dispersal occurring at two different scales - among local communities and among metacommunities - affects diversity differently. At the local scale, dispersal initially had a positive effect and subsequently a neutral effect on diversity, whereas at the metacommunity and landscape scales, dispersal showed a consistently negative effect. The timing in which dispersal affected beta diversity also differed sharply between local communities and metacommunities. These patterns were explained by scale- and time-dependent effects of dispersal in allowing spread of species and in removing spatial refuges from predators. Our results suggest that the relative contribution of opposing mechanisms by which dispersal affects diversity changes considerably over time and space in hierarchical landscapes in which dispersal occurs at multiple scales.
Investment in private water development: Property rights and contractual opportunism during the California Gold Rush ☆

Abstract This paper explores the development of water supplies by private ditch companies during the California Gold Rush. Using data taken from newspaper stories, mining camp by-laws, and state Supreme Court and district court cases, the paper documents the presence of institutional conditions that were unfavorable to support private water investments including property rights uncertainty, imperfect capital markets, and significant contractual enforcement costs that may have provided opportunities for contractual holdup by miners. Some evidence suggests that water development was likely discouraged to some extent. Nevertheless, the larger response was a major expansion in water supplies through an extensive ditch system, suggesting that there were factors that limited the ability of miners to capture rents, including various ditch company strategies to limit their exposure to opportunistic behavior and recognition by miners of their reliance on ditch companies.
Freezing-induced perturbation of tertiary structure of a monoclonal antibody.

We studied the effects of pH and solution additives on freezing-induced perturbations in the tertiary structure of a monoclonal antibody (mAb) by intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence spectroscopy. In general, freezing caused perturbations in the tertiary structure of the mAb, which were reversible or irreversible depending on the pH or excipients present in the formulation. Protein aggregation occurred in freeze–thawed samples in which perturbations of the tertiary structure were observed, but the levels of protein aggregates formed were not proportional to the degree of structural perturbation. Protein aggregation also occurred in freeze–thawed samples without obvious structural perturbations, most likely because of freeze concentration of protein and salts, and thus reduced protein colloidal stability. Therefore, freezing-induced protein aggregation may or may not first involve the perturbation of its native structure, followed by the assembly processes to form aggregates. Depending on the solution conditions, either step can be rate limiting. Finally, this study demonstrates the potential of fluorescence spectroscopy as a valuable tool for screening therapeutic protein formulations subjected to freeze–thaw stress.
Structural biological composites: An overview

Biological materials are complex composites that are hierarchically structured and multifunctional. Their mechanical properties are often outstanding, considering the weak constituents from which they are assembled. They are for the most part composed of brittle (often, mineral) and ductile (organic) components. These complex structures, which have risen from millions of years of evolution, are inspiring materials scientists in the design of novel materials. This paper discusses the overall design principles in biological structural composites and illustrates them for five examples; sea spicules, the abalone shell, the conch shell, the toucan and hornbill beaks, and the sheep crab exoskeleton.
Student and Teacher Perceptions of School Climate: A Multilevel Exploration of Patterns of Discrepancy

BACKGROUND: School climate has been linked with improved academic achievement and reduced discipline problems, and thus is often a target of school improvement initiatives. However, few studies have examined the extent to which student and teacher perceptions vary as a function of individual, classroom, and school characteristics, or the level of congruence between teachers’ and their students’ perceptions of school climate. METHODS: Using data from 1881 fifth-grade students and their 90 homeroom teachers, we examined parallel models of students’ and teachers’ perceptions of overall school climate and academic emphasis. Two additional models were fit that assessed the congruence between teacher and student perceptions of school climate and academic emphasis. RESULTS: Multilevel analyses indicated that classroom-level factors were more closely associated with teachers’ perceptions of climate, whereas school-level factors were more closely associated with the students’ perceptions. Further analyses indicated an inverse association between student and teacher ratings of academic emphasis, and no association between student and teacher ratings of overall climate. CONCLUSIONS: Teacher ratings were more sensitive to classroom-level factors, such as poor classroom management and proportion of students with disruptive behaviors, whereas student ratings were more influenced by school-level factors such as student mobility, student-teacher relationship, and principal turnover. The discrepancy in ratings of academic emphasis suggests that while all of the respondents may have shared objectively similar experiences, their perceptions of those experiences varied significantly. These results emphasize the importance of assessing both student and teacher perceptions in future research on school climate.
Attention, noise, and implications for wildlife conservation and management

