cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interspecific, ontogenetic, and life history variation in the tooth morphology of mole salamanders (Amphibia, Urodela, and Ambystomatidae)

As revealed by scanning electron microscopy, three basic cusp shapes are found on the premaxillary teeth of mole salamanders: disc, cone, and club. In fully metamorphosed adults, tooth crowns are subdivided into labial and lingual cusps. Except for species of Linguaelapsus, the labial cusps of all adult bifid teeth are disc shaped; lingual cusp shape is more variable, but the taxonomic distribution of the various configurations is generally consistent within the subgroups Rhycosiredon, Ambystoma, and Linguaelapsus. The club shape appears to be a derived character state, but the cone and disc shapes may be either primitive or derived. Prior to the start of metamorphosis, all larvae have conical, monocuspid teeth. During metamorphosis these salamanders develop incipient bifid teeth that have the same basic adult pattern of cusp shapes but in which the cusps are smaller and more generalized. Crown morphology in paedomorphic ambystomatids is similar to that of older larvae; as such, paedomorphosis seems to interrupt and retard the ontogenetic sequence of development rather than to introduce (or reintroduce) novel morphologies into the developmental program. In larvae the crown is firmly attached to the tooth base along the putative zone of weakness, but in transformed adults the crown is separated from a pedicel by a narrow zone of fibrous connective tissue. This latter structural arrangement allows unidirectional lingual flexing of the crowns relative to the pedicel and appears to facilitate the process of tooth replacement.
Colonization With Toxinogenic C. difficile Upon Hospital Admission, and Risk of Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Colonization With Toxinogenic C. difficile Upon Hospital Admission, and Risk of Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
SU‐GG‐I‐182: Adjustment of Angiographic Time‐Density‐Curves Temporal Parameters for More Accurate Healing Prediction of Stent‐Treated Aneurysms

Purpose: Immediate treatment assessment of intracranial aneurysms using flow modifying stents, can be done using comparative analysis of pre‐ and post‐stented normalized time density curves (NTDC). Previous study showed poor correlation of the time‐related NTDC parameters with the treatment outcome. A parameter normalization method to improve the NTDC parameters‐treatment outcome correlation, is proposed and investigated. Method and Materials: Elastase animal aneurysms model were treated using Asymmetric Vascular Stent prototypes. Angiograms were acquired pre‐ and post‐treatment and after four‐weeks. NTDC's parameters: time‐to‐peak TTP, mean‐transit‐time MTT and wash‐out‐time WOT, were measured and normalized to the corresponding quantities derived from main artery bolus TDC. Aneurysms displaying small area with contrast filling localized at the aneurysm neck were dropped from the analysis. The results are further presented in terms of pre‐stented/post‐stented ratios to describe the flow changes due to stent treatment. Based on a four week follow‐up angiogram, a five grade scale was used to generate a “healing” grade. The correlation between the parameter ratios and healing grade was calculated using Spearman correlation factor (SCF). Results: The pre‐/post‐stented ratio parameters after normalization were: TTP=0.30±0.28, MTT=0.42±0.42 and WOT=0.29±0.28. The SCF's between the time‐related ratios and the healing grade before the correction were under 0.52. After corrections implementation, all SCF's were above 0.82. Conclusion: After implementation of the proposed adjustments the measured parameters agree better with the treatment outcome, hence a better treatment assessment scale can be built for accurate aneurysm occlusion prediction (Support: R01NS43924 and R01EB002873 and Toshiba Medical Systems Corp)
An analysis of stage-specific protein synthesis in the early Drosophila embryo using high-resolution, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis☆

Abstract An improved method of high-resolution, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis has been used to study the patterns of protein synthesis during embryonic development of Drosophila melanogaster . Small groups of synchronized embryos were radiolabeled directly by microinjection with [ 35 S]methionine, and the patterns of synthesis of [ 35 S]methionine-labeled proteins from 15 developmental stages between 1.5 and 18.5 hr post-fertilization evaluated. Over 1200 proteins were resolved, and changes in the temporal pattern of synthesis of many of these have been analyzed in the present study. Major qualitative and quantitative differences in the relative rates of synthesis of large numbers of proteins were found in the stages examined. These have been grouped into several different classes. In particular, one group consisted of proteins displaying a dramatic fall in levels of synthesis from preblastoderm through cellular blastoderm. Within this group, some proteins disappeared completely by gastrulation, whereas others underwent a phase of elevated synthesis at a later stage of development. A second group consisted of proteins that were found at all stages examined. All polypeptides in this group underwent a phase of elevated rate of synthesis post cellular blastoderm. A third group consisted of stage-specific proteins that were synthesized during a specific embryonic stage. Temporal changes in the relative rates of synthesis of many proteins were found to be clustered in a few limited periods of rapid change that occurred every 4 to 5 hr. In addition, subsets of proteins increasing during one such period were observed to decrease during a later period, indicating the possibility of some form of coordinate regulation. The time interval between a period of increase and decrease in rates of synthesis of many proteins was observed to occur every 9–10 hr.
Multimedia Instructional Tools and Student Learning in a Computer Applications Course