Anthropogenic stimuli are often viewed as disturbances that directly interfere with signal processing or communication, or directly harm animals. However, such sounds may also distract individuals and thus potentially interfere with their ability to make biologically important decisions about food selection, mate selection, and predator detection. This is because all of these decisions require animals to focus their attention on these tasks and the attention allocated to perceived stimuli is limited. We review the ways that attention is studied, the diversity of taxa in which this cognitive process has been studied, and how stimuli from one modality may interfere with attentional processes in another modality. Such distraction may increase the vulnerability of prey to predators and thus influence predation rates and, ultimately, both the population size, and the effective population size (through differential mortality). Recognizing that distraction is likely to be widespread is the first step towards managing it for wildlife conservation and the management of problem animals.
Hippocampal Atrophy and Apolipoprotein E Genotype are Independently Associated with Alzheimer's Disease

A variety of anatomic and functional neuroimaging findings are associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). One of the strongest imaging associations identified is between AD and hippocampal atrophy. The epsilon4 allele of the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene increases the risk of developing AD and lowers the mean age of onset of the disease. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between hippocampal volume and ApoE polymorphisms in elderly control subjects and in patients with probable AD. We performed magnetic resonance imaging-based volume measurements of the hippocampus in 125 cognitively normal elderly controls and 62 patients with probable AD. ApoE genotyping was performed by using standard methods. Hippocampal volumes were significantly smaller in AD cases than in control subjects. Hippocampal volumes did not differ significantly within either clinical group on the basis of ApoE genotype. Both the epsilon4 allele of ApoE and hippocampal atrophy were significantly but independently associated with AD.
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy: A single center experience.

Aims : To evaluate the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic adrenalectomy in benign adrenal disorders. Methods and Material: Since July 2007, twenty patients have undergone laparoscopic adrenalectomy for various benign adrenal disorders at our institution. Every patient underwent contrast enhanced CT-abdomen. Serum corticosteroid levels were conducted in all, and urinary metanephrines, normetanephrines and VMA levels were performed in suspected pheochromocytoma. All the patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy via the transperitoneal approach. Results : The patients were in the age range of 18-57 years, eleven males and nine females, seven right, eleven left, two bilateral. The mean operative time was 150 minutes (120-180), mean hospital stay four days (3-5), mean intraoperative blood loss 150 ml and mean post-operative analgesic need was for 36 (24-72) hours. One out of twenty-two laparoscopic operations had to be converted into open adrenalectomy due to intra-operative complications. Conclusions : Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a safe, effective and useful procedure without any major post-operative complication and is the gold standard for all benign adrenal disorders.
Modeling and Simulation of the Second-Generation Orion Crew Module Air Bag Landing System

Air bags were evaluated as the landing attenuation system for earth landing of the Orion Crew Module (CM). Analysis conducted to date shows that airbags are capable of providing a graceful landing of the CM in nominal and off-nominal conditions such as parachute failure, high horizontal winds, and unfavorable vehicle/ground angle combinations, while meeting crew and vehicle safety requirements. The analyses and associated testing presented here surround a second generation of the airbag design developed by ILC Dover, building off of relevant first-generation design, analysis, and testing efforts. In order to fully evaluate the second generation air bag design and correlate the dynamic simulations, a series of drop tests were carried out at NASA Langley s Landing and Impact Research (LandIR) facility in Hampton, Virginia. The tests consisted of a full-scale set of air bags attached to a full-scale test article representing the Orion Crew Module. The techniques used to collect experimental data, develop the simulations, and make comparisons to experimental data are discussed.
Androgens Regulate the Immune/Inflammatory Response and Cell Survival Pathways in Rat Ventral Prostate Epithelial Cells