Advances in technology and changes in educational strategies have resulted in the integration of technology in the classroom. Multimedia instructional tools MMIT provide student-centered active-learning instructional activities. MMITs are common in introductory computer applications courses based on the premise that MMITs should increase student learning. This study examined the use of MMIT in an introductory computer applications course to determine if a significant relationship existed between the level of use of the MMIT and student learning. Subjects included students enrolled in an online introductory computer applications course at one southeastern university. The researchers used descriptive statistics to demonstrate students' use of the MMIT and used pre and post-course test scores to determine changes in learning. This study revealed no significant impact on student learning based on level of use of the MMIT grader assignments or training activities. A significant difference was found for the level of use of MMIT quizzes.
Desulfurization and Structural Transformation of Thiophene on the Pt(111) Surface

The temperature dependence of near-edge x-ray-absorption fine-structure spectra above the C $K$ edge and S ${L}_{2,3}$ edge for thiophene (${\mathrm{C}}_{4}$${\mathrm{H}}_{4}$S) on Pt(111) reveals changes in the chemisorption geometry and the cleavage of the carbon-sulfur bond. Our results suggest the formation of a metallocycle intermediate after desulfurization with the S atom replaced by a Pt surface atom. The near-edge x-ray-absorption fine-structure results are corroborated by thermal-desorption, x-ray photoemission, and electron-energy-loss data.
Gerstmann–Sträussler–Scheinker disease with the PRNP P102L mutation and valine at codon 129

The most common mutation causing Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker (GSS) disease is P102L in the prion protein. Previously, this mutation has only been found in coupling with methionine at residue 129. We describe a patient with GSS disease in whom the P102L mutation is in coupling with valine at residue 129. The clinical presentation in P102L-V129 differs greatly from that seen in P102-M129 patients.
People's risk perception of glacial lake outburst flooding: a case of Tsho Rolpa Lake, Nepal

Previous research indicates that people's perception of risk from a particular hazard positively influences their adoption of effective mitigation strategies and responses. This research investigates the risk perceptions of people living downstream from Tsho Rolpa Glacial Lake of Nepal. Field surveys revealed that people living beneath the Tsho Rolpa glacial lake possess a low risk perception despite the probability of a glacial lake outburst at their location. Further investigation reveals that many individuals have made no adjustments in response to the potential disaster. The low risk perception on the part of the riverine population is chiefly attributed to the cry-wolf effect of the 1997 evacuation that followed an inaccurate prediction of a Tsho Rolpa outburst. Previous remediation structures were kept in place, but appear to have created a false sense of security among those at risk. This overconfidence in the rudimentary efforts employed thus far is illustrated by the fact that many residents have...
The Problems and Potential of School Psychology in 1969.

Abstract Throughout the history of school psychology, questions have evolved about its role and function, its training, and its potential. Local and state groups have reflected some pride over what has been accomplished in their geographic areas but have also clearly been concerned about difficult local problems and the future of school psychology. Discussion of who and what the school psychologist is or should be has gone on too long: a majority opinion should formulate national guidelines for the profession.
Analysis of liquid metal mhd flow using an iterative method to solve the core flow equations

A computationally efficient and fast method for characterizing MHD fluid flow based on the “core flow” approximation is presented. The results of analysis of a number of practical problems that were solved using this method are also discussed. At very high Hartmann number and interaction parameter and at very small magnetic Reynolds number, the equations describing the flow are essentially linear and are therefore solved more easily. By solving these equations, the three-dimensional characteristics of the flow can be examined using a two-dimensional computer code. The method used to solve these equations is an iterative one. A velocity profile is assumed and the equations are solved in a plane in the fluid. The equations are then solved in the domain of the duct wall. The potential in the wall is compared to the potential in the fluid along the magnetic field lines. If the variation of the potential along field lines is not correct, the velocities are adjusted. The potential distribution in the fluid can then be calculated again. This procedure is repeated until the variation of the potential along field Unes is correct. This method is applied to flow in a conducting duct with a transverse magnetic field that varies in the flow direction. The pressure drop dependence on various factors is discussed. The method appears to be particularly suited to problems with complex geometries, because the equations may not be as complicated as in the direct integration method. The results of the analysis are shown to compare well with experimental results.
Interfacial polycondensation. I.

Interfacial polycondensation is a rapid, irreversible polymerization at the interface between water containing one difunctional intermediate and an inert immiscible organic solvent containing a complementary difunctional reactant. It is based on the Schotten-Baumann reaction in which acid chlorides are reacted with compounds containing active hydrogen atoms (—OH, —NH and —SH). A large number of polymers (heat-sensitive and infusible as well as stable and meltable) can be prepared. The method has been applied to the preparation of polyurethanes, polyamides, polyureas, polysulfonamides, and polyphenyl esters. Interfacial polycondensations are run in simple, open laboratory equipment with or without stirring. With suitable agitation granular or powdered polymers with high molecular weight are prepared at room temperature and isolated within a few minutes. The intermediates need not be absolutely pure or in balance nor is a quantitative yield needed in order to obtain high polymer. The major variables in the interfacial polycondensation process are discussed and the laboratory techniques and principles are contrasted with melt polycondensation.
Second Order Perturbation Analysis of a Forced Nonlinear Mathieu Equation

The present study deals with the response of a forced nonlinear Mathieu equation. The equation considered has parametric excitation at the same frequency as direct forcing and also has cubic nonlinearity and damping. A second-order perturbation analysis using the method of multiple scales unfolds numerous resonance cases and system behavior that were not uncovered using first-order expansions. All resonance cases are analyzed. We numerically plot the frequency response of the system. The existence of a superharmonic resonance at one third the natural frequency was uncovered analytically for linear system. (This had been seen previously in numerical simulations but was not captured in the first-order expansion.) The effect of different parameters on the response of the system previously investigated are revisited.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Average-voltage method for transformer-loss measurement

In the latest issue of the A. I. E. E. Standards (May, 1930), Sec. 13, Par. 13–306, the following appears:
Interpreting employment in a recession using an epidemiological model

AbstractThis note suggests that the employment characteristics in a typical recession are somewhat similar to the disease characteristics found in an epidemic. Preliminary numerical results indicate that the model may have some validity.
Thomson Scattering as a Diagnostic of Atmospheric Pressure Discharges

Thomson scattering is reviewed as a diagnostic technique for the determination of electron energy distributions and concentrations in a plasma. Both theoretical and experimental aspects are considered, and scattering spectra which would be expected for high voltage spark discharges and inductively coupled plasmas at atmospheric pressure are computed. A nonlinear method bearing the same relationship to Thomson scattering as CARS does to linear Raman spectroscopy is mentioned, and its properties are compared to the more common linear Thomson technique. Related plasma diagnostics involving high power laser scattering are also discussed.
Development of a penicillin biosensor using a single optical imaging fiber

A penicillin biosensor has been fabricated by photodepositing penicillin-sensitive polymer matrices and pH-sensitive polymer matrices on different regions of an optical imaging fiber. Penicillin is detected by coupling the enzymatic activity of penicillinase with the pH sensitivity of fluorescein. Penicillin concentration is correlated to the pH change in the microenvironment of the penicillin-sensitive matrix relative to the pH of the sample solution. This dual sensor removes the need to maintain a constant solution pH when measuring penicillin and should enhance greatly the application of biosensors.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Glottic Rehabilitation With Teflon Injection—The Return of Voice, Cough and Laughter

The injection of Teflon Glycerine mixture into a vocal cord is a procedure that can be learned by any competent laryngologist. It offers a relatively simple and an effective solution to the physiological problems of the non-closing glottis. The method has its most particular application in cases where there is a lateral lying paralyzed vocal cord. It is also useful in building up functioning scars after cordectomy. Occasionally it will help to correct cord deformities.In the large majority of instances one may anticipate again normal cough, normal ability to strain, markedly improved or normal voice and the ability to laugh again—the attributes of a functioning glottic valve. With this we may anticipate that accidental aspiration should be correspondingly improved.
A laser flashover test method for cathode-ray tube displays

Large-scale integration parts are easily damaged by the transient currents that result from e.h.t. flashover in a cathode-ray tube. It is therefore necessary during design to provide adequate circuit protection and, further, to ensure by testing that the protection is sufficient to remove the likelihood that flashover-induced failures will happen during normal operation.The purpose of this work was to evolve a test method that could achieve universal acceptance, so that it could be applied to both monochrome and colour units containing hard- or soft-flash c.r.t.s.The method chosen uses Q-switched laser pulses to initiate flashover discharges to the focus electrode and then employs the focus-to-final-anode gap as a surrogate spark gap to transfer flashover energy to the remaining c.r.t. connections. The measurements taken during manufacturing plant life-testing have been used to confirm the number of discharges required in a test to verify design.
Analysis of a fiber bridged crack near a free surface in ceramic matrix composites

Abstract A fiber bridged crack near a free surface in ceramic matrix composites is analysed. The crack is modeled as a continuous distribution of dislocations. The solution of a single dislocation in an elastically anisotropic half plane is derived using complex variable analysis. This solution, combined with fiber-bridging mechanics, is used to study the toughness increase in unidirectionalfiber reinforced ceramics. The crack can have arbitrary orientation with respect to the axis of the material symmetry. The bridging force is assumed to have a power law relationship with displacements of discontinuity on the crack planes. For a nonlinear relationship, the equation is linearized and solved numerically by an iteration scheme. The iteration scheme converges well for both short and long cracks. Numerical results for far field tension in fiber direction are presented. It is found that the free surface effect is reduced by fiber bridging of the crack.
Milestones in crop biotechnology--transgenic cassava and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of maize.