A major hurdle in understanding the role of androgens is the heterogeneity of androgen receptor (AR) expression in the prostate. Because the majority of prostate cancer arises from the AR-positive secretory luminal epithelial cells, identifying the androgen-mediated pathways in the prostate epithelium is of great significance to understanding their role in prostate pathogenesis. To meet this objective, the current study was designed to identify immediate-early genes expressed in response to the synthetic androgen R1881 in cultured rat ventral prostate epithelial cells. Rat ventral prostate epithelial cells, purified from 20-d-old rats, were cultured, and the presence of AR and the response to androgen were established. The cells were then treated with R1881 for 2 and 12 h to capture immediate-early genes in an Affymetrix-based gene chip platform. A total of 66 nonredundant genes were identified that were responsive to R1881. The functional androgen response elements were identified in the proximal promoter to determine possible molecular mechanism. Cluster analysis identified five distinct signatures of R1881-induced genes. Pathway analysis suggested that R1881 primarily influences cell proliferation/differentiation and inflammatory/immune response pathways. Androgens appear to regulate cell renewal by regulating differentiation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Two mutually exclusive inflammatory response pathways were observed. The interferon pathway was up-regulated, and the ILs were down-regulated. The data identified novel androgen-regulated genes (e.g. Id1, Id3, IL-6, IGF-binding protein-2 and -3, and JunB). The loss of androgen regulation of these genes can have important consequences for cellular transformation and transition to androgen-independent growth and survival.
Teaching and Leading Through Dialogue: Pope Francis and Catholic Higher Education

The early pontificate of Francis has been marked by substantial changes in the style of papal governance and teaching. Francis’s engagement in dialogue with members of the media corresponds to a willingness to foster meaningful dialogue among the bishops and to use teaching documents to raise questions rather than answer them. At the Extraordinary Synod in October 2014, Francis exercised papal leadership primarily by fostering and leading dialogue among the synod fathers. The pope’s commitment to dialogue in both teaching and governance offers guidance for Catholic higher education as it works within the Catholic mission to address the challenges Catholic colleges and universities face today to engage divisive issues within the Church and society.
Cold Opportunity (B): The Icehotel Story

Suitable for MBA and executive learners, this case series presents an engaging narrative that prompts students to discuss entrepreneurial thinking. An entrepreneur who loves his native Swedish Lapland uses his natural gift for effectuation to ask What? What next? And What now? As his ventures evolve, students begin to ask themselves how they would master similar challenges to their own entrepreneurial plans and expectations. The case can be taught in either one or two sessions of a 90-minute MBA course or a four-hour executive education class. An effective complement is the technical note entitled, 'What Makes Entrepreneurs Entrepreneurial' (UVA-ENT-0065).
Consumer Participation in Cause-Related Marketing: An Examination of Effort Demands and Defensive Denial

This article presents two studies that examine cause-related marketing (CRM) promotions that require consumers’ active participation. Requiring a follow-up behavior has very valuable implications for maximizing marketing expenditures and customer relationship management. Theories related to ethical behavior, like motivated reasoning and defensive denial, are used to explain when and why consumers respond negatively to these effort demands. The first study finds that consumers rationalize not participating in CRM by devaluing the sponsored cause. The second study identifies a tactic marketers can utilize to neutralize consumers’ use of defensive denial. Allowing the consumer to choose the sponsored cause seems to effectively refocus their attention and increases consumers’ threshold for campaign requirements. Implications for nonprofits and marketing managers include a tendency for consumers to be more likely to perceive a firm as ethical and socially responsible when they are allowed to choose the specific cause that is supported.
Blunted hypothalamic ghrelin signaling reduces diet intake in rats fed a low-protein diet in late pregnancy

Abstract Diet intake in pregnant rats fed a low‐protein (LP) diet was significantly reduced during late pregnancy despite elevated plasma levels of ghrelin. In this study, we hypothesized that ghrelin signaling in the hypothalamus is blunted under a low‐protein diet condition and therefore, it does not stimulate diet intake during late pregnancy. Female Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a normal (CT) or LP diet from Day 1 of pregnancy. On Day 21, 0.5 μ g ghrelin was given into the third ventricle (ICV). Diet and water intake at 30, 60, and 120 min after ICV injection was measured. Hypothalami were dissected and analyzed for expression of genes related to appetite regulation ( Npy , Agrp , Pomc and Cart ) and phosphorylation of AMPK and ACC proteins (downstream proteins of ghrelin receptor activation). Results include: In response to ICV injection of ghrelin, (1) diet intake was significantly lower in LP compared to CT rats; (2) water intake was not affected in LP rats; (3) expression of Npy and Agrp, but not Pomc and Cart, were higher in the hypothalamus of LP compared to CT rats; (4) the abundance of phosphorylated AMPK and the ratio of phosphorylated to total AMPK, but not the abundance of total AMPK, were lower in LP compared to CT rats; (5) the abundance of phosphorylated ACC, but not total ACC, was lower in LP rats. These findings suggest that blunted ghrelin signaling in the hypothalamus of pregnant rats fed a LP diet leads to reduced diet intake and exacerbates gestational protein insufficiency.