Milestones in crop biotechnology—Transgenic cassava and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of maize
Seismic Test Methods for Architectural Glazing Systems

Abstract An ongoing effort is being made at the University of Missouri‐Rolla to develop standard laboratory test methods and codified design procedures for architectural glass under seismic loadings. Recent laboratory work has yielded some promising results regarding the development of an appropriate seismic test method for architectural glass, as well as identifying ultimate limit states that quantify the seismic performance and damage thresholds of various glass types. Specifically, a straightforward “crescendo‐like” in‐plane dynamic racking test, performed at a constant frequency, has been employed successfully. Two ultimate limit states for architectural glass have been defined: (1) a lower ultimate limit state corresponding to major glass crack pattern formation; and (2) an upper limit state corresponding to significant glass fallout. Early crescendo tests have yielded distinct and repeatable ultimate limit state data for various storefront glass types tested under dynamic racking motions. Crescendo ...
BACKTRACK: AN O(1) EXPECTED TIME ALGORITHM FOR THE GRAPH COLORING PROBLEM *

Abstract Fix a number K, of colors. We consider the usual backtrack algorithm for the decision problem of K-colorability of a graph G. We show that the algorithm operates in average time that is O(1), as the number of vertices of G approaches infinity. For instance, a backtrack search tree for 3-coloring a graph has an average of about 197 nodes, averaged over all graphs of all sizes.
Multiblock Polymers: Panacea or Pandora’s Box?

Advances in synthetic polymer chemistry have unleashed seemingly unlimited strategies for producing block polymers with arbitrary numbers (n) and types (k) of unique sequences of repeating units. Increasing (k,n) leads to a geometric expansion of possible molecular architectures, beyond conventional ABA-type triblock copolymers (k = 2, n = 3), offering alluring opportunities to generate exquisitely tailored materials with unparalleled control over nanoscale-domain geometry, packing symmetry, and chemical composition. Transforming this potential into targeted structures endowed with useful properties hinges on imaginative molecular designs guided by predictive theory and computer simulation. Here, we review recent developments in the field of block polymers.
Hydrogen induced surface cracking in an 8090 Al-Li alloy during high cycle fatigue

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in understanding the effects of aggressive or moist environments on the properties of Al-Li alloys. However, most of the existing work has been focused on their stress corrosion cracking resistance. Consequently, only a few reports are available on the environmental fatigue strength of these alloys. Upon exposure to aggressive environments, the fatigue crack propagation resistance can be detrimentally affected. R. Piascik and R. Gangloff found enhanced cyclic crack growth rates in an Al-Li-Cu alloy when a critical water vapor pressure was exceeded. Thermodynamically, at atmospheric pressures, strong interactions between hydrogen and lithium are expected to give rise to stable lithium hydrides. Evidence for the development of hydride phases in Al-Li alloys exposed to hydrogen environments has been reported by various workers. Thus, it is likely that HE via hydride formation can be the relevant mechanisms in Al-Li alloys that have been in contact with hydrogen. Since lithium hydrides are stable up to temperatures of 773 K, previous hydrogen exposure can lead to an irreversible mode of embrittlement. Thus, it was the objective of the present work to investigate the effects of hydrogen during aging on the ensuing high cycle fatigue (HCF)more » performance of an 8090 Al-Li alloy.« less
Projections of the caudal ventrolateral medulla to the thoracic spinal cord in the rat.

BACKGROUND The caudal ventrolateral medulla (CVLM), an area having cardiovascular and respiratory functions, contains neurons that project to the thoracic spinal cord. It has been presumed, although never demonstrated, that the CVLM thoracic projections terminate on intercostal and sympathetic motor neurons. Using a combination of tracers, the purpose of the present study was to describe a route through which the CVLM may directly influence sympathetic and intercostal motor neurons. METHODS To label the medullospinal projections orthogradely, either biotinylated dextran amine or lectin conjugated horseradish peroxidase was injected into the CVLM. To label the intercostal and sympathetic motor neurons retrogradely, cholera toxin subunit B-horseradish peroxidase was injected into the intercostal muscles and superior cervical ganglion. Subsequently, projections from the CVLM were observed to terminate on, or in close proximity to, sympathetic and intercostal motor neurons. RESULTS Projections to sympathetic neurons were largely ipsilateral, whereas projections to intercostal neurons were primarily contralateral. In retrograde labeling experiments, it was observed that many of the CVLM-thoracic projections originated from the nucleus retroambiguus. CONCLUSIONS The finding that the CVLM projects to sympathetic and intercostal motor neurons supports its role in cardiovascular and respiratory functions. The authors suggest that CVLM influences upon sympathetic motor neurons may be inhibitory.
Selective MOCVD growth of single-crystal dense GaAs quantum dot array using cylinder-forming diblock copolymers

Abstract In order to realize the theoretical advantages of ideal quantum dots (QDs) (i.e., complete three-dimensional carrier confinement), an alternate approach to self-assembly has been investigated for elimination of the wetting layer and achieving a uniform mono-modal QD size distribution. On a GaAs substrate, hexagonally arranged uniform-sized QD arrays have been fabricated. The QD patterning is prepared by dense nanoscale diblock copolymer lithography, which consists of perpendicularly ordered cylindrical domains of polystyrene- block -poly(methylmethacrylate) (PS- b -PMMA) matrix. The polymer patterns are transferred to a dielectric template mask and then single-crystal GaAs QDs are selectively grown on the patterned substrate by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Single-crystal QDs are confirmed by X-ray diffraction with a large area detector. Scanning electron mocroscope images indicate that the QD density is larger than 5×10 10 /cm 2 , comparable to Stranski–Krastnow growth mode. Using the technique of diblock copolymer lithography followed by the selective MOCVD growth of the QDs, a higher degree of control of QD shape, size uniformity, and composition is expected.
Connectivity is a poor indicator of fast quantum search.

A randomly walking quantum particle evolving by Schrodinger's equation searches on d-dimensional cubic lattices in O(√N) time when d≥5, and with progressively slower runtime as d decreases. This suggests that graph connectivity (including vertex, edge, algebraic, and normalized algebraic connectivities) is an indicator of fast quantum search, a belief supported by fast quantum search on complete graphs, strongly regular graphs, and hypercubes, all of which are highly connected. In this Letter, we show this intuition to be false by giving two examples of graphs for which the opposite holds true: one with low connectivity but fast search, and one with high connectivity but slow search. The second example is a novel two-stage quantum walk algorithm in which the walking rate must be adjusted to yield high search probability.
Atomic-scale mechanisms of the halogenation of Cu(100)

Abstract The adsorption of Cl 2 on Cu(100) and the subsequent reaction to CuCl was studied using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and the results were compared with recent results for Br 2 . Adsorption of Cl 2 and Br 2 was essentially identical. Low exposures of either halogen resulted in the formation of a c(2×2) low energy electron diffraction (LEED) pattern due to chemisorbed Cl or Br. Below ∼70% of saturation of the chemisorbed layer, high adatom mobility prevented the c(2×2) structure from being imaged with STM. As the chemisorbed layer approached saturation, the surface steps faceted to align along 〈100〉 directions. Continued halogen exposure resulted in the formation of Cu(I) halides. For both halogens, the reaction was found to cause step bunching, suggesting that the reaction consumes Cu atoms from the steps causing them to recede. For Cl 2 , a staggered pattern was observed in the receding steps that was attributed to the reaction starting at the corners of the step facets and then continuing by removing Cu atoms from kinks or jogs in the step position. This picture was supported by Monte Carlo simulations. In contrast, for Br 2 there was no evidence that kinks were more reactive than other sites along the steps. Sequential exposure experiments in which a saturated chemisorbed layer of one halogen was exposed to the other halogen were performed to investigate the origin of this difference between Cl 2 and Br 2 . The results suggested that relaxation of the atomic positions adjacent to the steps can create sites that are highly reactive to Br 2 , but that the reaction with Cl 2 is insensitive to such changes.
Elevated serum creatinine is associated with 1-year mortality after acute myocardial infarction

Background Cardiovascular mortality is high in individuals with end-stage renal disease. However, less is known about the prognostic importance of moderate renal insufficiency in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Methods We studied all patients with acute myocardial infarction admitted through the emergency department to an urban, academic hospital over 1 year. Patients were classified as having elevated (>133 μmol/L [1.5 mg/dL]) or normal (≤133 μmol/L) serum creatinine at presentation. Results Of 483 patients, 22% had elevated creatinine and 78% had normal creatinine. By 1 year, 46% of patients with elevated creatinine and 15% of patients with normal creatinine had died (P <.001). The unadjusted hazard ratio for 1-year mortality was increased in patients with elevated creatinine compared with those with normal creatinine (hazard ratio 3.85, 95% CI 2.61-5.67). After adjustment for baseline characteristics and treatment, the multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio for 1-year mortality remained increased in patients with elevated creatinine compared with those with normal creatinine (hazard ratio 2.40, 95% CI 1.55-3.72). There was an important modification of the prognostic value of creatinine by the presence of congestive heart failure at presentation (P value for interaction =.04). The adjusted hazard ratio for 1-year death associated with elevated creatinine compared with normal creatinine was 3.89 (95% CI 1.87-8.07) in patients without congestive heart failure and 1.92 (95% CI 1.10-3.36) in patients with congestive heart failure. Conclusions Elevated serum creatinine at presentation is associated with 1-year mortality after acute myocardial infarction. Further study is needed to optimize treatment after myocardial infarction in this high-risk group. (Am Heart J 2002;144:1003-1011.)
Wafer Level Fabrication and Packaging of Miniature Combline Filters

We will report on HRL Laboratories' progress in developing state-of-the-art, extremely miniature, combline filters. These filters utilize standard semiconductor substrates, and are fabricated and packaged at the wafer-level -this ensures high reproducibility in device performance, and allows large scale production at a significant cost reduction. The salient filter features are: small size, low insertion loss, tunability, high EM isolation, high power handling capability, and high out of band rejection.
Dipole Theory and Electroencephalography

Dipole theory has become a centerpiece of modern discussions regarding the nature of EEG phenomena. Along with dipole theory, the role of volume conduction and, in particular, the inverse problem have gained a powerful position in the modern approach to EEG. An attempt is being made to explore the origins of these concepts. Their advent and rise to a dominant position has been the expression of a new wave of biophysical approaches to EEG. These new trends started in the 1970's and have gradually overshadowed the classical neurophysiological-neurobiological approach. Electrogenesis in cerebral structures and propagation of EEG signals along pathways characterize the "old" EEG theory. It is being pointed out that dipole theory is indeed theory; it is based on spherical models of homogeneous fluid. Attempted adjustments to the brain and its anatomy have been made. Microdipoles at the neuronal level (an essential part of electrogenesis) are plausible; major problems exist as far as macrodipoles are concerned. Differences between the dipole theory in EEG and MEG are discussed. The modern search for the source of a given EEG potential (inverse problem) depends on dipole theory and may be quite misleading. Spread by volume conduction is likely to be vastly exaggerated. A plea is made for mutual understanding and tolerance.
On the role of small models in macrodynamics

Abstract This paper focuses on the role of small models in macrodynamics. It discusses the insights that I believe these models offer and the extent to which they can address some of the complex issues, such as heterogeneity and interactions among agents that are receiving increasing attention in the literature. I comment on what I view to be the most productive role for numerical simulations, and finally offer some brief comments in defense of the state of modern macroeconomic theory in light of the criticism it has received as a result of the recent financial crisis.
CO2 absorption into catalyzed potassium carbonate-bicarbonate solutions: Kinetics and stability of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase as a biocatalyst

The enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA) has potential as an efficient biocatalyst to promote the absorption of CO2 into potassium carbonate–bicarbonate (K2CO3–KHCO3) solutions for CO2 capture from the flue gas of coal-fired power plants. Knowing the kinetics of the promoted absorption and the catalytic activity and stability of CA under typical operating conditions is essential for process design and techno-economic analysis. In this study, we investigated two specifically engineered CA enzymes and experimentally determined the first-order rate constant of CA (kCA) for catalyzing CO2 hydration into K2CO3–KHCO3 solutions by measuring the rate of CO2 absorption into the solutions in a stirred cell reactor and using the classic Danckwerts theory for data interpretation. The kCA values obtained were 4.02Lmg−1s−1(1.21×108M−1s−1) at 25 °C, 4.25Lmg−1s−1(1.28×108M−1s−1) at 40 °C, and 4.07Lmg−1s−1(1.22×108M−1s−1) at 50 °C. These values are applicable in 20 wt% K2CO3–KHCO3 solutions with CO2 loadings ranging from 10 to 40% carbonate-to-bicarbonate (CTB) conversion. The kCA value did not substantially depend on the reaction temperatures at 25–50 °C, the composition of the 20 wt% K2CO3–KHCO3 solutions with 10–40% CTB conversion, or the pH condition (10.1 to 11.0 pH). The rate of CO2 absorption was promoted by two to six times in the presence of 300mgL−1 of CA in 20 wt% K2CO3–KHCO3 solutions at 40–60 °C. The long-term thermal stability of CA was investigated at 40, 50, and 60 °C in 20 wt% K2CO3–KHCO3 solutions with 20 and 40% CTB conversion. The activity loss of CA, as indicated by a decrease in the enhancement factor (ECA) over time, was approximately 20% of its initial activity after 6 months at 40 °C, was 50% after 2 months and 80% after 4 months at 50 °C, and was 60% after 1 month and 80% after 2 months at 60 °C. The CA showed comparable thermal stability in solutions with 20 and 40% CTB conversion, indicating that the CO2 loading of the solution was not an important factor in the thermal stability of the enzyme. The resistance of CA to flue gas impurities that may be transformed in the solvent, which are present in the form of SO42−, NO3−, and Cl− anions was examined at 50 °C in the 20 wt% solution with 20% CTB conversion in the presence of 0.4 M K2SO4, 0.3 M KCl, and 0.05 M KNO3, either alone or in combination. The CA did not show any further appreciable loss of activity or long-term stability in the presence of the simulated impurities at the concentrations investigated. The results of this study provide valuable information and practical guidance for the potential application of CA as a biocatalyst to promote the absorption of CO2 into K2CO3–KHCO3 solutions for CO2 capture.
Antigen-nonspecific and specific suppression of lymphokine production in desensitized guinea pigs.

Abstract Doubly immunized guinea pigs may be desensitized with respect to delayed hypersensitivity reactions against both antigens (anergy) by injection of large doses of either one. This anergic response therefore has both a specific and nonspecific component. The specific component of desensitization persists longer than the nonspecific one. In the present study, we have explored the mechanism of both antigen-specific and antigen-nonspecific suppression during the later stages of desensitization. Guinea pigs imnmunized with two antigens, DNP-KLH and DNP-EA, were desensitized with DNP-EA. The lymph node cells obtained from the animals 1 day after desensitization were unable to produce MIF in the presence of either antigen. The cells obtained 3, 5, and 7 days after desensitization were able to generate MIF when stimulated with the non-specific antigen (DNP-KLH), but not with specific antigen (DNP-EA). It was shown that both T- and non-T-cell fractions obtained 1 day after desensitization had the capacity to antigen-nonspecifically suppress MIF production. In contrast, if the cells were obtained 3 or 5 days after desensitization, T cells could inhibit only the antigen-specific production of MIF, while non-T cells were still capable of suppressing antigen-specific and nonspecific MIF production. Interestingly, when these two populations were mixed back again, it was now only suppressive to the specific antigen-induced MIF production. This latter observation indicates that nonspecific suppressor non-T cells may themselves be regulated by suppressor T cells. Furthermore, antigen-specific suppressor T cells were shown to produce soluble factor(s) which inhibited the production of MIF.
Correlation of mechanical and electrical relaxation phenomena in superionic conducting glasses

Abstract The phenomenon of mechanical and electrical relaxation due to fast diffusing ions in glasses is placed in the context of relaxing dipolar and ionic liquids, and observations made at constant temperature are compared with those made at constant frequency. With this background several questions provoked by the apparent relation between mechanical and electrical responses are posed and answered within the limitations of currently available experimental data. Comparisons of average relaxation times, and of widths and shapes of relaxation spectra, are made. Finally, we present unifying plots which relate relaxational to vibrational responses for both electrical and mechanical stresses, the latter, we believe, for the first time.
Tracking the migration of dendritic cells by in vivo optical imaging.

Abstract We report herein a method to track the migration of dendritic cells (DCs) using optical imaging. With the assistance of the delivery module, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) could internalize inside DCs within 15 minutes of incubation. The fluorescent signal was mostly cytoplasmic and could be detected using in vivo imaging. Furthermore, we observed that the probe did not interfere with the DCs maturation as we assessed the expression of several surface markers. The labeled DCs secreted interleukin-12 (IL-12) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and stimulated the proliferation of CD4 + T lymphocytes responding to lipopolysaccharide (LIPS) stimulation. We have systematically compared the probe uptake between mature and immature DCs. The study showed that the latter phagocytosed the probe slightly better than the former. Intravital imaging of treated mice showed the migration of DCs to lymph nodes (LNs), which is confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Taken together, we demonstrated the potential use of optical imaging for tracking the migration of DCs and homing in vivo . The delivery molecules could also be used on other imaging modalities or for delivery of antigens.
Bilevel programming for steady-state chemical process design—I. Fundamentals and algorithms

Abstract An earlier paper, Clark and Westerberg (Comput. chem. Engng7, 259-278, 1983) introduced the bilevel programming problem (BLPP), discussed its relevance for the optimization of process models involving thermodynamic equilibrium, and presented the rudiments of two algorithms for locating local optima in the nonlinear case. Since that time, a number of algorithms for the linear and nonlinear BLPP have appeared in the operations research literature. The present article gives a much more complete analysis of the difficult nature of the bilevel program, examines features pertinent to the process design application, reviews the progress in the field since our earlier work, and completes the development of the two algorithms outlined before. We concluded previously that the complexities required to address degenerate points for the inner optimization should favor a problem relaxation over a method using active sets. Here, we demonstrate that the optimization of a process model involving phase equilibrium cannot exhibit this degeneracy, so the active set method should be competitive for this important process design application. Part II of this series compares the performance of the two methods on a process design problem.
Measuring uncertainty in dose delivered to the cochlea due to setup error during external beam treatment of patients with cancer of the head and neck

Purpose: To use Cone Beam CT scans obtained just prior to treatments of head and neck cancer patients to measure the setup error and cumulative dose uncertainty of the cochlea. Methods: Data from 10 head and neck patients with 10 planning CTs and 52 Cone Beam CTs taken at time of treatment were used in this study. Patients were treated with conventional fractionation using an IMRT dose painting technique, most with 33 fractions. Weekly radiographic imaging was used to correct the patient setup. The authors used rigid registration of the planning CT and Cone Beam CT scans to find the translational and rotational setup errors, and the spatial setup errors of the cochlea. The planning CT was rotated and translated such that the cochlea positions match those seen in the cone beam scans, cochlea doses were recalculated and fractional doses accumulated. Uncertainties in the positions and cumulative doses of the cochlea were calculated with and without setup adjustments from radiographic imaging. Results: The mean setup error of the cochlea was 0.04 ± 0.33 or 0.06 ± 0.43 cm for RL, 0.09 ± 0.27 or 0.07 ± 0.48 cm for AP, and 0.00 ± 0.21 or −0.24 ± 0.45 cm formore » SI with and without radiographic imaging, respectively. Setup with radiographic imaging reduced the standard deviation of the setup error by roughly 1–2 mm. The uncertainty of the cochlea dose depends on the treatment plan and the relative positions of the cochlea and target volumes. Combining results for the left and right cochlea, the authors found the accumulated uncertainty of the cochlea dose per fraction was 4.82 (0.39–16.8) cGy, or 10.1 (0.8–32.4) cGy, with and without radiographic imaging, respectively; the percentage uncertainties relative to the planned doses were 4.32% (0.28%–9.06%) and 10.2% (0.7%–63.6%), respectively. Conclusions: Patient setup error introduces uncertainty in the position of the cochlea during radiation treatment. With the assistance of radiographic imaging during setup, the standard deviation of setup error reduced by 31%, 42%, and 54% in RL, AP, and SI direction, respectively, and consequently, the uncertainty of the mean dose to cochlea reduced more than 50%. The authors estimate that the effects of these uncertainties on the probability of hearing loss for an individual patient could be as large as 10%.« less
Marijuana use and tobacco smoking cessation among heavy alcohol drinkers

Background Whereas problem drinking impedes smoking cessation, less is known whether marijuana use affects smoking cessation outcomes and whether smoking cessation treatment leads to changes in marijuana smoking.
Current Trends in Glioblastoma Multiforme Treatment: Radiation Therapy and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary brain cancer. Even with aggressive combination therapy, the median life expectancy for patients with GBM remains approximately 14 months. In order to improve the outcomes of patients with GBM, the development of newer treatments is critical. The concept of using the immune system as a therapeutic option has been suggested for several decades; by harnessing the body's adaptive immune mechanisms, immunotherapy could provide a durable and targeted treatment against cancer. However, many cancers, including GBM, have developed mechanisms that protect tumor cells from being recognized and eliminated by the immune system. For new immunotherapeutic regimens to be successful, overcoming immunosuppression via immune checkpoint signaling should be taken into consideration.
Depositional environments of some Pleistocene coastal terrace deposits, southwestern Oregon—case history of a progradational beach and dune sequence

Abstract Pleistocene coastal terrace deposits exposed in sea cliffs near Gold Beach, Oregon can be divided into four stratigraphic units: a basal gravelly unit and three overlying sandy units, each with mud beds, a paleosol, or the modern soil in its uppermost part. The gravelly unit consists of gravel and sand in its lower part, sand, in part pebbly or cobbly, in its middle part, and mud and sand in its upper part. Black sand and transported pieces of wood are common in the middle part of the unit, and wood is common in the mud. This unit is interpreted as a progradational deposit including environments ranging from lower forebeach at the base to backbeach flats and streams at the top. The main sandy parts of the sandy units are made up of a crossbedded sand facies, the dominant structure in which is medium-scale crossbedding, and an irregularly bedded sand facies, which is locally pebbly and is dominated by scour-and-fill structures. Deciding between shallow marine and eolian interpretations of the sandy units proved exceptionally difficult until modern analogues were found in the fine details of the internal structures. Largely on the basis of such structural details, the crossbedded sand facies is interpreted as the product of small eolian dunes, and the irregularly bedded sand facies is interpreted as deposits of interdune ephemeral streams, ephemeral ponds, and wet to dry subaerial flats. The mud beds and paleosols at the tops of the sandy units represent times of temporary stabilization of the dune field.
Risk-adjusted manipulation of melphalan dose before stem cell transplantation in patients with amyloidosis is associated with a lower response rate

High-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation are used increasingly to treat patients with light-chain-related amyloidosis (AL). Treatment-related mortality is approximately 15%. To enable more patients to undergo stem cell transplantation, a risk-adapted strategy has been developed to treat with lower chemotherapy doses those patients who are at excessive risk. It is unclear whether reducing the chemotherapy dose in patients at excessive risk of treatment toxicity reduces the overall response. We retrospectively reviewed 171 AL patients who underwent conditioning chemotherapy with stem cell transplantation. The patients comprised two groups: those receiving standard high-dose melphalan and those receiving intermediate-dose melphalan. Responses were categorized as hematologic response, which used criteria for myeloma response. The two groups showed statistically significant differences; the overall response rates were 75% in the high-dose group and 53% in the intermediate-dose group although treatment-related mortality was the same in both groups. Reducing the melphalan dose appeared to render more AL patients eligible for stem cell transplantation but sacrificed an element of response. Methods are needed to reduce treatment-related toxicity so that more patients can receive full-dose conditioning chemotherapy.
Evaluation of disposable cartridges for trace enrichment from aqueous solutions

Selected aromatic hydrocarbons, phthalate esters, and food, drug and cosmetic (FDC however, the latter exhibits greater capacity for the FD&C dyes, which have breakthrough volumes that are a function of pH. Both cartridge types show a small amount of analyte leakage during the trace enrichment step, which is measured by monitoring the cartridge effluents for the presence of 14C-labeled solute. Two PRP-1 cartridges connected in tandem reduce the amount of activity in the effluent by approximately one half.